Amphawa Floating Market

Amphawa Floating Market is situated in the Samut Songkhram province, approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, Thailand. The market is nestled along a series of small canals (klongs) branching off the Maeklong River. Its proximity to Bangkok makes it an ideal day trip for both locals and tourists

Amphawa Floating Market opening hours: daily from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM (Friday to Sunday)

• Minivan:
  • Take a minivan from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) to Samut Songkhram town (also known as Maeklong).
  • From Samut Songkhram, hop on a local songthaew (shared taxi) to reach Amphawa Floating Market.
  • The entire journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
• Private Tour:
  • For a personalized experience, hire a taxi or private car for the day.
  • Negotiate the price with the driver.
  • The private tour allows you to explore at your own pace and visit nearby attractions as well.

• The roots of Amphawa Floating Market trace back over a century. During the Ayutthaya period, this area served as a vital trading hub for local farmers, fishermen, and merchants.
• The market’s location along the Mae Klong River made it an ideal spot for waterborne commerce. Boats laden with goods would navigate the canals, creating a lively and bustling scene.
• Amphawa was not only a place of trade but also a social gathering point for the community. Locals would exchange goods, share stories, and celebrate cultural events.

• As time passed, the market evolved into a unique cultural gem. Its traditional charm remained intact, even as modernization swept through other parts of Thailand.
• Wooden houses along the canal, adorned with intricate carvings, became iconic symbols of Amphawa. These structures reflected the architectural style of the past.
• The market’s authenticity attracted visitors seeking an escape from the city. They reveled in the experience of strolling along the water’s edge, sampling local delicacies, and interacting with friendly vendors.

• In recent decades, Amphawa Floating Market experienced a revival. Tourists from around the world discovered its allure, drawn by the promise of an authentic Thai experience.
• The market’s popularity soared, leading to improvements in infrastructure, sanitation, and visitor facilities. Yet, efforts were made to maintain its historical character.
• Amphawa became a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a glimpse into Thailand’s past. The sight of boats laden with fresh produce, aromatic spices, and handmade crafts continued to captivate all who visited.

• Boat-Side Shopping: Amphawa Floating Market is famous for its boat vendors. Picture colorful wooden boats laden with fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies. As you stroll along the canal, vendors skillfully navigate their boats, creating a lively and bustling scene.
• Authentic Experience: Interact with vendors, haggle for prices, and sample street food directly from the boats. The sight of vendors cooking on their floating kitchens adds to the authenticity.

• Seafood Galore: Seafood enthusiasts rejoice! Amphawa offers an array of mouthwatering seafood dishes. Try grilled prawns, squid, and fish, all cooked to perfection.
• Pad Thai and More: Don’t miss the classic pad Thai—a flavorful stir-fried noodle dish. Explore other local treats like mango sticky rice, coconut pancakes, and savory snacks.
• Thai-Style Coffee: Sip on aromatic Thai coffee as you watch the world go by. Coffee stalls on boats offer a unique twist to your caffeine fix.

• Wooden Houses: Along the canal, admire the charming wooden houses. These structures reflect the historical architecture of the region. Some houses even double as small shops or cafes.
• Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram: Visit the nearby temple, Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram, known for its intricate wood carvings and serene ambiance. The temple’s riverside location adds to its allure.
• Evening Illumination: As dusk settles, lanterns and lights illuminate the water, creating a magical atmosphere. The reflection of wooden houses in the calm canal waters is a photographer’s delight.

After sunset, embark on a firefly boat tour. Drift along the canals, surrounded by mangroves and lush greenery. Witness the mesmerizing dance of fireflies—tiny glowing stars in the night

• • When: The boat rides begin approximately 1 hour after sundown, usually around 7:00 PM.
  • Duration time: About 1 hour
  • Where: The dock area of the little Amphawa floating market.
  • Firefly Activity: Fireflies are usually present throughout the year, but they are more active during Thailand’s rainy season, which spans from May to October.
  • Experience: Board a boat and cruise along the serene canals. As night falls, watch millions of fireflies flickering and sparkling along the riverbanks and waterways.
  • Atmosphere: The gentle glow of fireflies creates a magical ambiance, making this tour a memorable highlight of your visit to Amphawa.