Half Day Railway & Floating Market: Diethelm Standard

Early morning we set off and drive to a railway station to board the non-air-conditioned 3rd class carriage. Lean back and enjoy the approx. 20 minutes scenic journey along salt and rice paddies into the famous Mae Klong railway market - a market where the stalls are laid out on both sides of the railway tracks. When the train comes through, the tents and goods are moved from the rails in lightning speed. After the train has sped by, everything is moved back within a few seconds so that no one would suspect a conduit for a train. After exploration of the market, drive to a jetty pier and take a long-tailed boat and journey along the winding canals to see remote villages, gardens and plantations. Disembark at the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market - this is the floating market you see in most Bangkok postcards. Running along a network of canals just off the Mae Klong River, Damnoen Saduak is abuzz at early morning with wooden rowboats selling all kinds of fruits, vegetables and ready-to-eat snacks. As touristy it may sound the market still best preserves its old style of trading. It is even more vivacious today with diversities of products sold. Khao Lam, sticky rice in bamboo tube, is not easily found at the local market in Bangkok but it's a very popular purchase from rural provinces. During a visit to a local open-air Khao Lam producer, you will learn how this famous Thai sweet dish is made. After you have satisfied your taste buds with some freshly made Khao Lam, continue to Wat Bang Kae Noi and be amazed by the beautiful interior teakwood walls and ceiling of the main chapel that have been intricately carved to depict the life and teachings of the Lord Buddha. Return to your hotel in Bangkok.