Like Our Photography?
Please check out our Thai-inspired gifts.
The Best of Samut Prakan (จังหวัดสมุทรปราการ)
As the home to Suvarnabhumi Airport, Samut Prakan is often seen as a gateway to Bangkok, but this offbeat province has much more to offer beyond its airport terminals. Whether you’re looking to explore historical landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, or escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s something for everybody.
Activities: 7.5
Gastronomy: 8.5
Culture: 8.0
X Factor: 8.0
Value: 10.0
Founded: 1819
Population: 1,358,871 (2023)
Website: www.samutprakan.go.th
North of Known is reader-supported. We may be compensated if you purchase through any affiliate links on this site. Thank you for supporting us.
Samut Prakan is ideal for:
- Day trips from Bangkok.
It isn’t ideal for:
- Extended stays.
Table of Contents
Samut Prakan Things To Do
Explore Phra Pradaeng
Phra Pradeang is one of our favorite spots in Samut Prakan because it’s off the beaten path. Unlike the more touristy areas, this district feels untouched and authentic, offering a glimpse into local Thai life that you won’t find in the guidebooks. When we first visited, we were struck by the peacefulness of the area—no crowds, no rush, just the calm of local communities going about their daily routines. The winding canals and traditional wooden houses give the area a rustic, almost timeless quality that is rare nowadays.
Samut Prakan Things To Do
Cycle Around Bang Krachao
Bang Krachao is ideal for anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature, especially if you love cycling. The area is perfect for those who enjoy peaceful surroundings, lush greenery, and a slower pace of life. When we cycled around this man-made island for the first time, it felt like we had stumbled upon a hidden gem right in the middle of the city. The abundance of tree-lined paths make it a cyclist’s paradise, an environment that’s hard to find so close to Bangkok.
Recommended Tour: CHECK PRICE ->
Samut Prakan Things To Do
Tour The Ancient City
The Ancient City, or Muang Boran, is a place that families and might really enjoy, even though it wasn’t our favorite experience. For families, it offers a unique way to explore Thailand’s cultural heritage in one sprawling park. The replicas of kingdom’s most famous monuments and landmarks are impressive, which is something kids might find fun to explore on a tram tour. It’s worth noting, however, that we found the entrance fee to be a bit steep for foreigners and didn’t find the park to be particularly engaging.
Recommended Tour: CHECK PRICE ->
Samut Prakan Things To Do
Make Merit At Temples
There are a few temples in Samut Prakan that we found worth visiting, as each offers something unique. Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai was our favorite, especially for its rich history. Another temple that stood out was Wat Asokaram, a temple complex with multiple chedis, giving it a striking appearance. Lastly, Phra Samut Chedi, also known as the Pagoda in the River, is another must-see. It’s the oldest temples in the area, and its location on an island in the Chao Phraya River makes it particularly interesting.
Samut Prakan Things To Do
Go Bird Watching At Bang Pu
The Bang Pu Recreation Center is a fantastic spot for birdwatching, and it’s become one of our go-to places when we want to enjoy some time in nature. The center is located right along the coast, offering a wide-open view that’s perfect for spotting a variety of bird species. What makes this place special is the diversity of birds you can see, especially if you’re into photography. The long pier stretching out into the Gulf of Thailand gives you a great vantage point to watch the birds as they swoop and dive over the water.
Samut Prakan Things To Do
Shop At Local Markets
Visiting local markets in Samut Prakan, like the Pak Nam Market or the Samrong Fresh Market, is something we always make a point to do whenever we’re in the area. These markets offer a glimpse into the daily life of the local community that you just can’t get from visiting more touristy spots. Wandering through the stalls, you’ll find a vibrant mix of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Thai ingredients that really highlight the region’s diverse culinary culture—a mix of Thai, Burmese, and Mon influences.
Samut Prakan Things To Do
Visit The Erawan Museum
The Erawan Museum might be worth a visit if you’re interested in Thai mythology, or if you’re simply looking for something a bit different to do in Samut Prakan. The museum is housed in a giant three-headed elephant statue, which definitely makes for a memorable first impression. Inside, the museum is divided into three levels, each representing different parts of the universe according to Buddhist cosmology. The intricate details, from the stained glass ceiling to the various statues and artifacts, are truly fascinating.
Admission Ticket: CHECK PRICE ->
จังหวัดสมุทรปราการ
Get Around Samut Prakan
The BTS Skytrain is one of the easiest ways to get around, especially if you’re coming from Bangkok. The Green Line extends all the way to Samut Prakan, and it’s a convenient way to reach major stops. From the BTS stations, you can easily hop on a songthaew, which is a shared pickup truck with benches in the back. These are super affordable and run along fixed routes, making them a good option for short trips around town. For quicker, more direct routes, motorcycle taxis are everywhere and can weave through traffic to get you where you need to go fast.
If you’re heading somewhere along the river, ferries are another great way to get around. They’re cheap and offer a nice, scenic alternative to road travel.
