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Klongdaen, also known as Khlong Dan, used to be a thriving market, a vital hub for trade. However, urban expansion disrupted its land access, leaving it quiet for nearly four decades.
The effort to revive Klongdaen was attended by both the government and local residents. Together, people aim to rebuild the forgotten foundations that bound people together across provincial borders, successfully resurrecting the strong connections that once defined the region.
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People on the floating market exchanging goods (Source: Cuddly Nest)
The floating market is situated in Khlong Dan Subdistrict, Ranot District and Songkhla. Khlong Dan is the border connecting point between Songkhla and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces, hence the name "Khlong Dan".
Klongdaen Floating Market is connected to Tambon Ram Kaeo, Amphoe Hua Sai and Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. It is the area where three canals are located: Khlong Ranot, Khlong Cha-uat, and Khlong Pak Phanang, which converge to form a small canal called “Klong Daen”'.
Klongdaen floating market in the daytime (Source: Da Hotels)
To get to Klong Daen floating market, from Amphoe Ranot or Amphoe Mueang Songkhla, take Highway No. 408 (route to Nakhon Si Thammarat province). At Km. 74, there is a market entrance sign on the left, so take that turn and follow the road for 3 kilometers to the market.
Considered a natural boundary line that separates the two provinces of Songkhla and Nakhon Si Thammarat, this destination has been dubbed “Khlong Daen, three canals and two provinces”. Klongdaen Market has also been considered an eco-Buddhist cultural tourism village.
Throughout the years of revival efforts to restore the market from the previous urban expansion disruption, the goal of the Songkhla people goes beyond just rebuilding a place for goods exchanging.
In essence, it goes deeper, encouraging reconnection with the past, a time when communities thrived along the uninterrupted waterways.
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The markets of Thailand have a deep cultural meaning (Source: Exotic Voyage)
Local residents are actively involved, aiming to rebuild the forgotten foundations that bound people together across provincial borders. Nowadays, the interior of the market looks like old wooden shophouses along a canal. There is a wooden bridge used as a walking path for visitors around the market.
There are also a wide variety of shops selling community products, local food that is hard to find, and cultural performances that are worth watching for instance, Manora, Nang Thalung, etc. There is also a boat service to see the scenery of the floating market and the Khlong Daen waterfront community.
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Performances such as Nang Talung are unique and interesting (Source: Tourism Thailand)
To ensure a memorable and joyful visit to the Klongdaen floating markets in Songkhla,, tourists can consider planning their trip during the cool and dry season, which generally runs from November to March. In these months, Thailand’s weather is pleasant with clear skies, little to no rainfall and generally fewer crowds as well.
The market is open on Saturdays from noon until 8 p.m. every week. With its late opening hours, visitors can enjoy their slow morning and come to visit Klongdaen market when it’s time for lunch.
Foreigners visit Klongdaen market during the dry seasons (Source: Go Backpacking)
Opt for a leisurely boat ride to navigate the intricate waterways, offering a captivating view of the vibrant scene. Delve into the culinary treasures by sampling an array of local delicacies, from exotic fruits to traditional Thai street food.
Visiting the Klongdaen floating market, tourists will be taken on a boat ride on the water and have the opportunity to choose from a wide variety of colorful Thai traditional food and handicrafts that are sold on the small boats.
Visitors can grasp the chance to engage with the friendly locals, bargain for souvenirs and enjoy the rich tapestry of Thai culture through various activities.
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Locals sell food on boats in Klongdaen market (Source: Migrationology)
Visitors coming back from their trip to Klongdaen told stories of how they were pleasantly surprised by the food on the market. Locals present delicious food at very reasonable prices.
There are so many compliments about how the food is cheap, the atmosphere is great, and there are a lot of traditional snacks and delicious dishes to try.
A few examples of food choices for tourists range from fresh thongmuan and Thai curry fish custard to filling meals such as rice and curry. On every little kiosk, food stalls also have a couple of seats for guests wanting to eat on the spot.
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Thongmuan, both fresh and crispy, is a popular treat among Thai people (Source: Miwfood)
The service is friendly, customers will surely get some smiles. Furthermore, restaurants have an overall positive and very good atmosphere.
Along with the big selection of dishes and treats, visitors are also presented with numerous forms of souvenirs and trinkets. From exotic food and spices only available in the local area to accessories and clothing items, decorations and small handmade trinkets, Klongdaen floating market has it all.
Furthermore, the local people are hospitable and very friendly. So if you ever feel dissatisfied with the price or quantity of a product, feel free to negotiate and bargain. The people of Songkhla are warm and good-natured, you’re sure to come at an agreeable price that satisfies both ends.
Usually, the market isn’t as crowded as other places and there aren't many people. But the exception is during festivals, that’s when the atmosphere becomes more populated than usual. There are performances from children and adults as well.
Performers usually dance and sing with the music. They wear vibrant, eye-catching attire with beautiful accessories from head to toe. Dancers are usually females, ranging from little girls to grown adult women, performing various types of Thai dance, such as Manora.
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Manora performances, a special feature when visiting Thailand (Source: Chiangmai City Life)
And if you’re a fan of classical music and live performances, there are people who play musical instruments and sing at the same time. The most popular instrument is the guitar. On every occasion when there’s a performance, there is a bit of a “traffic jam”, as more people will come to watch the colorful shows.
As Khlong Dan is a market built from the efforts of many people, each individual of Songkhla who has taken part in the process treasures the market dearly. Villagers help keep it clean and maintain the way of life. They treasure the place as home, where the culture is preserved, not to be forgotten or lost with time.
The people are bonded together, with tales and stories that they are always willing to share with others. Consider slowing down for a meal, a rest, or just to listen to the memories of Songkhla people and the history of Klongdaen floating market. Maybe you’ll discover something new that you never expected.
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The Songkhla people are friendly and hospitable (Source: Indochina Voyage)
On Klong Dan market, there is a rowboat to travel on, or more specifically, free boating. Tourists can watch the local performances of the South, such as Manora shows. And discover the process of worshiping the ancient Golden Buddha among Songkhla people.
In the unique atmosphere and beautiful natural views of the market, people here carry on tradition with many activities that you can observe. For instance, in the monk showering tradition, people participate in showering the Buddha statue for blessings of happiness and safety.
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The monks showering the Buddha statues in Thailand (Source: Buddhaday)
Visiting Thailand's floating markets is a popular activity for tourists, and as a result, there are many accommodation options available. Hence, Thai people have prepared a lot of options for tourists to select from, with a wide range of price tags and quality.
Accommodation services include hotels, motels, and tuk-tuks, especially in larger numbers near Bangkok and other big cities in Thailand. Depending on the market and itinerary, you can choose the right place to stay, and the room price can also vary. So it’s best to do research beforehand and contact the right services to prepare for your stay while traveling.
Tourist can get to the market by tuk tuk in Thailand (Source: Gap360)
To the people of Songkhla, Klongdaen Floating Market goes beyond just a place or a market. It is the remains and memoirs of a cultural revival, history and years being cultivated by the hands of local people.
Whether it’s exotic cuisine, historic values, or handcrafted souvenirs, Klongdaen can cater to the interests of visitors and entertain them at the same time with their vibrant performances. So pack your bags and come with Asia King Travel for a trip to discover this hidden gem!
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