Samut Sakhon
Introduction
You will find Samut Sakhon situated in Thailand as the capital of its namesake province. Located within the Bangkok Metropolitan Region, this city offers you a gateway to the surrounding area.
Before you go
Before you visit Samut Sakhon, you can appreciate its deep historical roots as an outpost city established to defend against sea-borne invasions. Known locally as "Maha Chai," the area sits near the mouth of the Tha Chin River and carries a legacy recorded in the Ayutthaya Chronicle. The name reflects its history as a bustling port where traders from across the seas, particularly those from China, gathered for trade.
You can explore a landscape shaped by royal decrees and administrative reforms:
- The area was originally known as Tha Chin due to its location on the Gulf of Thailand.
- The name "Sakhon Buri" was adopted to signify its role as a strategic outpost.
- The site of the canal known as Maha Chai serves as a symbol of the loyalty of Phanthai Norasing.
Getting there
You can reach Samut Sakhon from Bangkok by car via several routes depending on your starting point. From Bang Pakaeo Intersection, follow Highway No. 35 Thon Buri – Pak Tho Road toward the Maha Chai Intersection before turning left into the city. Alternatively, you can travel from Dao Khanong Department Store along Ekkachai Road, or from Tha-Phra Intersection via Phetchakasem Road to reach the Ekkachai Intersection and continue toward the center. Other routes include taking Phetchakasem Road through Bang Khae to the outer ring road, or traveling from Phra Pinklao Bridge via Borommaratchachonnani Road and various Phutthamonthon roads.
For those preferring public transportation, you can take a bus provided by The Transport Company Limited. Trains are also available from Wongwian Yai Station to Maha Chai Station, or you can cross the river by boat to Ban Laem Station to catch a train toward Mae Klong.
Getting around
Information regarding local transportation and navigation within the area is not currently available.
Where to stay
Information regarding accommodations and specific areas to stay in Samut Sakhon is currently unavailable.
Food & drink
You can enjoy fresh seafood at a long-established restaurant in the heart of Mahachai. Located near Rama II road, this well-known establishment has served the local area for decades and is known for using seafood sourced daily from the nearby market.
What to see and do
Explore the coastal landscape and cultural landmarks of Samut Sakhon. You can walk the nature trails of the Ao Mahachai Mangrove Forest Natural Education Center to learn about the local ecosystem or visit the Phan Thai Norasing Shrine, where a royal barge is displayed in honor of a local hero. For a unique sight, visit Wat Krok Krak on the banks of the Ta Chin River to see a century-old Buddha statue wearing sunglasses, or head to Wat Yai Ban Bo to view ancient wooden structures and historic statues. If you are seeking spiritual guidance, Wat Tha Mai is a well-known site for fortune telling.
Experience the local traditions and coastal environment through these activities:
- Take salt-making lessons at a dedicated school to learn about the machinery and community livelihood involved in producing sea salt.
- Go whale watching in the Gulf of Thailand, where you can spot Bryde's whales near Tambon Phanthai Norasing.
- Walk across the Red Bridge, a long structure along the sea where you might catch a rare glimpse of dolphins or whales during the cooler months.
Three days in Samut Sakhon
Day one, you can begin your journey in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. You might travel through areas like Thon Buri or toward Phutthamonthon to reach the outskirts of Samut Sakhon.
Day two, explore the local landscape near the Tha Chin River. You can navigate the area around Maha Chai and experience the surroundings influenced by the history of the Ayutthaya Chronicle.
Day three, you can travel toward the Gulf or visit areas like Sakhon Buri. You may also take a train from stations such as Wongwian Yai, Maha Chai, or Ban Laem to see different parts of the region.