I planned to visit the fascinating Chao Phraya River and surrounding attractions by tourist boat. As a first-timer in Bangkok, this is one of the sightseeing trips that should be on the top of anyone’s to-do list. I covered a lot of historical attractions along the river, such as temples, museums, grand palace, China town, little India, night markets, restaurants with a great view, and so much more. It may take at least a day or even two if you like to cover them all.
Since I stayed in the Sukhumvit area in Bangkok, it was easy for me to take the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Skytrain) from Asok station and then transfer to BTS Silom Line at Siam station and get off at Saphan Taksin station. It was much easier to get there by Skytrain than taking a taxi. One way to the Saphan Taksin Station cost me only 42 baths.
Stared My Boat Trip from Central Pier (Sathorn)
Once you get off at Saphan Taksin Skytrain (BTS) Station, just follow the Sathorn pier (Central) sign. From here, you have access to Shangri-La Bangkok, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa, and The Peninsula Bangkok.
In addition to Tourist boats, a Shuttle boat is also available to the Asiatique Riverfront Bangkok’s most modern night market by the river.
It was early December morning. Despite the intense sunlight, the temperature was comfortable, with a mild wind blowing to cool us off, a perfect day for a boat trip. As I planned to make frequent stops in between piers so decided to get on to the Tourist Boat, which offers unlimited trips to main piers for a 200 bath flat fee ( US$ 1 = 34 bath) which runs every 30 minutes interval.
Oriental Pier (N1)
I am taking a tourist boat to explore the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. From here visit Bamboo Bar in Mandarin Oriental Hotel, a great place to visit. Close to the French embassy.
Si Phraya Pier (N3)
If you are interested in a high-end shopping mall, this is where to get off and head towards River City. Also, Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel and Millennium Hilton Hotel are right there. A few minutes walk from this pier will take you to the Temple of the Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit), which is well known for its 3-meter tall, 5.5 tonnes solid gold Buddha image, one of the largest Golden Buddha images in the world.
Ratchawongse Pier (N5)
If you are interested in visiting China Town, this is the pier you need to get off. Head towards Ratchawong road for cheap clothes, food, and many more. Visit a popular tourist destination, the Wat Chakrawatrachawat Woramahawihan, an ancient temple dating from the Ayuttaya period.
Memorial Bridge/Saphan Phut (N6)
Once you get off here, you can visit Saphan Phut Night Market, Bangkok’s largest flower and fruit market, King Rama I Monument, and Little India.
Tha Tien Pier (N8)
Get off here and visit the Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha), or visit Wat Phra Chetuphon, located behind the Temple of Emerald Buddha, a must-see for any first-time visitor in Bangkok. Exploring the Tien market is another option for a great sunset view, especially in the evening. Finally, watch the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) from one of the many waterfront restaurants with a viewing deck. People also take the river-ferry to cross the river to visit the magnificent Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)
Tha Chang Pier (N9)
This is the pier to get off if you want to visit the Grand Palace or the Wat Phra Kaew, commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand.
Wang Lang (Siriraj) Pier (N10)
The Royal Barge Museum is only half a mile away from this pier, where you can see fabulously gilded barges. Likewise, the temple of the Bells (Wat Rakhang Kositaram) is a short walk away.
Phra Athit Pier (N13)
Get off here if you like to visit Khao San Road, famous for the night market, Indian food, Phra Sumane Fort, Banglumpoo Market. Ideal stop to visit Wat Chana Songkram (royal temple).
You can keep going further north if time permits, get off at King Rama VIII Bridge (N14), Thewet (N15), and Nonthaburi (N30) to discover the surroundings. Each stop has something to surprise you.
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