The Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of Thailand, flowing through the heart of the country and connecting its past and present. Along its banks, you can find some of the most stunning and historic attractions in Thailand, especially in the ancient city of Ayutthaya.
Ayutthaya was the capital of Thailand for over 400 years, until it was sacked by the Burmese in 1767. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire the ruins of temples, palaces, and statues that testify to its former glory.
One of the best ways to explore the Chao Phraya River and Ayutthaya is by taking a cruise. You can enjoy the scenic views, learn about the history and culture, and experience the local life along the river. Whether you choose a public ferry, a long-tail boat, a rice barge, a dinner cruise, or a luxury cruise, you will have a memorable and enjoyable time on the river.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know to plan your trip to the Chao Phraya River and Ayutthaya. So, let's get started!
Chao Phraya River History and Culture
The Chao Phraya River, which means the River of Kings, is the main river of Thailand that originates from the confluence of four smaller rivers in the central plains. It flows southward for about 372 kilometers, passing through several provinces, including Ayutthaya and Bangkok, before emptying into the Gulf of Thailand.
The river has played a vital role in the history and development of Thailand, as it was the main route of trade, transport, and communication for centuries. It also served as a natural defense and a source of irrigation and fishing for the people living along its banks.
The river has witnessed the rise and fall of several kingdoms and dynasties, such as Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Thonburi, and Rattanakosin. Each of these kingdoms left their mark on the river, building temples, palaces, forts, and monuments that reflect their architectural and artistic styles.
The river is also a cultural and religious hub, where many festivals and ceremonies are held throughout the year. Some of the most famous ones are:
Loy Krathong: A festival that takes place on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month (usually in November), where people float small baskets made of banana leaves and flowers, containing candles and incense, on the river to pay respect to the water spirits and ask for forgiveness for their sins.
Songkran: A festival that marks the Thai New Year, which falls on April 13-15, where people splash water on each other to symbolize cleansing and renewal. The river is also used to bathe the Buddha images and statues in the temples along the river.
Royal Barge Procession: A rare and spectacular event that occurs on special occasions, such as the coronation of the king or the anniversary of his reign, where a fleet of ornate and colorful barges, carrying the royal family and the monks, sail along the river in a majestic formation, accompanied by music and chants.
Chao Phraya River Attractions and Activities
The Chao Phraya River offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy, ranging from historical and cultural sites to natural and modern wonders. Depending on your interests and time, you can choose to explore the river in different regions, such as the Upper, Central, and Lower Chao Phraya River.
Here are some of the most popular and interesting attractions and activities that you can find along the river:
Upper Chao Phraya River
The Upper Chao Phraya River stretches from the source of the river to the city of Ayutthaya. This region is rich in history and culture, as it was the birthplace and the center of the first Thai kingdoms. Some of the attractions and activities that you can enjoy here are:
Nakhon Sawan: A province that is known as the gateway to the north, where you can visit the Nakhon Sawan Tower, the highest tower in Thailand, and enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the river. You can also visit the Bueng Boraphet, the largest freshwater swamp in Thailand, where you can see various kinds of birds and aquatic animals.
Uthai Thani: A province that is famous for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, where you can visit the Wat Tha Sung, a temple that has a stunning crystal hall and a golden Buddha image. You can also visit the Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see rare and endangered species, such as tigers, elephants, and gibbons.
Chainat: A province that is known for its agricultural and historical significance, where you can visit the Chainat Bird Park, the largest bird park in Thailand, where you can see over 300 species of birds and other animals. You can also visit the Wat Phra Borommathat, a temple that has a large pagoda that contains a relic of the Buddha.
Sing Buri: A province that is famous for its heroism and patriotism, where you can visit the Bang Rachan Memorial, a monument that commemorates the brave villagers who fought against the Burmese invasion in 1765. You can also visit the Wat Phra Non Chaksi, a temple that has a reclining Buddha image that is 46 meters long and 11 meters high.
Ang Thong: A province that is renowned for its art and craftsmanship, where you can visit the Wat Muang, a temple that has the largest Buddha image in Thailand, which is 95 meters high and 74 meters wide. You can also visit the Ban Bang Sadet Court Doll Center, a museum that displays the exquisite dolls that are made by the local artisans.
Ayutthaya: The highlight of the Upper Chao Phraya River, where you can visit the Historic City of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire the ruins of temples, palaces, and statues that testify to the former glory of the city. You can also visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, where you can see the giant statue that is 37 meters long and 8 meters high.
Bang Pa In Palace: A palace that was built by King Prasat Thong in the 17th century, and later renovated by King Rama IV and King Rama V in the 19th century. The palace is a blend of Thai, Chinese, and European styles, and consists of several buildings, gardens, and ponds. The palace is open to the public, except when the royal family is in residence.
Central Chao Phraya River
The Central Chao Phraya River runs through the city of Bangkok, the capital and the largest city of Thailand. This region is the hub of modernity and diversity, where you can find a mix of old and new, traditional and contemporary, and local and global. Some of the attractions and activities that you can enjoy here are:
Nonthaburi: A province that is located just north of Bangkok, where you can visit the Ko Kret, an island that is home to the Mon people, an ethnic group that migrated from Myanmar. You can see their unique culture and lifestyle, and buy their handicrafts, such as pottery, textiles, and food.
