Bangkok Longtail Boat Canal Tour to Wat Arun and the Big Buddha
About Bangkok Longtail Boat Canal Tour to Wat Arun and the Big Buddha
This longtail boat tour explores the canals of Thonburi, the quieter, older side of Bangkok across the river from the Grand Palace. It has 6,783 reviews and a 4.7 rating.
The tour lasts about 2 hours, with prices from about $20 per person. Boats carry a maximum of 12 people.
Itinerary
- Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
- Baan Silapin (30 minutes)
- As we cruise through the canals of Thonburi, we pass by Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, a historic temple…
What’s included
- English speaking guide
- One bottle of drinking water per person
- Long-tail boat & boat driver
Meeting point
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.
What to expect on the day
You board at Tha Tien Pier and head across the Chao Phraya River past Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. The boat then winds through narrow canals lined with wooden stilt houses and small temples, and passes the giant Buddha at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, the largest in Bangkok. There is a 30-minute stop at Khlong Bang Luang, a canal-side community known for the Artist’s House (Baan Silapin). You may wait for a few minutes at a water lock, which opens on no fixed schedule.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: An English-speaking guide, the longtail boat and driver, and 1 bottle of drinking water per person.
- Not included: Meals.
What to bring
- Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- A light rain jacket or poncho in the rainy season.
- Some cash for snacks at Khlong Bang Luang.
Tips for a better day
- Getting there: Take the MRT to Sanam Chai Station, use the Museum Siam exit and walk about 5 minutes to Tha Tien Pier. The guide waits with a WanderSiam sign at the main covered pavilion by the river.
- Be on time: The group waits a maximum of 10 minutes, and there is no refund for late arrival.
- Combine it: Tha Tien Pier is next to Wat Pho, so it is easy to pair with a temple visit.
Who it’s best for
Best for: First-time visitors who want a short, affordable look at canal life and riverside temples.
Consider another option if: You want to go inside the Grand Palace and the big temples with a guide. The Grand Palace and temples tour covers the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho and Wat Arun.
Restrictions
Suitable for most fitness levels, but not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or spinal injuries, as the piers have no stairs and boarding can be awkward. Infants sit on an adult’s lap. Tours run rain or shine.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Cancellations because of weather are not refunded.
FAQ about Bangkok Longtail Boat Canal Tour to Wat Arun and the Big Buddha
How long is the longtail boat canal tour?
About 2 hours.
Where does the tour start?
At Tha Tien Pier, next to Wat Pho. The guide waits at the main covered pavilion with a WanderSiam sign.
How do I get to Tha Tien Pier?
Take the MRT to Sanam Chai Station, use the Museum Siam exit and walk about 5 minutes.
How many people are on each boat?
A maximum of 12.
Does the tour stop anywhere?
Yes. There is a 30-minute stop at Khlong Bang Luang and the Artist's House.
Will I see Wat Arun?
Yes. The boat passes Wat Arun and the big Buddha at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen.
Is food included?
No. Meals are not included, but drinking water is.
Does it run in the rain?
Yes. Tours run rain or shine, and weather cancellations are not refunded.
What if I am late?
The group waits up to 10 minutes. There is no refund for late arrival.
Is it suitable for wheelchair users?
No. Boarding is difficult because the piers have no stairs.
