Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The basics

The famous floating market is commonly visited on half- and full-day tours from Bangkok. Popular options include a guided boat ride along the canal in a long-tailed speedboat or umbrella-shaded paddle boat and a riverside group bike excursion that explores the countryside and nearby canals (klongs) for a better appreciation of local life.

Both group and private Damnoen Saduak Floating Market tours are available, and round-trip transportation from Bangkok is typically included. Because the market wraps up around midday, the experience is often coupled with a visit to the Suan Sampran (Sampran Riverside) Thai village or the stupa at Phra Pathom Chedi (Phra Pathommachedi) in Nakhon Pathom, the tallest stupa in Thailand.

Things to know before you go

• There is no admission fee for the market.

• Remember to wear a hat and sunblock—much of the market is shadeless.

• Some of the vendors offer wares geared toward locals, while others typically sell souvenirs to travelers.

• Pay attention to your valuables and be courteous when taking photos of vendors or their goods.

• Vendors generally accept only Thai baht as payment.

• Try to schedule your visit early in the morning if you want the best selection of inventory without all the boat traffic.

How to get there

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located some 62 miles (100 kilometers) southwest of downtown Bangkok city in the southern part of the Ratchaburi province. The journey takes about 90 minutes by road. Most visitors arrive by organized tour from Bangkok, though it is possible to take a taxi or public bus. If you opt for public transport, keep in mind that it may not be air-conditioned.

When to get there

The market runs every morning from 7am to 11am. Arrive early for the best pick of the produce and to spend the most time wandering amid the vendors before boat traffic picks up around 9am. Getting there early also helps beat the heat, especially during the sweltering months of March, April, and May. Toward midday, when vendors pack up, it may be possible to negotiate for better deals.

What to buy at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

To make the most of your market tour, you may want to interact with vendors and purchase some of their unusual, delicious, and practical goods. Sample durian, order fried bananas served via fishing pole, or select a straw hat from a canalside stall. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to return most items, so try before you buy if you can.

Whatever you choose, you’ll need to bring Thai baht in small bills as many vendors do not accept cards. And don’t forget your bartering skills. Bartering is part of the local culture and will help to get you the best price. If you’re not sure what your counter offer should be, ask your boat driver (assuming you feel comfortable with them).