Things To Do
in Samut Prakan
Samut Prakan is a bustling city located at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River in Thailand. It is known for its vibrant markets, ancient temples, and cultural landmarks. The city is also home to the Erawan Museum, a unique architecture that features a giant three-headed elephant statue.
With a mix of modern development and historical charm, Samut Prakan offers visitors a diverse and enriching experience.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat tour along the canals of Samut Prakan, enjoying the picturesque views of traditional Thai houses. Don't forget to take some photos of the beautiful scenery and the local wildlife.
Visit the Ancient City, a massive park that features replicas of Thailand's most famous landmarks. Spend your afternoon biking or walking through the park to see everything at a leisurely pace.
End your day with a local seafood dinner at a riverside restaurant. Savor fresh catches while watching the sunset over the water.
Head to the Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm and Zoo to see amazing exotic animals including crocodiles and elephants. It's an exciting experience for animal lovers of all ages.
Take a break and enjoy lunch at one of the nearby local eateries that serve authentic Thai dishes. Afterward, continue exploring the zoo's diverse collection of wildlife.
Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront park. Enjoy the cool breeze and watch locals enjoying their evening activities.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Bangkok, making it convenient for commuters and businesses.
- Rich cultural heritage with many temples and traditional markets.
- Growing economy with a variety of industries, including manufacturing and logistics.
- Access to modern amenities and facilities, including shopping malls and parks.
- Diverse population, offering a mix of cultures and experiences.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours due to high commuter volume.
- Urban sprawl may lead to environmental concerns and loss of green spaces.
- High levels of air pollution, particularly from industrial activities.
- Overcrowding in some areas can lead to strain on public services.
- Limited public transport options compared to central Bangkok.
Best Activities in Samut Prakan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
An outdoor cultural park that features replicas of historic Thai buildings and monuments, offering visitors a unique way to explore the country's rich heritage.
A popular spot for bird-watching, this outdoor center is home to stunning sunsets and flocks of migratory seagulls, providing a tranquil escape from the city.
An outdoor adventure featuring thrilling crocodile shows, animal encounters, and wildlife exhibits, providing entertainment for the whole family.
Tours
Uncover the best of Samut Prakan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Samut Prakan
Visit one of these nice places.
A recreated historical park with beautiful landscapes and scenic views.
Featuring a striking three-headed elephant structure and picturesque gardens.
Boasting panoramic views of the sea and stunning sunsets.
A picturesque location with scenic waterways and traditional Thai architecture.
Offering a historical site with panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River.
Food in Samut Prakan
Samut Prakan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy and sour soup with prawns, lemongrass, and lime juice. Try it at Baan Suan Krua Thai Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, and tamarind sauce. Sample authentic Pad Thai at Rim Nam Food Market.
A crispy catfish salad with green mango. Visit the local night markets for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Samut Prakan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a wide variety of fresh seafood and local street food stalls offering grilled fish, spicy salads, and seafood skewers.
Indulge in a unique dining experience with vendors selling traditional Thai dishes from boats floating along the Bang Pu seaside.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Samut Prakan, it's important to show respect for the Thai royal family. Avoid speaking negatively about the monarchy and be mindful of displaying appropriate behavior when visiting royal sites or events.
The traditional Thai greeting, known as the 'wai,' is an important cultural norm in Samut Prakan. It involves pressing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly as a sign of respect when greeting others, especially those of higher status or older age.
When visiting temples or other religious sites in Samut Prakan, it's important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding revealing clothing, to show respect for the local customs and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Samut Prakan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Samut Prakan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Thailand, including Samut Prakan. It is not expected at restaurants, hotels, or for services.
In Samut Prakan, as in the rest of Thailand, cash is the primary mode of payment. However, many establishments also accept credit cards, especially in tourist areas and larger stores.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Samut Prakan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Samut Prakan, as the weather is cool and dry. You can expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions such as the Ancient City and the Bang Nam Phueng floating market.
During this season, Samut Prakan experiences high temperatures and humidity. Visitors can expect scorching weather, so it's advisable to stay hydrated and seek shade. However, this is the time when the locals celebrate Songkran, the Thai New Year, with lively water fights and colorful festivities.
This period brings heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. While the weather may be unpredictable, it also offers a chance to witness lush green landscapes and refreshing downpours. Visitors can explore indoor attractions like the Erawan Museum and enjoy the tranquility of the city during quieter days.
Samut Prakan at Night
Hiking in Samut Prakan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene nature reserve offering various hiking trails through lush forests, with opportunities to observe local wildlife and stunning views.
Often referred to as the 'Green Lung' of Bangkok, this area features bike and walking trails amidst mangroves, parks, and local markets.
A peaceful park located along the Chao Phraya River with walking paths and scenic views, ideal for leisurely hikes.
The largest green space in the city, offering a variety of trails, gardens, and a lake, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
A popular spot for hiking and birdwatching, with beautiful coastal views and trails that lead to the mangrove forests.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Samut Prakan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Samut Prakan by plane.
The main international airport serving Bangkok and surrounding areas, located approximately 25 kilometers from Samut Prakan.
One of the two main airports in Bangkok, focusing primarily on domestic flights and budget international airlines, located about 30 kilometers from Samut Prakan.
An international airport located in Rayong Province, approximately 60 kilometers from Samut Prakan, serving mainly the eastern coastal region of Thailand.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Samut Prakan, comprising the largest portion of the population.
A significant demographic due to historical migration, often involved in business and commerce.
A smaller group found in areas close to the Thai-Malay border.
Includes both cultural groups from Indian subcontinent, often engaged in trade.
Includes various other ethnicities and expatriates, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the province.
The Soul of Samut Prakan
Discover the essence of Samut Prakan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art and combat sport from Thailand, known for its striking techniques using fists, elbows, knees, and shins.
A widely popular sport played by many in Samut Prakan, with local teams and youth leagues contributing to its prominence.
A popular sport among both men and women in Samut Prakan, often played at schools and in communities.
Gaining popularity especially among the youth, basketball is often played in schools and local courts throughout Samut Prakan.
A common recreational sport in Samut Prakan, played both casually and competitively in clubs and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samut Prakan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Thai cuisine often includes meat and fish, several restaurants and cafes in Samut Prakan, like Coffee Craftsman, offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as tofu-based curries and vegetable stir-fries.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find gluten-free selections at specialty restaurants and communicate their dietary needs to ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Samut Prakan with these cultural adventures.
