By Travel Guide Spot 🌏
Published: 2025-03-15 | Last Update: 2025-03-31
Bang Krachao
An Essential Tourist Guide to Bangkok's Green Lung
Bang Krachao
Exploring Bang Krachao: Bangkok’s Green Lung
Bang Krachao is a lush, green oasis hidden in the pulsating metropolis of Bangkok. Spanning 16 sq km roughly 7km from central Bangkok, it is is a trip down memory lane into a myriad of mangrove forests, elevated pathways, and traditional Thai villages. It is also known as the city’s Green Lung and it is visible from the high-rise apartments in Sukhumvit. Although this urban jungle is situated south of central Bangkok, it remains one of the city’s best kept secrets, remaining largely unknown to most tourists. Despite the rapid urbanization in Bangkok, this serene gem has managed to resist the large-scale development!
Bang Krachao is a man made island - A canal was cut years ago to allow cargo boats to shorten their journey, much like how Koh Kret in Bangkok’s north was formed. Don’t expect white sandy beaches and coconut trees like you would find in the south. Unlike the tropical paradises of Thailand, like Koh Lipe or Ko Phi Phi, Bang Krachao has sustained an old-world charm of its own.
How to Get to Bang Krachao
Get ther with a short ferry ride across the Chao Phraya River. There are several piers to cross from, which include: Chong Nongsi, Bang Na, and Klong Toei.
-
You can take a long-tail boat from Wat Klong Toei Pier to Bang Krachao Pier.
-
Ride the BTS to Bang Na Station, then walk along Sukhumvit Road towards Udom Suk Station. Turn left onto Sanphawut Road and then continue straight to the Bang Na Pier. Then grab a ferry to Bang Krachao (Wat Bhang Nam Phueng Nok Pier).
Cycle the streets and wander through the alleys. You’ll come across small farms, local fishermen and cafes where you can savour the tranquil atmosphere on Bang Krachao.
Visit the Bang Nam Peung Floating Market
On weekends, the vibrant Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market comes alive with food stalls, handcrafted goods, and boat vendors cooking up fresh local Thai cuisine. Although the name suggests vendors selling goods from boats, this is actually a land-based market that is built around several small canals. This charming little market spans several alleys, offering a delightful mix of local street food, handicrafts, and fresh produce.
Open on Saturdays and Sundays from 7 am – 3 pm. Arrive early to avoid missing out!
Explore Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park
The Si Nakhon Kheun Khan Park and botanical garden is a must! It features cycling paths, wooden bridges, stunning vegetation and an unpaved 1km jungle trail that makes you forget you’re still in Bangkok. This 11-hectare garden paradise is the heart of Bang Krachao, offering an unmatched peaceful escape from the daily city life.
Cycle Through the Local Streets
One of the best ways to explore Bang Krachao is by bicycle. Pedal through quiet alleyways and discover small farms, local fishermen, and charming coffee shops.
A must-see along the east coast of the island is the eco-friendly Bangkok Treehouse Resort. This unique hotel is designed with sustainability in mind and is often called “Bangkok’s Greenest Hotel.” Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s worth stopping by for a visit!
Siamese Fighters Gallery
Stop by the Siamese Fighting Fish Gallery to see Thailand’s famed betta fish and learn about the area’s history.
Visit Buddhist and Hindu Temples
Bang Krachao is also home to several lesser-known but culturally rich temples. This offers a peaceful alternative to Bangkok’s temples crowded by tourists.
- Wat Bang Nam Pheung Nok – This is located at the Bang Nam Peung Pier.
- Wat Rat Rangsan & Wat Bang Nam Pheung Nai – They are small, tranquil Buddhist temples and are perfect for a quiet stop.
- Mahadevalai Ganesha Temple – This is a beautifully colorful Hindu temple - hidden within the island’s interior.
Comments
Add a comment