จังหวัดสมุทรปราการ
Getting To Samut Prakan
If you’re already in Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain is the most efficient way to get to Samut Prakan. Just hop on the Green Line, which will take you directly through the province—it’s a smooth, hassle-free ride. Plus, it’s affordable and avoids the traffic jams you might hit if you’re traveling by car. If you prefer a bit more comfort or are carrying a lot of luggage, taking a taxi is another good option. It’s a direct ride and gives you the flexibility to go straight to your destination, though it could take longer during peak traffic times.
If you’re coming from other parts of Thailand, like Pattaya, the best way to get to Samut Prakan is by taking a bus or flying into Suvarnabhumi Airport. Buses are a solid choice if you’re on a budget, but if you’re coming from further away or just want to save time, flying into the airport is the fastest route, and from there, it’s easy to catch a taxi to reach your final destination.
Samut Prakan Travel Guide
The Best Time To Visit
Samut Prakan is a year-round destination, so you can visit anytime and still have a great experience. The weather is fairly consistent, so there’s not a huge difference between seasons. However, if you’re interested in catching some of the local festivals, you might want to plan your visit around those. One of the biggest events is the Rab Bua, a colorful celebration that usually takes place in October. Since the exact date is based on the lunar calendar, it’s a good idea to check the dates ahead of time if you want to be there for it.
Need A Travel Camera?
Check out this pocketable powerhouse!
Background Information
Samut Prakan's History
Samut Prakan’s history stretches back to ancient times, with its origins rooted in the strategic importance of its location along the Chao Phraya River. The area was historically known for its role in maritime trade, serving as a vital port and gateway to the capital, Bangkok. The name “Samut Prakan” itself is derived from the Thai words for “sea” and “defense,” reflecting its historical role in protecting the region from maritime threats.
During the Ayutthaya period, which began in the 14th century, Samut Prakan was an important defensive outpost for the kingdom. It was strategically positioned to guard against potential invasions from the sea and to control trade routes. The establishment of forts and defensive structures, such as the old city walls and the Phra Samut Chedi, underscores the significance of this province in the kingdom’s defense strategy.
In more recent history, during the reign of King Rama IV in the 19th century, Samut Prakan underwent modernization as part of Thailand’s broader efforts to develop infrastructure and improve trade. The construction of the railway and road networks connected the province more closely with Bangkok and other regions, enhancing its role as a commercial hub.
Our Honest Opinion
Is Samut Prakan Safe?
Samut Prakan seems to be a very safe place to visit. We’ve been there frequently and have never encountered any issues. The local community is welcoming, and we’ve always felt comfortable during our trips. It’s worth mentioning that there is a significant population of Burmese refugees living in the province. While most of them are friendly and well-integrated into the community, it’s important to be aware that some individuals might be desperate due to their circumstances. However, in our experience, their presence has not posed any real problems.
Samut Prakan Video
An In-Depth Look
If you’re interested in a more in-depth look at Samut Prakan, please check out our recent video on the province. We’ve posted a cinematic vlog on YouTube that explores even more of what this fascinating area has to offer.
Samut Prakan FAQ
Actionable Information
Do I need a tour guide?
You don’t necessarily need a tour guide to visit Samut Prakan, as many of the attractions can be explored independently. However, a guide can be particularly useful for navigating local markets or understanding the nuances of local festivals and traditions. They can also help with logistical aspects, such as transportation and language barriers, making your visit smoother and more enjoyable.
Is Samut Prakan worth visiting?
Yes, Samut Prakan is definitely worth visiting, especially as a day trip from Bangkok. The province offers a range of interesting attractions, like the Erawan Museum, local markets, and the serene Bang Krachao, which can all be enjoyed in a single day. The variety of experiences, from exploring historical sites to immersing yourself in local culture, makes it a worthwhile excursion.
Travel Resources
The Samut Prakan Toolkit
Did you know that… when you purchase something through one of our links, we earn a small fee. However, you still pay the exact same amount. It’s a win-win that helps us produce new content.
Travel Insurance ->
Never travel abroad without protection. SafetyWing is there when you need them.
Simplify your international transactions with a smart financial tool like Wise.
International SIM ->
Keep your cell phone bill from being as much as your plane ticket with Maya.
Check out Get Your Guide to discover the best activities all over Thailand!
Booking Platform ->
We always use 12Go to get the best deals on buses, trains, and car rentals.
Make it impossible for hackers to see your data on any network with NordVPN.
Interactive Map
Samut Prakan's Location
Want To Explore Thailand?
Discover 1,200+ locations across the country.
Share Via:
Facebook
Twitter
WhatsApp
Who We Are:
Alan & May
Welcome to North of Known! We’re Alan and May, a married couple who have embraced digital nomadism while calling Bangkok, Thailand, our current home base. Over the past 7 years, our shared passion for exploration and adventure has fueled our journey across the globe. Join us as we continue to embark on our nomadic adventures, sharing our insights, discoveries, and travel tales along the way.
Help Keep Our Site Ad Free:
Want To Keep Exploring?
Join The Adventure.
North of Known (NOK). All Rights Reserved © 2024