Bangkok: The heart of the Central Chao Phraya River, where you can visit the Grand Palace, the official residence of the kings of Thailand since 1782. The palace is a complex of buildings, halls, and temples, that showcase the splendor and elegance of Thai architecture and art. You can also visit the Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, a temple that is located on the west bank of the river, and has a distinctive spire that is decorated with ceramic tiles and porcelain. You can also visit the Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, a temple that is located on the east bank of the river, and has a reclining Buddha image that is 46 meters long and 15 meters high. You can also visit the Chinatown, a vibrant and colorful area that is the center of the Chinese community in Bangkok. You can also visit the ICONSIAM, a mega mall that is located on the east bank of the river, and has a variety of shops, restaurants, cinemas, and attractions, such as the River Park, the Heritage Museum, and the Iconic Multimedia Water Feature.
Samut Prakan: A province that is located just south of Bangkok, where you can visit the Pak Nam, a town that is situated at the mouth of the river, and has a lively market and a seafood restaurant. You can also visit the Bang Pu, a seaside resort that is popular for its migratory birds, especially the seagulls, that flock to the area from November to March. You can also visit the Phra Pradaeng, a district that is known as the lung of Bangkok, where you can see the greenery and the waterways that contrast with the urban landscape. You can also visit the Bang Krachao, an island that is formed by a bend of the river, where you can enjoy the nature and the culture of the local community.
Lower Chao Phraya River
The Lower Chao Phraya River flows from the city of Samut Prakan to the Gulf of Thailand. This region is the gateway to the sea and the world, where you can find the port and the industrial zones that support the economy and the trade of Thailand. Some of the attractions and activities that you can enjoy here are:
Samut Sakhon: A province that is located on the west bank of the river, where you can visit the Mahachai Market, one of the largest seafood markets in Thailand, where you can see the variety and the freshness of the products. You can also visit the Wat Yai Chom Prasat, a temple that has a beautiful mural painting that depicts the life of the Buddha.
Samut Songkhram: A province that is located on the west bank of the river, where you can visit the Amphawa Floating Market, one of the most famous and authentic floating markets in Thailand, where you can see the boats that sell food, drinks, souvenirs, and handicrafts. You can also visit the Maeklong Railway Market, a unique market that is located on the railway tracks, where you can see the vendors that move their stalls and goods when the train passes by.
Chachoengsao: A province that is located on the east bank of the river, where you can visit the Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan, a temple that has a large and revered Buddha image that is made of white marble. You can also visit the Bang Khla, a town that is famous for its fruit orchards, especially the pomelos, and its bat population, that can be seen flying out of their caves at dusk.
Chonburi: A province that is located on the east bank of the river, where you can visit the Bang Saen, a beach resort that is popular among the locals and the students, where you can enjoy the sun, the sand, and the sea. You can also visit the Khao Sam Muk, a hill that overlooks the sea, where you can see the monkeys that live there and the shrine that is dedicated to a legendary couple.
Chao Phraya River Cruise Options and Tips
One of the best ways to explore the Chao Phraya River and Ayutthaya is by taking a cruise. You can enjoy the scenic views, learn about the history and culture, and experience the local life along the river. There are different types of cruises available, depending on your budget, preference, and schedule. Here are some of the cruise options and tips that you can consider:
Public ferries:
The cheapest and the most convenient way to travel along the river, especially in Bangkok, where you can hop on and off at different piers that are located near the main attractions. The ferries run from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the fares range from 10 to 40 baht, depending on the distance and the type of the boat. You can buy the tickets at the piers or on board the boat. The ferries are color-coded according to their routes and stops, such as the orange flag, the yellow flag, the green flag, and the blue flag. The blue flag is the tourist boat that provides an English commentary and a guide map.
Long-tail boats:
The most traditional and the most adventurous way to explore the river, especially the smaller canals and the rural areas, where you can see the wooden houses, the temples, the markets, and the gardens that line the waterways. The long-tail boats are wooden boats that have a long propeller at the back, and can accommodate up to 10 people. You can hire a long-tail boat at the piers or the hotels, and negotiate the price and the itinerary with the driver. The price depends on the duration and the destination of the trip, but usually ranges from 500 to 2000 baht per hour.
Rice barges:
The most authentic and the most relaxing way to experience the river, especially in Ayutthaya, where you can see the historical and cultural sites that date back to the golden age of the city. The rice barges are converted from the traditional boats that were used to transport rice and other goods along the river. They are decorated with teak wood and bamboo, and have a roof and a seating area. You can join a rice barge tour that includes a guide, a lunch, and a visit to some of the attractions in Ayutthaya. The tours usually last for 3 to 4 hours, and the prices range from 1000 to 1500 baht per person.
