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Ko Kret - Day Trip to Bangkok's River Island

Ko Kret - Day Trip to Bangkok's River Island

Discover Ko Kret island - Mon pottery and culture, Chit Beer Brewery and riverside eats on this relaxing day trip just a short boat ride from Bangkok. Use our Ko Kret map to get around.

By Travel Guide Spot 🌏

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Just a short Chao Phraya Express Boat ride up from Bangkok, you’ll find Ko Kret island, a hidden gem for a perfect day trip - It is famous for Mon pottery, culture & cuisine as well as the Chit Beer brewery, all indicated on our ko kret map. You will encounter a small, quiet little island with a slice of traditional Mon culture taking you back in time for the perfect day trip. The island is home to the Mon people, who have kept their traditions alive since moving from Burma over 200 years ago. You’ll notice the Mon culture in the old riverside houses and the warm hospitality from locals. The island is known for its charm, unique Mon pottery, a lively weekend market and a pioneering microbrewery for some of Bangkok’s best Beer.

The second you arrive on the island from the ferry, you feel as if you’re in the countryside. You will see merchants selling local fruit and veg and the food stands are enticing to all your senses. There are no roads around Ko Kret, only alleyways lined with natural vegetation and farms. It has interisting historic temples, unique Mon handmade pottery, as well as unique and tasty local food.

If you’re looking for the perfect break from the city, visiting Ko Kret lets you escape the city and experience its unique culture, a side of Bangkok that most tourists miss. The island is particularly famous for its handmade terracotta pots and ceramics. You can also find local dessert shops along Khlong Khanom Wan, where you definitely have to try some sweets.

Ko Kret Map

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Below is a map of Ko Kret where you can find:

  • Ferry Piers
  • Main Attractions
  • Restaurants and Cafes
  • Pottery Workshops
  • Chit Beer Brewery
  • Places to spend the night Recommended
  • A recommended tour guide

Get a Guide

Ko Kret is not widely known among tourists and isn’t often mentioned in many guidebooks, making it a hidden gem. Getting there can be a bit tricky for any newcomers, and hiring a local guide might make things easier and help you enjoy the island’s culture in a more immersive way.

We still recommend spending a night here if the Bankok waterways are your thing. Use the next morning after the tour to explore on your own before heading back to Bangkok in the afternoon.

Book a Ko Kret Day Trip Tour

When to Visit Ko Kret?

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  • One can visit Ko Kret any day
  • Weekdays: quieter and more peaceful (Easier transport with Green Flag Chao Phraya Express Boat)
  • Weekends: busier with more visitors, markets and vendors

How To Get To Ko Kret?

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Here’s the most common options:

  1. Green Flag Chao Phraya Express Boat (Weekdays only): This way, one can go direct to Pak Kret Pier

  2. Orange Flag Chao Phraya Express Boat (Weekends): Take the Boat to Nonthaburi Pier, then either:

    • A river taxi to Pak Kret Pier
    • Bus #32 or taxi/inDrive to Wat Sanam Nuea Pier then the ferry to Pak Kret Pier.

Green Flag Chao Phraya Express Boat:

  • This only operates on weekdays (Mon-Fri). This is a Direct service from the Chao Phraya express Sathorn Pier.
  • Take the BTS to the Saphan Taksin Station. This is right at the Sathorn Pier. The Express Boat will take you to Pak Kret (Pier N33) with the journey lasting roughly 1 hour. Walk 300m to the the Ko Kret Ferry Pier right at Wat Sanam Nuea.
  • Runs 16:05-18:05 every 20 minutes (to Pak Kret).
  • Runs 06:10-08:10 every 15 minutes (to Saphan Taksin).

Orange Flag Chao Phraya Express Boat:

  • The closest stop is Nonthaburi Pier (Pier N30) via the “Orange Flag” Chao Phraya Express Boat.

From Nonthaburi there are 3 options:

  • Option 1: Take the air-conditioned van or Bus #32 to Pak Kret, then walk to the ferry pier. Remember that the signage is not in English.

  • Option 2: Hire a river taxi to Pak Kret Pier (Price is negotiable) - this is more expensive, so it’s best fit for groups.

  • Option 3: Take a taxi to Wat Sanam Neua and then take the ferry to Ko Kret.

Bus:

  • Bus #166 leaves from the Victory Monument.

  • Bus #505 leaves from from Central World.

