Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
1 / 5
What to expect
Leave the busy streets behind and step into a world of wooden houses, smiling locals, and timeless traditions along Bangkok’s canals.
Bangkok canal tour by long-tail boat (2 hours)
Hop aboard a traditional Thai long-tail boat and set off on a relaxing journey through Thonburi, the historic part of Bangkok. This area retains a slower pace of life, offering a fascinating contrast to the city’s modern skyscrapers and bustling streets.
During this (approx.) 2-hour canal adventure, you’ll catch glimpses of local life along the waterways.
Bangkok is a city of contrasts. Beyond its glittering temples and luxurious neighborhoods, the city also has areas of poverty and simple canal-side communities. On our tour, you’ll pass some older, more fragile houses that are at the mercy of floods during the rainy season. We want to show travelers a more authentic side of Bangkok, one that reflects local life beyond the postcard-perfect sights. It’s a perspective that many find eye-opening and enriching.
One of the highlights is Khlong Bang Luang, a riverside community dating back to the Ayutthaya period. Lined with old wooden houses and family-run shops, it offers a glimpse of traditional canal-side life. At its heart is Baan Silapin (The Artist’s House), a beautifully restored 200-year-old home serving as a creative space for local artists. A wooden walkway invites a quiet stroll along the canal, making this a true hidden gem.
As the boat continues, you’ll pass Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, an important temple built during the mid-Ayutthaya period. Your boat will pause so you can admire and photograph the enormous golden Buddha from the water, soaring nearly 70 meters high (please note that we do not disembark at this temple).
This tour offers a unique way to explore Bangkok, combining the charm of its canals, the vibrancy of local life, and glimpses of iconic landmarks, all from the comfort of your boat. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a traditional, intimate, and photogenic side of the Thai capital.
Important notes:
Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control, but they are part of the authentic canal experience.
Your route
Itinerary
The Temple of Dawn
As we cross the Chao Phraya River on our way to Thonburi, you’ll catch a beautiful glimpse of Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. This iconic riverside temple is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, with its central Khmer-style prang (tower) rising elegantly above the water, adorned with intricate porcelain mosaics that shimmer in the sunlight.
Note: We will NOT get off at Wat Arun. You will only see it from the river while on our way to Thonburi.
Baan Sillapin (Artist House)
Tucked away along the peaceful banks of Khlong Bang Luang (Bang Luang Canal) on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River lies one of Bangkok’s hidden gems: a charming riverside community where time seems to slow down. This historic neighborhood is made up of traditional wooden houses, small local shops, and family-run galleries connected by a wooden walkway that follows the edge of the canal. It offers a rare glimpse into what everyday life in Bangkok used to be like, long before the city’s skyline was dominated by concrete and glass.
At the heart of the community is Baan Silapin, or The Artist’s House, a beautifully restored wooden home over 200 years old. Dedicated to preserving and celebrating Thai culture, this house functions as a small art center where visitors can enjoy rotating art exhibitions and handmade crafts.
Wandering through the area, you’ll find small shops, cozy riverside cafés, and friendly locals who’ve lived here for generations.
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
As we cruise through the canals of Thonburi, we pass by Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, a historic temple founded during the mid-Ayutthaya period.
Tha Tian Pier
Tha Tian Pier
Once you arrive at Tha Tien Pier, head toward the main covered pavilion near the riverbank. Our guide holding a WanderSiam sign will be waiting for you there.
Open in Google Maps (opens in a new tab) What you need to know
Included/Excluded
- Traditional long-tail boat ride
- English speaking guide
- One bottle of drinking water
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for boat driver and guide (optional)
Know before you book
When will I receive my confirmation?
You will receive a manual confirmation by email with further instructions shortly after completing your booking. If you do not receive any email in your Inbox, please check your junk/spam folder.
What should I do if I might be late?
Bangkok’s traffic is often notoriously congested, so we kindly ask all guests to arrive on time. We always recommend taking the BTS (skytrain) or MRT (metro) to a station near the meeting point.
As our tours run on a group basis, we can wait a maximum of 10 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. After this grace period, the guide will begin the tour. If you cannot make it on time, please let us know before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available time slot or day, though a rescheduling fee will apply.
Can I change my booking?
We understand plans can change. You’re welcome to reschedule your tour date or time up to 24 hours before the start at no extra cost.
If something comes up within 24 hours of the tour, please email us at tours@wandersiam.com and we’ll do our best to help. Please note that a change fee will apply.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour start time are eligible for a full refund.
For cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or in case of no-show, no refund will be issued.
What if it rains on the day of the tour?
Our tours operate rain or shine, as tropical rain showers in Thailand usually don’t last long. If it rains heavily, we try to seek shelter and will continue as soon as the weather improves. During the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or poncho. Please note cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.
Under what circumstances might the itinerary change?
While changes to the itinerary are very rare, WanderSiam reserves the right to modify the published schedule whenever, in our judgment, circumstances require it or if we consider it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of our guests.
Tour Plan
When will I receive my confirmation?
You will receive a manual confirmation by email with further instructions shortly after completing your booking. If you do not receive any email in your Inbox, please check your junk/spam folder.
What should I do if I might be late?
