Taling Chan Floating Market

About this place

The floating market closest to central Bangkok, on the Chak Phra canal in Taling Chan on the city's west side, visited more by Bangkok families at weekends than by tourists. Floating wooden platforms on the canal seat diners, with small boats in front grilling fish, prawns and shellfish and cooking noodles served hot. On the bank a market sells plants, flowers, fruit and Thai sweets, and longtail boats leave the pier for trips along quiet canals between wooden houses, orchid gardens and temples. A quarter of an hour away is the Khlong Lat Mayom floating market, a little larger and less touristy, with long wooden walkways along the canal and plenty of local food, so both fit into one morning. Entry is free, and both markets run on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays only, from morning until about four. Seafood dominates, but many dishes are cooked with pork or pork stock, so ask before ordering, or stick to grilled fish and fruit. Come in the morning before the heat; it is about half an hour from the centre by taxi. It is a closer, calmer alternative for anyone who does not want the long trip to Damnoen Saduak.