Embark on an approximately 2-hour long-tail boat journey through the canals of Thonburi, discovering Bangkok's authentic, less-explored side.
Glide past traditional stilt houses, observe local life, and visit hidden temples. Your route includes a stop at the picturesque riverside community of Khlong Bang Luang, home to the renowned Artist’s House.
Along the way, you'll witness the impressive sight of Bangkok's largest Buddha at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen.
This tour offers a distinct perspective of Bangkok, moving away from the typical tourist hubs. You will see humble wooden homes built over the water, highlighting the city's contrasts and the realities of daily existence.
Please be aware that during the tour, we might encounter a delay at one of the water locks. These locks manage the canal water levels and operate without a set schedule, which is beyond our control but forms part of the genuine canal experience.
For an insight into Bangkok's tranquil and traditional character, this canal tour provides an enlightening exploration of the city's history and local culture.
Maximum capacity is 12 people per boat.
✓ English speaking guide✓ One bottle of drinking water per person✓ Long-tail boat & boat driver1 Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
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.
***** Please note that we will NOT get off at Wat Arun. You will only see it from the river while on our way to Thonburi. *****
· Non-stop passage
2 Baan Silapin
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.
Duration of stop 30-40 minutes.
· 30 min
3 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.
Located in the Phasi Charoen district, this temple has long been a center of Buddhist learning and meditation.
Today, however, it is best known for its enormous seated Buddha statue, which rises dramatically above the surrounding rooftops and is visible from far across the city.
The boat will pause here briefly, allowing you to admire and photograph this awe-inspiring statue from the water.
At nearly 70 meters tall, equivalent to a 20-story building, and 40 meters wide at its base, it is the tallest Buddha statue in Bangkok.
Cast in shimmering gold tones, the statue sits in a calm meditative posture and makes a striking contrast against the skyline.
While we don’t disembark at the temple, viewing this colossal image from the quiet of the canal offers a truly unique and memorable perspective.
· Non-stop passage
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
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.
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.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Public transportation options are available nearby Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries Suitable for all physical fitness levels The most convenient way to reach the meeting point, and avoid Bangkok’s often congested road traffic, is by taking the MRT (metro) to Sanam Chai Station. From there, take the 'Museum Siam' exit. The meeting point is just a short 5-minute walk from the station. 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. Bangkok’s traffic can be heavily congested. 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. No refund will be provided in case of late arrival. 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. 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. Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, as boarding and disembarking the boat may be difficult due to the lack of stairs at the piers. Private Tour: Hotel Pick-up Private Car, Van Small Group: Hotel Pick-up Van or Minivan Or Car: Round-trip hotel tranfer within Bangkok.Your exact pick-up time will be sent via booking platform's private message. Small Group Tour 1-Hour Boat Ride, No Guide Cool Season: 2-Hr Canal Tour Cool Season: Canal w/Transfer Van or Car Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Consider a raincoat or poncho during the rainy season. Stay hydrated; bottled water is provided. Be prepared for potential waits at water locks. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 112650P5
Activity offered by WanderSiam via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Travelers interested in local culture Photography enthusiasts Those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience Explore Bangkok's historic Thonburi canals by long-tail boat. Discover authentic local life away from the usual tourist crowds. Visit the charming Artist's House at Baan Silapin. See Bangkok's largest Buddha statue at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. Enjoy a unique perspective of the city's contrasts.
Population 5,676,648 (2018)
Elevation 2 m
Currency baht
Official language Thai
Driving on the left
Power plugs A, B, C, F · 220 V
Emergency number 191 Average temperatures 27° Jan 28° Feb 29° Mar 30° Apr 30° May 29° Jun 28° Jul 28° Aug 28° Sept 27° Oct 26° Nov 26° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the meeting point for the tour? + 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.
Can I get off at Wat Arun? + No, you will only see Wat Arun from the river while on your way to Thonburi. You will not disembark at the temple.
What happens if it rains? + Our tours operate rain or shine. We will seek shelter if it rains heavily and continue once the weather improves. Cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.
Is there a maximum number of people per boat? + Yes, the maximum capacity is 12 people per boat.
What is the cancellation policy? + For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. No refund will be issued for cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or in case of no-show.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Exciting Boat Trip!
TracyV535, October 2026
Such a fun experience. It was amazing time seeing homes from the real side of Bangkok where locals live. Got some great pictures of the Golden Buddha. Saw water dragons swimming next to the boat. Our boat driver went up to a home selling sodas so we could buy some drinks.
Only thing as the motet was a bit loud, so that both me some. But I would totally recommend a long the boat tour!!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Nice boat journey
SalahKuwait, October 2026
Nice to try it. Thanks to Mini.
★★★★★ Viator review
Old Bangkok
Sharlene_B, October 2026
Good balance to see the older parts of The city. The guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. The pick up location was very easy to find and central.
Response from the operator · WanderSiam R Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re very happy to hear that you enjoyed discovering the older parts of the city and found the tour well balanced.
It’s also great to know that your guide was knowledgeable and friendly, and that the central meeting point made the start of your experience easy and convenient.
Thank you for choosing WanderSiam!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Canal tour- great experience
rachelvF8342EK, October 2026
Paula was amazing!! So much fun!
Response from the operator · WanderSiam R Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re so happy to hear that you had such a fun time with Paula and that she made the experience special.
We’ll be sure to share your kind words with her. Thank you for choosing WanderSiam! 💙
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Fantastic way to see the 'original' Bangkok
racheldV2212RB, October 2026
Fantastic way to see the 'original' Bangkok before the high rise buildings and learn about the culture and origin of the city. Our guide, Johanes, was informative, knowledgeable - and funny! He really made the trip with his little quips and his enthusiasm for his heritage is clear to see. The Big Buddha (plural, there's actually two!) was so impressive but actually our favourite part was the visit to the riverside community and the opportunity to engage with the local craft people at the Artist's House. There was only our party of 7 on our longboat so the trip was wonderfully relaxed. Everything was so well organised and the time flew by! Worth every penny, you will not regret it!
Response from the operator · WanderSiam R Thank you so much for such a wonderful and detailed review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed discovering the more traditional side of Bangkok and learning about the city’s culture and origins.
It’s especially lovely to know that Johanes made the experience so memorable with his knowledge, humor, and enthusiasm for Thai heritage. We’re also very happy that you enjoyed the Big Buddha, the peaceful riverside community, and meeting the local craftspeople at the Artist’s House.
Having just your group of seven on the longtail boat sounds like a perfect way to enjoy the canals at a relaxed pace. Thank you as well for your kind words about the organization and value of the experience.
We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back on another WanderSiam adventure in the future! 💙
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