All You need to know about Floating Market in Thailand

Floating Market in Thailand makes you feel like you are entering a different world. There, you will see slender canals crowded with boats selling plenty of food and goods. While their friendly vendors talk amongst themselves in Thai. 

However, there are some countries in Asia that have their own floating markets but Thailand’s market is the best of them. If you are planning your trip to Thailand then the unreal experience of floating marketing is one you cannot miss. In this article, we have highlighted everything you need to know about Thailand’s famous floating markets.

History of Floating Market in Thailand

Floating markets are usually found in Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam. Today, floating markets have become tourist attractions with tempting food and souvenirs. However, they are not always used to be this way. The Chao Phraya River that weaves through Bangkok is generally referred to as the route of the city. 

Before Bangkok was developed, the city was a jungle, making it impossible for vendors and sellers to make money. At that time, items were sold both regionally and internationally on these waterways. When different means of transportation were introduced in Thailand, the canals remained a popular means of trade. The water canals made selling and trading foods easy for Thai people.

Top 3 Floating Marketing of Thailand

1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the popular market among others in Thailand. This market is generally filled with tourists which makes it busiest. You should visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market once while visiting Thailand. This floating market is about an hour outside of Bangkok. Moreover, you can easily book a tour to visit and explore the market for a day. The ideal time to visit the market is at 7 am as the crowd starts to show up around 9 am. You may also get the chance to ride on the long tail boat which is a great way to see the canal more clearly.

• What to expect– You may see traders paddling wooden boats that are loaded with fresh fruits, vegetables and local food like mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream.
• Must Do Things- You can take a boat tour to visit the canal more closely
• Best Time to Visit– You must visit their early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

2. Amphawa Floating Market

Amphawa Floating Market is the second most famous floating market in Bangkok that is located about 50 kilometres outside the city. This market is not as crowded as Damnoen Saduak floating market which makes it best to enjoy its beauty. However, most of the people who visit this market are Thai which makes it more authentic. Amphawa Market is famous for its seafood, and its boats are filled with shellfish and squid. If you love seafood then add this floating market in your bucket list.

• What to Expect: You can see a variety of seafood dishes cooked on small boats, such as grilled prawns and squid. Traditional souvenirs and handicrafts are also popular here.
• Must-Do: Tourists can enjoy the boat ride while watching the beauty of fireflies along the Mae Klong River during the evening.
• Best Time to Visit: Friday to Sunday evenings.

3. Bang Kachao Floating Market

Bang Kachao is also a famous floating market that is also famous as Bangkok’s Green Lung. This market is about six miles away from Bangkok. You will see papaya groves and coconut trees shade this market. However tourists generally visit this market for its best cycling paths. In Bang Kachao you will find the Talad Nam Peung floating market also which is usually called as the honey market. These places are less crowded, which makes it easier to go there. In this market you may find organic products, tasty food and more. Tourists can also rent a boat to explore these canals on their own.  

• What to Expect– You can expect to see organic products, traditional Thai snacks and handmade items. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed visit.
• Must-Do– You can easily rent a bicycle to explore the village area and mangrove forests.
• Best time to visit– You should go there early in the morning to experience the beauty of the market.

Things to Know Before Going Floating Market

There are a few things you need to keep in mind before going to a floating market. Here is the list of the following things.

• Start Early– if you are planning to visit a floating market then go early to avoid the crowd and enjoy a peaceful shopping experience.
• Carry Cash– Do not forget to carry cash when going to the floating market as many vendors do not take credit cards.
• Dress Comfortably– While traveling to a Floating market always wear comfortable clothes and footwear.
• Practice Bargaining– Do not hesitate to negotiate prices as bargaining is very common there.

When to Go to Floating Market in Thailand

Most of the floating markets are only open on the weekends. To avoid the crowd of tourists the best to go to these markets is before lunchtime or early morning. This is the time when the crowd is small and you can enjoy your visit peacefully.