Amphawa is one of the popular floating markets around Bangkok. It is not as big as Damnoen Saduak, but more colorful. The audience here consists mainly of locals. Amphawa floating market is located 50 km from Bangkok. Earlier, it was a small village, but Thais liked this authentic place, so they began to come here regularly for the weekend.
Keep reading this post about Amphawa floating market in Bangkok for first timers: you can find up-to-date information about how to get there, entrance fee, day tours, what to buy and more.
General Info
Food stalls are not only on the territory of the market, but they also occupy the nearby streets. The main reason for such popularity is the delicious seafood cooked on wooden boats scurrying along the coast. From lunchtime until late night, a delicious smell wafts from each food stall, provoking visitors to move from one seller to another.
The Amphawa market is open Friday – Sunday, and the market also acts as an evening market. Official opening hours – from 14.00 to 20.00.
What to Do at Amphawa Floating Market
You can buy seafood by weight. For example, for 5 huge shrimps you have to pay about 300 BHT. Visitors are usually sit on narrow steps leading directly to the water. Vendors bring them ready meals from boats.
If you don’t really like the idea of sitting on the concrete steps and watching the muddy brown water, then you can find a seat in one of small restaurants. An even better view on the market will be from the balcony of the restaurant, which is located next to the bridge.
As this place is always very crowded, it’s better to arrive early or wait until there are available seats.
The best and quietest restaurants are located at the point where the canal meets the Mekong River.
What to Buy and Eat at Amphawa Floating Market
On both sides along the canal, you can find various souvenirs that are sold in old wooden shops. Special attention should be paid to sweets and ice cream sold here, because this region is a place of sugar production.
By the way, if you want to know how sugar is produced, you can go to the nearby Tha Kha market. Pay attention to the traditional Thai Khanom Alua lollipops and be sure to try the glazed donuts. But the chocolate that is sold on the market is not for everyone. It is more for contemplation than for consumption.
At Amphawa floating market you can find absolutely all kinds of local food. Some dishes may seem familiar, but some will surprise with their appearance. Be sure to try something traditional.
Of course, personal preferences may differ, but try grilled giant shrimp and squid, Thai fish cakes and dumplings with pork.
If you want something specific for this region, then try Pla Tuu Mae Klong. The fish, usually a type of mackerel, is literally folded over and placed in a steamer. You can even find soft toys or key chains in the form of bent fish.
Join Boat Ride on Mekong River
Once you’ve walked around the market, it’s time to take a boat ride down the canal to explore the nearby canals and rivers. A pleasant breeze after a walk will come in handy.
Boats with tourists depart from almost every pier. On average, the cost for participating in a group tour is 50 BHT/per person. If you want an individual tour, you will have to pay 500 Baht. The main drawback of a group tour is that the trip will not start until all the places are filled. Plus, you will be waiting for passengers at every stop.
Temple Wat Bang Kung
Hidden on the other side of the Mekong River is the beautiful temple of Wat Bang Kung. Don’t miss it when you get to Amphawa Market from Bangkok.
As part of the tour, you will see other Bangkok temples with golden Buddha statues, house museums. Of course, they are not as impressive in scope, but they are a great way to take a break from the hubbub and crowds that flood Amphawa floating market.
Built in the middle of nowhere, Wat Bang Kung is worth a visit in itself. Children and teenagers will love the small zoo, which is located on the temple grounds. Among its inhabitants are: camel, an ostrich, a family of wild boars, deer, goats and peacocks. The latter demonstrate their beauty and spread their bright tail in front of cameras.
This temple is located just 100 meters from the river. Powerful tree roots entangle him. The spectacle is about the same as in the famous temple complex Angkor Wat. Temple Wat Bang Kung can not be called abandoned. Pilgrims regularly come here to pay respect to the golden Buddha, who sits majestically in the center of the temple.
For more information about Bangkok’s floating markets, check our guide.
