Have Perut Will Travel...: BKK Day 9 │ Christmas Day • Damnoen Saduak Floating Market!

Christmas Day Adventure Continues!

Our Christmas Day gallivant continued with a memorable journey to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Thailand’s most famous floating market located in Ratchaburi Province, about 100 km southwest of Bangkok. After hopping off the tour bus, a quick stop at the “room of happiness” (thankfully equipped with a bidet!) set the tone for the day.

Why Damnoen Saduak is a Must-Visit

This bustling market sits along a network of narrow canals where vendors in traditional straw hats sell fresh fruits, vegetables, snacks, and souvenirs from small wooden boats. The best time to visit? Early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) when trading activity peaks and the atmosphere is most vibrant.

A Glimpse into History

The market dates back to the mid-19th century during the reign of King Rama IV, when the Damnoen Saduak Canal was built to connect the Mae Klong and Tha Chin rivers. Today, while much of its commerce caters to tourists, it remains a cultural landmark showcasing Thailand’s river-based heritage.

Exploring Lao Tuk Luck – The Original Market

Our boat ride took about 30 minutes to reach Lao Tuk Luck, also known as the Old Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Over a century old, this historic market offers a nostalgic glimpse into Thailand’s past with its wooden structures and authentic riverside living.

Here, you can:

Taste local dishes like Tom Yum noodles, coconut pancakes, and tropical fruits.
Enjoy photo-worthy scenes of paddle boats and waterfront homes.
Experience traditional Thai culture away from the tourist crowds.
Have coffee by the Canal

After exploring, we settled at ยุทธกาแฟโบราณ, a charming coffee shop by the canal. For just THB80 (≈ MYR10/USD3/EUR2), we enjoyed drinks while watching longtail boats glide past—a perfect moment of serenity.

Journey Back to Bangkok

We regrouped with our guide Jackson at 1:10 PM and boarded the bus at 2:20 PM. The ride back took two hours, ending behind Siam Paragon to save time. After a quick pharmacy stop (my stomach was still protesting!), we hopped on the BTS at Siam and reached Ekkamai in 15 minutes.

Dinner Stop: Mom’s Tom Yum Noodle Soup

Traffic was gnarly, so we walked and found ก๋วยเตี๋ยวต้มยำฝีมือแม่ สาขาเอกมัย (Mom’s Tom Yum Noodle Soup). Playing it safe, I opted for clear soup noodles. Dinner for two with drinks cost THB150 (≈ MYR19/USD5/EUR4)—a bargain for authentic Thai flavors.

Final Thoughts

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is more than a tourist spot—it’s a cultural experience that blends history, food, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the canal or exploring Lao Tuk Luck, this day trip is a must for anyone visiting Bangkok.

Stay tuned for our next post: A proper visit to Central World on our penultimate day in Bangkok!