Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
Good Place to Eat,
Must-Do Experience,
Popular with Locals,
Market,
Neighborhood
Having now been replaced by supermarkets and shopping malls, Thailand's remaining floating markets are an enduring symbol of what life was like in days gone by.
The popular floating market in Ratchaburi, known as Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, is one of Thailand’s largest. Sellers arrive early in their boats laden with tropical fruits, flowers and other fresh produce, creating an exuberant and vividly colorful scene that has been captured by photographers the world over.
It's a touristy scene but worth the crowds in order to experience this unique and infectiously chaotic market. Hire a long-tail boat and make sure you bring your camera to capture this quintessential image of Thailand. It is also worthwhile exploring the nearby canals (klongs) to gain an appreciation of how the locals live.
It’s best to take a trip early in the morning to see the market at its busiest and most colorful. Many people who visit the market combine the trip with a tour to the Rose Garden cultural resort, 32 km (20 mi) west of Bangkok and/or to Nakhon Pathom, the site of the largest pagoda (and highest Chedi) in Thailand.
Latest Reviews
Review by Aleksander M, May 2013
Doing what: Floating Markets and Rose Garden Cultural Center Day Tour from Bangkok
Worth seeing. Floating market is really nice and interesting experience. Very nice guide. This is must see in Thailand.
Review by Adam P, April 2013
Doing what: Floating Markets of Damnoen Saduak Cruise Day Trip from Bangkok
I would highly recommend this trip. The floating market made our entire trip. We saw all the temples and things that Bangkok had to offer, but the floating market was by far our favourite. With a roughly 2 hour drive, and a quick stop at a coconut factory, it really doesn't seem too long. You are first put on a motor boat and rip around some different canals which leads you to the entrance of the floating market. There are definitely some cool things to see on this ride alone. Once you get to the market you purchase your ticket and hop on the boat. I believe the market is now more touristy as it was in the past, but don't let that dictate your decision. This is a must trip.
The tour guide was very knowledgable. He attempted to be funny and crack some jokes. He was very good at what he does.
Review by Laura P, April 2013
Doing what: Floating Markets of Damnoen Saduak Cruise Day Trip from Bangkok
Great way to see the floating markets and get a bit of shopping in as well! The guide was very knowledgeable throughout. Great idea for a 1/2 day tour!!
Practical Info
The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is 110 km (68 mi) west of Bangkok, in Ratchaburi province and about 40 minutes by car to Nakhon Pathom.
