Start daily at: 8:00 & 9:30 & 11:00 & 12:30 & 14:00 & 15:30 & 16:30 hrs.
Leave the busy streets behind and step into a world of wooden houses, smiling locals, and timeless traditions along Bangkok’s canals.
Hop aboard a traditional Thai long-tail boat and set off on a relaxing journey through Thonburi, the historic part of Bangkok. This area retains a slower pace of life, offering a fascinating contrast to the city’s modern skyscrapers and bustling streets.
During this (approx.) 2-hour canal adventure, you’ll catch glimpses of local life along the waterways.
Bangkok is a city of contrasts. Beyond its glittering temples and luxurious neighborhoods, the city also has areas of poverty and simple canal-side communities. On our tour, you’ll pass some older, more fragile houses that are at the mercy of floods during the rainy season. We want to show travelers a more authentic side of Bangkok, one that reflects local life beyond the postcard-perfect sights. It’s a perspective that many find eye-opening and enriching.
One of the highlights is Khlong Bang Luang, a riverside community dating back to the Ayutthaya period. Lined with old wooden houses and family-run shops, it offers a glimpse of traditional canal-side life. At its heart is Baan Silapin (The Artist’s House), a beautifully restored 200-year-old home serving as a creative space for local artists. A wooden walkway invites a quiet stroll along the canal, making this a true hidden gem.
As the boat continues, you’ll pass Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, an important temple built during the mid-Ayutthaya period. Your boat will pause so you can admire and photograph the enormous golden Buddha from the water, soaring nearly 70 meters high (please note that we do not disembark at this temple).
This tour offers a unique way to explore Bangkok, combining the charm of its canals, the vibrancy of local life, and glimpses of iconic landmarks, all from the comfort of your boat. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a traditional, intimate, and photogenic side of the Thai capital.
Important notes:
- Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control, but they are part of the authentic canal experience.
Meeting point:
The meeting point is at the bus stop directly opposite Elefin Coffee and Bangkok Bank on Maha Rat Road, just south of Wat Pho.
The easiest way to reach the meeting point (and to avoid Bangkok’s heavy road traffic) is by taking the MRT (metro) to Sanam Chai Station. From there, use the 'Museum Siam' exit. The meeting point is just a short 5-minute walk away.
For the location on Google Maps, please click HERE.
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1,668 Comments
4.5
A unique way to see Bangkok
Beautiful boats going through canals with road signs as you watch giant monitor lizards. Locals waving from their back porch. A great way to spend 2 hours.
3.5
Underwhelming
Unfortunately our tour guide Siri was 20 minutes late in meeting our group and then proceeded to spend the bulk of the boat tour with her head down on her phone rather than interacting with the group.
5
Best Bangkok Tour
Best way to see the “real”Bangkok! Joe was an excellent guide! Would definitely take this tour again to view the riverfront life.
4
Bangkok river cruise
Tour is ok, probably not worth the money paid. Feels padded out to justify the price. Guide was good but nothing substantive
5
Canal tour
Joyce was our guide and he was amazing!! He was very informative and had us done a lot of great and fun things on the tour. We would definitely recommend this tour to others!