Bangkok Flower Market

If you are looking for something a little different to do in Bangkok, and perhaps you have already had your fill of Temples (yes, it is possible to become Templed out), then I have just the thing for you, the flower market.

A little further from the main sites, across the river, and seemingly unknown (it’s not mentioned in any of the guide books), the flower market was one of our personal highlights (and not because there was an awesome food cart selling fried chicken nearby, although that didn’t hurt things); and is definitely a stop that you will not want to miss when visiting Bangkok.

I would ask you to imagine shop after shop selling the most magnificent and brightly colored orchids and exotic flowers that you have ever seen.  But thanks to technology, you don’t even have to use your imagination.

Sadly in some ways, I don’t feel like my pictures even do justice to the beauty and color that the flower market beholds.  And beyond the visual stimulation, the whole area is absolutely perfumed with the most delicate floral notes.  And if that isn’t enough for you, why not take a bunch (yes, a bunch of orchids) home to your hotel room (don’t worry, it will only set you back less than one dollar).

I am a huge fresh flower person.  I always love to have a fresh bouquet in the house, and so this was super exciting for me.  If you have been to the magnificent flower market in Los Angeles, it was kind of like that, except in Thailand, with all exotic flowers, with colors you have never seen, and just generally better in every way.  (Sorry L.A.)

Part of me was so excited by the flower market, and part of me was quietly crying on the inside that I could buy enough orchids to cover our entire hotel room for less than an Abraham Lincoln, and back home I wouldn’t even dream of it (or I might, but it also might send my husband into cardiac arrest, so I resist).

Regardless, I enjoyed every single second.  We slowly wandered the streets, stopping at probably every single vendor (sorry honey), enjoying every single flower.  Truly though, we both were just in awe of the explosion of color.

But how do you find this local hidden gem?  Don’t worry, the locals are so kind and will happily point you in the direction of Pat Khlong Talat, and before you know it, you will be in orchid heave.

Insider Tip:  There is a small food market within the flower market where you can find a little stand serving up some of the best Thai iced coffee and Thai iced tea – the perfect refresher before or after you enjoy the flowers…or both!