Discovering Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:

Back in 2008 I visited this floating market. Back then it was quieter and less touristy. Dread to think what it's like now, so take a look at a time when it was for real and not the tourists!

Some info below:

Back in 2008 I visited this floating market. Back then it was quieter and less touristy.

The Damnoen Saduak experience can be an assault on the senses, with the twisty passages between boats and the jumble of watercraft all demanding your attention as your boat picks its way through the canal, the rising heat of the day (especially if you visit later in the morning), and the smell of the cooking food clashing with the damp odor of the canal water.

In the past, daily commerce in Thailand was conducted mostly along rivers and canals (or khlongs in Thai). Bangkok’s water network was busy and served as the principal means of communication causing Bangkok to be called as the "Venice of the East" by early European visitors.

Damnoen saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi is one of the most popular floating markets in Thailand. Every day many Thai and foreign tourists travel here to shop, eat, and absorb the atmosphere of Thailand water markets that have been like this for over 100 years. Klong Damnoen Saduak is the straightest and longest canal in Thailand. The canal was built on royal initiative as King Rama IV of Thailand wanted to link the Mae Klong River with Chinese river ways to support transportation and trade. It took over 2 years to dig, and was eventually finished under the reign of his successor King Rama V. The canal is 32 kilometers long and has more than 200 branches. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market's popularity grew to new heights in 1971-1973 when the river was full of farmers on their boats selling their wares. And that is the way trade is performed in this area until today.

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of Thailand’s most famous and iconic tourist attractions.

It is located in the Ratchaburi Province, about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, Thailand’s capital.

The market is renowned for its picturesque setting and the unique shopping experience it offers visitors.

Here are some primary details about the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:

Floating Market Concept

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a traditional Thai market where vendors sell their goods directly from boats.

The market’s main waterway, Damnoen Saduak Canal, is lined with long-tail boats loaded with various products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, street food, souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts.

Vibrant Atmosphere

The market exudes a lively and colorful atmosphere, with vendors wearing traditional Thai clothing and engaging in friendly banter with shoppers.

It’s a bustling scene, especially in the morning when the market is busiest.

Local Cuisine

One of the highlights of visiting Damnoen Saduak is the opportunity to sample authentic Thai cuisine.

Many vendors prepare and sell delicious Thai dishes like noodle soups, rice dishes, and exotic fruit juices.

The market is primarily known for its coconut-based snacks and sweets.

Boat Tours

Visitors can explore the market by taking a boat tour. These tours often involve navigating the narrow canals that connect to the main market area.

It’s scenic and enjoyable to experience the market and get close to the vendors.

Shopping

The market offers a wide range of products, making it a great place for souvenir shopping.

Traditional Thai handicrafts, silk scarves, wooden carvings, and other unique items can be found.

Cultural Experience

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market provides insight into traditional Thai culture and the locals’ way of life.

It’s an opportunity to see age-old trading practices and interact with friendly vendor

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