Probably the most famous floating market is the one at Damonen Saduak. It is also probably the most heavily criticized for being so commercial. That might be true, but if you want to get some “postcard” photos like these then I really suggest you should give this place a visit. If you decide you want something more authentic, then I doubt you will get so many photo opportunities as at this one. I have been to a number of different floating markets now, and for newcomers to Thailand I always suggest Damonen Saduak as it is a feast for your eyes.
This market is about two hours southwest of Bangkok. You can book a tour through your hotel which will take in both this market and the cultural shows at the Rose Garden. It is also possible to go there by local bus. It just needs a bit of effort on your part. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, as we did in order to get these “authentic pictures” you should try and be at the canal by 7 a.m. I think 8 a.m. is the very latest as about an hour later the tour coaches from Bangkok start to arrive. If you come late then every photo will have a foreigner in the background. For us, we decided to go the night before. We stayed at a comfortable hotel in the town called Nok Noi. A short walk took us to the canal where a boat arranged for us by the hotel owner was waiting for us. We were on the canal shortly after 7 a.m. It was the perfect time. I have been there about three times now and will go again for sure the next time a friend or relative from the mother country comes to visit.
Other floating markets I have blogged about:
Amphawa Floating Market
Floating Market in Samut Prakan
After re-reading my blog on my local floating market, I think I will go there for another visit next weekend. The last time I was there it was a bit late in the day to see much activity. It is best to go early in the moring. However, for late risers, you should consider going to the Amphawa Floating Market as it opens at the end of the day. That was a really good day trip.
