My Mahachai trip was a wonderful experience. I woke up early to take a trip to Samutsakon province. This trip is very special beside I travel alone, I also take a train instead of driving there.
My journey started in Bangkok. I arrived at the Wongwian Yai train station late. The train station is small. There are small grocery, and street food. I decided to have chicken and steam rice while waiting for the train to come.
Wongwain Yai train station used to be a famous area. Local people came to Bangkok by train in the old day. There are over 15 trains scheduled transfer people from Bangkok to Samutsakon daily. There are over 20 train stations to embark and disembark along the way.
Now a day, people use the car more, but many people still use train to travel especially, the merchant that come to buy and sell thing in Bangkok.
I leave at 09.40 from Wongwian yai. Before the train leaves, my container has about 20 people in total. I sat opposite to old Chinese man. We had a quite interesting conversation. He told me that he comes to Wongwian yai for morning meals very often since the train service is free.
For me, taking a train is one of the most charming ways to reach Mahachai Market. This route on the Mahachai Line of the State Railway of Thailand provides an affordable and scenic journey through suburban Thailand, offering glimpses of daily life in smaller communities.
View along the train from Bangkok to Mahachai trip
The train rides and passes the old wooden house and has local roads parallel to the train track. It is very interesting to see this and hear the load noise of diesel trains.However, some people prefer to drive, which allows them to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace and makes it easier to transport any market purchases. The drive from Bangkok to Samut Sakhon takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Most Thai people will drive there to buy whole sale seafood lot for their own restaurant or keep all dried goods to eat long time.
Exploring Mahachai
The train arrived in Mahachai at 10.45. This is another train market which similar to Meakong train station but smaller size. The fish and grocery cart are pulling back and forth. The local people come to find goods. The strong smell of sea products of calamari and shrimp makes this market smell aroma for us. We love this stuff. I have to continue travelling and walking therefore, no time for shopping or grocery.
Let me explain about the market layout after I walked through every section. The market sprawls across a vast area near the Tha Chin River, with sections dedicated to different types of goods. Navigating the market can be a delightful sensory overload, with the sights, sounds, and smells of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies all around.
Mahachai market
Seafood Section:
This is the heart of Mahachai Market, where vendors display an incredible array of fresh seafood. From giant prawns and crabs to various fish and shellfish, the variety is astounding. The seafood is caught daily by local fishermen, ensuring top quality and freshness.
Produce Section:
Adjacent to the seafood stalls, you’ll find an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Seasonal fruits like mangoes, durians, and lychees add vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas to the market.
Dry Goods and Spices:
Further into the market, explore stalls selling dry goods, spices, and condiments. These items are essential for Thai cooking and make excellent souvenirs for food enthusiasts.
Prepared Foods:
Numerous stalls offer ready-to-eat dishes, perfect for sampling local flavors. From grilled seafood and spicy salads to sweet desserts and refreshing drinks, the options are endless.
You can guess which section I will spend the most time preparing food indeed. All you can eat right there. I try everything I see just for a fun taste, a little bit here and there lines up the street cart along the way. However, if your stomach is not ready for eating anything, I recommend you try some dish that is not too spicy and looks clean. I am sure all the vendors prepare their food clean and well, but you never know, maybe not for your stomach.
After trying so much food, let me give you some dishes that you love so much. Based on myself opinion, maybe you find it too spicy…. But I am sorry I love SPICY FOOD too much. Not all dishes are spicy.
Here there are:
Grilled Giant River Prawns (Goong Pao): These prawns are grilled to perfection over open flames, resulting in a charred exterior and succulent, juicy meat. Often served with a spicy seafood dipping sauce, they are a must-try.
Grilled Squid (Pla Muk Yang): Fresh squid is marinated and grilled, creating a tender yet slightly chewy texture with a hint of smokiness. It’s commonly paired with a tangy, spicy dipping sauce.
Grilled Fish (Pla Pao): Whole fish, usually stuffed with lemongrass and herbs, is grilled until the skin is crispy and the flesh is moist and flavorful. The accompanying sauce typically combines lime juice, garlic, and chili for a zesty kick.
Fried Squid (Pla Muk Tod): Battered and deep-fried squid rings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are often served with sweet chili dipping sauce.
Fried Mussel Pancake (Hoy Tod): This savory pancake combines mussels with a crispy batter, fried to golden perfection. It’s usually served with a spicy, tangy sauce that complements the rich flavors.
Seafood Noodle Soup (Kuay Teow Talay): A bowl of rice noodles in a flavorful broth, topped with an assortment of seafood like shrimp, squid, and fish balls. The soup is often garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime.
Spicy Shrimp Soup (Tom Yum Goong): This iconic Thai soup features a spicy and sour broth infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal. Plump shrimp and mushrooms add substance to the intensely flavored soup.
I tried a lot of seafood here, since the market gets fresh seafood every morning. All dishes here are so tasty, no frozen food in this place. That’s why I always enjoy eating here. I don’t want to miss my opportunity to try everything. I don’t know whether you feel like me, I cannot help comparing the dishes that I cooked from frozen and fresh from the ocean, they are so different. The fresh is tastier, of course.
For drinks, you can get along the way you walked, I found cold and fresh coconut water is delightful. Sometimes, I would ask a lady to make me mixed fruit smoothie. Then, I tried lime juice and coconut smoothie before I walked away from the market.
Beyond the food, Mahachai Market provides a rich cultural experience, reflecting the traditions and daily life of the local community. I get to engage with the vendors and locals adds depth to your visit. Many vendors are eager to share their knowledge about seafood and offer cooking tips.
