Samut Songkhram

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
13/08/2025
Amphawa, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand
mohigan, Wikimedia Commons

Samut Songkhram presents a captivating glimpse into traditional Thai riverside living, drawing visitors with its unique markets, rich local culture, and serene waterways. One discovers an authentic experience amidst the bustling floating markets and the remarkable railway market.

While not a party destination, Samut Songkhram's lively Amphawa Floating Market and the area around the Maeklong Railway Market offer opportunities to engage with both local communities and fellow travelers. The weekend floating markets, particularly Amphawa, are vibrant hubs for gathering, dining, and experiencing the local lifestyle.

Top 4 Things to do in Samut Songkhram

The activities in Samut Songkhram generally involve exploring unique local markets, engaging with traditional Thai culture, and experiencing serene natural waterways.

1. Maeklong Railway Market (Talad Rom Hup)

Stepping onto the Maeklong Railway Market, one immediately notices the vibrant array of goods, from fresh seafood and produce to local snacks, spread right along an active train track. The highlight is witnessing the unique spectacle as vendors swiftly retract their awnings and stalls mere seconds before a train passes, then resume business as soon as it's gone. It's a fascinating demonstration of local adaptation and offers incredible photo opportunities. Beyond the train, the market is a genuine local hub to explore for authentic Thai items.

Cost: Entry to the market is free. Food and souvenir prices vary, but local dishes can be found for around 50-100 THB.

Transport: From Bangkok, one can take a minivan from Victory Monument or Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) directly to Maeklong, taking approximately 1.5 hours and costing around 80-100 THB. Alternatively, a train journey offers a unique perspective (though requires a transfer). Once in Maeklong, the market is central and easily walkable. Tuk-tuks are available for short distances, costing around 80-100 THB to Amphawa if not walking.

2. Amphawa Floating Market

Visiting the Amphawa Floating Market on a weekend evening provides a true sense of community and charm. This market, unlike some others, is popular with local Thais, creating a lively yet authentic atmosphere. One can wander along the canal, sampling an extensive array of fresh seafood grilled directly on boats, local sweets, and delicious noodles. The canal-side shops offer a variety of souvenirs and handicrafts. As dusk settles, boat tours depart to witness the mesmerizing natural light show of fireflies, a tranquil end to the evening.

Cost: Entry to the market is free. Food costs vary, but grilled seafood and snacks are generally affordable (e.g., coconut ice cream for 40 THB, grilled scallops for 100 THB). Firefly watching boat tours typically cost 50-100 THB per person for a shared boat.

Transport: Amphawa is about 9 km from Samut Songkhram town. Many visitors stay in homestays or resorts directly in Amphawa. From the Maeklong Railway Market area, a tuk-tuk can take you to Amphawa for approximately 80-100 THB. Public vans from Bangkok also go directly to Amphawa, taking about 1.5 hours and costing around 80-100 THB.

3. Wat Bang Kung

Discovering Wat Bang Kung is like stepping into a historical fairytale, as a small chapel is almost entirely encased within the colossal roots of a banyan tree. This ancient temple, dating back over 200 years, creates a striking visual of nature intertwining with human-made structures. Inside, a revered golden Buddha statue rests, often adorned with gold leaf by devotees. The surrounding area features a small military camp replica, adding to the site's historical context, particularly related to battles with the Burmese.

Cost: Admission to Wat Bang Kung is generally free, though donations are appreciated.

Transport: Wat Bang Kung is located in Bang Khonthi district. It is accessible by taxi or a hired songthaew from Amphawa or Samut Songkhram town. Given its slightly less central location, a pre-arranged taxi or part of a guided tour might be most convenient. Costs for a local taxi or tuk-tuk from Amphawa would depend on negotiation but expect to pay a few hundred THB for a return trip, potentially combined with other nearby sights.

4. King Rama II Memorial Park

Adjacent to Amphawa Floating Market, the King Rama II Memorial Park serves as a peaceful tribute to King Rama II's contributions to Thai art and culture. Walking through the five traditional Thai-style houses, which serve as a museum, one can gain insight into the lifestyle during the early Rattanakosin period. The park also features a botanical garden filled with plants mentioned in Thai literature and an open-air theater for cultural performances. It offers a calm, educational respite from the bustling markets.

Cost: Entrance fee is 20 THB for adults and 5 THB for children.

Transport: The park is conveniently located next to Amphawa Floating Market, making it easily accessible on foot if already in Amphawa. If arriving from Samut Songkhram town, a short tuk-tuk or local bus ride is available.

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