Dinner cruises:
The most romantic and the most entertaining way to enjoy the river, especially in Bangkok, where you can see the city lights and the landmarks that illuminate the night sky. The dinner cruises are offered by various companies and restaurants, and have different themes and styles, such as Thai, Chinese, Indian, or international cuisine, and live music, dance, or show. You can book a dinner cruise online or at the hotels, and choose the time and the location of the departure and the arrival. The cruises usually last for 2 to 3 hours, and the prices range from 1000 to 3000 baht per person, depending on the quality and the service of the cruise.
Luxury cruises:
The most extravagant and the most comfortable way to explore the river, especially for special occasions, such as weddings, anniversaries, or birthdays. The luxury cruises are provided by some of the most prestigious hotels and resorts, such as the Mandarin Oriental, the Shangri-La, and the Anantara. They have elegant and spacious boats that are equipped with modern amenities and facilities, such as air-conditioning, bathrooms, bars, and lounges. You can book a luxury cruise online or at the hotels, and customize the package and the itinerary according to your needs and preferences. The cruises can last from a few hours to a few days, and the prices can vary from 10,000 to 100,000 baht, depending on the duration and the destination of the trip.
Some tips and advice for booking and enjoying a cruise on the Chao Phraya River are:
- The best time to go on a cruise is during the dry season, from November to February, when the weather is cooler and the river is calmer. You can also go during the rainy season, from May to October, when the river is more lush and green, but be prepared for some showers and storms. You should avoid going during the hot season, from March to April, when the temperature and the humidity are high, and the river is low and muddy.
- What to wear and what to bring on a cruise depends on the type and the time of the cruise, but in general, you should wear comfortable and casual clothes, such as shorts, t-shirts, and sandals, and bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. You should also bring some cash, a camera, and a water bottle. If you go on a dinner or a luxury cruise, you may want to dress up a bit more, and bring some extra money, a passport, and a credit card.
- What to expect on a cruise depends on the type and the time of the cruise, but in general, you can expect to see the river and the city from a different perspective, and learn about the history and culture of the area. You can also expect to meet some friendly and helpful staff, and some interesting and diverse fellow travelers. You can also expect to have some fun and memorable moments on the river.
How to Get to the Chao Phraya River and Ayutthaya
The Chao Phraya River and Ayutthaya are easily accessible from Bangkok, the capital and the largest city of Thailand. You can choose from different modes of transportation, such as car, train, bus, or minivan. Here are some of the ways to get to the river and the city:
By car:
The fastest and the most convenient way to get to the river and the city, especially if you have your own vehicle or rent one. You can drive along the Highway 1 or the Highway 32, and follow the signs to Ayutthaya. The distance is about 80 kilometers, and the travel time is about an hour, depending on the traffic and the road conditions. You can park your car at the designated areas near the attractions or the piers, and pay a small fee.
By train:
The cheapest and the most scenic way to get to the river and the city, especially if you want to experience the local life and the countryside. You can take a train from the Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok, and get off at the Ayutthaya Railway Station. The trains run from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the fares range from 15 to 300 baht, depending on the class and the service of the train. The distance is about 80 kilometers, and the travel time is about an hour and a half, depending on the speed and the stops of the train. You can walk or take a tuk-tuk or a motorcycle taxi from the station to the attractions or the piers, and pay a small fee.
By bus:
The most common and the most flexible way to get to the river and the city, especially if you want to have more options and convenience. You can take a bus from the Mo Chit Bus Terminal or the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok, and get off at the Ayutthaya Bus Terminal. The buses run from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., and the fares range from 50 to 100 baht, depending on the type and the service of the bus. The distance is about 80 kilometers, and the travel time is about an hour and a half, depending on the traffic and the road conditions. You can walk or take a tuk-tuk or a motorcycle taxi from the terminal to the attractions or the piers, and pay a small fee.
By minivan:
The most convenient and the most comfortable way to get to the river and the city, especially if you want to have more privacy and comfort. You can take a minivan from the Victory Monument or the Future Park Rangsit in Bangkok, and get off at the Ayutthaya Bus Terminal or the Ayutthaya Railway Station.
The minivans run from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the fares range from 60 to 80 baht, depending on the departure and the arrival point. The distance is about 80 kilometers, and the travel time is about an hour, depending on the traffic and the road conditions. You can walk or take a tuk-tuk or a motorcycle taxi from the station or the terminal to the attractions or the piers, and pay a small fee.
The Chao Phraya River and Ayutthaya are two of the most fascinating and captivating destinations in Thailand, where you can discover the history, culture, and beauty of the country. By taking a cruise on the river, you can enjoy the scenic views, learn about the history and culture, and experience the local life along the river. Whether you choose a public ferry, a long-tail boat, a rice barge, a dinner cruise, or a luxury cruise, you will have a memorable and enjoyable time on the river.
If you are interested in visiting the Chao Phraya River and Ayutthaya, you can browse through our website and find the best cruise options, the best hotels, and the best attractions for your trip. You can also read our blogs and reviews, and get inspired by our stories and tips from our experienced and knowledgeable travel experts.
Don’t wait any longer, and plan your trip to the Chao Phraya River and Ayutthaya today. You will not regret it, as you will have an unforgettable and amazing experience on the river.
