Talat Kao is one of the oldest markets in Bangkok. Its name literally means old market. The market has been present in Bangkok for 200 years. Apart from the old market it is also called the Yaowarat Old Market. It is called so because of its location along Yaowarat Road. This is in the heart of Bangkok Chinatown. It served as the trading centre for the first Chinese settlers. Talat Kao is a blend of both traditional and modern Bangkok.
The lanes in the market are really narrow. The market is filled with sounds of the vendors and the aromas of the authentic Thai cuisine. You will find tuk tuk and motorbikes pass through the tiny streets. But this chaotic mess is what gives the market its real character. The market is not easy to navigate. So it would be better if you have a local Thai friend who can make the experience memorable.
Things to do in Talat Kao Market
Try the delicious Chinese delicacies
You will find that the market offers exotic Chinese dishes. Some of the popular Chinese dishes are shark fins, dried abalone, puffed fish, and steamed bird’s nests. It is a paradise for the adventurous seafood lovers.
Street Food
The market is packed with street food. You will get steamed dumplings, and savory noodles. If you want something to drink, get a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.
Fruit stalls
Just at the entrance of the market you will find an endless number of vendors. These vendors sell the colourful tropical fruits at a very reasonable rate. It;s a great place if you want to have something healthy yet light.
Others
If you explore the market further there is ried goods, and traditional snacks. You should definitely try the rare pak mor. It is a delicate steamed coconut dumpling.
Best Time to Visit Talat Kao Market
To make your experience at Talat Kao Market is truly enriching. It is best to visit the market during the morning and afternoon. Also there are chances of rain so it is better to avoid visiting 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 and starts its daily function from 8am to 5pm.. 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.
How to get there?
Getting to Talat Kao Market is really easy. It is located near the Suphan Buri or Tha Chin River. It is just an hour away from Bangkok. To reach there you can take the
- Bus: You can take the bus from the Suphan Buri to the floating market. There are several buses that run during the day. Some of the bus numbers are 10, 76, 67, 42, 89, 90 and 99
- Taxi: You can book an uber or taxi. This will be the fastest means to reach the market. It will take approximately forty five minutes to reach the Talat Kao Market
- Tuk Tuk: You can take a personal tuk tuk to reach the destination
Talat Kao (Old Market – Yaowarat)
This market existed since the time of King Rama V reign. You will find an array of wooden houses lined up in the street. This will definitely remind you of the old times. Mr Hong, a chinese trader, built a 9 room house. He established a river based trading in the area. Since then he has called the market Talat Kao Hong.
He also built a 5-story watchtower. This was constructed to prevent theft and robbery in the neighbouring market. In World War II the building served as a place to observe. You could see if there are any enemy bombers or anyone signalling air raid alarms.
