September 5, 2024
Exploring the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok by boat offers a unique perspective on the city, blending the old with the new. The river is lined with historical landmarks, modern buildings, and cultural sites, making it a must-see experience. Here are some of the best attractions to see along the Chao Phraya River:
1. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
One of Bangkok’s most iconic temples, Wat Arun is known for its stunning spire (prang) that rises over the river. The temple is beautifully decorated with colorful porcelain and ceramic tiles, and it offers breathtaking views, especially during sunset.
Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn. It is called by the locals, Wat Chaeng. The temple's unique design and its prang (spires) is one of the landmarks of Bangkok. The spire is 70 meters high. You could climb the steep stairs to the prang and be rewarded with the beauty of the Chao Phraya River and the equally majestic Wat Pho and the Grand Palace located across.
The only King of the Thonburi Kingdom, King Taksin, arrived at this temple at dawn after he fought his way out from the Burmese who had taken over the former capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya. The King had the temple renovated and named it Wat Chaeng or the Temple of the Dawn. King Rama III of the Siam* monarch under the House of Chakri, was the one who had the Prang extended and added porcelain, thus sparkles in the sunshine. I could not imagine how enchanting this temple at sunset and when it is lit up at night.
*Thailand was formerly known as Siam
Location: Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite Wat Pho.
One of Bangkok’s most iconic temples, Wat Arun is known for its stunning spire (prang) that rises over the river. The temple is beautifully decorated with colorful porcelain and ceramic tiles, and it offers breathtaking views, especially during sunset.
Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn. It is called by the locals, Wat Chaeng. The temple's unique design and its prang (spires) is one of the landmarks of Bangkok. The spire is 70 meters high. You could climb the steep stairs to the prang and be rewarded with the beauty of the Chao Phraya River and the equally majestic Wat Pho and the Grand Palace located across.
The only King of the Thonburi Kingdom, King Taksin, arrived at this temple at dawn after he fought his way out from the Burmese who had taken over the former capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya. The King had the temple renovated and named it Wat Chaeng or the Temple of the Dawn. King Rama III of the Siam* monarch under the House of Chakri, was the one who had the Prang extended and added porcelain, thus sparkles in the sunshine. I could not imagine how enchanting this temple at sunset and when it is lit up at night.
*Thailand was formerly known as Siam
Location: Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite Wat Pho.
2. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
The Grand Palace is a must-visit in Bangkok, a complex of buildings that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam. Within the complex is Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which houses a highly revered Buddha statue carved from a single block of jade.
The Grand Palace is said to be the famous landmark in Bangkok. We did not have time to visit this place, it requires at least half a day to explore the complex. The last time I checked, admission is $500 baht for tourists. The palace had been home for the Royal family for 150 years.
The Grand Palace was constructed in 1762 at the order of King Phutthayota Chulalok (Rama I) under the Chakri dynasty King Rama I seized the crown from King Taksin of Thonburi. The new King moved the government from the west side of Chao Phraya River to the east side of Bangkok
King Taksin and King Rama I were friends way back in Ayutthaya. Together they fought the Burmese to defend their home place. Due to some reason, mostly theories, King Taksin was stripped off power and was succeeded by King Rama I.
Further, the Grand Palace is the most sacred site in Thailand. Strict dress code is to be followed before entry. A few that are not allowed: short pants, tank tops, sleeveless, sandals, flip flops, see though and bare shoulder clothes.
Location: Located on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River.
3. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Wat Pho is famous for its giant reclining Buddha, which measures 46 meters long. It’s also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The temple complex is one of the largest and oldest in Bangkok.
Location: Close to the Grand Palace, on the eastern side of the Chao Phraya River.
4. Asiatique The Riverfront
A large open-air mall combining shopping, dining, and entertainment, Asiatique The Riverfront offers a lively atmosphere in the evenings. The Ferris wheel provides a great view of the river and the city skyline.
Location: Located on the eastern bank of the river, it’s best visited in the evening.
5. Wat Kalayanamitr
A lesser-known but impressive temple, Wat Kalayanamitr features one of Bangkok’s largest Buddha statues. The temple is serene and offers a more peaceful experience compared to the more touristy temples.
Location: Located on the western bank of the river, near the Memorial Bridge.
