Thonburi Klongs Eco Uncovered
Today, you will spend the day exploring some truly remarkable districts of the Thai capital. Tasty treats influenced by Portuguese colonialists of centuries past. Do your bit for the environment by using a solar powered boat along the Chao Phraya river.
Area
Bangkok
Type
Community & Culture
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Leisurely
Duration
Full Day
You will be picked up at 08:30 and transferred to the Portuguese quarter. Known locally as Kudichin, this neighbourhood was established before the city of Bangkok was founded and most tourists miss this area and its quaint little streets. This feels like an entirely different continent with bakeries selling Portuguese baked treats and the Santa Cruz church bells ringing in the background. Stop at some local shops selling Khanom Farang (only operational Monday – Friday) and take a look at the traditional methods used to create the Portuguese cookies.
After a morning snack treat, take a short stroll to the pier at Wat Kalayanamit to embark on a private Thai retro solar boat. The style of the boat may seem fairly mundane, but the boat is driven in an eco-friendly way, using solar power directly from the sun during the day, which is a rare site, and an impressive feat of engineering. Now, sit back and relax on a soft cushion while the boat is slowly cruising along the banks of the Chao Phraya River through Bangkok’s historic, charming khlongs. Once a major trading route, this waterway is now lined with wooden shop houses and local temples. Then the boat continues cruising onwards to Khlong Bang Khuntien, and makes a stop at Wat Ratcha Orasaram Ratchaworawihan, a distinct temple with Chinese-style artwork and artifacts. Take a closer look at the temple's roof and see its unique green-coated ceramic tiling. One of the highlights at this temple is Reclining Buddha, similar to the one at Wat Pho, but it is just a smaller version. If time allows, you may have an opportunity to visit the nearby Wat Nang Nong Worawihan, another historic temple built around the era of King Rama III, with beautiful mural paintings with Chinese-influenced stories.
Return to the boat and chill out for a little while until reaching an authentic natural garden and restaurant called “Poomjai Garden”, nestled secretly on the banks of the canal. Owned by a local Thai family, this beautiful garden is served with a long history of over 100-years, when the family decided to renovate the precious lands into an organic permaculture, while preserving some rare plants and trees like a century-old Lychee tree in the area. In the meantime, the family is connected with the nearby local community for the fresh ingredients that can be used at the restaurant.
Upon arrival at the garden’s pier, be greeted and welcomed with a local signature herbal drink, followed by a delicious lunch amongst the natural atmosphere. After delighting your stomach with yummy dishes, take a garden tour, walk through naturally decorated landscapes, and learn more about various species of herbs, plants, and trees. The tour may take up to an hour before being picked up by a private transfer and taken back to the hotel.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationCOMO Metropolitan Bangkok
The minimalist Metropolitan by COMO, Bangkok is a haven for those who love contemporary, slick city escapes. It combines an urban edge with Asian flair and the result is the coolest hotel in Bangkok, located along the vibrant Sathorn Road.
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View AccommodationCapella Bangkok
Opened in 2019 and set on the banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River,the Capella Bangkok is a 101-room and suite hotel combining beautiful views with an enviable location, providing a wonderfully luxurious option in Thailand’s capital.
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View AccommodationPeninsula Bangkok
The Peninsula Bangkok is a luxury hotel of unmatched classical grandeur set on Bangkok's majestic riverside. With every room boasting magnificent river views, it offers an unrivaled panorama across this vibrant city.
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View AccommodationSiri Sala Bangkok
Immerse yourself in Thai heritage, and culture at the beautifully crafted and curated Siri Sala riverside villa. Enjoy spacious upscale accommodation featuring modern comforts and convenience, lush gardens with salt-water pool and superb river views.
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View AccommodationFour Seasons Hotel Bangkok
Located on the Chao Phraya River, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is perfectly situated to explore this bustling city, while also offering guests a sanctuary of calm and luxury. With a selection of restaurants, bars and pools, there's plenty to be enjoyed.
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View Accommodation
The Siam
Set amidst 3 acres of verdant frontage beside the Chao Phraya River in the heart of Bangkok's historic Dusit district, The Siam is a wonderful boutique offering to Bangkok, crafted by renowned architect Bill Bensley.
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View AccommodationAman Nai Lert Bangkok
Aman Nai Lert Bangkok is a bold new expression of urban luxury where Thai heritage, modernist design and lush private gardens converge. A discreet haven in the capital, it offers expansive suites, holistic wellness, and artful dining above the city.
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View AccommodationMandarin Oriental Bangkok
Centrally located and set on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the River of Kings, the renowned Mandarin Oriental Bangkok has for 135 years been a symbol of luxury and staying here gives you the feeling of stepping back in time.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceBangkok Street Food Secrets with The Roaming Cook
Join one of Thailand's most popular food vloggers through Bangkok's street food scene – the hidden alleyways and open-air markets where the city's real flavors live, guided by someone who knows exactly where to find them.
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View ExperienceHighlights of Bangkok
From Bangkok's largest flower market to the Grand Palace's golden spires, this full day weaves through the city's most significant sites – with a long-tailed boat ride through Thonburi's canals and a monk's blessing at Wat Arun as the sun sets.
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View ExperienceFloating Markets - Half Day
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View ExperienceTha Kha Floating Market
This half day tour will take you to Tha Kha Floating Market; one of the more charming and less touristy floating markets within easy reach of Bangkok.
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View ExperienceCycle Hidden Bangkok
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View ExperienceBites & Sites in the Village of Love
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View ExperienceMuay Thai Masterclass
Join a Muay Thai training camp for an introduction to Thailand’s national sport before heading backstage at Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium. Experience the energy of a live match, meet the champion, and return with a pair of authentic Muay Thai shorts.
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View ExperienceEvening Chao Phraya Cruise
Board the Pruek Cruise, a private teak yacht on the Chao Phraya River, for an evening of Michelin-starred Thai cuisine as Bangkok's illuminated temples glide past your table.
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View ExperienceDistinguished Hosts - Bangkok
This is a wonderful opportunity for those looking to get more of an in-depth understanding of Thailand, or a particular area of the culture, be that history, architecture or literature - there is plenty of choice depending on your interests.
Call us on 858 345 1762 to start planning