The bustling atmosphere of Mahachai Market is an experience in itself. The energetic interactions, the rhythmic calls of vendors, and the constant flow of shoppers create a lively and dynamic environment. I enjoy taking pictures along the way. The vibrant market scenes and colorful displays offer excellent opportunities for my photography skill, with my phone.
Capture the essence of the market with shots of fresh produce, bustling stalls, and candid moments of daily life. In addition to food, the market features stalls selling traditional crafts and household items. These handmade goods provide insight into the local craftsmanship and make unique souvenirs.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Food at Mahachai
Arrive Early: To experience the freshest seafood and the market at its liveliest, plan to arrive early in the morning.
Bring Cash: Most vendors at the market accept only cash, so ensure you have enough Thai baht for your purchases.
Stay Hydrated: Carry a bottle of water and take breaks in shaded areas, especially if you’re exploring the market on a hot day.
Be Adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new and unfamiliar dishes. The market offers a wide variety of flavors and textures that are worth exploring.
Respect Local Customs: Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially when interacting with vendors and locals.
Ta Chalong Sightseeing
After spending time explore Mahachai , I walk to the pier to Ta Chalong. Going to Ta Chalong is just across Ta Cheene Delta by ferry. Tha Chalong is home to a traditional fishing community, where you can see fishermen at work and learn about their way of life.
Ta chalong village
The village is known for its wooden houses and seafood processing factories. I explore by tricycle, it’s enjoyable this trip because I walk so much at Mahachai. Visit Chinese shine passing the old wooden house. A few houses and silo dry the calamari on the Sun.
Tricycle trip around Ta Chalong
The tricycle driver went slow and made stop at the pier. The pier has special boat service which can bring people to throw the ashes of the dead to the ocean. This is the last good bye that family can do for person who passed away. The tricycle man, local guide, knows good spots to take me to see street art and point me a good view to take pictures.
Bird house
My visit is including temple with thousands of swallow bird come to stay and mangrove area. It was a nice experience especially to support the tricycle driver for more work. The driver was once working in fishing business, he told me that the area is a fishing center. Fishermen live here has well equipped. They are not only finding the fish in this area. They travel to the south of Thailand as well. When going out for working, they will go for about a month.
Exploring Tha Chalong offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its vibrant street art and serene temples to its bustling fishing village and delicious seafood. Whether you’re wandering through the colorful streets adorned with murals, savoring fresh seafood at a riverside restaurant, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the mangrove forest, Tha Chalong promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Thai culture and tradition.
By taking the time to visit this charming community, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich heritage and the warmth of its people.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tha Chalong
Timing: The best time to visit Tha Chalong is in the morning when the market is most active and the weather is cooler.
Cash: Bring enough cash, as many vendors in the market and local shops may not accept credit cards.
Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are recommended due to the warm climate.
Hydration: Stay hydrated by carrying a bottle of water. You can also find refreshing drinks at the market, such as fresh coconut water and Thai iced tea.
Respect Local Customs: Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering temple buildings.
Transportation: Consider renting a bicycle or motorbike to explore the area at your own pace. Alternatively, tuk-tuks and local taxis are readily available.
Kok Kam
After that, I went back to Mahachai, I have to wait for my sister to pick me up. Then we visit the small resort which is called KOK Kam resort. It is a small resort on mangrove area. We have dinner there and want to see the small resort for the idea of making tour package. The resort is nice and quiet. The local food is amazing.
However, it rained that evening, we need to move to air conditional room to get away from mosquito troop.
We also drove to Mangrove preservation at Kokkam. There are walking part which is quite nice in the evening.
Dolphin Viewpoint and Red Bridge Mat Chanu: A Coastal Adventure in Samut Sakhon
If you are not too tired, I would recommend you to go the Dolphin Viewpoint and the Red Bridge and Mat Chanu provides visitors with breathtaking views, opportunities for wildlife observation, and a glimpse into the local way of life. This guide will take you through a detailed exploration of these sites and help you plan a memorable visit. From Mahachai station, a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride will take you to Mat Chanu.
The Dolphin Viewpoint in Mat Chanu is a popular spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Located along the coast, this viewpoint offers stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand and the opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat.
What to Expect
Scenic Views: The viewpoint provides panoramic views of the coastline, with clear blue waters and lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
Dolphin Watching: The area is known for its population of Irrawaddy dolphins. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot these playful creatures. Bring binoculars for a better view, and be patient, as dolphin sightings can be sporadic.
Peaceful Environment: The viewpoint is relatively quiet and less crowded than other tourist spots, making it an ideal place for those seeking tranquility.
The Best Time to visit the dolphin viewpoint is early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chances of seeing dolphins and to avoid the midday heat.
My Mahachi trip was fun and successful, I only plan to go straight to only the market, it would take me pretty most day there. However, I just looked around and didn’t buy anything because I didn’t have a car with me. I walked fast and talked with local, then I tasted food a long the way. Then, I still have time to go around more nearby places. I am glad that I made my time to see other things. I was so impressed with the local and sightseeing so much.
I think, visiting Mahachai by train is a rewarding experience that offers a deep dive into Thai culture, cuisine, and daily life.
From the scenic train ride through suburban Thailand to the bustling energy of Mahachai Market and the serene charm of Tha Chalom, every aspect of the trip provides a unique and memorable insight into this vibrant community.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a day trip from Bangkok, Mahachai promises an unforgettable adventure filled with flavors, sights, and stories.
It is nice to see local life which is not far from Bangkok. LJ Tour is already having a train trip to Mahachai. Check out our detail if you are interesting something similar to our experience. Maybe, you want us to take you around Mahachai, it would be fun to have friends chatting with you at the market, we can help you communicate and guide you to all fun visits.
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