If you have ever been to Thailand, you must have encountered a local merchant rushing towards you asking if you’ve seen the floating market. The Chao Phraya River has been a way of life for the Thai people for years, in the earlier days as a mode of transport and today as a means of tourist attraction. 

Floating markets are an Asian concept also seen in Vietnam and Indonesia but the Floating Markets of Thailand have a different sense of identity to them. The sight of crammed boats floating under the canals, local vendors calling out to the foreign faces and talking to the local ones, sellers selling aromatic Thai delicacies, old ladies selling handmade crafts as souvenirs and all the faces proudly displaying the rich culture and heritage of the country. 

Even if they’re called tourist traps, the reason behind getting trapped is the curiosity of a traveler seeking to understand and witness the ways of the city and how beautiful the floating market is! 

If you have never had the chance to experience the eccentric floating markets, let Nitsa Holidays help you. A trip to Thailand will not be complete until you are neck-deep into the customs of the country!

Some Notable Names

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The country's largest and most popular floating market, located 100 km Southwest of Bangkok, is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Attractive to foreign and local visitors, it is extremely lively early in the morning with vendors selling delectable local foods and agricultural produce. A testament to the old way of buying and selling, this keeps the soul of old Thai customs fresh in everybody’s hearts.

Location: Ratchaburi Province, Damnoen Saduak District, Thailand

Operating Hours: Daily 6:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Amphawa Floating Market

Located close to the capital city of Bangkok, The Amphawa Floating Market is an evening floating market that floods with tons of local Thai food and Souvenirs. The cold breeze from the river lets you relax and the hot grilled seafood is simply irresistible. The delectable desserts of Thailand taste even sweeter on the boat ride. Visitors also get to watch flickering fireflies under a dim moonlit sky in the night. Keeping the authenticity of Thai culture alive, this boat ride is an unmissable experience in your Thailand Tour Package. 

Location: Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Province

Operating Hours: Friday - Sunday [4 PM - 9 PM]

Don Wai Floating Market

Nestled on the Tha Chin River, not very far from Bangkok city is the Don Wai Floating Market. Famed for its delicious Thai food varieties, is also a way to visit the iconic temples of Nakhon Pathom, Wat Rai Khing. 

Location: Don Wai Highway, Bang Krathuek, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday [8 AM - 5 PM], Saturday - Sunday [7 AM - 6:30 PM]

With the rising popularity of floating markets, Thailand has seen the emergence of some new ones as well like: 

The Khlong Hae Floating Market which is a beautiful blend of Muslim and Thai cultures

The Kwan Riam Floating Market is named after characters from a novel and

The Taling Chan Floating Market which is one of the six non-smoking areas in Bangkok

The floating markets of Thailand are a worthwhile visit destination in your Thailand Travel Package. Get in touch with Nitsa Holidays right away and get the best deals for you and your family!