One of the things that makes Venice such an incredible destination is the fact that much of the city is built on and around the canals. Believe it or not, many cities in Thailand, and Bangkok in particular, are incredibly similar. Bangkok is often referred to as the Venice of the East thanks to the canals and rivers that traverse the city centre One of the most incredible ways to tour Bangkok is along the canals on a traditional boat. Use this guide to learn more about khlong boats, discover where you can book khlong tours, what attractions and landmarks you can expect to see along the way and why this is something you will want to include on your travel itinerary in the city.
What is a Khlong?
Translated literally, a khlong is a canal. In Bangkok, however, it is not unusual for smaller rivers as well as artificially made canals to go by the same name. Most of the khlongs in the Bangkok region come from major rivers like the Chao Phraya, the Mae Klong and the Tha Chin. Since these canals were such a major part of Bangkok’s landscape and culture, the Thai capital city was given the nickname Venice of the East, which is an apt way to describe the magical destination. Khlongs are used often as a means of transport, but they are also a way to move goods or even serve as a floating marketplace.
Where Can You Arrange Khlong Tours?
There are a number of different ways that you can tour the famous khlongs in and around Bangkok while on holiday in Thailand. If you would prefer to join in with a large group of visitors, you can arrange for larger tours in advance on bigger boats. Although these can be convenient, you may miss out on some of the local flavor and authenticity. If you are staying in a Bangkok hotel, the best option might be to speak with the concierge or hotel staff and ask them to arrange a small tour just for your travel party. Hotels that are located right along the Chao Phraya are especially great for this method of arranging tours.
What Can You Expect to See on a Tour?
One of the best things about a canal tour is the fact that you never really know what you might see. Of course, you can plan to pass the major attractions like Bangkok’s famed temples along the river or even the Grand Palace itself. However, what really makes this a glimpse into local culture is having the opportunity to stumble upon hidden surprises in the city. You might happen upon a local market on a smaller canal, or you might pass a group of children playing on the banks of the river. If you have something specific you would like to see, the local guides operating the small boats for the tours are usually more than happy to accommodate your request.
Why Should You Include a Khlong Tour on Your Itinerary?
Many travelers have to decide between a boat trip to one of the larger floating markets in Bangkok or a smaller khlong tour. Although both are wonderful, a khlong tour is a more direct view into everyday life in Bangkok. You will see fewer touristy destinations, but you will see more of the local culture, the local residents and the typical way of life in the city of Bangkok as well as the surrounding neighborhoods.
To take in the breathtaking scenery of Bangkok, be sure to book a tour that winds through the rivers and canals of this amazing Thai city.
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