Khlong Suan Riverside Market
THAI NAME: ตลาดคลองสวน100ปี
LOCATION: Bang Pho District in Chachoengsao Province
GPS: 13.66085 100.95317
Situated on the banks of Prawetburirom Canal, Khlong Suan Market lies on the border of Chachoengsao and Samut Prakan provinces. 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.