Pak Khlong Talat was once upon a time a fish market. They got the supply of the fish directly from the Tha Chin River, Samut Sakon province via the Chao Phraya River. Later it got transformed into a market where flowers, fruits and vegetables are distributed. Here flowers are sold both in bulk and in retail. It is one of the largest flower markets in the world. It operates all days of the week from Monday to Sunday.
If you want a romantic getaway or in search of a colourful atmosphere then visiting the Pak Khlong Talat, a flower market will be a good choice. This market with its maze-like lanes and explosion of colours and aromas, resembles the chaotic charm of nearby Chinatown. As it’s a flower market, surely, you will be surrounded by almost every variety of beautiful flowers like – roses, orchids, carnations, lilies, jasmine garlands, and seemingly endless rows of marigolds.
Pak Khlong Talat Market in Bangkok, Thailand
It was initially a floating market during the rule of Rama I. By the time Rama V kingdom started it became a fish market. Later the people were unhappy with the smell of the fish and therefore allowed the flower and fruit vendor to occupy the space. And so today it is a flower market and it has been more than 60 years since it has existed.Today the main focus is on the flowers as produce distribution has largely shifted to Talat Thai market outside Bangkok.
The market gets its flowers basically from the Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram. But flowers which require cooler temperatures may come from far off places like Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. Most of the customers are the local florist and the Urban poor people who make their living by selling phuang malai
Things to buy in the Pak Khlong Talat
People mostly buy inexpensive flowers, handmade garland, flower arrangement baskets, fresh fruits and vegetables, and local herbs and spices. Some of the things that you will explore in the Pak Khlong Talat are:
1. Local Thai flowers
You will find some of the famous flowers like jasmine, chrysanthemums, gerberas, orchids, lilies, and roses.These flowers are generally produced in nearby provinces like Nakhon Pathom. While tulips are taken from cooler mountainous regions like Chiang Rai and Loei in northern Thailand.
2. Imported flowers
Some beautiful flowers which are imported from other countries are available to buy there. You’ll have options like tulips, snapdragons, iris, lisianthus, delphinium and more.
3. Phuang Malai
The local artisans make these Phuang Malai garlands using a needle.Many people in thailand visit the market to purchase the Phuang Malai garlands to offer to the god.
4. Baisri
It is yet another striking form of Thai artistry where a cone shape is made using the banana and pandan leaves. It is decorated with bright flowers like chrysanthemums. The shape of the Baisr is meant to represent Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hinduism.
5. Fresh fruits & vegetables
The market is known for flowers but also has other items such as fresh fruits and vegetables which people can buy
6. Flower arrangement accessories
You can also buy some flower arrangement accessories like incense, candles, imitation flowers and more.
How to reach Pak Khlong Talat Market in Bangkok?
Pak Khlong Talat is located in the Wang Burapha Phirom Subdistrict, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, Thailand. To reach here there are many options:
- Bus – You can take the bus number 2, 3, 12, 53, 60, 73, 73 Kor and 82 to reach the market.
- Boat – You can take the boat via the Chao Phraya River. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the city and reach the market.
- Taxi – You can hire a personal taxi to reach the place which will be the best and safest option.
Best Time To Visit Pak Khlong Talat
To make your experience at Pak Khlong Talat a truly enriching one it is best to avoid visiting the market during the morning and afternoon time when it is quite sunny. Also there are chances of rain so it is better to visit the market in the evening time. The best months to visit the market would be from November – January.
The market is open on all the days of the week 24/7. However if you wish to get good deals you should try to be their first lucky customer. As the shopkeepers believe that their first sale will bring them good luck.
