There’s a reason Bangkok has come to be known as the “Venice of the East” The city has been built on a network of canals. You might even notice the numerous canals and waterways as you make your way around the city.

Although not as heavily used today, you can still travel the Bangkok waterways via a khlong taxi. Khlong is the Thai word for canal.

It’s easily the cheapest and possibly the most fun way to move around the city.

However, be warned that the crowded boats and the sometimes-tricky nature of boarding a boat means that elderly individuals and children may want to avoid this means of transportation. Just remember to hold on to your belongings because you don’t ‘want to drop your phone or camera in the canal.

Bangkok Canal Taxi Routes

There are 2 main canals serviced by Khlong Taxis, the Khlong Saen Saep and Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem.

Khlong Saen Saep (NIDA Line)

The Khlong Saen Saeb Canal route dissects the city for a run of about 40km without any traffic jams. There are 3 sections within the Khlong Saen Saeb route. The NIDA Line runs between Wat Sri Bun Rueang Pier and Pratunam Pier. You’ll find the NIDA Line follows Sukhumvit Road, passing through areas such as Thong Lor, Phrom Phong, Asoke, Nana, and CHidlom.

At Saphan Asok you can change to the MRT at Phetchaburi Station.

The newest addition to Khlong Saen Saep’s route is an extension that runs between Wat Sri Bun Rueang and the Minburi District Office. This new section uses electric boats. If traveling beyond Sri Bun Rueang towards the center of the city, you’ll need to change boats.

Klook.com

The Golden Mount Line runs between Phan Fa Lilat and Pratunam Piers. This route will take you to its namesake Golden Mount, which is located near Phan Fa Lilat. However, it also takes you to Bobae Market and Siam Square.

At Hua Chang you can connect to the BTS at Ratchathewi or National Stadium stations.

Note that the NIDA and Golden Mount lines service terminates at Pratunam Pier. If you’re traveling beyond Pratunam Pier, you must disembark and change boats at Pratunam Pier to continue your journey.

Khlong Padung Krung Kasem

The Phadung Krung Kasem Canal route runs north-south between Hua Lamphong and Dhevaraj piers.

For visitors to the capital there’s likely less utility to this route, but it will take you to within walking distance from a couple points of interest. Nakhon Sawan is within 10 minutes’ walk from Wat Benchamabophit and Thewet will take you to Wat Intarawihan.

Fares & Operating Hours

The average fare for a ride on the khlong taxi is about 20 baht and the boats operate from 05:30 until 20:30 on weekdays and 19:00 on weekends.

If you choose to give a khlong taxi a try, catching a ride is easy.

Just go to the pier and wait for a boat going in your desired direction.

Board the boat once it’s pulled close to the pier.

Pay your fare in exchange for a ticket.

Disembark at your desired stop.

Something Unique to Try

Bangkok’s canal taxi service is certainly a cheap, exciting, unique, and sometimes smelly option to get around the city. If you’re confident able bodied enough to embark and disembark the boats, then we recommend you give it a try. Just don’t drop anything!