Klong Tour Bangkok

Discover Thonburi by longtail boat – A klong tour through the canals of bangkok

A longtail boat tour through Thonburi’s klongs offers a true and eye-opening experience in Bangkok. Just across the Chao Phraya River, this calm trip shows a slower side of the city—away from skyscrapers, malls, and busy streets. As you move through narrow canals with wooden houses, green gardens, and local life, you’ll see a part of Bangkok that’s quietly fading. If you want to explore beyond typical tourist spots, this quiet ride through old Bangkok is a great way to discover its hidden charm and history.

The Thonburi area in Bangkok

Thonburi is the historic center of Bangkok, on the west side of the Chao Phraya River. It was Thailand’s capital before Bangkok and still has a peaceful, authentic feel with narrow canals, wooden houses on stilts, and traditional riverside life. Unlike busy Bangkok, Thonburi moves slower, with green spaces, quiet neighborhoods, and less-known temples like Wat Paknam and Wat Arun. Exploring by longtail boat lets visitors see local life along the water. Thonburi is a must-see for those wanting to experience Bangkok’s cultural roots.

Why a klong tour in the Thonburi area?

It’s like entering a different world. Life by the canals flows at its own slow pace. Locals water plants, wash clothes, or rest in the shade, ignoring passing boats. You’ll pass wooden stilt houses, gardens, temples, and sometimes monitor lizards swimming by. It’s a rare look at everyday life in Bangkok that many travelers miss.

Our experience: From skytrain to longtail boat

We began early and met our English-speaking guide near BTS Wutthakat. As soon as we left the station, Bangkok felt different—low houses, narrow streets, and a peaceful vibe.

Walking to the boat pier, we saw a kind old lady making slippers by hand and school kids brushing their teeth outside before class. This is what makes Thonburi special—real life unfolding right in front of you.

A private longtail boat adventure

Our small, charming longtail boat floated close to the water—exciting yet safe. Soon after entering the narrow canals, all city noise faded away.

We passed homes almost touching the water, while others had lovely gardens with banana trees and bright flowers. Sometimes, we saw huge monitor lizards sunbathing or swimming just below the surface.

At one point, a friendly vendor in a small boat paddled over to sell freshly fried banana snacks—a tasty treat we always enjoy in Thailand!

Stops along the way

Depending on your tour, you can choose the stops. We picked a calm ride through the back canals and stopped twice: at The Artist House and Wat Paknam.

The Artist House (Baan Silapin)

This charming riverside cultural center is in a centuries-old wooden house. It’s a peaceful spot with art, plants, and local crafts. On some days, there’s a free traditional Thai puppet show. You can decorate a wooden mask, make a bracelet, or feed the fish for good luck.

We enjoyed exploring the narrow lanes and crossing small bridges near the Artist House—this part of Thonburi truly won our hearts.

Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen

Our last stop was Wat Paknam, a lesser-known but grand Buddhist temple. Mostly visited by Thai worshippers, it feels very peaceful. A giant golden seated Buddha, nearly 70 meters tall, is being built here and will be one of Thailand’s largest Buddha statues.

Inside the stupa, we saw a magical ceiling—glowing green and held up by golden pillars. It felt like being inside a temple from a fantasy movie.

Different types of Klong Tours

We booked our tour with the Bangkok Boat Company and were very pleased. They offer different tours such as:

• Lazy Afternoon Tour
• Family Tours
• Breeze & Pleased Tour
• Fully Custom Private Tours

If you take a private trip, you can plan the route and stops with your guide. Whether it’s an orchid farm, meditation class, or cooking lesson, you decide.

Is it suitable for everyone?

• Yes, it’s a great family outing. Kids will love the boat ride and spotting animals!
• Note: Getting in and out of the boat can be tricky for those with mobility issues, but the guide and captain will always assist.

Get 10% discount on the tours

If you book via Thailand Magazine we can give you 10% discount on all tours from this company.