DAY 1 @ BANGKOK
Wat Phra Kaew, commonly known in English as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and officially as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram, is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The complex consists of a number of buildings within the precincts of the Grand Palace in the historical centre of Bangkok
The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. The palace has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782. The king, his court, and his royal government were based on the grounds of the palace until 1925.Rather than being a single structure, the Grand Palace is made up of numerous buildings, halls, pavilions set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards. Its asymmetry and eclectic styles are due to its organic development, with additions and rebuilding being made by successive reigning kings over 200 years of history.
Khao San Road is really a paradise for the budget traveler. You can have your food in the kiosk on the street or you can have a fancy meal in some restaurants or bars. It has a night market and you can buy cheap things here. It has lots of travel agencies where you can join local tours to other areas. It’s close to the pier where you can take the ferry to major tourist spots. It’s totally different style for Khao San Road and other part of the modern bangkok.
DAY 2 @ BANGKOK
Early Morning: Depart for Mae Klong Railway Market (approximately 1.5-2 hours from Bangkok). Witness the market on the train tracks where vendors quickly move their goods as the train passes.
Thailand has long captivated tourists with its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and delectable street food. While its famed attractions lure countless visitors, one remarkable gem often overlooked is the Maeklong Railway Market. Situated just 80 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, this market offers a unique blend of shopping excitement and the extraordinary sight of a train passing through several times daily.
A One-of-a-Kind Market
The Maeklong Railway Market, or “Talad Rom Hup” in Thai, is a bustling marketplace set directly on railway tracks. What sets this market apart is its distinctive location. Imagine a typical Thai market with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, seafood, clothing, and various goods, all neatly arranged alongside and on the railway track. Unlike traditional markets with fixed stalls, this market occupies the very space traversed by the train!
The Phenomenon of the Train
The train passing through the Maeklong Railway Market is undoubtedly the main attraction. This isn’t just a typical train journey; it’s a mesmerizing spectacle. As the train approaches, vendors swiftly retract their awnings and move their goods, creating just enough space for the train to pass. The precision of this routine showcases the skill and coordination of the vendors who are well-versed in this daily occurrence.
Visitors watch in awe as the train slowly rolls through the market, capturing the breathtaking moment as the locomotive inches past baskets of fresh produce and bustling stalls. Once the train has passed, the market swiftly returns to normal, and the bustling activity resumes as if nothing unusual just occurred.
The Exciting Feeling of Exploration
The Maeklong Railway Market is more than a tourist spot; it’s a sensory feast. The aroma of exotic fruits and Thai street food fills the air, enticing visitors to sample local treats such as coconut pancakes, mango sticky rice, and grilled prawns. This market is a culinary paradise, offering an abundance of authentic Thai flavors.
Beyond food, the market features a variety of traditional Thai products and souvenirs. Shoppers can find intricately designed handicrafts, handmade clothing, fresh flowers, and unique keepsakes. Bargaining is welcomed, so feel free to haggle for the best deals.
A Thai Culture Lesson
A visit to the Maeklong Railway Market is not just about shopping and photo opportunities; it’s an immersive cultural experience. Engaging with the friendly vendors, who are often eager to share their stories and smiles, offers a genuine glimpse into Thai life. Witnessing how the Thai people have ingeniously adapted a daily necessity like a train route into a tourist attraction underscores their creativity and resilience.
The Aspect of Tourism
Over the years, the Maeklong Railway Market has emerged as a must-visit destination in Thailand. It significantly contributes to the local economy, attracting both domestic and international tourists. The market has evolved to accommodate visitors, with English-speaking vendors and guides enhancing the experience.
For tourists, it’s not just about shopping; it’s about the thrill of witnessing the train navigate through the market and gaining insight into Thai culture and lifestyle. This unique combination makes the Maeklong Railway Market a popular day trip from Bangkok.
The Maeklong Railway Market is a testament to Thailand’s vibrant spirit and cultural richness. Its extraordinary setting and the daily spectacle of the train passing through create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or an avid shopper, this market promises an adventure that captures the essence of Thai ingenuity and hospitality.
Mid-Morning: Continue to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (another 30 minutes from Mae Klong). Take a boat ride to explore the market.Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a floating market in Damnoen Saduak district, Ratchaburi province, about 100 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, Thailand. It has become primarily a tourist attraction, attracting domestic and foreign tourists. It is often considered the most famous floating market.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at a local restaurant.
- Late Afternoon: Depart for Hua Hin (approximately 2.5 hours drive).
- Evening: Arrive in Hua Hin. Check-in at the hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening by the beach or explore the night market.
