Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is one of the top tourist destinations in the world as well as in Southeast Asia, attracting more than 19 million visitors every year. People flock here to explore the lush lands, interesting history, vibrant culture, and famous Thai delicacies that leave them stunned. There are also loads of things to do and see in Bangkok, among which the famous Mae Klong Railway Market is unmissable.
So grab your essentials and get ready to explore the famous Mae Klong Railway Market, which will surely wow you.
Mae Klong Railway Market Overview
Mae Klong Railway Market, or Hoop Rom Market, is a local and popular attraction in Bangkok. Located in Samut Songkhram Province, it is commonly known as Siang Thai, meaning a life-risking market. The market is one of the top-rated tourist sights that welcomes people to explore and enjoy the local routines.
An interesting fact is that Talad Rod Fai was the first train market in Bangkok but is no longer around the railway. The market was moved to its current location in 2013 to facilitate the expansion of the BTS Skytrain. However, today it is the most popular Mae Klong Railway Market, which bustles right next to the tracks!
History
The history started in 1905 when the Mae Klong Railway Market began its story in the province of Samut Songkhram in the Gulf of Thailand. While fishing has been and still is a prominent livelihood for the people across the province, the market is another way to sell goods. But the twist came when the officials decided to build a railway for an enhanced distribution system and to transport their catch to other provinces in Thailand, including the capital. However, the market remained intact despite the track being cut straight through it.
What to Expect at the Mae Klong Railway Market
Mae Klong Railroad Market is a fresh market selling vegetables, fish, natural products, new and dried meats, food, and other fundamental merchandise. It is spread over 100 meters in length. The market begins at 6:00 a.m. and shuts down at 6:00 p.m. It is widely known as a life-risking market, and you can witness the stalls attached to the Mae Klong-Ban Laem railway, which is seriously dangerous. The rail route is short, running from and to Mahachai and Mae Klong.
At the market, you can see the vendors putting out canvas or parasols to protect themselves from the scorching sun, where the shelters are on the railways, and visitors stroll around and shop. But the market turns into pure chaos when the signal of the arriving train rings, and vendors rush and run to close their parasols and canvas while clearing all the goods that interrupt the train from passing at a great speed. Once the train is gone, the market comes to life, and people continue shopping.
According to the schedule, trains depart from Mahachai to Mae Klong and from Mae Klong to Mahachai eight times per day, causing train passing chaos. To get to and explore the features of the market, check the train schedule, which will assist you with arranging your visit and allow you an opportunity to catch a paramount photograph with the train.
Train arrival times at Mae Klong Train Station
8:30 a.m., 11:10 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 5:40 p.m.
Train departure times at Mae Klong Train Station
6:20 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 3:30 p.m.
It is best recommended to arrive at the train station early, around 10 minutes before the scheduled train time of arrival or departure. The locals will guide you to capture the perfect photos while ensuring you keep a distance from the running train. There are always tourists flocking around the market who are here to capture the train and enjoy the scenic stroll.
What to buy at the Mae Klong Railway Market
All the hype for the Mae Klong Railway Market is mostly due to the train, but it is one of the largest fresh seafood markets offering a variety of seafood in Thailand. You can also find some clothing and accessories; however, the bulk offer is for Thai sweets, drinks, seafood, fruits, meats, and vegetables.
- Local Products: The market is always bustling with a wide range of local products, including dried fruits and vegetables.
- Leafy Vegetables and other fresh products: You will find tonnes of vegetables, from root crops to leafy and dried, with something for everyone.
- Pre-Packed Food: This is one of the best things in the market. You can buy pre-packed food in smaller packs, such as garlic, ginger, and onions.
- Seafood: You will find the freshest collection of seafood species that are simply irresistible. There are squids, prawns, fish, small and big crabs, and more, all way cheaper than supermarkets.
How to get there
The Mae Klong Railway Market is located around 80 kilometers outside the city of Bangkok in the Samut Songkhram region. Getting there usually takes one hour, but the time varies depending on Bangkok’s traffic. You can choose from various transport networks; the most convenient is to take the BTS Skytrain, depart from Victory Monument Station, and then take a minibus. These buses don’t have specified times but leave as soon as they are full. So, check the train schedule and arrive before the train. Please note that these timings are subject to change, so always check up on the updates.
Mae Klong Railway Market is a fun and exciting attraction in Bangkok that offers a once-in-a-lifetime moment and serves as a shopping destination for various products. Now that you have a full guide to the Mae Klong Railway Market, you can also check out other attractions, like the Bangkok Grand Palace guide, which is among the top attractions in Bangkok. Don’t forget to carry your cameras for a perfect click!