Samut Songkhram is Thailand’s smallest province by area, but it packs in some of the most photographed sights near Bangkok: a market where trains roll through the stalls, an evening floating market, mudflats where locals collect razor clams, and canals lit up by fireflies at night. Its old name, Mae Klong, comes from the river that flows through it. It is perfect for an overnight escape from the city.
- Best for: floating markets, the railway market, firefly boat trips, seafood, canal life
- From Bangkok: roughly 70–80 km, about 1–1.5 hours by car or van; also reachable by local train via Samut Sakhon with a ferry crossing
- Getting around: songthaew, motorbike taxis and boat trips; a car makes it easier to combine Amphawa, Don Hoi Lot and the temples
- Best time: November–February for cooler weather; Friday–Sunday for Amphawa’s market
Getting there and around
Vans run from Bangkok to Mae Klong town, and the Maeklong Railway, which starts at Wongwian Yai in Bangkok, reaches the railway market after a ferry crossing at Samut Sakhon. Amphawa is a short ride from Mae Klong. Many visitors stay overnight in Amphawa to enjoy the evening market and a firefly boat trip.
Top things to do in Samut Songkhram
Maeklong Railway Market Map
Vendors set up their stalls right on the railway tracks. When a train approaches, awnings are folded back and goods pulled aside within seconds, then everything returns as the train passes. Check the current train times before you go so you can see it happen.
Amphawa Floating Market Map
An afternoon-to-evening market along a canal, open Friday to Sunday, with boats grilling seafood, wooden shophouses, cafés and souvenir shops. It is lively and popular with Thai visitors.
Firefly boat trips Map
After dark, boats leave from Amphawa to see fireflies blinking in riverside trees. Sightings vary with the season and weather.
Don Hoi Lot Map
Mudflats at the mouth of the Mae Klong River, famous for razor clams (hoi lot). At low tide you can see the flats and the people working on them, then eat seafood at the restaurants nearby.
King Rama II Memorial Park Map
A peaceful park in Amphawa honouring King Rama II, who was born here, with traditional Thai houses, gardens and displays on literature and arts.
Wat Bang Kung Map
An old ordination hall wrapped in the roots of a banyan tree, linked to a fortified camp from King Taksin’s time. It is one of the most atmospheric temples in the region.
Wat Phet Samut Worawihan Map
Next to the railway market, this temple houses the revered Luang Pho Ban Laem image.
Tha Kha Floating Market Map
A smaller, more local morning floating market where farmers sell produce from rowing boats. It opens on certain days only, so check before you go.
Coconut sugar workshops Map
Amphawa is known for coconut palm sugar; some small producers welcome visitors to see the boiling process and buy fresh sugar.
Suggested 2-day itinerary
Day 1 (Friday–Sunday): catch a train passing through Maeklong Railway Market, visit Wat Phet Samut, then head to Amphawa for the afternoon market, seafood dinner and a firefly boat trip; stay overnight. Day 2: early visit to Tha Kha (if open) or King Rama II Memorial Park and Wat Bang Kung, then seafood at Don Hoi Lot before returning.
Festivals and events
Around April, local fruit such as lychee and pomelo is celebrated with fairs, and Songkran is marked with merit-making at riverside temples and water play in Mae Klong and Amphawa. Temple fairs, including those at Wat Phet Samut, are held during the year. Dates change; check with TAT. If you’re joining Songkran, read our Songkran etiquette and survival guide.
Travel tips
- Amphawa gets very busy at weekends; book accommodation early.
- Stand well back from the tracks at the railway market.
- Use insect repellent for evening boat trips.
- Check tide times for Don Hoi Lot.
FAQ
When is Amphawa Floating Market open?
Mainly Friday to Sunday, from afternoon into the evening.
When do trains pass through the railway market?
Several times a day; check the current State Railway timetable before you go.
Can I see fireflies all year?
Sightings vary with season and weather; local boatmen can advise.
What should I eat?
Pla thu mackerel, razor clams and seafood grilled on boats. See our Samut Songkhram food guide.
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Cover photo: Amphawa Floating Market 7.jpg · Rangan Datta Wiki · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