6. ICONSIAM
One of Bangkok’s most luxurious shopping malls, ICONSIAM is a modern architectural marvel. It offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The mall’s riverside promenade is particularly picturesque.
Location: Located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River.
7. The Old Customs House
A historic building dating back to the 19th century, the Old Customs House was once the gateway for goods entering Bangkok. Although it's not open to the public, it’s an interesting site to view from the river.
Location: Located on the eastern bank of the river, near the Oriental Hotel.
8. Tha Maharaj
A riverside community mall with a mix of shops, restaurants, and cafés. Tha Maharaj is a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the river, particularly at sunset.
Location: Located near the Grand Palace, on the eastern side of the river.
The Grand Palace is a must-visit in Bangkok, a complex of buildings that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam. Within the complex is Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which houses a highly revered Buddha statue carved from a single block of jade.
The Grand Palace is said to be the famous landmark in Bangkok. We did not have time to visit this place, it requires at least half a day to explore the complex. The last time I checked, admission is $500 baht for tourists. The palace had been home for the Royal family for 150 years.
The Grand Palace was constructed in 1762 at the order of King Phutthayota Chulalok (Rama I) under the Chakri dynasty King Rama I seized the crown from King Taksin of Thonburi. The new King moved the government from the west side of Chao Phraya River to the east side of Bangkok
King Taksin and King Rama I were friends way back in Ayutthaya. Together they fought the Burmese to defend their home place. Due to some reason, mostly theories, King Taksin was stripped off power and was succeeded by King Rama I.
Further, the Grand Palace is the most sacred site in Thailand. Strict dress code is to be followed before entry. A few that are not allowed: short pants, tank tops, sleeveless, sandals, flip flops, see though and bare shoulder clothes.
Location: Located on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River.
3. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Wat Pho is famous for its giant reclining Buddha, which measures 46 meters long. It’s also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The temple complex is one of the largest and oldest in Bangkok.
Location: Close to the Grand Palace, on the eastern side of the Chao Phraya River.
4. Asiatique The Riverfront
A large open-air mall combining shopping, dining, and entertainment, Asiatique The Riverfront offers a lively atmosphere in the evenings. The Ferris wheel provides a great view of the river and the city skyline.
Location: Located on the eastern bank of the river, it’s best visited in the evening.
5. Wat Kalayanamitr
A lesser-known but impressive temple, Wat Kalayanamitr features one of Bangkok’s largest Buddha statues. The temple is serene and offers a more peaceful experience compared to the more touristy temples.
Location: Located on the western bank of the river, near the Memorial Bridge.
6. ICONSIAM
One of Bangkok’s most luxurious shopping malls, ICONSIAM is a modern architectural marvel. It offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The mall’s riverside promenade is particularly picturesque.
Location: Located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River.
7. The Old Customs House
A historic building dating back to the 19th century, the Old Customs House was once the gateway for goods entering Bangkok. Although it's not open to the public, it’s an interesting site to view from the river.
Location: Located on the eastern bank of the river, near the Oriental Hotel.
8. Tha Maharaj
A riverside community mall with a mix of shops, restaurants, and cafés. Tha Maharaj is a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the river, particularly at sunset.
Location: Located near the Grand Palace, on the eastern side of the river.
The Chao Phraya Express Boat is a popular and efficient public transportation service that operates along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. It's a great way to travel between the major attractions along the river and offers a unique perspective of the city. The boats are color-coded based on their routes, and each color represents a different type of service with varying stops.
Chao Phraya Express Boat Services
No Flag (Local Line)
Route: Stops at all piers along the river.
Operating Hours: 6:45 AM – 7:30 PM (Monday to Friday only).
Fare: 10 - 20 THB depending on the distance.
The no-flag boats stop at every pier, making it the slowest option but the most thorough for those who want to explore every part of the river.
Chao Phraya Express Boat Services
No Flag (Local Line)
Route: Stops at all piers along the river.
Operating Hours: 6:45 AM – 7:30 PM (Monday to Friday only).
Fare: 10 - 20 THB depending on the distance.
The no-flag boats stop at every pier, making it the slowest option but the most thorough for those who want to explore every part of the river.
Orange Flag
Route: Nonthaburi (Pier N30) to Wat Rajsingkorn (Pier S3).
Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily).
Fare: 15 THB flat rate.
This is the most popular and frequent service, stopping at the main piers along the river and catering to both tourists and locals.
