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Situated on the banks of Prawetburirom Canal, Khlong Suan Market lies
in two provinces: Tambon Thepparat, Amphoe Ban Pho, Chacoengsao
Province and Tambon Khlong Suan, Amphoe Bang Bo, Samut Prakan Province.
This traditional market dates back to the reign of King Rama V. The
market contains many different shops, which are getting rare these
days, since they are increasingly being replaced by modern convenience
stores and shopping malls. More than 100 years old, it still retains
the quaint charm of the old days. Visitors will be pleased with the
traditional market atmosphere while enjoying a great variety of tasty
food.
In the past, the market was most conveniently accessible by boat. There
was only one passenger boat service from Chachoengsao to Bangkok,
serviced by Nai Loet (Mr. Loet). The boat picked up passengers at
Chachoengsao, ran past Khlong Suan Market, and eventually arrived at
Pratu Nam (Water Gate) in Bangkok.
The market is still an important community centre, transit point for
commuters, and cargo port. The market is also a centre uniting the
spirit of the Thai, Chinese and Muslim people who lived peacefully in
the same area, as can be seen from the architecture of its temples and
mosques, and a Chinese canteen offering free vegan food for people. In
addition, its people always cooperated in developing the community’s
infrastructure, for instance digging canals and building roads. Though
they were of different religions, they have always enjoyed morning cafe
get-togethers to share ideas, experiences, news and politics. The
coffee shops have always been lively community meeting places.
The local governmental organizations of the two provinces support the
preservation both of the community’s buildings and simple way of life.
In addition, Khlong Suan Market has been promoted to the status of
cultural attraction, of which visitors are welcomed to experience its
idyllic atmosphere dating back to the reign of King Rama V.
Getting there:
By car – from Bangkok, take Motorway Expressway, and follow
the signs for ‘100 Year Old Khlong Suan Market’, or take On Nut –
Chachoengsao Road, drive past Latkrabang Institute of Technology,
continue straight, and Khlong Suan Market will be on the left.
For further information, contact Tambon Thepparat Municipality, Amphoe
Ban Pho, Chachoensao, tel. 0 3859 5633, 0 3859 5716, or Tambon Khlong
Suan Municipality, Amphoe Bang Bo, Samut Prahan, tel. 0 2739 3253, 0
2739 3329, 0 2704 1273.
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