Samut Sakhon Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, and how to get around in Samut Sakhon, Thailand with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Samut Sakhon

Samut Sakhon is a charming coastal town, located only 30 kilometers west of Bangkok. The town is famous for its seafood, salt farms, and traditional Thai pottery. Despite being a small town, Samut Sakhon has a lot to offer, from natural attractions to cultural landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in Samut Sakhon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wat Chong Lom Temple

Wat Chong Lom Temple is a sacred temple located in the heart of Samut Sakhon. It is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The temple was built in 1887 during the reign of King Rama V and has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Chinese Temple

The Chinese Temple is another popular landmark in Samut Sakhon. It is a beautifully designed temple that showcases the art, culture, and history of the Chinese community in Thailand. The temple is located in the Riverside area and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to relax and reflect.

Natural Attractions of Samut Sakhon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Khok Kham Bird Sanctuary

Khok Kham Bird Sanctuary is the perfect destination for bird lovers. It is a vast wetland area that is home to over 170 species of birds, including rare and endangered ones. Visitors can rent a boat and go on a bird-watching tour or visit the observation tower to get a closer look at the birds.

Don Hoi Lot

Don Hoi Lot is a unique attraction in Samut Sakhon that shouldn’t be missed. It is a long stretch of sandbar that is a natural habitat for various marine animals, including clams. Visitors can rent a bike and ride along the sandbar or go on a boat tour to explore the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Samut Sakhon

Bang Krachao Island

Bang Krachao Island is a hidden gem that offers visitors the perfect opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The island is known for its beautiful scenery, lush greenery, and cycling routes. Visitors can rent a bike and ride around the island, stopping at various local attractions on the way.

Best Things to Do in Samut Sakhon: Activities and Tours

Seafood Market Tour

Samut Sakhon is famous for its seafood, and a visit to the seafood market is a must for any foodie. Visitors can take a guided tour of the market, learn about the various types of seafood available, and taste some of the local delicacies.

Pottery Making Workshop

Samut Sakhon has a long history of making traditional Thai pottery. Visitors can take a pottery making workshop and learn about the different techniques used to make pottery. The workshop is an excellent opportunity to engage with the local community, learn about their culture, and take home a unique souvenir.

Week-Long Itinerary for Samut Sakhon

Day Activities
Day 1-2 Visit historical attractions such as Wat Chong Lom and the Chinese Temple
Day 3 Go bird-watching at Khok Kham Bird Sanctuary
Day 4 Explore Don Hoi Lot and rent a bike to ride along the sandbar
Day 5-6 Take a pottery making workshop and visit the seafood market
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Samut Sakhon

Must-Try Dishes

Lap-Luang (fermented fish)

Lap-Luang is a traditional Thai dish made with fermented fish. It is a popular dish in Samut Sakhon, and visitors shouldn’t leave without trying it.

Hoy Tod (oyster omelet)

Hoy Tod is a popular street food in Thailand, and Samut Sakhon is no exception. It is a dish made with oysters, eggs, and flour, and it is a must-try for any foodie.

Local Beverages

Nam Pla Wan (sweet fish sauce)

Nam Pla Wan is a sweet and savory drink made with fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and chili peppers. It is a refreshing beverage that is perfect for hot days.

Cha Dam Yen (Thai iced tea)

Cha Dam Yen is a traditional Thai iced tea that is sweetened with condensed milk. It is a popular drink in Thailand and is perfect with spicy food.

Where to Stay in Samut Sakhon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hotel Khun Nai Terng

Hotel Khun Nai Terng is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Samut Sakhon. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

S Hotel

S Hotel is a mid-range hotel located in the Riverside area. The hotel offers stunning views of the river and is within walking distance of many local attractions.

What to Buy in Samut Sakhon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Thai Pottery

Samut Sakhon is famous for its traditional Thai pottery. Visitors can purchase unique and beautiful pottery pieces as souvenirs.

Seafood

Samut Sakhon is known for its seafood, and visitors can purchase fresh seafood to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Samut Sakhon

Samut Sakhon has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its close-knit fishing community. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress appropriately when visiting temples and other cultural landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Samut Sakhon

The best time to visit Samut Sakhon is between November and February, when the weather is cool and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Samut Sakhon

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting temples and other cultural landmarks.
  • Try the local seafood and other delicacies.
  • Engage with the local community and learn about their culture.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Bargain too hard in the markets and shops.

Safety and Health

Safety in Samut Sakhon

Samut Sakhon is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid scams and pickpocketing.

Health in Samut Sakhon

Visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and drink only bottled or filtered water.

Getting to Samut Sakhon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Samut Sakhon

The closest airport to Samut Sakhon is Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, which is approximately 50 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Samut Sakhon

The nearest bus station to Samut Sakhon is the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok, approximately 30 kilometers away.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi or hire a private car to travel to Samut Sakhon.

How to Get Around in Samut Sakhon

Visitors can get around Samut Sakhon by taking a tuk-tuk, taxi, or renting a bike.

Where to Go Next from Samut Sakhon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bangkok

Bangkok is only 30 kilometers away from Samut Sakhon and is a popular destination for travelers. Visitors can explore the city’s temples, markets, and nightlife.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is approximately 100 kilometers away from Samut Sakhon. The city is home to many ancient temples and ruins and is a must-visit destination for history buffs.

Conclusion

Samut Sakhon is a magical destination that shouldn’t be missed. From its cultural landmarks and natural attractions to its delicious seafood and traditional Thai pottery, Samut Sakhon has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can explore the town’s hidden gems and immerse themselves in local culture.