Yellow Flag
Route: Nonthaburi (Pier N30) to Sathorn (Central Pier).
Operating Hours: 6:15 AM – 8:20 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Monday to Friday only).
Fare: 20 - 33 THB depending on the distance.
The yellow flag boat is primarily a commuter service, running during rush hours on weekdays. It stops at fewer piers, making it a faster option for longer distances.
Green Flag
Route: Pakkret (Pier N33) to Sathorn (Central Pier).
Operating Hours: 6:10 AM – 8:10 AM and 4:05 PM – 6:05 PM (Monday to Friday only).
The green flag service runs during peak hours and has limited stops, similar to the yellow flag service, but it extends further upriver to Pakkret.
Route: Nonthaburi (Pier N30) to Wat Rajsingkorn (Pier S3).
Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily).
Fare: 15 THB flat rate.
This is the most popular and frequent service, stopping at the main piers along the river and catering to both tourists and locals.
Yellow Flag
Route: Nonthaburi (Pier N30) to Sathorn (Central Pier).
Operating Hours: 6:15 AM – 8:20 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Monday to Friday only).
Fare: 20 - 33 THB depending on the distance.
The yellow flag boat is primarily a commuter service, running during rush hours on weekdays. It stops at fewer piers, making it a faster option for longer distances.
Green Flag
Route: Pakkret (Pier N33) to Sathorn (Central Pier).
Operating Hours: 6:10 AM – 8:10 AM and 4:05 PM – 6:05 PM (Monday to Friday only).
The green flag service runs during peak hours and has limited stops, similar to the yellow flag service, but it extends further upriver to Pakkret.
Blue Flag (Tourist Boat)
Route: Sathorn (Central Pier) to Phra Arthit (Pier N13), with commentary in English.
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily).
Fare: 50 THB per ride or 200 THB for an all-day pass.
The blue flag boat is designed specifically for tourists, stopping at major attractions like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and Asiatique. The service is more expensive but includes English commentary and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The Blue flag tourist boat is a great way to view the city from the river. I doubt if locals take this boat that cost 50 baht compare to the other lines such as the orange flag that costs 20~33 baht only. It is seldom this boat would be crowded. It stops only at 8 piers that connect to places of interests in Bangkok. The top deck is a plus for better sightseeing.
Route: Sathorn (Central Pier) to Phra Arthit (Pier N13), with commentary in English.
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily).
Fare: 50 THB per ride or 200 THB for an all-day pass.
The blue flag boat is designed specifically for tourists, stopping at major attractions like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and Asiatique. The service is more expensive but includes English commentary and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The Blue flag tourist boat is a great way to view the city from the river. I doubt if locals take this boat that cost 50 baht compare to the other lines such as the orange flag that costs 20~33 baht only. It is seldom this boat would be crowded. It stops only at 8 piers that connect to places of interests in Bangkok. The top deck is a plus for better sightseeing.
Key Piers (Stops)
Sathorn Pier (Central Pier): Major interchange point connected to BTS Skytrain
(Saphan Taksin Station).
Ratchawong Pier (Pier N5): Closest pier to Chinatown.
Tha Tien Pier (Pier N8): For Wat Pho and Wat Arun.
Maharaj Pier (Pier N9): For the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.
Phra Arthit Pier (Pier N13): Close to Khao San Road, a popular area for backpackers.
Nonthaburi Pier (Pier N30): Northernmost pier on the Orange Line.
Sathorn Pier (Central Pier): Major interchange point connected to BTS Skytrain
(Saphan Taksin Station).
Ratchawong Pier (Pier N5): Closest pier to Chinatown.
Tha Tien Pier (Pier N8): For Wat Pho and Wat Arun.
Maharaj Pier (Pier N9): For the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.
Phra Arthit Pier (Pier N13): Close to Khao San Road, a popular area for backpackers.
Nonthaburi Pier (Pier N30): Northernmost pier on the Orange Line.
More to see along the Chao Phraya River:
9. Rama VIII Bridge
This cable-stayed bridge is an architectural highlight, particularly beautiful when illuminated at night. The bridge is a modern contrast to the historical sites along the river.
Rama VII Bridge is one the bridges crossing the Chao Phraya River located at the west side of the river opened in May 2012. The bridge was constructed to ease the traffic and congestion at the nearby bridge. It was named after the late King Ananda Mahidol (the eight monach of Siam* from the Chakri Dynasty as Rama VII).
