Amphawa, Thailand Plan a trip
Amphawa sits on a canal in the province of Samut Songkhram, not too far from Bangkok. The town is known for its intricate waterways and agricultural lifestyle. It’s actually the place that supplies fruit and veg to the whole of Thailand. Make sure to try some of the more exotic varieties during your stay: durian and rose apples are our favourites! Recently there’s been a huge shift towards organic farming, and techniques have changed a bit. So even if you’ve been here before, it’s worth checking out the farms to see how things have developed.
To get a real feel for life in Amphawa, take a longtail boat tour around the canals. It’s a great way to see the villages, plantations and Buddhist temples all in one hit. If you go in the evening, you might even spot some fireflies!
Make sure you visit the floating market in Amphawa. It’s different to others you might have seen because it’s right next to the train tracks. Watch the vendors quickly pack up their stalls as the trains approach, then transform the waterway back into a bustling market within five minutes. There are a few other markets you can visit while in the area. Kha is probably the next best, but it can be a bit tricky to reach.
Amphawa’s floating market is less touristy than the more popular Damnoen Saduak floating market, so it’s a great place to mingle with locals and try some authentic local dishes like pad thai and grilled squid – you’ll make memories you’ll never forget! Take a boat down to Don Hoi Lot and see the fossilised shells at the mouth of Mae Nam Mae Klong. A bunch of ancient clams may not seem interesting, but trust us, it’s well worth the trip!
A few modern restaurants and bars are popping up in Amphawa, but the town is managing to keep its rural and unique charm. This is thanks to its old wooden buildings and the locals sticking to ancient traditions. Most tourists just visit for the market days. So, if you come during the week you’ll get a much more realistic view of Thai life and a truly authentic experience.
Plan your trip to Amphawa today.