Maeklong Railway Market

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I read about this market in Thailand that a train literally passes thru the middle of the market and it's been on my bucket list for many years. A while back I was in the Bangkok area and decided to go visit this unique place.

Locals buying their produce and other groceries

Prior to arriving I was mentally getting ready for a touristy faux market that was just for the Farangs (foreigners) coming to see the train pass thru. Although at the main part you can definitely see your fair share of tourist that come to see the train pass thru the further you walk into the market the less touristy it feels.

The best way to shop is to walk right down the train tracks

The awnings are pulled back when the trains pass by

A variety of items sold just inches from the track

The market is for the local’s who buy their daily needs in the market. Being in a suburb of Bangkok space is a premium, so they utilize the area near the train tracks. The market continues adjacent to the tracks where a few more vendors sell their items as well.

Indoor portion of Maeklong Market

Fruits displayed for sale literally touching the train tracks

Currently the train runs thru the market 8 times daily and times can be found easily online. A warning bell goes off over the speaker system just a few minutes before the train passes thru. Vendors pull back their awnings sometimes only moments before the passing train. The market is locally known as the Talat Rom Hoop which translates into “Market Umbrella Close.”

Morning 10:30 train passing thru

Vendors pulling the awnings back for the train to pass

Passing with just a couple inches to spare

If you arrive 30 minutes prior to the train passing thru, an hour to an hour and a half will be plenty of time for a visit. Be forewarned that it is a hot market as the canopies and narrow tracks make for almost no breeze throughout the day.