*Thailand was formerly known as Siam
Location: Spanning the Chao Phraya River between Bang Phlat and Banglamphu.
9. Rama VIII Bridge
This cable-stayed bridge is an architectural highlight, particularly beautiful when illuminated at night. The bridge is a modern contrast to the historical sites along the river.
Rama VII Bridge is one the bridges crossing the Chao Phraya River located at the west side of the river opened in May 2012. The bridge was constructed to ease the traffic and congestion at the nearby bridge. It was named after the late King Ananda Mahidol (the eight monach of Siam* from the Chakri Dynasty as Rama VII).
*Thailand was formerly known as Siam
Location: Spanning the Chao Phraya River between Bang Phlat and Banglamphu.
10. Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market)
Although not directly on the river, Pak Khlong Talat is easily accessible from the river. It’s Bangkok’s largest flower market, bustling with activity and filled with vibrant flowers.
Thailand Flower Market or Pak Klong Talad is open 24 hours a day. Different kinds of flowers are sold such as Rose, Lilies... and as expected in Bangkok, at a cheap price. The best time to visit this place is after midnight, between two to four, during the delivery of the blooming flowers from the flower growing supplier, Just observe though and admire the beauty of the flowers. It would be crowded and chaotic, I believe the vendors would be less accommodating. The prices as well would not be as cheap as if you just go back in the afternoon. More so, the flowers would not be this cheap during specific occasion such as Valentines, Graduations and Mother's day.
Location: Near the Memorial Bridge on the eastern side of the river.
11. Royal Barges Museum
This museum houses the royal barges used in ceremonial processions along the Chao Phraya River. The intricately decorated boats are stunning examples of Thai craftsmanship.
Location: Located on the western bank of the river, near the Phra Pin Klao Bridge.
Tips for Boating on the Chao Phraya River
River Cruises: There are several types of boat tours available, ranging from public ferries to private long-tail boat tours and luxury dinner cruises.
Public Boats: The Chao Phraya Express Boat service is an affordable way to explore the river. It has different lines (flagged boats) that stop at various piers along the river.
Although not directly on the river, Pak Khlong Talat is easily accessible from the river. It’s Bangkok’s largest flower market, bustling with activity and filled with vibrant flowers.
Thailand Flower Market or Pak Klong Talad is open 24 hours a day. Different kinds of flowers are sold such as Rose, Lilies... and as expected in Bangkok, at a cheap price. The best time to visit this place is after midnight, between two to four, during the delivery of the blooming flowers from the flower growing supplier, Just observe though and admire the beauty of the flowers. It would be crowded and chaotic, I believe the vendors would be less accommodating. The prices as well would not be as cheap as if you just go back in the afternoon. More so, the flowers would not be this cheap during specific occasion such as Valentines, Graduations and Mother's day.
Location: Near the Memorial Bridge on the eastern side of the river.
11. Royal Barges Museum
This museum houses the royal barges used in ceremonial processions along the Chao Phraya River. The intricately decorated boats are stunning examples of Thai craftsmanship.
Location: Located on the western bank of the river, near the Phra Pin Klao Bridge.
Tips for Boating on the Chao Phraya River
River Cruises: There are several types of boat tours available, ranging from public ferries to private long-tail boat tours and luxury dinner cruises.
Public Boats: The Chao Phraya Express Boat service is an affordable way to explore the river. It has different lines (flagged boats) that stop at various piers along the river.
BTS Connections: The Central Pier (Sathorn) is directly connected to the Saphan Taksin BTS Skytrain station, making it easy to transfer between the boat and the Skytrain.
Rush Hour: The boats can get crowded during rush hours, especially the Yellow and Green Flag boats, which are mainly used by commuters.
Avoid Scams: Be aware that only the Blue Flag boats are officially designated as "tourist boats." Other boat services are also tourist-friendly and cost much less.
Operating Hours Summary
Main Services: Operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to early evening (7:00 PM).
Tourist Boats (Blue Flag): Operate from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
The Chao Phraya Express Boat service is an excellent way to travel through Bangkok while enjoying scenic views along the river. With multiple lines catering to different needs, whether you're commuting or sightseeing, it's a convenient and affordable mode of transport to explore the city's rich cultural heritage.
