Maeklong Railway

The Maeklong Railway is one of the slowest railways in Thailand, with an average speed of 30 Km/hr and it runs for 67 kilometers (42 miles) between Samut Songkhram (central Thailand) and Wongwian Yai, Bangkok. The line has two sections: The Mahachai Line – running east, between Samut Sakhon and Wongwian Yai – and the Ban Laem Line – running between Samut Sakhon and Samut Songkhram.

One of the main tourist attractions along this railway is the stop at the Maeklong Railway Market. It is probably one of the most unique and interesting markets you can find in Thailand. Although it's a traditional Thai market, that sells fresh food, fruits and vegetables, it's the location that makes it stand out:  it's located right on the train line! 8 times a day, the train runs straight through the middle of the market. 

As the train approaches, the vendors lining either side of the tracks pull their tables and products back from the tracks and lower their umbrella to let the train pass. It's a one in a lifetime experience, every traveler should put on their Bangkok bucket list!

Best time to visit:

Like most markets in Thailand, the Maeklong market starts early as it gets very hot during the day. Try to come as early as possible.

How to get there:

the Maeklong market is located around 80 kilometers outside of Bangkok and there are a number of ways to get to the Maeklong Railway Market. The easiest and most stress-free option is to book a guided tour that will bring you to the market in an air-conditioned car! Another option is to hop on the train itself  and it will take you directly through the market, but the experience will be different than actually being on the market walking around yourself. 

Taking the train is also time consuming and it will take around 3 hours to get there. If you'd prefer to do the trip under your ow stream you can also take a bus. This journey takes around 1.5 hours and drops you off right by the market.

Tips:

Certainly bring your camera or phone along to snap the train as it comes through, but do keep a safe distance, especially if you have kids. Visitors often underestimate just how close the train gets to the stalls, as locals are so used to it that they stand right close to the edge.