Bangkok’s traffic is often notoriously congested, so we kindly ask all guests to arrive on time. We always recommend taking the BTS (skytrain) or MRT (metro) to a station near the meeting point.
As our tours run on a group basis, we can wait a maximum of 10 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. After this grace period, the guide will begin the tour. If you cannot make it on time, please let us know before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available time slot or day, though a rescheduling fee will apply.
Can I change my booking?
We understand plans can change. You’re welcome to reschedule your tour date or time up to 24 hours before the start at no extra cost.
If something comes up within 24 hours of the tour, please email us at tours@wandersiam.com and we’ll do our best to help. Please note that a change fee will apply.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour start time are eligible for a full refund.
For cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or in case of no-show, no refund will be issued.
What if it rains on the day of the tour?
Our tours operate rain or shine, as tropical rain showers in Thailand usually don’t last long. If it rains heavily, we try to seek shelter and will continue as soon as the weather improves. During the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or poncho. Please note cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.
Under what circumstances might the itinerary change?
While changes to the itinerary are very rare, WanderSiam reserves the right to modify the published schedule whenever, in our judgment, circumstances require it or if we consider it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of our guests.
Tour Map
S.partheWanderSiam guest
Our tour with Peach
We had an amazing time with our guide Peach. We learned a lot, found the best photo spots, and would definitely recommend the tour.
Originally published on Tripadvisor
HeidiWanderSiam guest
Excellent Tour
Excellent guide and beautiful sights. I’m glad I decided to give this tour a try and had a great day.
Originally published on Tripadvisor
cmpdapWanderSiam guest
Professional and informative
Our guide was energetic, passionate, and extremely knowledgeable. It was a great way to see Bangkok’s important landmarks.
Originally published on Tripadvisor
458lorrainetVirginia Beach, VA
Great experience
Ken was a wealth of knowledge and welcomed every question. A friendly and memorable way to discover Bangkok.
Originally published on Tripadvisor
ianpB3846FLWanderSiam guest
Great tuk tuk tour
Ken was knowledgeable and lovely. He took the time to explain the places and made the experience enjoyable.
Originally published on Tripadvisor
Venturel4546308058WanderSiam guest
Caring and knowledgeable host
I had a fabulous time with Surin. The tour felt personal, welcoming, and full of local knowledge.
Originally published on Tripadvisor
Stay04131177858WanderSiam guest
Sunny day trip
A very sunny and enjoyable day trip. The guide was helpful and kept the experience relaxed and fun.
Originally published on Tripadvisor
nehemag2026WanderSiam guest
Thailand Temples Tour
Ken was a great guide—patient, professional, and happy to answer questions throughout the tour.
Originally published on Tripadvisor
1,671 Comments
5
Great insight into another side of the city
Great experience and a great insight to another side of Bangkok. It was overcast, so not as hot as usual (but still hot!). I would recommend the first tour at 9.30am. Paris was a great guide. I would not recommend this to the elderly or anyone not so so sure footed as getting in and out at the two stops could be problematic for some. Great to see the Giant Buddah too!
5
Cool off a bit in Summer heat
We had a great time! Saw a little bit of the Thai community and some beautiful temples. Our guide was really helpful and didn’t overload us with too much information. Thanks again for taking us!
5
Canal trip and Thai culture
The boat trip was a good way to see another side to Bangkok. The giant Buddha and the sight of Wat Arun from the river were a highlight. However our guide Tack made this trip. He was very engaging and informative explaining the different points of Thai Buddhist culture and explaining some of the symbols you will see in lots of Thailand. Would certainly recommend this trip and guide to others.
5
Good tour with excellent company
I had a great experience with WanderSiam! They provide exceptional service and customer care. I was running late on the excursion, and instead of cancelling my trip they were always in touch and helped me to get in with little delay. They were so kind that they spoke with a taxi driver.
The tour was good. A nice trip through the canals with a stop at Khlong Bang Luang market where you can buy souvenirs, have a snack and feed fish. Our guide was very kind, friendly with good English.
Give it a crack, good experience, but slap sunscreen on.
4.5
Hot ride to Big Buddha and old wooden houses on stilts with big lizard
The 2 hour boat ride took us along river and canal of the old days mode of transport. Met the guide at bus stop opposite Elefin Coffee, convenient as many cafe and 7Eleven around. Guide Nicky a cheerful, speaks well English and friendly guide. Fr meeting point walk to pier, given bottled water each. Boarding boat a bit tricky as the gap between boat and platform held by operator hand only, so on choppy waters climbing in boat is hard, no ladder. Just step direct into boat. Will be hard for elderly with mobility issue. The ride will take route of river and canals thru old housing neighbourhood with houses on stilts, some dilapidated and abandoned. The most interesting is the many monitor lizard on river side or in river, some very big like komodo dragon. Dropby for a walk around village neighbourhood and stop by at Artist House, a place many tourist and locals come to do simple artwork like drawing, coloring, bead bracelet making. Simple coffee counter available. Experience the canal side wooden house lifestyle, given snack to feed the catfish in the river, so many of it. Continuing boat ride towards the Big Buddha temple, not stopping here but passing by this amazing statue is enough. The ride itself is ok, but very hot under sun even with roof.