Rush Hour: The boats can get crowded during rush hours, especially the Yellow and Green Flag boats, which are mainly used by commuters.
Avoid Scams: Be aware that only the Blue Flag boats are officially designated as "tourist boats." Other boat services are also tourist-friendly and cost much less.
Operating Hours Summary
Main Services: Operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to early evening (7:00 PM).
Tourist Boats (Blue Flag): Operate from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
The Chao Phraya Express Boat service is an excellent way to travel through Bangkok while enjoying scenic views along the river. With multiple lines catering to different needs, whether you're commuting or sightseeing, it's a convenient and affordable mode of transport to explore the city's rich cultural heritage.
The boat can get crowded from Sathorn Pier. Most gets off at Wat Arun Pier.
Tips for Using the Chao Phraya Express Boat
Tickets: You can purchase tickets directly at the pier or on the boat. For the Blue Flag (Tourist Boat), consider buying an all-day pass if you plan to hop on and off multiple times. Currently, the all-day pass costs 200 baht. Single or one way pass is 50 baht.
Tips for Using the Chao Phraya Express Boat
Tickets: You can purchase tickets directly at the pier or on the boat. For the Blue Flag (Tourist Boat), consider buying an all-day pass if you plan to hop on and off multiple times. Currently, the all-day pass costs 200 baht. Single or one way pass is 50 baht.
Stilts houses built not along the river but in the river. These houses equally beautify Chao Phraya River as the unique architectural details of the temples and the high rise buildings along the river.
Bangkok was known to be a Buddhist country though, Catholic churches are still around. Latter were one of the legacy from the European countries once occupied Thailand.
In 1516, Portugal signed a treaty with Ayutthaya, the capital of Siam (former name of Thailand), to supply firearms and munition in exchange for trade, right to reside in Siam and to practice the Catholic religion. When Ayutthaya was destroyed, the Portuguese followed King Taksin to south who then started a village by the Chao Phraya river . On 14 September 1769, King Taksin allocated a lot for the Portuguese to build a church. 14 September was the day in 326 AD when Helen, the mother of the first Roman Emperor, Constantine, discovered the miraculous cross during the pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Apparently, the church was named after the Holy Cross, Santa Cruz Church. Then after, 14th of September was celebrated the Feast of the Triumph of the Holy Cross.
In 1516, Portugal signed a treaty with Ayutthaya, the capital of Siam (former name of Thailand), to supply firearms and munition in exchange for trade, right to reside in Siam and to practice the Catholic religion. When Ayutthaya was destroyed, the Portuguese followed King Taksin to south who then started a village by the Chao Phraya river . On 14 September 1769, King Taksin allocated a lot for the Portuguese to build a church. 14 September was the day in 326 AD when Helen, the mother of the first Roman Emperor, Constantine, discovered the miraculous cross during the pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Apparently, the church was named after the Holy Cross, Santa Cruz Church. Then after, 14th of September was celebrated the Feast of the Triumph of the Holy Cross.
No one will miss this one of a kind glass walled skyscraper with unique impressive design seen on the east side of the river. Mahanakhon is one of the tallest buildings and expensive condominiums in Bangkok located in the Sathorn business centre district, The spiral cut appears like the building is about to go down.
One of its highlights is the Mahanakhon SkyWalk, a popular observation deck located at the top of King Power Mahanakhon, one of the tallest buildings in Bangkok, Thailand. It offers visitors an exciting experience with stunning panoramic views of the city.
One of its highlights is the Mahanakhon SkyWalk, a popular observation deck located at the top of King Power Mahanakhon, one of the tallest buildings in Bangkok, Thailand. It offers visitors an exciting experience with stunning panoramic views of the city.
If you want to visit the Chinatown in Bangkok, alight at Ratchawong pier. Chinatown is one of the suggested place to visit in the city. It is a mixture of Thai and Chinese cultures. There are interesting places to go to such as the Sampang lane, a line of stalls of variety of goods and food; Wat Traimit with the largest golden Buddha in the world; the intrinsic ornate China gate also known as the King Birthday Celebration Arc, built in 1999 and was opened in 2006 in time for the 60th year in throne of King Bhumibol of Thailand, likewise, the ceremonial gate is a sign of loyalty of the Chinese community to the King; Wat Chakawat Rachawat with a pond inside that house three giant crocodiles... and more.
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