Bang Krachao: biking in the park

Bang Krachao, known as a pig-stomach-shaped island, was built with the purpose of keeping Bangkok green and breathable. The area is located in Phra Padaeng District, Samut Prakan Province, not too far from Suvarnabhumi Airport. You can travel there by boat or by taxi, although the former is preferable. Roads there are narrow and long, snaking their ways to the rather inaccessible island. So, boat is cheaper and quicker. The quickest route is by a ferry at Wat Bang Na Nok Pier for only up to 10 minutes to the Wat Bang Nam Phueng Nok Pier. There, you can rent a bike for a day for only 50 baht. The old gentleman renter also gives you free ice-cold bottled of water and, once you return a bike, a refreshing palm juice.

The bike ride takes around 15 minutes to the first destination: Bang Nam Phueng Floating market. An array of foods and souvenirs are on offer at stalls lining the endless alleys. 

Nest stop is the Bantoop, a small cottage where you can learn how to make gorgeous colored incense and also tie-dyed scarfs and shirts. Spend time there enjoying the quiet atmosphere and buy some souvenirs!

Next, take a long bike ride to Sri Nakhon Khuan Khan Park. The park is reasonably large and you can take a lot of photos here. Great places to stop are the Bird Watch Tower and, of course, the long zig-zagging wooden bridge, which is a landmark here.

Also, if you have time, visit the Siamese fighting fish museum to watch the colorful ferocious tiny fish in glass jars. This is a great place to catch your breath and sip a cold drink after a long, exhuasting ride on the bike!