Visiting Maeklong Railway Market, Bangkok: Getting there, prices and tips

You get to know a country by immersing yourself in its everyday life and one of the best ways to do this is to visit its traditional markets. In this regard, Thailand holds some particular surprises in store: about 65 km from Bangkok is the Maeklong Railway Market, a market crossed by train tracks that are still in operation! A truly surreal experience, as unique as it is!
Here's everything you need to know to plan a visit to the Maeklong Railway Market!
SEE ALSO: What to see in Bangkok

Where it is and how to get there

• Onfoot: Kasemsukum Road, Mae Klong, Mueang Samut Songkhram District. Within walking distance of Wat Phet Samuth Woravihan Temple (250 m, 3 min). It is approximately 65 km from Bangkok - Get directions;

• By train: train from Bangkok to Maha Chai Railway Station, change here to Maeklong Railway Station. Total duration on average 3 hrs;

• By taxi: Journey Bangkok-Maeklong Railway Market averages 1 h (traffic permitting), average cost between €15.00 and €20.00;

• By guided tour: the absolute best way to reach the market is the tour with transport included (with hotel pick-up option).

Opening hours and prices

The Maeklong Railway Market operates every day, starting early in the morning. In fact, the first stalls are already open at 6:30 am. The market generally closes around 17:30, but this also depends on the influx of people: some stalls may keep open longer or close earlier. As it is a market, admission is free. The only expense will be transport.

• Hours: daily 6.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Closing times vary slightly depending on the day;

• Best time to avoid queues: early morning, at least before 11am;

• Ticket price: free

Choose a combination tour: one of the most popular tours combines a visit to the country's two most famous markets within a single day, namely the Maeklong Railway Market and the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. The tour includes transfers from Bangkok, takes about 6 hours and costs €30.00.

Tours, guided tours and online tickets

What to see and how to visit Maeklong Railway Market

The Maeklong Railway Market is definitely one of the most unique excursions to take around Bangkok. If you're moving in the day, the train is the most ill-advised means of transport due to the long journey time (minimum 3 hours each way), so opt for a taxi or a tour from Bangkok, transport included.

Strolling through the stalls of this market is a truly unique experience: you can really find all kinds of products, such as fruit and vegetables, clothing, various items and local handicrafts. There are also local street food stalls where you can enjoy excellent food at super-cheap prices (remember that Thai street food is among the best in the world!).
And, of course, the big star of the market is the train. The stalls and products are arranged right on the tracks: the moment you hear the sound of the train in the distance, the merchants quickly collect all the goods, leaving the passageway completely free, only to occupy the space again once the train has passed. As bizarre as it is fascinating and unique!

Watch out for the train passing: when you hear the train whistle, follow what the Thais do. Make sure you move well off the tracks and leave the passage completely clear, as the train does not stop. Wear comfortable, non-open-toed shoes or flip-flops so you can move quickly!

Useful tips for visiting the attraction

1. Getup early: Ideally, you should reach the entrance by 10:00 am;

2. Guided tour: join a guided tour with transport included and pick-up at your hotel, very convenient and quick to get to the market.

3. Train schedule: of course, one of the features of the market is that the train passes right in the middle of the stalls. Make sure you are at the right time, the train passes at 8:30, 9:00, 11:15, 11:30, 14:30 and 15:30;

4. Haggle: if you want to shop among the stalls as in Bangkok, here too you will have to haggle for the cost of the product you want to buy. Don't worry, this is the norm, so show off your bargaining skills;

5. Clothing: wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and carry a backpack that is as small as possible, this will make it easier for you when passing through on the train;

6. Minimum time: Given your commute, you will need half a day to visit the market

History and interesting facts: what to know in brief

The Maeklong Railway Market is one of Thailand's most traditional and bizarre markets. But, at the same time, it is also one of the most dangerous markets in the world: unfortunately, several vendors and traders have died as a result of the train passing through. It is therefore very important to pay the utmost attention: it is certainly a lively and convivial place, full of smiles and colours, but the moment the train passes you have to be quick to move because the train does not stop.

But when does the famous train pass by? It runs along the tracks 6 times a day at a speed of about 30 km/h, and the arrival station is not far away. The passing times are as follows: 8:30, 9:00, 11:15, 11:30, 14:30 and 15:30. However, it is always best to enquire before departure, as they may vary. If you visit the market with a tour from Bangkok, the guides will certainly be informed about possible variations!

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