Samut Songkhram Exploring The Province Of Traditional Thai Ways Of Life And The Amphawa Market

Samut Songkhram is a beautiful province located in central Thailand. This charming place is well-known for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. It is an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience the authentic and traditional side of Thailand. There are plenty of things to explore, whether you want to indulge in nature, learn about the local culture, or enjoy some tasty Thai cuisine.

If you're considering a visit to Samut Songkhram, here are four things that you should do:

1. Take a Ride on the Maeklong Railway Market

This unique market is located right on the railway tracks, which makes it one of the most exciting markets in the world. Visitors can watch as the vendors efficiently pack up their wares as the train approaches before reopening them back up again after the train passes through. Aside from its peculiar setting, the market is full of delicious Thai snacks and mouth-watering street food. You can easily spend a few hours wandering and snacking here.

2. Visit the Amphawa Floating Market

The Amphawa Floating Market is a must-visit destination for foodies and shopaholics. This market is famous for its boat rides and floating shops, selling everything from local delicacies to souvenirs. While you are there, make sure not to miss on tasting the grilled seafood, which is the highlight of the market.

3. Explore the Mangrove Forests

The mangrove forests are a hidden gem in Samut Songkhram. You can hop on a boat and explore the forest's vast intertwining roots and observe incredible wildlife. Among the fauna present here are elusive bat-eared foxes, crab-eating macaques, and migratory birds such as peregrine falcons and avocets.

4. Discover the Cave Temples

Samut Songkhram is dotted with a plethora of stunning temples and buddha statues, many of which are beneath the earth in the cave temples. A must-visit temple is Wat Bang Kung, temple nestled in a banyan tree which is believed to have been grown around the temple in the late Ayyutthaya period. Don't forget to bring a flashlight for exploring the more hidden and harder to find caves.

Demographics and Culture

The population of Samut Songkhram is composed of Thai and Chinese people. The province is a center of community life in Thailand, filled with typical ancient Thai architecture, as well as old Chinese wooden shop-houses. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local traditions and culture is to experience Thai boxing, which is martial arts that are unique to Thailand. The sport is so popular that you can see local competitions in almost any village.

Tourist Destinations

Aside from the above mentioned places, Samut Songkhram is also known for other tourist destinations, which include:

Ban Laem District

This district is located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, a few kilometers north of Samut Songkhram. Visitors can enjoy white sand beaches, water sports, and fresh seafood. The area is tranquil, and people come here to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Phra Samut Chedi

Phra Samut Chedi is a historical temple located at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. It is an essential landmark of Samut Songkhram, with a unique bell-shaped pagoda and a gold-covered hawker. The temple also houses numerous ancient Buddha statues that date back to the Ayutthaya period.

Shopping and Culinary

Samut Songkhram is an excellent destination for foodies, both for its restaurants and street vendors. One of the top recommended street vendors to try is the "Maeklong Railway Market," which is known for its local seafood and fresh local produce. Additionally, one can explore Bahn Ma Choo Food Market, known for its various fresh seafood options such as mackerel, shrimp, and squid. Besides local cuisine, the province is also rich in crafts, with the perfect example being a traditional hand-woven cloth called "pha yok dueng."

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Tips

When traveling to Samut Songkhram, it is essential to dress appropriately and modestly, as it is a predominantly Buddhist country. If you want to experience the local lifestyle, consider staying in a traditional-style wooden guesthouse. And finally, it is best to learn some basic Thai phrases as many locals do not speak English.

In conclusion, Samut Songkhram is a beautiful destination in Thailand that is worth exploring for anyone seeking a unique travel experience. Whether it is food, culture, wildlife, or scenery, Samut Songkhram has something to offer for everyone.