Welcome to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of Thailand’s most iconic and colorful destinations! Imagine cruising along a bustling canal, surrounded by vibrant boats loaded with fresh fruits, tasty street food, and unique handmade crafts. Located just a short trip from Bangkok, this lively market offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life, where shopping and sightseeing come together on the water. Whether you’re here to enjoy the local flavors, pick up a few souvenirs, or simply soak in the atmosphere, Damnoen Saduak is a must-visit spot that promises a fun and memorable experience for everyone.
Table of Contents
Overview
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- Address: Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi Province, Thailand
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM to 04:00 PM
- Parking Fee: Approximately 20-50 THB (varies by location)
- When to Go: Early morning, between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM
- Nearest Bus Stop: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Bus Stop
- Nearest Railway Station: Maeklong Railway Station (approximately 20 km away)
- Nearest Airport: Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok (approximately 120 km away)
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Map
History
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, located in Ratchaburi Province, Thailand, is one of the country’s most famous and historically significant floating markets. Established over a century ago, the market’s origins date back to the reign of King Rama IV in the mid-19th century. The king ordered the construction of a 32-kilometer canal connecting the Mae Klong and Tacheen rivers to enhance transportation and trade between provinces. Over time, the canal became a bustling hub for local farmers to sell their goods directly from their boats, giving birth to the floating market.
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How to Reach: With Route
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok. The market can be reached by various means, depending on your preference and location in Thailand.
Bangkok → Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) → Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:
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- From Bangkok, take a taxi or a local bus to the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai).
- From the terminal, board a bus headed to Damnoen Saduak. The journey takes around 2 hours.
- Once you arrive at the bus stop near the market, you can either walk or take a short boat ride to reach the market.
Bangkok → Minivan → Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:
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- Alternatively, you can take a minivan from Bangkok’s Victory Monument or the Southern Bus Terminal.
- The minivans are slightly faster than buses, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the market directly.
Bangkok → Private Car/Taxi → Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:
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- For convenience, you can hire a private car or taxi from Bangkok. The drive typically takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Bangkok → Train → Maeklong Railway Market → Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:
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- For a more scenic route, you can take a train from Bangkok’s Wongwian Yai Station to the Maeklong Railway Market.
- From Maeklong, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
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Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Hours
Operating Hours:
- Daily: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is open every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday. The market officially starts its operations around 8:00 AM and typically winds down by around noon.
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Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is early in the morning, between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. During these hours, the market is at its liveliest, with vendors selling fresh produce, local foods, and handicrafts. Additionally, visiting early helps you avoid the midday heat and the large crowds of tourists that typically arrive later in the day.
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What to Eat
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- Boat Noodles (Kway Teow Rua): Small bowls of noodles in a rich broth, typically with beef or pork.
- Mango Sticky Rice: Mango slices drizzled with coconut milk, paired with sticky rice.
- Coconut Ice Cream: Fresh coconut ice cream often served in a coconut shell with toppings.
- Pad Thai: Rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, tofu, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
- Grilled Skewers (Moo Ping): Skewers of marinated grilled pork, chicken, or seafood.
- Kanom Krok: Mini coconut pancakes, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
- Fresh Tropical Fruits: Sliced fruits like durian, rambutan, and dragon fruit.
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What to Buy at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
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- Handicrafts: Traditional Thai items like wooden carvings, silk scarves, and handmade jewelry.
- Souvenirs: Small keepsakes such as keychains, postcards, and fridge magnets with Thai motifs.
- Thai Spices and Herbs: Fresh and dried spices like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers.
- Coconut Products: Items made from coconut, including coconut oil, coconut sugar, and skincare products.
- Local Snacks: Packaged Thai snacks like dried fruits, sweet tamarind, and crispy rice crackers.
- Clothing: Thai-style clothing, including sarongs, elephant pants, and T-shirts with local designs.
- Traditional Thai Hats (Ngob): The iconic wide-brimmed hats worn by local farmers, made from palm leaves.
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Distance from the Nearest Cities to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
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- Distance from Bangkok: Approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest
- Nakhon Pathom: Approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) south
- Ratchaburi: Approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) northeast
- Hua Hin: Approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) northwest
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Nearby Attractions
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- Maeklong Railway Market: A unique market located on a railway track where vendors swiftly pack up their goods to make way for passing trains. Drive time approx 23 min, 19.4km away from the market.
- Wat Bang Kung: A historic temple encased in the roots of a Banyan tree, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
- Amphawa Floating Market: Another popular floating market, smaller and less crowded than Damnoen Saduak, known for its evening market and firefly tours.
- Phra Pathom Chedi: The tallest stupa in the world, located in Nakhon Pathom, about 60 kilometers from Damnoen Saduak.
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Hotels/Resorts
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- Maikaew Damnoen Resort: A charming resort located close to the market, offering traditional Thai-style accommodations amidst lush gardens. This is a 3 star hotel around 7min walking distance.
- Jaroenrat Resort: A riverside resort with comfortable rooms and modern amenities, ideal for a relaxing stay. This is also a 3 star hotel about 28 min away.
- The Canal Ratchaburi: A cozy guesthouse offering a more intimate experience with canal-side views. A 3 star hotel.
- The Legend Maeklong: Located near the Maeklong Railway Market, this boutique hotel offers a blend of modern comforts and traditional Thai architecture.
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Tips For Visitors
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- Arrive Early: To fully experience the market and avoid the crowds, aim to arrive by 7:00 AM.
- Bargain Wisely: While bargaining is common, do so politely and with a smile. Vendors are more likely to offer discounts when approached kindly.
- Try Local Food: Don’t miss out on tasting traditional Thai snacks and dishes available at the market, like mango sticky rice, boat noodles, and coconut pancakes.
- Hire a Boat: Renting a paddle boat is the best way to explore the market and see the vendors up close. It also provides a unique perspective of the market from the water.
- Stay Hydrated: The market can get quite hot, especially later in the morning, so carry water with you.
- Beware of Tourist Traps: While the market is a major tourist attraction, be mindful of overly aggressive vendors or inflated prices.
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FAQs of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
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Q: Is Damnoen Saduak Floating Market worth visiting?
A: Yes, especially if you’re interested in experiencing a traditional Thai market and witnessing the vibrant local culture.
Q: How much time should I spend at the market?
A: On average, 2 to 3 hours is sufficient to explore the market, enjoy the sights, and sample the local food.
Q: Is it safe to visit the market with children?
A: Yes, the market is family-friendly. However, keep a close eye on children, especially when on the boats.
Q: What should I wear when visiting the market?
A: Wear light, comfortable clothing and footwear, as the market can get hot and crowded. Consider bringing a hat and sunscreen.
Q: Are there any entrance fees for the market?
A: No, there is no entrance fee for the market itself. However, if you choose to hire a boat, there will be a fee for that service.
Q: Can I visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market on my own, or should I join a tour?
A: You can easily visit the market on your own using public transport or by hiring a taxi. However, guided tours are available for those who prefer a more structured experience with additional insights into the market’s history and culture.