The Khlong Bang Luang Market in Bangkok is a charming place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and soak up the picturesque atmosphere along the canal banks. This iconic spot embodies the tranquil ambiance of Thailand's old floating markets, where even today some boats still glide beneath the traditional bridges. Despite its name, it's no longer a floating market, as there are no longer any vendors on boats, either moving or moored. However, it remains a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Bangkok's famous canal life, the klongs. The best time to visit is on a weekend when it's more lively, and you can enjoy a bite to eat or a coffee or other soft drink at one of the restaurants or cafes. Browse the stalls of small workshops where people make necklaces and bracelets and paint on wood, including the famous Artists' House (Baan Silapin in Thai). It's recommended to visit the Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market on a weekend, as it's very quiet during the week and not everything is open. I personally recommend staying overnight at a lodge by the canal on Saturday or Sunday. It's a welcome change of pace, and in the morning you can collect the monks' offerings by boat – an unforgettable experience. Klong Bang Luang Market and its artists' house are also destinations for several boat tours on Bangkok's canals (klongs), particularly those departing from the Taling Chan floating market at 1:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Be sure to arrive at least an hour early to secure a spot. You can also attend the traditional Hun Krabok puppet show, which takes place at 2:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays at Wat Kamphaeng Bangchak, a temple located in the main parking lot of Bang Luang Market (this show was previously held at the artists' house).

I haven't checked, but some sources suggest that the place is closed on Wednesdays, but that a nice local market takes place there.

The easiest way to reach the Khlong Bang Luang floating market is by public transport. Take the MRT to Bang Phai station. All information and maps can be found on the "Transport in Bangkok" page. From there, it's about a ten-minute walk the remaining kilometer, or you can take a motorbike taxi (10 THB) if you can find one. On weekends, a songthaew also runs between Ta Phra MRT station and the canal section of the market. However, using it can be tricky if you're not familiar with songthaews. It's recommended to take the songthaew at the end of your visit to catch the metro. It waits on the other side of the small white bridge, just before Wat Khuha Sawan.

How to get there

How do I get to Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market? The easiest way to reach Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market is by public transport. Take the MRT to Bang Phai station. You can find all the information and maps on the "Transport in Bangkok" page. From there, it's about a ten-minute walk for the remaining kilometer, or you can take a motorbike taxi (10 THB) if you can find one. On weekends, a songthaew (shared taxi) also runs between Ta Phra MRT station and the canal section of the market. However, using it isn't always straightforward if you're not familiar with songthaews. It's recommended to take the songthaew at the end of your visit to catch the metro. It waits on the other side of the small white bridge, just before Wat Khuha Sawan.