  • Both busses go to the Pak Kret Market, walk the last 500m or take a motorbike taxi to the ferry pier behind Wat Sanam Neua, then taking a ferry and crossing the canal to Wat Poramaiyikawat Pier.

How to Get Around Ko Kret?

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Modern transport does not exist on this serene island. To preserve the tranquil atmosphere of Ko Kret, any motorised vehicles are banned. Visitors can explore the island’s seven villages on bicycle, or some prefer to go by foot:

At the Wat Poramai Yikawat Ferry Pier, head towards the food carts, here you’ll find a bicycle rental service (Juum Bicycle Rental), and for a low fee we rented a bicycle for the entire day.

What to See in Ko Kret?

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Notable attractions in Ko Kret include:

  • Wat Poramaiyikawat and Museum
  • Kwan Aman Pottery Museum
  • Phra Wiharn
  • Wat Chimpli Suttahawat
  • Wat Phai Lom
  • Wat Sao Tong Thong (also known as Pia Arlart)
  • Wat Suan Mak (former name of Wat Sao Tong Thong)

Wat Poramaiyikawat and Museum

Located on the northeast corner of Ko Kret near the ferry landing, the elegant, historic Wat Poramaiyikawat, dating back to the late Ayutthaya period, was once called “Wat Pak Ao”, meaning estuary temple. After the Burmese occupation in the 1760s left it abandoned, the Mon community lovingly restored it in 1774, then renaming it Pia Moo Kia Terng, or “temple at the cape.” In 1874, King Chulalongkorn visited during the Thot Kathin ceremony. After seeing it in its deteriorated state, he commenced a complete restoration and renamed it Wat Poramai Yikawat in honor of his grandmother.

  • It’s the main temple on the island, built in the traditional Mon (Burmese) style.

  • The temple’s ordination hall (ubosot) is definitely a sight to behold. Hosting gilded Buddha images, vibrant murals, and intricate stucco doors.

  • Features Italian marble decorations from King Rama V.

  • The Wat houses a wooden pagoda containing an abbot’s remains, and the Burmese style stupa is said to contain Buddha’s relics.

  • Museum Hours: Monday-Friday, 09:00-16:00

  • It displays votive tablets, crystalware, an array of porcelains, and a very unique “hem” coffin.

Kwan Aman Pottery Museum

  • Hours: Daily, 09:00-17:00

  • Features a large collection of Mon-style ceramics, and it is one of Nonthaburi’s oldest handicrafts.

Phra Wiharn

  • Hours: Daily, 09:00-16:00

  • It is home to a 9.5m reclining Buddha from the late Ayutthaya period.

  • Features King Rama V’s emblem and a marble Buddha that was gifted by a Burmese donor.

Wat Chimpli Suttahawat

  • This is located on the east bank, just 1 km south of the ferry landing.

  • It features a well-preserved, beautiful chapel.

Wat Phai Lom

  • Built in the late Ayutthaya period.

  • Known as “Pia To” among the Mon people and it features a charming chapel.

Wat Sao Tong Thong - Known in Mon as “Pia Arlart”

  • This was formerly known as “Wat Suan Mak” - featuring the tallest pagoda in Pak Kret, built in the Ayutthaya style.

  • It’s home to Pak Kret’s very first primary school.

  • Here, beautiful ceiling paintings adorn the chapel.

Buying Pottery

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Although its a gastronomic spot, Ko Kret isn’t just about food. Ko Kret is renowned as a center for kwan aman, a Mon pottery style made of intricately carved, and unglazed red clay. This is a craft that has been passed down from over 200 years. Prices start as low as 5 baht for small pieces and can reach thousands of baht for the very elaborate designs. Popular items include candle and incense holders with ornate cutout patterns and are reasonably priced.

There are about 20 pottery workshops scattered around the island. Here one can witness skilled artisans at work, shaping terracotta pieces using old traditional methods.

Notable pottery workshops are:

  • Pa Tum Pottery Factory - Which is located on the north-east coast, directly west of Poramai Yikawat.

  • Pradit Wong Clay Shop (The Pottery Shop) - Which is located on the east coast, south of Wat Poramai Yikawat close to Chit Beer Microbrewery.

Chitbeer Microbrewery

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If you’re on Ko Kret, you have to stop by at Chitbeer for a pint. It’s handsdown the best craft beer in Thailand. But Chitbeer is more than just a brewery; brewing is their passion and it’s known across Thailand.

