In our experience at Royal Vacation, Bang Krachao is one of Bangkok’s quietest green escapes, set along a bend of the Chao Phraya River just south of the city. Often referred to as “Bangkok’s Green Lung”, Bang Krachao can make you feel like you’re suddenly in a rural Thai village. Despite being so close to Bangkok, the area has remained largely undeveloped, one minute you’re navigating Bangkok’s traffic, the next you’re cycling past wooden stilt houses, mangrove forests, and quiet canals where you can see monitor lizards roaming around.
We’ve been organizing trips to Bang Krachao for years, and it consistently surprises visitors who assume Bangkok has no nature escapes. The island works perfectly as a day trip for travelers wanting to experience a slower, more traditional side of Thailand without venturing far from the city. Whether you’re cycling along elevated pathways, paddling through peaceful waterways, or browsing the weekend market, Bang Krachao offers a great slow day to relax and escape the noise and chaos of the city.
Things to do in Bang Krachao
Discover Bang Krachao by bicycle
Cycling is by far the most popular way to explore Bang Krachao. We highly recommend renting a bicycle, exploring, and seeing where it takes you. There is a lot to see around you, from small temples to jungle greenery to canals. Bike lanes and quiet roads make for an easy and calm cycling experience too.
Bike rentals are readily available near the ferry pier for around 100 baht a day. We also offer bike tours that can help make exploring even easier. Riders should remember that traffic follows the left-hand side, and sticking to designated cycling paths is recommended.
Visit Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Gardens
Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park is the heart of Bang Krachao and we consider it as one of its highlights. We recommend walking or cycling along the raised wooden paths, which let you see and explore the mangroves, lotus ponds, and colorful tropical plants. Along the way, you’ll spot monitor lizards sunbathing, turtles in the water, and plenty of birds. Many visitors feel that it is surprisingly wild for somewhere so close to Bangkok.
Signs throughout the park provide helpful insight into the local ecosystem, while the calm environment makes it an excellent place to just slow down and reconnect with nature, especially if you’ve had a few busy days exploring Bangkok. It is also a great spot for birdspotting, with an elevated birdwatching platform that we recommend checking out.
Visit the Bang Namphueng Floating Market
Although it is called a floating market, Bang Namphueng is not really a floating market, it is next to the canal. You can even still see monitor lizards roaming in the water right next to the market. It is not a particularly famous or well-known market, but it is one that is definitely worth your time. We think of this as a good spot for those who want to shop and eat like locals.
The market is where many locals shop, and it is one that is catered to locals rather than tourists. The market is bigger than it looks and here you will find many tables scattered with all kinds of items, from delicious traditional thai meals to handcrafted goods to desserts.We particularly enjoy watching guests discover the variety here—grilled meats, traditional sweets, fresh mango sticky rice, and those popular steamed buns with sweet and savory fillings. Shaded seating areas scattered around the market provide spots to rest between exploring, and for families, there are simple activities like fish feeding and crafts that keep children entertained.
The market operates Saturdays and Sundays from 8 AM to 4 PM, and we recommend arriving mid-morning when it’s liveliest but not yet overwhelmingly crowded.
Visit Get Growing Community Farm
Get Growing Community Farm is one we enjoy recommending for families visiting Bang Krachao. It feels more like an eco-play space than a traditional attraction, with outdoor water activities, slides, and simple adventure games that let kids run around and get messy outdoors. There are also hands-on activities available, such as basic woodworking projects and opportunities to interact with farm animals. We recommend allowing plenty of time here. If the floating market is part of your plans, this makes a great stop afterwards. We also suggest bringing swimwear or a change of clothes.
Explore the canals by kayak
One of the most peaceful ways to experience Bang Krachao is from the water. Here you can truly experience the peace and quiet of Bangkok’s green lung through its waters, giving you time to take in the nature surrounding you. The slow pace lets you notice details you’d miss while cycling—waterbirds fishing in the shallows, tropical plants leaning over the banks, and the occasional monitor lizard slipping into the water.
Kayaks can be rented from local canal-side cafés and homestays, Baanrongmai Canal Front Cafe is one we often recommend for kayak hires. Kayaks are cheap to hire, THB 100 for one person and 150 for two people. It’s an easy, relaxing activity that doesn’t require any previous kayaking experience and pairs well with a family day out or a visit to the floating market, especially if you’re looking to see a more traditional, slower side of the area.
Visit a Temple
There are a lot of temples in Bangkok worth visiting, however, visiting a temple in Bang Krachao allows guests to experience temples that have more of a local and authentic feeling. One of the more unique temples located here is Mahadevalai Ganesha, a brightly decorated Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Here you can see many bright, colorful, and detailed statues scattered around the temple. We recommend this one for those looking for something different. Shawls or wraps are available on site for those who need to dress more modestly before entering, making it easy to visit respectfully even if you’re cycling around in casual clothes.
On the eastern side of the area there is Wat Bang Nam Phueng Nok, one of Bangkok’s ancient temples. Further inland, Bang Krachao is home to several smaller, local Buddhist temples, including Wat Rat Rangsan and Wat Bang Nam Phueng Nai.
How to get to Bang Krachao from Bangkok
The most common route is via the Bang Na area. From central Bangkok, make your way to Bang Na BTS Station, then continue by taxi or motorbike taxi to the small pier near Wat Bang Nam Phueng Nok.
From there, cross the Chao Phraya River by local ferry. The ride only takes a few minutes and costs very little, but the shift in atmosphere is immediate. Once you arrive on the Bang Krachao side, you’ll find bicycle rentals right by the pier, making it easy to start exploring straight away.
FAQ
How much time should you spend in Bang Krachao?
We’ve found that 3–5 hours is ideal for most visitors if you plan to cycle, visit the main park, and stop at a café or two. If you’re visiting on a weekend and want to include the floating market or Get Growing Community Farm, a half day to full day works better.
What is the best time to visit Bang Krachao?
Mornings are best, especially to avoid the heat. Weekends are livelier due to the Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market, while weekdays are quieter and more relaxed.
Can you stay overnight in Bang Krachao?
Yes. There are several homestays and boutique-style accommodations in the area. Bangkok Tree House is the most well-known option, but there are also smaller, locally run stays that offer a quieter and more affordable alternative.
Whether you spend your time cycling through village roads, exploring the park, visiting temples, or enjoying food at the weekend market, Bang Krachao allows you to experience Bangkok at a gentler pace. It’s a destination that suits families, couples, and travelers who want something that feels local, off-the-beaten track, while also being a calm and relaxing nature escape.
If you’d like to include Bang Krachao in your Bangkok itinerary or explore it as part of a carefully planned day out, our team at Royal Vacation is always happy to help shape an experience that fits your travel style.
