#khlong

[atlasandacamera]

Bangkok, Thailand

[animis]

Finally experienced (after many years of interest ) one of the incredible amount of canals in East Bangkok. In the greener side of the Chao Phraya, they are the original roads of these areas. There was more of a sense of connection with the past on this canal. We ended at a 300 year old temple.. There are very many of these along the canals in these areas. #khlong #Bangkok #bkknoi #watko #Bangkok #video #jessepaulmiller https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpp4bvTvU6h/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[aradxan]

determined girl by the foreign photographer - ฝรั่งถ่ https://flic.kr/p/2opct4A

[chanthaburi]

Waterways - khlongs - near our house

[wgm-beautiful-world]

WAT SAMPHRAN - Dragon Temple in Khlong Mai, THAILAND

[moonspower]

love is stored in the kitchen… a few things virote would cook for someone if they were at his haus:

LO MAI GAI / chinese sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf.

GAENG SOM PLA / basically a bowl of orange juice set on fire. sour curry with bamboo shoots, papaya, and pineapple.

KUA KLING / southern thai dry curry with pork, beef, or chicken. no coconut sweetness like many thai curries, so it’s extra spicy. begins with a spicy kick and ends with a trace of lime.

XIAOLONGBAO / soup dumplings… end of…!

SHANXI GAN MIANPI / cold noodles. vinegar, hot chili oil, salt, garlic, bean sprouts.

KHAO PHAT NAM PHRIK NAROK / name literally means rice fried with chili paste from hell !!!  very spicy chili paste made with fried catfish, grilled onion and garlic, grilled dried chili peppers, sugar, fish sauce, and shrimp paste.

TOM KHLONG / similar to the well known tom yum….. isn’t sour from lime, but sour from tamarind juice.

[scary-flag]

Yo I met the Kraken

[travelella]

Wat Samphran (Buddhist Temple) in Khlong Mai, Thailand.

Source: Tatsuto Shibata

[sa-kaeo]

Cafe views of the Cardamom mountains on the border with Cambodia near Khlong Hat

[itineraryblog]

Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, is renowned for its vibrant street markets, glittering temples, and lively nightlife. Among the myriad of attractions, floating markets hold a special place, offering a unique blend of culture, commerce, and cuisine. While the popular ones like Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa draw crowds daily, the lesser-known Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market stands as a tranquil escape, filled with authentic experiences and local charm. If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Bangkok, Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market should be on your list.

A Glimpse into Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market

Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market is located along the old Bang Luang Canal (Khlong Bang Luang) in the Thonburi district of Bangkok. Unlike its more commercial counterparts, this market retains a traditional vibe, offering a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The market is not about a frenzy of vendors on boats but rather a collection of riverside shops, cafes, art galleries, and quaint wooden houses. Here, the focus is on the slower pace of life, where visitors can enjoy serene canal views, local art, and delicious Thai food without the typical tourist rush.

The Floating Market Experience

The charm of Khlong Bang Luang lies in its simplicity and authenticity. As you stroll along the wooden walkways lining the canal, you’ll find small, family-run shops selling everything from handmade crafts and unique souvenirs to local snacks and beverages. One of the highlights is the small floating stage in front of the Baan Silapin (Artist’s House), where traditional Thai puppet shows are performed. These performances, deeply rooted in Thai culture, are a rare sight and offer a unique cultural experience that captures the essence of Thailand’s artistic heritage.

Indulge in Local Flavors

A visit to any floating market in Thailand would be incomplete without indulging in some delectable local cuisine, and Khlong Bang Luang is no exception. While the market might not have the same boat-to-boat food vendors as some of the larger floating markets, the variety of food available is still impressive. From classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Som Tum (papaya salad), and Tom Yum (spicy shrimp soup) to unique Thai desserts like Khanom Buang (crispy pancakes) and Lod Chong (pandan noodles in coconut milk), there is something to satisfy every palate. You can enjoy your meal while sitting on a riverside platform, watching the boats pass by, and absorbing the serene ambiance.

Art, Culture, and Community Spirit

Beyond the food and shopping, Khlong Bang Luang is a hub for art and culture. The Artist’s House, or Baan Silapin, is a two-story teakwood house that serves as a gallery, performance space, and café. The house, which is more than 200 years old, has been beautifully restored and is now a center for promoting local art and culture. Here, you can view local artwork, participate in painting workshops, or simply relax with a coffee as you soak in the tranquil atmosphere. On weekends, the Artist’s House hosts free traditional Thai puppet shows, which are highly recommended for both kids and adults.

The sense of community at Khlong Bang Luang is palpable. Many of the vendors and shop owners are locals who have lived in the area for generations, and their warm hospitality adds a personal touch to the market experience. It is a place where you can interact with the locals, learn about their way of life, and appreciate the slower pace that is a stark contrast to the urban hustle and bustle of central Bangkok.

How to Get There

Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market is relatively easy to access but not as well-known as some other markets, which is part of its charm. You can take a taxi or a motorbike from central Bangkok to the market. Alternatively, for a more scenic route, take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and get off at the Phasi Charoen Pier, from where it’s a short walk to the market. The boat ride itself offers a unique perspective of Bangkok’s waterways, passing by historic temples and local communities along the way.

Best Time to Visit

The market is open daily, but it is liveliest on weekends when more vendors and activities are available. Arriving in the late morning allows you to enjoy the market at a leisurely pace, have lunch by the river, and catch a traditional puppet show in the afternoon. As the sun sets, the market takes on a different charm with its cozy riverside ambiance, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Conclusion

Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market is a hidden gem that captures the heart of Bangkok’s rich cultural tapestry. It offers a more personal and intimate experience compared to the more tourist-heavy floating markets, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a genuine connection with Thai culture. Whether you are an art lover, a foodie, or someone simply looking to relax and soak in the local vibe, Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market promises an unforgettable journey into Bangkok’s soul.

So, the next time you find yourself in Bangkok, step away from the crowded hotspots and explore the tranquil charm of Khlong Bang Luang — where art, culture, and community come together in a delightful blend along the canal.

✈🚗🤞Please stay tuned with Itinerary Plans

[chanthaburi-temples]

Wat Khlong Sai for monks ordination ceremony

28 April 2024

[atlasandacamera]

Bangkok, Thailand

[nmotypdfsfg]

[aradxan]

cute boy by the foreign photographer - ฝรั่งถ่ https://flic.kr/p/2nSghy1

[myphotosmytravels]

Khlong Bang Luang Noi, Bangkok

[thai-boats]

Fishing boats at Khlong Khut, Chanthaburi