The colourful and chaotic Damnoen Saduak floating market is located approximately 100 kilometres west of Bangkok, Thailand. The market is a place to watch merchants paddle along the congested canals, taste some delicious mango sticky rice and fresh fruit, and do all of your souvenir shopping—at a fraction of the price of Bangkok.
Damnoen Suduak Floating Market
The first and most well-known view of the floating market is from the bridge at Ton Khem, which stretches above the canal. It is the spot for that iconic birds’ eye view shot.
There is so much going on in the market that it can, at times, become over-stimulating. But, don’t forget to pay attention to the smaller details.
A woman sells a fresh plate of mango sticky rice from her boat. Vendors use small nets on the ends of long sticks to pass out food and collect money.
A typical scene from the bridge during high traffic congestion. Boats swerve past and bump into each other as everyone tries to get from place to place.
Three women cooking and preparing meals, right on their boats, which become mobile kitchens.
You wouldn’t want to fall into the water here; it’s quite murky and you never know what’s floating around. It might be a good idea to bring a waterproof camera or a dry-bag for your things.
Food in Thailand is very inexpensive; you should be able to get a full meal at the market for under $3.
Some boats are motorized, but some still rely on paddles to get around.
The buildings at the start of the canal labyrinth are home to some good shopping, and you don’t even need to get on the water. Load up on spices and other ingredients before heading back to Bangkok.
Transactions are quick and easy. When it comes to souvenir shopping at the shops along the canals, bartering becomes even more intense than usual, as time is of the essence. Be prepared to have your haggling hat on.