Ampawa Floating Market

Since the Tourism Authority of Thailand has promoted ‘Nostalgia Tourism’ for domestic tourists, floating markets are becoming more and more popular as they used to be a major part of Thai life.

Nostalgia Tourism refers to a tourism that brings us back to the past. Outdated destinations remarket themselves by adding new aspects to the old favorite to keep the original charm and create new excitement.

Ampawa floating market is extremely famous among local Thai people. Located only 37 miles south of Bangkok, Ampawa market opens only on weekends (Fri-Sun) from 2PM to 9PM. Both sides of the canals lined with houses, shops and restaurants. Boats pull up near the stairs leading down to the water, letting tourists buy and eat their food fresh from the vendors.

Food at Ampawa floating market is extraordinary, ranging in variety from seafood to Thai desserts. Some creative dishes can also be found here such as mango ice cream with sweet sauce topping or guava ice cream with pickled plum topping.

At sunset, a fleet of tourist boats travel upstream to witness Ampawa’s hidden treasure - firefly. Firefly watching is considered to be the highlight evening activity of Ampawa floating market. Many home stays are open to tourists to spend the night at the market and get a glimpse of the typical Thai lifestyle.