In 1950, a law was passed in Thailand that basically stopped people from home-brewing beer to protect two big beer companies. Because of this, many local craft brewers have to make their beer abroad and pay hefty taxes to bring it back. But on a small island near Bangkok, one guy is changing that by making his own beer and teaching others to do the same.

Chit Beer stands out in the sea of commercial lagers with a variety of home-brewed ales, sours, porters and from refreshing IPAs to rich, bold stouts. This open-air bar draws in those looking for something different. Wichit “Chit” Saiklao, the founder, has been running this brewery like a hidden gem. Though it’s not easy to reach Ko Kret, folks can find Chit’s brews on tap and sign up for brewing classes, which book up fast. By doing this, he’s equipped many beer lovers with the know-how to challenge the unfair laws, even if it means facing some fines along the way.

  • Whether you love craft beer or are just starting out, you’ll find something you enjoy.
  • Enjoying a craft beer on Ko Kret is a great way to unwind and enjoy good company.

How to Get To Chitbeer

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Depending on the time of the week, here’s the most common options:

  1. The Chao Phraya Express Boat (Green Flag) on Weekdays.

  2. The Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag) on Weekends to Nonthaburi Pier.

  3. Then you can take either

    • A river taxi to Pak Kret Pier
    • Bus #32/taxi/inDrive to the Wat Sanam Nuea Pier, then finally take the ferry to Pak Kret Pier.

  4. From the Pak Kret Pier, you can take a bicycle or walk to Chitbeer. Its roughly 250m south along the eastern riverside, ask a local to point you along the correct path.

Is Chitbeer worth the price?

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Is Chitbeer worth the extra cost? Definitely, and here’s why:

Chitbeer is more than just a drink; it’s a statement. In Thailand, where big companies dominate due to unfair laws, Chitbeer represents passion and skill. Brewed on Ko Kret by Wichit “Chit” Saiklao, this beer is handmade and packed with flavor, aiming to shake up the beer scene in the country.

When you buy a Chitbeer, it might be pricier, but it’s worth it:

  • You’re backing the first wave of real craft brewers, as many of them are trained by Chit himself helping them navigate all business aspects.
  • The experience? Totally unique. Enjoying a Chitbeer on Ko Kret, surrounded by locals and fellow beer enthusiasts that came here just for that, is something special.
  • Small-batch, quality brews
  • From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, each beer is all about quality.
  • An awesome riverside vibe
  • Support for local beer culture and change
  • Allowing the craft beer scene to thrive amongst the big players

Bottom line: Chitbeer is worth the extra bucks for the taste and the story behind it.

What to Eat in Ko Kret

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If its food is your thing, you’re in luck as food is a major attraction for local Thai visitors to Ko Kret. Vendors offer a variety of Thai and Mon food, with many island specialties. Remember to save space, because Ko Kret is a desert island too!

Savoury Dishes

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Mohinga

  • This is the national dish of Burma (Myanmar): A fish soup with vermicelli rice noodles, most often served for breakfast are unique to the Mon people of Ko Kret.

Nga Baung Thohk

  • Prawns and vegetables wrapped in a morinda leaf and then cooked in banana leaves.

Gai sarong

  • Crispy golden balls of minced chicken wrapped in egg noodles and then deep fried.

Kanom Jeen

  • A fermented rice noodle dish, eaten with different curries.

Khao Chaa/Khao Cher

  • A popular Mon dish made with jasmine rice soaked in cold camphor scented water and flavored with jasmine flowers. It comes with pork, fish, shrimp paste, radish, and green chili. It was once a royal favorite. It is very popular during the summer because of its cooling effects

Dokmai tort

  • Colorful arrangements of leaves and edible flowers that are stuffed into banana leaf bowls.

Tort Man Nor Galah

  • Colourful flowers and fresh herbs, mushrooms, and an aquatic vegetable, all battered, deep fried, and then served with a sweet and sour sauce.

Thod Man Pla Nor Gala

  • Features spicy fish cakes made with a local plant similar to galangal or with young ginger shoots.

Mon Tempura

  • Offers deep-fried flowers, veggies, fish, and shrimp sold on on a banana-leaf bowl!.

Hor Mok Nor Gala

  • A Thai dish of fish with curry paste and coconut cream, steamed and served in pottery with the local Nor Kala vegetable.

