What is the Secret to Unveiling Bangkok’s Canal Magic? Glide Through on a Long-tail Boat Tour
The canals of Bangkok were the main transportation network during ancient times. This network was expanded in the 18th century. Thereafter when Bangkok became the capital of the nation, they were further enhanced during the 19th century earning the city the label of Venice of the East. The economy and daily activities of the city were centered around these canals as was the case in Venice. Discover the significant and interesting facets of how these canals weave magic in the lives of these people.
Introduction
The canals of Bangkok, also known as klongs, dated to the Ayutthaya Kingdom from the 14th century until the mid-18th century. People lived alongside them in stilted houses, their lives revolved around these bustling waterways. These waterways initially facilitated the security of the kingdom, providing transport of troops and other essential resources.
As the state capital changed from Ayutthaya to Bangkok in the 19th century the canal network was strengthened. By the 20th century, some of the klongs had to be filled up as a part of the modernization of the capital. These became major streets in the city along with infrastructure development. A massive shift from water-based transportation to a road-based transportation system alongside the water-based transportation system was completed in several phases over the years.
However, in Thonburi, many of the klongs still exist with people living in quaint wooden stilted houses. These canals have witnessed a massive evolution in this region. As you spend time in Bangkok enjoy some happy hours on these klongs uncovering hidden treasures.
David Broad, Bangkok canals Khlongs in the Thon Buri district - panoramio (3), CC BY 3.0
Charming Thai Houses
Exploring a vibrant city like Bangkok from the waterways is one of the unique things to do in Sukhumvit. It gives one a truly different feeling than seeing it from land. Operating services from 7 am to 6 pm using a traditional Thai longtail boat for this memorable excursion is even better using the early hours of the morning for comfort and clear visibility. The long and graceful boats are efficient on the waterways, and you glide along entirely at ease concentrating on your surroundings with no traffic or tooting of horns to distract you.
These tours commence at prominent piers like Sathon and Tha Maharaj, both can be reached with ease from centrally located properties like Avani Sukhumvit Bangkok. A private boat hire can be used for this purpose doing the tour with an English-speaking local guide making the tour more enriching. The boat ride is scenic as they move through suburban areas enabling you to witness the contrasts in lifestyle and pace of activities.
The charming old Thai houses along the klongs portray meticulous wood carvings typical of traditional Thai architecture while the living spaces are elevated above the water level. It is heartening to note that some of these houses are preserved well as tourist attractions. As you glide further the modern buildings can be seen showcasing the contrast between historic and modern Bangkok. This is also a unique feature of how the nation preserves history while embracing modernity.
Thonburi Area
Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River gliding towards the quiet district of Thonburi takes you to the region where Bangkok was declared the capital of Thailand originally. Later as Bangkok became a vibrant metropolis the main modernization happened on the east bank side of the Chao Phraya River while in Thonburi time seems to have paused.
Admire the quiet surroundings which are more lush and greener and much less touristy than the modern Bangkok region. Witness more traditional Thai wooden houses with people going about their daily chores like fishing, cooking, having a dip or praying. Small boats are moored near their homes, and you would spot a monitor lizard enjoying the sun on the steps of a home.
Spot many Buddhist temples and schools as you glide along. Among these numerous buildings is the beautiful Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn) rising high majestically.
Iconic landmarks of Bangkok
Situated in the heart of Bangkok city, the Grand Palace has been home to 5 successive kings. At present it is used for Royal ceremonies and welcoming state guests. This is a big tourist attraction in the city.
Witnessing this spectacular palace and two other temples in proximity is awe-inspiring. Phra Kaew Morakot (The temple of the Emerald Buddha) is in the same complex as the Grand Palace and has a Buddha Statue carved from a single block of jade. Wat Pho (The temple of the reclining Buddha) one of the biggest temple complexes in Bangkok has a 46 m long reclining statue of the Lord Buddha in golden hue. Seeing these iconic landmarks in their beauty from the water is a memorable experience for most visitors.
