Maeklong Railway Market | Is It Worth Visiting?

You’ve probably seen videos of vendors quickly packing up their stalls as a train approaches. Yes, we’re talking about the famous railway market with its vibrant red, yellow, and green trains that often pops up on social media. We had the chance to experience the Bangkok railway market ourselves, and now, we’re sharing all the details for those curious about it or planning to visit.

To experience the railway market, you’ll need to plan a trip to Bangkok. If you’re considering a trip to Thailand, make sure to add this unique market to the top of your to-do list. However, careful planning is essential to catch the train without wasting your entire day waiting for it. We coordinated our visit with a trip to Bangkok’s floating market on the same day. To help you do the same, we’ll provide all the necessary information below.

About the Railway Market

The Maeklong Railway Market, also known as Hoop Rom Market, is famous for its stalls set up directly on the railway tracks. This has earned it the nickname “the market where trains run through” and made it a top tourist attraction in Thailand.

The History and Significance of the Market

The origins of this market date back to 1905 when the railway line was constructed. Initially, Maeklong was a traditional market established primarily as a fish market. Fresh seafood from nearby ports was sold here to serve both locals and people from surrounding regions.

The railway was built to connect Bangkok with neighboring areas. At the time, relocating the market wasn’t financially viable, so it continued to operate right in the middle of the tracks. Over time, the practice of vendors swiftly moving their stalls when a train passed and setting them back up afterward became a unique tradition. This earned it the name “Talad Rom Hub” (ตลาดร่มหุบ), which translates to “folding umbrella market.”

What Can You Find at the Market?

While the passing train is the highlight, the market is also worth visiting for its shopping and atmosphere. If you’re curious to see or try unusual items like frog legs, grasshoppers, or worms, this is the place to be. Besides exotic foods, you’ll also find fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and local desserts.

For souvenirs, the market offers a wide variety of options, from magnets and woven bags to fans and Buddha statues.

Where Is the Maeklong Railway Market?

The Maeklong Railway Market is located about 80 km southwest of Bangkok’s city center. Although it’s popularly referred to as the Bangkok railway market, it’s actually situated in the Samut Songkhram province, a different administrative area of Thailand.

How to Get to Maeklong Railway Market?

To reach the railway market, you can choose from taxis, minibuses, trains, or private tours. Assuming you’re traveling from Bangkok to the railway market, we’ll present you with different transportation options. However, since it’s about a one-hour journey, the most practical choice would be to join a tour or rent a private vehicle.

Bangkok Railway Market Tour Options

How to Get from Bangkok to Maeklong Railway Market

1. By Train

For those who prefer being on the train instead of waiting for it to pass at the market, this is a time-consuming yet popular option. If you have plenty of time, it’s worth considering, as you’ll need to take two different trains.

From Bangkok to Ban Laem:

• Starting Point: Wongwian Yai Train Station (in central Bangkok).
• Destination: Mahachai Station (in Samut Sakhon).
• The journey takes about 1 hour, and train tickets are very inexpensive.

From Ban Laem to Maeklong:

• After getting off at Mahachai, you’ll need to cross the river via a small ferry.
• Once across, continue your journey by taking another train from Ban Laem Train Station to Maeklong.
• This leg of the trip also takes about 1 hour.

This option is more affordable and offers a chance to see Thailand’s rural countryside.

2. By Minibus

Taking a minibus is a fast and convenient option, though it may not be the most comfortable.

• Departure Points: Victory Monument or Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) in Bangkok.
• Destination: Maeklong Market.
• The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours.
• Fares are usually between 70-100 baht.

3. By Private Vehicle or Taxi

Traveling by private vehicle or taxi is the most comfortable option. Negotiating the fare in advance can help you save money. Don’t forget to check Grab or Bolt apps for more options.

By Taxi:

• A taxi ride from Bangkok to Maeklong takes about 1-1.5 hours.
• Fares typically range between 1,000-1,500 baht, depending on negotiations.

By Car Rental:

• Renting a car allows you to drive yourself or hire a driver. This option is ideal if you want to explore other nearby attractions.

4. Tour Packages

Many tour companies offer day trips from Bangkok to Maeklong Railway Market. These tours often include other famous destinations (e.g., Damnoen Saduak Floating Market).

• Tour prices generally range from 700-1,500 baht.
• The price often includes transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals.

Maeklong Line Timetable

The most important thing to consider when visiting this tourist attraction is the train’s schedule as it passes through the market. Your entire plan should be based on these times; otherwise, you may end up spending your day just waiting for the train.

The train passes through the market in both directions between 6:20 AM and 5:40 PM:

• Trains coming from Bangkok: 08:30, 11:10, 14:30, 17:40
• Trains going from Mae Klong to Bangkok: 06:20, 09:00, 11:30, 15:30

However, since train schedules may change, don’t forget to check the updated times! 🙂

FAQ

Is the Maeklong Railway Market worth it?

Yes, the Maeklong Railway Market is worth visiting for its unique experience of seeing trains pass through a bustling market. It’s a cultural and visual highlight of Thailand.

What is the best time to go to the Maeklong Railway Market?

The best time to visit is in the morning, around 8:30 AM, to catch the first train and enjoy the market before it gets crowded.

What time is the train at Maeklong train market?

Trains arrive at Maeklong Station at 8:30 AM, 11:10 AM, 2:30 PM, and 5:40 PM. Trains depart at 6:20 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, and 3:30 PM.

How many times does the train run through the Maeklong market each day?

The train passes through the market 8 times daily: 4 arrivals and 4 departures.

Is the Maeklong Railway Market free?

Yes, visiting the Maeklong Railway Market is free of charge.

How do I go from Bangkok to Maeklong Railway Market?

You can take a minivan from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) or Victory Monument, or join a guided tour. Travel time is approximately 1.5 hours.

How to go to Amphawa Floating Market from Maeklong Railway Market?

You can take a local songthaew (shared pickup truck) or a taxi. The distance between the two markets is about 6 kilometers.

How do you pay for trains in Bangkok?

Train fares in Bangkok can be paid using cash or stored-value cards like the Rabbit Card for the BTS Skytrain.

***

If you’ve already made it to the Bangkok railway market, check out our Things to Do in Bangkok guide for more nearby activities.

If you’re planning to head to Phuket after Bangkok, you can find detailed information in our guide on How to Get from Bangkok to Phuket. And if you’re still saying, “We haven’t even made it to Bangkok yet,” take a look at our guide on How to Get from Istanbul to Bangkok