Pork Satay, or Moo Satay

  • A favorite street food in Bangkok, served with cucumber pickles, a sweet peanut sauce, and grilled bread.

Desserts

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The Mon people of Ko Kret are renowned for their exceptional traditional desserts—thanks to the island’s rich and abundant sugarcane fields, giving the locals their legendary sweet tooth. These traditional Mon desserts are a part of the island’s identity just as much as its scenery. When visiting, ensure you don’t miss these unique delights:

Khanom Thuai

  • A dessert made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, steamed in small ceramic cups.

Chao kuai

  • A gelatin base, made with Mesona chinesis, which is from the mint family.

Sweet Treats from the Mon Kitchen

Htamane

  • A chewy sticky rice with shredded coconut, and peanuts all in a chewy mix.

Sa-nwin Makin

  • Vibrant cakes made from semolina, sugar, butter, and coconut milk.

Banana Pudding

  • Bananas that are simmered in caramelised sugar and coconut milk. A rich, comforting dessert.

Durian Jam (Katut Jam)

  • A bold, creamy spread that is often paired with other desserts for a local twist.

Where to Eat in Ko Kret?

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These are favourite spots to eat and drink in Ko Kret:

  • Ong-Ang Community OTOP Market
  • Ko Kret Restaurant
  • Yokyen Kuenbok
  • Homm tea house
  • Rongsi Studio
  • Ban Pa Sun Dessert Home
  • Kanom Tuay Country

Ong-Ang Community OTOP Market:

Situated on the North East Corner Right near Wat Poramai Yikawat, The Ong-Ang Floating Market, with its narrow paths lined with charming shops, is a complete feast for all the senses. Traditional Mon delicacies tempt you everywhere. Make sure you try the ginger and chili fish cakes (tod mun pla nor gala), the crispy deep fried vegetables with flowers (tort man nor galah), and of course mohinga — this is one of Myanmar’s favourite fish noodle soups. Times are 9:30am - 5:30pm, Daily.

Ko Kret Restaurant

Situated at 105/2 Moo 1, near Wat Chim Phli. and open daily from 10:00-23:00. This riverside spot serves Thai basics like noodles and som tam at fantastic prices. Some English is spoken here.

Yokyen Kuenbok

Situated in a traditional 2-storey wood house, located right beside the Chao Phraya River. It serves some fantastic savoury dishes, desserts, as well as drinks to choose from. Try their Pad Thai here with choices of various toppings - squid, shrimp, and fish.

Homm tea house

They have incredible authentic Thai desserts which are rather hard to come across nowadays. If you want to try an array of desserts, there is an afternoon tea service which is recommended. Pla Hang Tangmo (watermelon with crunchy dried fish) is available for adventurous paletes which used to be a popular delicacy among the locals during the summer. Try red ginger lily and the butterfly pea with lime drinks. Both are very colourful and refreshing.

Rongsi Studio

A spacious hipster cafe, offering neat and modern indoor and outdoor spaces adorned with wooden furniture and wicker decor. If you’re planning on visiting in the evening, make sure you get to the outdoor riverside seating - This is where one can watch the sunset by the canal. They serve Thai-Fusion cuisine - fermented fish fried rice. They also have pork spring rolls and minced shrimp.

Ban Pa Sun Dessert Home

Located along the main tourist path, just before the bicycle rental. Offers Thai cuisine and desserts again for very reasonable prices. English is spoken here.

Kanom Tuay Country

For some more fantastic deserts: Their creamy coconut custard known as (kanom tuay) is incredible - one layer of steamed pandan rice cake on the bottom, and salty coconut cream on the top. However the sweet grass jelly (chao kuai) is not to be missed! It is made from Mesona chinesis, a family of mint, it’s quite a rare Southeast Asian delicacy.

Festivals

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Ko Kret in itself is a stark contrast to the pulsating city of Bangkok, maintaining an old-world rustic village charm. The island is allotted with wooden shacks, palm trees, and historic but deteriorating temples. The main attraction is simply to walk around and explore the numerous pottery shops, experiencing he day-to-day life of the mon people.

  • The Mon Songkran Festival is celebrated one week after April 13th, this festival features a grand procession and traditional Mon performances.

  • The Mon Classical Dance is a preserved traditional Mon dance performed with the Mon gamelan ensemble. This can be seen particularly in Pak Kret, Phra Pradaeng, and Pathum Thani.