Chao Phraya River is one of Thailand’s major waterways, flowing through Bangkok and into the Gulf of Thailand. This 372-kilometre long river features numerous settlements along its banks, including the Nonthaburi Province, Ang Thong Province, Uthai Thani Province and Sing Buri Province.
It’s often referred to as the “River of Kings”, as King Rama I named it, and is a prominent landmark within Bangkok, feeding the canals that have led to the city’s moniker as the “Venice of the East”. In fact, Bangkok is one of the best places to see the Chao Phraya River thanks to the variety of sacred temples overlooking the water.
You can explore the Chao Phraya River by strolling along the river banks or jumping aboard one of the five public ferry lines that traverse the quick-flowing water. If you prefer a more leisurely cruise, join one of the sightseeing cruises that have informative guides who point out the prominent riverbank sites.
Getting there
The Chao Phraya River practically flows through the centre of Bangkok, about two kilometres from the actual CBD. You can admire the river within the city, follow it north to its rural course or head south to where it meets the Gulf of Thailand.