Bangkok Canal Tour: 2-Hour Longtail Boat Ride

Bangkok , Thailand

Bangkok Canal Tour: 2-Hour Longtail Boat Ride

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Step aboard for an approximately 2-hour long-tail boat tour through the canals of Thonburi; Bangkok’s lesser-known, but deeply authentic side. Cruise past stilt houses, waving locals, and hidden temples, and make a stop at the charming riverside community of Khlong Bang Luang, home to the Artist’s House. Along the way, we pass the largest Buddha in Bangkok at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen.

This tour shows a different side of Bangkok, far from the glossy tourist spots. You’ll see humble wooden homes perched above the water, revealing the city’s contrasts and the realities of local life.

Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control, but they are part of the authentic canal experience.

For a glimpse into Bangkok’s quieter, more traditional side, this canal tour offers an eye-opening journey through the city’s history and local life.

Maximum 12 people per boat.

Available options

Bangkok Canal Tour: 2-Hour Longtail Boat Ride

What's included

English speaking guide

One bottle of drinking water per person

Long-tail boat & boat driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

As we cross the Chao Phraya River on our way to Thonburi, you’ll catch a beautiful glimpse of Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. This iconic riverside temple is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, with its central Khmer-style prang (tower) rising elegantly above the water, adorned with intricate porcelain mosaics that shimmer in the sunlight.

***** Please note that we will NOT get off at Wat Arun. You will only see it from the river while on our way to Thonburi. *****

Tucked away along the peaceful banks of Khlong Bang Luang (Bang Luang Canal) on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River lies one of Bangkok’s hidden gems: a charming riverside community where time seems to slow down. This historic neighborhood is made up of traditional wooden houses, small local shops, and family-run galleries connected by a wooden walkway that follows the edge of the canal. It offers a rare glimpse into what everyday life in Bangkok used to be like, long before the city’s skyline was dominated by concrete and glass.

At the heart of the community is Baan Silapin, or The Artist’s House, a beautifully restored wooden home over 200 years old. Dedicated to preserving and celebrating Thai culture, this house functions as a small art center where visitors can enjoy rotating art exhibitions and handmade crafts.

Wandering through the area, you’ll find small shops, cozy riverside cafés, and friendly locals who’ve lived here for generations.

Duration of stop 30-40 minutes.

Stop 3 Pass by

As we cruise through the canals of Thonburi, we pass by Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, a historic temple founded during the mid-Ayutthaya period.

Located in the Phasi Charoen district, this temple has long been a center of Buddhist learning and meditation. Today, however, it is best known for its enormous seated Buddha statue, which rises dramatically above the surrounding rooftops and is visible from far across the city.

The boat will pause here briefly, allowing you to admire and photograph this awe-inspiring statue from the water. At nearly 70 meters tall, equivalent to a 20-story building, and 40 meters wide at its base, it is the tallest Buddha statue in Bangkok. Cast in shimmering gold tones, the statue sits in a calm meditative posture and makes a striking contrast against the skyline.

While we don’t disembark at the temple, viewing this colossal image from the quiet of the canal offers a truly unique and memorable perspective.

What's not included

Gratuities for the boat driver and guide (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

TH EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

850 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.7

4,964 reviews

5★

4247

4★

395

3★

163

2★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Our Bangkok canal tour operates rain or shine. Therefore, cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.

Bangkok’s traffic is notorious, so we kindly ask all participants to arrive at the meeting point on time. As our tours operate on a group basis, we cannot delay departure. If you’re unable to make it on time, please inform us before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available time slot or day. Please note that a rescheduling fee will apply.

The most convenient way to reach the meeting point, and avoid Bangkok’s often congested road traffic, is by taking the MRT (metro) to Sanam Chai Station. From there, take the 'Museum Siam' exit. The meeting point is just a short 5-minute walk from the station.

The guide can only wait for a MAXIMUM of 10 minutes after the set meeting time. After the 10 minutes grace period, the guide will start with the tour.

Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control.

Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, as boarding and disembarking the boat may be difficult due to the lack of stairs at the piers.

Meeting point

The meeting point is at the bus stop opposite Elefin Coffee and the Bangkok Bank branch on Maha Rat Road, just a short walk south of Wat Pho.
Our guide will be waiting at the bus stop. Please make sure to arrive on time, since we can only wait up to 10 minutes past the scheduled meeting time.

About Bangkok

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a dynamic blend of traditional culture and modern urban life. Known for its ornate temples, bustling street markets, and world-class street food, Bangkok offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Top Attractions

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that served as the royal residence from 1782 to 1925. It is a stunning example of Thai architecture and houses the Emerald Buddha.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours 500 THB

Wat Arun

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a stunning temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is famous for its beautiful porcelain decorations and the iconic prang (spire).

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours 50 THB

Chatuchak Weekend Market

One of the world's largest markets, Chatuchak Weekend Market offers a vast array of goods, from clothing and accessories to food and antiques.

Shopping/Cultural Half day to full day Varies

Chao Phraya River

The Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of Bangkok. Taking a boat tour along the river offers a unique perspective of the city and its many temples and palaces.

Nature/Scenic 1-3 hours Varies

Chatuchak Park

Chatuchak Park is a large and lush urban park that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It is home to a variety of plants, animals, and recreational facilities.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pad Thai

Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, and a sweet and tangy sauce, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili.

Dinner Contains seafood.

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Lunch/Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Mango Sticky Rice

Sweet ripe mango served with sticky rice and coconut milk.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Erawan National Park Kayaking on the Chao Phraya River ATV tours in Hin Lek Fai Spa and massage treatments Boat tours on the Chao Phraya River Visiting temples and parks Visiting temples and historical sites Attending traditional Thai performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the most pleasant time to visit with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's peak tourist season with lively festivals and events.

22°C to 34°C 72°F to 93°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Bangkok is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, scams, and traffic accidents can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis and tuk-tuks.
• Be wary of jet ski rentals and gem shops.

Getting there

By air

Suvarnabhumi Airport • 30 km from city center
Don Mueang International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Hua Lamphong Railway Station, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal

By bus

Mo Chit Bus Terminal, Ekamai Bus Terminal, Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned, the MRT is a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Khao San Road Sukhumvit Chinatown (Yaowarat) Silom Banglamphu

Day trips

Ayutthaya

80 km from Bangkok • Full day

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. It is known for its stunning temples and historical ruins.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

105 km from Bangkok • Half day to full day

Damnoen Saduak is one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand, offering a unique shopping and dining experience on the water.

Maeklong Railway Market

80 km from Bangkok • Half day to full day

Maeklong Railway Market is a unique market where vendors set up their stalls on the railway tracks, and a train passes through several times a day.

Festivals

Songkran • April 13-15 Loy Krathong • Full moon night in November Vegetarian Festival • September/October (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Use the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway to avoid traffic and get around the city quickly and efficiently.
Haggle and bargain when shopping at markets and street stalls, but do so politely and respectfully.
Try street food, but choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.