How to Navigate the Chao Phraya River

Chao Phraya River cuts across the Thai capital as iconic waterways do in the world's leading cities. What sets the River of Kings apart from other major rivers that crisscross bustling metropolises is that the best attractions in the city are concentrated on the shores of this massive waterway. From signing up for a dinner cruise to shopping at the floating markets, here's your guide to exploring Bangkok's Chao Phraya River and its hidden and landmark highlights.

Stay on the Riverside

Those who wish to enjoy the activities, attractions and excursions that are accessible on the Bangkok riverside should first and foremost secure a base by the river. Whether it's the Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel or any other base, travellers who are staying on the shores of the Chao Phraya River are much more likely to make the most of their time in Bangkok. This is not only due to the fact that some of the city's most iconic cultural hotspots and heritage sites are located on the banks of the river but also because some of the Thai capital's best dining, shopping and entertainment venues are also found here.

Go on a Cultural Tour

Most holidaymakers head to the Bangkok riverside to visit some of the city's finest historic landmarks and the Grand Palace. Hopping on and off Chao Praya Express Boats, visitors can tour the resplendent royal abode of the Thai royal family and pay homage to staggering Buddhist temples that line the banks of the river including Wat Arun ( the Temple of Dawn) and Wat Pho. Wat Kalayanamit and Wat Prayun are other stunning temples located on the shores of the River of Kings that travellers can explore using the Chao Praya Tourist Boat pass. Allowing tourists the chance to get on and off at 8 different piers, the boats that are available between 9:30 am and 7 pm are a great way to navigate the riverside and visit its key landmarks.

Sign up for a Cruise

Although the dinner cruises are the most popular options available, Bangkok river cruise packages go far beyond this well-loved night-time excursion. Visitors can enjoy traditional Thai meals and Apsara dance recitals on converted rice barges and luxury yachts during daytime or dinner cruises. The chance to witness the Bangkok riverside and skyline is the main reason that business travellers and honeymooners sign up for this romantic tour of the river. The Loy Nava Dinner Cruise, the Grand Pearl Luxury River Cruise & Dining Experience and the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise are three of the most coveted river tours accessible in Bangkok.

Shopping Down the River

Shopaholics with an interest in enjoying some retail therapy on the riverside can head to any of the floating markets on the Chao Phraya River. The Khlong Lat Mayom Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Amphawa Floating Market Bangkok are some of the top shopping hotspots on the river while the Tha Kha Floating Market and the Bang Nam Pheung are revered by local foodies for their selection of Thai delicacies. Asiatique: The Riverfront is also located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is a high-end shopper's paradise that is housed in former warehouses. Home to restaurants, bars and stylish boutiques, Asiatique is a one-stop entertainment hub for the masses.

Touring the Khlongs

A tour of the channels or the Khlongs of the Chao Phraya River is another great way to uncover the river-dwelling communities in Bangkok who still occupy stilt homes and earn their daily bread through various home-run enterprises and selling food items at the floating markets. As you navigate the labyrinthine khlongs, you'll also have the opportunity to witness the timeless traditions and vibrant culture that have thrived along the Chao Phraya River for generations.