Exploring Bang Krachao Island in Bangkok
Bang Krachao island is a green jungle oasis in the heart of Bangkok. This urban slice of nature is visible from the higher floors of many apartments (including mine) along Sukhumvit Road. Yet, it remains unknown to most visitors to Bangkok.
Hang on a moment, an island in Bangkok?
That’s right, Bang Krachao is an island, but don’t expect white sand beaches and coconut trees. This island is nothing like the tropical paradise of Koh Lipe in Thailand’s far south, or Koh Kood in the far east. However, it is unique and amazing in its own right.
Bang Krachao is actually a man-made island located in the Chao Praya River. Years ago, a canal was cut allowing cargo boats to shorten their journey along the river. It’s a similar story to how Koh Kret island was formed in Bangkok’s north.
Bang Krachao is commonly referred to as the Green Lung of Bangkok with its thousands of mangrove trees eating up the city’s air pollution.
In a rapidly developing city, Bang Krachao is one place that has managed to withstand change. So, you better visit before it’s too late!
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How to Get to Bang Krachao
Bang Krachao is a short ferry ride across the Chao Praya River with piers located at Chong Nongsi, Bang Na, and Klong Toei.
Personally, I’ve always used the Bang Na Pier to cross the river as its closest to where I live in Onnut along Sukhumvit Road.
The Bang Na Pier (location) is a short walk from Bang Na BTS station. From Bang Na station, walk along Sukhumvit Road towards Udom Suk station, then turn left at Sanphawut Road. Continue to the end of Sanphawut Road until you reach the Chao Praya River.
The ferry crossing the Chao Praya River departs every 15 minutes or so. A one-way ticket costs just 10 cents!
If you prefer to visit with a local guide, then I recommend checking out these half-day cycling tours starting at $30 for 4-5 hours. You’ll discover even more hidden gems on the island which I haven’t covered here.
How to Get Around Bang Krachao
The best way to get around Bang Krachao is by bicycle. As I pointed out in my article on the best time to visit Bangkok, it’s always hot here so expect to get sweaty and stay hydrated!
- Visiting solo you can rent a bicycle at Bang Kracho Pier. Bicycles cost about 70 THB (USD 2.50) per day and are OK condition.
- Visiting with a local guide for a half day is a great option too. Check these cycling tour options which start at $30 for a 4-5 hour trip and will take you to some hidden gems on the island.
If Bangkok’s heat is overwhelming, then try getting around by motorbike taxi (guys in orange vests with numbers on their back). A standard rate for a single trip almost anywhere on Bang Krachao is 20 THB (USD 0.80) per person.
What to do on Bang Krachao
1. Bang Krachao Floating Market (Bang Nam Peung)
The most popular destination on Bang Krachao is the Bang Krachao Floating Market, officially the Bang Nam Peung Floating Market. The floating market name is a bit deceptive though.
Unlike the Damnoen Saduak or the Amphawa Floating Markets further out of Bangkok, this one isn’t boats directly on the water, rather set up on the paths around the small canals.
The Bang Nam Peung Floating Market which spans the area of a few local alleys offers a wide range of local food and handcrafted good. It’s one of my favourite places to pick up an authentic souvenir in Bangkok.
There’s plenty of food around the market which you should taste. For lunch try a hot bowl of gui tiaw lua rice noodles in pig’s blood soup or tom yum kuung sen lek large prawns with rice noodles in a spicy tom yum soup.
Continue further along to discover a beautiful teak wood house called Reuan Fresh Milk (เรือนนมสด). Try the classic Thai dessert meing kum which is a herbal leaf wrapped around diced mango and lime with a drizzling of sweet fish sauce.
Bang Krachao Floating Market is open on Saturday and Sunday only from 7am to 3pm. Be sure to visit in the morning or you might just miss it!
For another great market near Bangkok read: Maeklong Railway Market
2. Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park
Sri Nakhon Khuen Khan Park is the most beautiful garden oasis in Bangkok and the true heart of the Green Lung. It spans an extensive 11 hectares making it one of the largest parks in the city.
The best way to explore Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park is by bicycle. Cycling routes are well paved with small wooden bridges crossing the lakes. You’ll also find a 1km unpaved jungle trail around the back of the park where you can totally forget you’re in the heart of the city.
If you don’t want to cycle, then just chill out in this traffic free haven. Vehicles aren’t allowed in the park, so it’s one of the most peaceful places in Bangkok to relax.
3. Cycle the local streets
Wander the alleys from Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park back to Bang Nam Peung Pier. Along the way, you’ll come across small farms, local fishermen and chilled coffee shops where you can enjoy the relaxing vibe on Bang Krachao.
On Bang Krachao’s east coast you’ll find a unique resort called the Bangkok Treehouse (also known as the Bang Krachao Treehouse). This eco-friendly resort is also known as Bangkok’s Greenest Hotel.
It’s a perfect overnight escape from the city rush. Even if you’re not staying the night, it’s worth seeing the design of this little hotel along the banks of the Chao Praya River.
Sunset at the Bangkok Treehouse
4. Visit Buddhist and Hindu Temples
There are a number of Buddhist Thai temples spread across Bang Krachao. I suggest it’s worth visiting a couple, which you will find far less touristy than the Grand Palace, Wat Po, or Wat Arun in Bangkok’s old district.
On the east of the island, you’ll find Wat Bang Nam Pheung Nok. This doubles up as the pier when crossing the Chao Praya from the Bang Na Pier note above, and where you will find rental bicycles avaiable.
In the island’s interior, you’ll find smaller Buddhist temples such as Wat Rat Rangsan, Wat Bang Nam Pheung Nai, and even a colourful Hindu temple called Mahadevalai Ganesha.
You don’t really need to remember the names of all these temples though. Just pop into explore when cycling down the road. Out of respect,leave your shoes at the entrance and bring something to cover your knees.
Love Thai culture? Check out these 12 temples in Bangkok now!
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4 thoughts on “Bang Krachao Island (the Green Lung of Bangkok)”
Love that place. Went there once a few years ago but only did the park. Went again yesterday and biked around the island, it’s amazing to get the feeling you’re in the countryside and yet, you’re just minutes away from the urban jungle.
I’ve just been to Bangkok a few months ago and I did not know about this place…it looks awesome!
Oh well, maybe next time 🙂
Such a great guide! I can’t wait to get there some day!
But,now i decide travel to myanmar.
I really didn’t know all these things before which you have informed us through your best writing.Thanks a lot. waiting for more… Regards, NagarkotTrekking