Koh Kret, nestled in the Chao Phraya River, is a charming island known for its vibrant culture, traditional pottery, and lush landscapes. Perfect for a day trip, this destination showcases a blend of history and art, attracting visitors seeking an authentic local experience. Explore winding pathways, visit artisan workshops, and indulge in picturesque views while immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere of this unique Thai island.
Koh Kret, located in the serene waters of the Chao Phraya River, is a remarkable island that captures the essence of rural Thailand while being a stone’s throw from the bustling city of Bangkok. This man-made island, created in the 17th century during the reign of King Narai, is renowned for its rich culture, unique attractions, and traditional handicrafts, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or a leisurely retreat.
As you step onto Koh Kret, you are greeted by a charming landscape of lush greenery and a network of peaceful walking paths. The island is famous for its pottery, especially the earthenware pottery made by the local Mon community. Artisans beautifully craft their products using ancient techniques, and visitors have the chance to see these skilled craftsmen at work. Exploring the local pottery workshops is a must, where you can witness the intricate processes that have been passed down through generations.
The scenic beauty of Koh Kret is enhanced by its tranquil riverside views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. Numerous temples dot the landscape, showcasing unique architecture and providing insight into the area’s spiritual heritage. Among them, the impressive Wat Poramai Yikawat stands out with its beautifully decorated interiors and serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore its peaceful grounds.
Food lovers will delight in the variety of local delicacies available on the island. The weekend market pulsates with life, offering an array of tantalizing street food, including traditional Thai snacks and regional specialties that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the area. Sampling these flavors while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere is an effortless way to embrace the local culture.
Beyond its cultural and culinary attractions, Koh Kret’s relaxed pace of life provides a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. You can rent bicycles to navigate the island more easily or simply stroll along the riverside paths, where you can breathe in the fresh air and immerse yourself in nature. The beautiful sunsets over the Chao Phraya River are an enchanting sight, providing perfect photo opportunities for capturing unforgettable memories.
Whether you are interested in history, art, cuisine, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, Koh Kret offers a unique and enriching experience for every visitor. With a blend of traditional charm and natural beauty, this hidden gem is a destination that promises both adventure and tranquility, highlighting the best of what Thailand has to offer.
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Koh Kret is perched on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Chao Phraya River, 11120, Thailand
If you love craft beer, live entertainment and you make it to Koh Kret during the PM hours of a weekend, there is only one place you need to go – Chet Beer. Upon arrival from the ferry, you can go to right to the near-by what, or you take the sidewalk to the left for a five-minute stroll to Chet Beer, easily the most famous bar on the island. It also serves some of the cheapest craft beer and gourmet hamburgers.
It is a tourist attraction near Bangkok. There are both boat rides to see the floating market. See the way of life of the Mon people Including travel to make merit at different temples.
If you are commuting by Grab/Uber or taxi, make sure you provide the correct address to the temple of which the pier is located. Two baht for the boat to transfer you to Koh Kret across the river (around 5mins). Hire a bicycle for 50 baht and explore the island (quicker). Enjoy different stalls (food market). Highly recommend the oyster restaurant. Clay pottery place was cool and so as the bicycle ride around the island. Chitbeer bar is a popular place for a cold beer but there are also other places to have a beer. Will be back.
Was meant to do a tour which got cancelled so i decided to go on my own. I was lucky enough to find info on a blog that said theres a 10am boat on a Sunday (Chao Praya Express) that will go directly to Koh Kret from Sathorn Pier. Took a train and stopped at BTS Saphan Taksin station and its a five minute walk to the pier. I bought a round trip ticket for 180baht. It was a pleasant journey that took about an hour. You get to the island and you are left to your own devices. There was a small weekend market selling food, I just kept walking. I was told later it was best to walk around the island clockwise, but i went anti-clockwise. I had no particular itinerary, so i just kept walking. I did stop at a small photo studio to get my portrait one as a souvenir for 30 baht(he said it was a weekend special, usual price was 50). i happened upon a pottery factory/shop and got some beautiful tealight holders which they will safely wrap for you to bring home. i was there by lunch time but most of the riverside cafe/restaurants were filled, so i kept walking. You will pass little houses on stilts and nature. its a very nice village and nice to see the way of life of the people who live there. i hald walked 1/4 way in the path and was about to regret not stopping for food but I somehow found Rongsi Studio which also had Milli cafe which is housed in a 100 yr old former mill. Had my lunch there before continuing my journey. The whole walk is about 6km. Just do not stray off the main path if you do not have enough time. I got stopped twice by motorcycle taxis offering to take me around but i declined cos i was perfectly fine walking under the hot sun (yes, really). One thought I was crazy. Its a pleasant walk. times when you are alone and its very peaceful. I was on the island for about 4 hours. I was lucky to reach back at the pier by 3.45(they said boat leaves at 4pm), but i was apparently the last one and we then left for bangkok. I was able to get off at ICONSIAM. Things to note- -I was there on a Sunday (during covid times) so it wasnt as crowded as I thought it would be.- most of the signs are in Thai, it was mostly Thai tourists. – there are various temples on the island, but i did not visit any of them. – if you dont like walking, you can rent a bicycle but be careful and not be a wobbly cyclists as some parts of the path have to rails/barrier so you may just fall into the water. -chanced upon a record shop selling vinyls.(altho it was closed that day) but so random!
Koh Kret is a small island that not well known by the tourist. You can take taxi to Wat Sanam Nuae Pier then take boat cross the river. It is a very short boat rides, less then a minute, it cost 2 Baht in the day time and 3 Baht in the evening. Once you arrive the pier, turn right to the weekend market. We went there late, so most of the stall is closing, it will be quite interesting if you go there in the morning. We didn’t walk or cycle around the island, which you can do so in couples of hours. After the market, we walk backward to the pier and explore the other side. We end our trip at the local brewery ‘Chit Beer’. It is a charming small village, lots of interesting and nice deco cafe and restaurant. Definitely worth half a day trip there.
This was a great market. Lots of vendors and stuff to buy. Not to overwhelming but great to wonder through. Lots of food options. Our family (kids 8 abd 10) enjoyed our afternoon there.
Small island in the Chaopraya River in north of BKK. Lots of potteries. Great to bike around (bike rental is less than 100 Baht a day). Enough cafes and restaurants. Best to go in the week-end as during the week days many things may be closed. No cars on the island.
We had 8 days in Bangkok so we chose this as an “additional” place to visit. Honestly, the boat ride to get there was the best part. The site itself is kind of ‘meh’. An unremarkable market on a minimally interesting island. Nice temples but would only recommend if you have lots of time to kill.
I heard so much about the place and I was really looking forward to exploring. While the island itself was nice with lot to offer, getting there is indeed an adventure as there isn’t any direct transport from Bangkok. We took a boat to Nonthaburi, the last stop from chao phraya orange line boat, then taxi to a temple wat Sanam nua and then ferry literally across to the island.With the heat and luggage around we weren’t able to explore much especially pottery village.
Waste of time. Just a long line stalls selling the sa.e useless crap and a few restaurants. Best part of the experience was the ferry trip from Bangkok.Low quality tourist trap.