About Damnoen Saduak
Damnoen Saduak is a district in Ratchaburi province, west of Bangkok, known above all for its floating market. Hundreds of vendors in small boats trade fruit, noodles and souvenirs in the early morning until around noon, creating the image that fills many guidebooks. It is open daily and very touristy; go as early as possible, before the tour buses arrive. The surroundings are canals, coconut palms and orchards, which you can see more quietly from a rowing boat or on a bicycle than at the market itself. If you want something more authentic, combine a trip through the back canals with Amphawa, which is easy to reach by boat. Keep in mind that the market is commercial and prices are higher for tourists.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: dry and relatively cool. March to May is hot; June to October is the rainy season with the most rain around September. Ruins and markets are most pleasant early in the morning. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by minivan or bus from the Southern Bus Terminal (about 1.5 to 2 hours); many travellers book a guided morning tour. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Damnoen Saduak
- Floating market Open daily in the morning; arrive before 9:00 to beat the crowds.
- Rowing boat on the canals A small boat through the back canals shows orchards and wooden houses.
- Cycling by the orchards The lanes among the coconut palms are quiet and flat.
- Combine with Amphawa You can travel on by boat or minivan to Amphawa’s evening market.
Damnoen Saduak on the map
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