The Amphawa Floating Market , Bangkok Overview

The Amphawa Floating Market is located southwest of Bangkok where local vendors sell fresh seafood, Thai drinks and desserts, and souvenir items. This is a major tourist attraction for anyone who wants to experience the unique canalside lifestyle of the locals. Unlike other floating markets in Thailand, the Amphawa Floating Market operates only during the weekend. It is among the oldest floating markets in the country and is famous for its relaxed shopping environment.

Travelers who want to experience Thailand’s rural charm and legendary food culture must visit the Amphawa Floating Market. Bustling canalside and street food and seafood vendors riding their wooden boats along the Amphawa Canal is a sight to behold. Tickle the taste buds with local Thai delicacies, enjoy longtail boat rides, indulge in shopping, and take pictures of life on the water in this floating market.

Things to Do at Amphawa Floating Market

Longtail Boat Cruise
Traditional longtail boat cruises are the best way to explore the authenticity of the Amphawa Floating Market. A motorized longtail boat rowed along the Amphawa canal offers the best view of the surrounding stalls and quaint wooden shops. Sample local delicacies and buy fresh seafood while enjoying the tour. If taking this cruise at night, enjoy the view of countless fireflies lightning up the canal banks. A private tour usually costs THB 450 and above, while a shared boat tour can be booked for THB 90.

Shopping
The shops lining the banks of Mae Klong River in Amphawa sell a wide array of souvenirs like wooden handicraft items, handmade watercolor paintings, etc. Purchase handmade items like trinkets and get Amphawa Floating Market t-shirts. There are plenty of other items like traditional coffee, aromatic herbs, and spices, etc., that are worth splurging money on.

Cycling Tour
Cycling on the river banks surrounding the Amphawa Floating Market is a great way to get a glimpse of the local Thai culture. Rent a bicycle from the Thai Tib Station at the Floating Market and bike around to explore the stunning view of the vendors selling their goods on boats for almost 50 km. Embark on an exciting bicycle journey and taste scrumptious Thai street food along the way.

Food at the Floating Market

Thai locals and tourists visit the Amphawa Floating Market in large numbers to indulge in the exotic flavors of authentic Thai cuisine. Popular for freshly grilled seafood, the Amphawa Floating Market is a haven for seafood lovers. From grilled prawns to mackerel fried rice, there are a plethora of exquisite local delicacies to try at the Amphawa Floating Market. The market is also famous for traditional Thai desserts like Khanum Alua (jelly candy), noodles, fresh fruits, dumplings, Thai herb beverages, and Som Tam (papaya salad).

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the market is after 2:00 PM as this is when the place livens up with vendors selling their wares in wooden boats and local people and tourists fill up the canal banks. At this time of the day, one will also get plenty of seafood options at the market as the place gets crowded with tourists and food enthusiasts. One can also visit the Amphawa Floating Market in the evening to experience the fascinating night market scene of boat vendors, street food stalls, souvenir shops and fireflies lighting the Amphawa Canal.

Tips

Arrive early at the market to get better rates for food and souvenir items.
Stay the night in Amphawa to enjoy the spectacular view of fireflies along the Amphawa Canal. Bring along a camera to capture the delightful experience.

How To Reach Amphawa Floating Market

The Amphawa Floating Market is located at a distance of 50 km from Bangkok. One can take minivan no. 996 from Sai Tai Mai Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok. These passenger vans operate from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM and take approximately an hour and a half to reach Amphawa. The minivan ticket on this route can cost around THB 100. The minivan usually drops travelers a few kilometers away from the Amphawa Floating Market and this one can easily cover this distance on foot or rent a bicycle to get around. Alternatively, take a private taxi from Bangkok to Amphawa which may cost somewhere around THB 1500 for a one-way trip.