Maeklong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Unique Thai Experiences

A Train Passing Through the Market

The Maeklong Railway Market is a traditional fresh market located along active railway tracks. What makes this market unique is how vendors set up their stalls right next to the tracks. When a train approaches, vendors calmly clear the way by folding up their awnings, allowing the train to pass before quickly restoring their stalls to normal. This rare sight became a must-visit attraction after being featured on Discovery Channel!

Before the train arrives, the sound of the whistle fills the air, creating a bustling scene as everyone prepares to welcome it.

Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, reaching Maeklong requires a 1 to 2-hour drive. Many travelers arrange tours that combine visits to both Maeklong Railway Market and the nearby Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. It’s advisable to join a local tour for convenient transportation and a Chinese-speaking guide.

As the train approaches, all vendors quickly fold their awnings while travelers eagerly await the arrival of the train! The train passes extremely close to the crowd, so everyone must be cautious and avoid getting too close to the tracks.

To witness the train passing through the market, visitors should pay attention to the train schedule. Four trains run daily: at 08:30, 11:10, 14:30, and 17:40. It’s best to arrive early to explore the nearby market before finding a good spot to watch the train. The sound of the train’s whistle alerts vendors to clear their stalls, and the train passes slowly, creating an unforgettable moment as crowds gather to witness this unique event.

Once the train has passed, vendors promptly set up their stalls again, restoring the market’s lively atmosphere. The Maeklong Railway Market is a typical fresh market, but its unique train crossing has made it one of the world's wonders.

After the train departs, vendors quickly return to their routines, with the entire process taking less than five minutes—truly a fascinating experience. Each train stops for about half an hour, giving visitors ample time to take photos with the vintage train.

Maeklong Railway Market

Address: 22 Kasemsukum Road, Mae Klong, Mueang Samut Songkhram District, Samut Songkhram 75000

Opening Hours: 06:00---18:00

Train Departure Times: 06:20, 09:00, 11:30, 15:30

Train Arrival Times: 08:30, 11:10, 14:30, 17:40

Website: https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/mae-klong-railway-market-hoop-rom-market

A Bustling Floating Market

About a 20-minute drive from Maeklong is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, established in the 19th century by King Rama V. This market is over 150 years old and was created to facilitate transportation of goods to Bangkok via its canals. Over time, the area developed into a vibrant marketplace with homes lining the waterways. As it’s a morning market, it’s recommended to arrive before 10 AM to fully experience the lively atmosphere.

The over 150-year-old canal serves as a significant historical testament to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

At Damnoen Saduak, tourists can choose between two types of boats: traditional rowing boats, which are slower but offer a historical vibe, and motorized boats with large sunshades for added comfort. The canals can get crowded with vendors peddling their goods from boats, so if you see something you want, don’t hesitate to wave a vendor over. You can enjoy local delicacies like fish ball noodles and spicy soup noodles right from your boat, making it a unique culinary experience. After a boat tour, you can return to the shore market to continue shopping and tasting local foods.

Numerous vendors row their boats to conduct business, offering a variety of snacks and fruits. Vendors often dock their boats to sell goods, some even equipped with cooking utensils, adding to the market's charm.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130

Operating Hours: 08:00 - 16:00

Must-Try Foods: Fish ball noodles, spicy soup noodles, Thai milk tea, mango sticky rice

Website: https://floatingmarketthai.com/en/floating-market-damnoen-saduak/#select