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FLOATING MARKET
Seventy kilometres south west of Bangkok, the Mae Klong River spreads into a sprawling delta before reaching the Gulf of Thailand.
This low-lying land is extremely fertile and over hundreds of years the Thai people have constructed an extensive network of canals to aid irrigation and navigation.
The local way of life has remained traditional and agricultural revolving around the colourful floating markets where the fruits of the surrounding orchards are traded.
This area is a dream to ride through. Starting with quick visit to Damnoen Saduak floating market, the biggest most colourful in Thailand, we take a longtail boat ride through a maze of canals cutting through local villages and various plantations. This eye-opening boat ride offers a glimpse of Thailand of old where local people are going about their daily life with the canal as the focal point.
What do we see? Temples, canals, orchards, more temples, more canals, people but hardly any cars. Depending on the season, you will see grapes, lychee, pomelo, guava and coconuts ripe for picking. This is a fascinating area just waiting to be explored. Many temples have long been favoured by Royalty and you visit Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram, which was constructed by the princess mother of Somdet Phra Amarintharamat and birthplace of King Phra Phutta Lertla, Rama II. See Wat Bang Kung, a quirky temple held up by a huge banyan tree, where you step inside to see a Buddha image. Also visit the exceptional carved temple of Wat Bang Kae Noi where the inside of the Wat has carved panels depicting the story of the enlightenment of Buddha.
What is the riding like? This is a gentle 32-km ride along country back roads, nice flat canal paths and plantation trails, we ride quiet back roads and jeep trails. Stopping often at points of interest, the riding is at a leisurely pace and suitable for anyone.
Anything else? A great lunch at a riverside restaurant and a chance to explore a temple complex and a local market at the end of the ride before heading back to Bangkok.
Of course, water, soft drinks and snacks are all included all day and SpiceRoads supplies a TREK mountain bike and helmet. The trip is fully supported by our air conditioned minibus, fully equipped with a two-way radio and Thule bike rack.
| FACTS & FIGURES | |
|---|---|
| Tour Cost | THB 2500 per person |
| Number of Days | 1 day |
| Pick up Time | 06h45 to 07h30 at your hotel |
| Drop Off | Usually around 17h00 at your hotel. |
| Departure Days | Every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday |
| Children | Children aged 12-17 years are welcome on this trip and receive a 25% discount. |
| Bike Hire | TREK mountain bike, helmet and water bottle are all Included in the tour price. |
| Total Distance | 30 to 35 km |
| Biking Grade |
(out of five)
|
| Support | Fully supported by SpiceRoads bike bus and driver. |
| Insurance | Accident insurance is provided by SpiceRoads. Click here for information. |
| Group Size | Minimum 2. Maximum 12. |
~Craig York
Floating Market Tour, October 2007
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