Hello everyone. This is my first time writing a blog post to share with you all. If there are any mistakes, I apologize in advance. (Am I writing an essay here? Haha)

Once upon a time, three young men met up to sing and dance (at a small party on April 1st near Rangsit University before continuing at home, it was a lot of fun ^^) from dawn till dusk. When they woke up, they started talking about where to go next. "Somewhere nearby, affordable, and relaxing." As the host, I suggested a small island with a simple lifestyle, in the style of the Mon people of Koh Kret, who rely mainly on boats and bicycles for their daily lives. That island is "Koh Kret." Have I been there before? Yes, many times.

Our mission today is to travel for no more than 300 baht (because we're broke, haha!). We started by taking a ferry from Wat Chalermprakiet Pier, located under the Rama IV Bridge (well-known by locals). Then, we walked through the old riverside market alley to catch a boat to Koh Kret. For those who haven't been there, I recommend finding transportation from anywhere to Pak Kret, getting off at Lotus Pak Kret, and taking a motorcycle taxi to Wat Sanam Nua before crossing to Koh Kret. However, we boarded at the Old Market Pier because it was less crowded, so we didn't have to wait long, and it was safer. At Wat Sanam Nua, there were many people, and we had to wait until the boat was full before leaving.

After crossing the river, our boat docked near Wat Parmaiyikawas Temple. (Tip: Sit by the edge of the boat to see fish swimming alongside!) As devout Buddhists, we paid our respects at the temple before embarking on our journey. (It felt like we were going into battle! 😂) However, the scorching Thai heat prompted us to seek refuge in a cool and relaxing café. Our destination: Baan Lek No. 1.

The restaurant is located on the left-hand side, approximately 200 meters from the pier, if you take a boat from Wat Sanam Nua. Be warned: if you come alone, you might die of envy, as the entire restaurant is filled with couples cuddling and talking sweetly. Even the sugar would admit defeat. And what about us, the three of us? 55555555 It's even worse when there's beautiful, relaxing music playing. I'm going to cry. TT_TT

Our sole purpose today was to indulge in delicious food! Therefore, we retraced our steps towards Wat Phramayikawas. We opted for the route leading to Wat Phai Lom (not recommended for those on a diet, as the abundance of food is simply irresistible). As we strolled along, being a local, I suggested trying the Mon-style Khao Chae, a refreshing rice dish with various side dishes. Numerous restaurants offer this dish, but I personally favor Khao Chae Khun Dang, my go-to spot whenever I'm in the area. Housed in a century-old wooden structure, the restaurant has been in operation since my great-great-grandmother's time (according to my inquiries). The riverside setting provides a picturesque view of the Rama IV Bridge.

The restaurant also boasts a waterfront area where you can dip your feet in the cool water. The "Khao Chae" (Jasmine rice soaked in iced water) is particularly delicious, served with an array of flavorful side dishes. The fragrant aroma of the jasmine rice, infused with the smoky scent of candlewood, is truly enticing. Enjoy it with a glass of ice-cold water on a hot day – it's a refreshing treat you won't soon forget. This is the authentic "Khao Chae" of the Mon people.

After that, we went on a tour, walking around and stopping at any restaurant that caught our eye. There were so many delicious-looking options along the way, including Thai and Western snacks. The island's famous local product is "pottery," and if you visit Koh Kret without trying the "fried taro stem" and "fried flowers," it's like you haven't been here at all. You have to try them! Otherwise, you won't be able to keep up with the conversation. Haha.

The island of Koh Kret has existed since the late Ayutthaya period. Initially, it was not an island, but locals dug a canal to shorten the route for cargo ships. Over time, the water flow eroded the canal, transforming it into a river and creating the island we see today. Interestingly, the island boasts a variety of clean and safe vegetables and herbs at affordable prices.

If you are thirsty and parched from the hot weather and want to drink beverages such as milk tea, iced tea, black tea, coffee, etc., I would like to offer you a clay cup for your drink at an affordable price. You can also take it home and use it again.

As we continued walking, we came across the "Wat Phai Lom" temple. After paying our respects at the temple, it was time to head back. Along the way, we had already spotted some delicious-looking food. On the way back, we decided to indulge! 55555 Whatever we were interested in or wanted to eat, we went for it! On the way back, I recommended that my fellow travelers try the "Mieng Kam" at this shop. It was delicious and freshly wrapped. Some days, you have to wait in line because the shop can't keep up with the demand (there are only two of them, 5555). We also chose to eat "Chua Kway" at the 108 Pantip Kao shop. It's another riverside restaurant, but the atmosphere is indescribable. We asked the shop to let us sit on their pier, which gave us a clear view of the bend in the river. Plus, it was right across from the Wat Sali Khobhitarama temple, which has a huge Buddha statue. (P.S. If you want to visit Wat Sali Khobhitarama, you can take a boat across from Wat Phai Lom.)

The atmosphere is so relaxing that I don't want to leave. Imagine sitting by the water's edge, feeling the gentle breeze, dipping your feet in the cool water, and sipping a refreshing glass of iced chrysanthemum tea. As you watch the long-tailed boats and paddle boats glide by on the Chao Phraya River, savor the sweet taste of the tea and the delicious betel nut snacks from the nearby shop. The restaurant even provides complimentary iced water mixed with Uthaya Tip to cleanse your palate. It's pure bliss! I bet you're all picturing this and smiling right now. (In this kind of atmosphere, a beer or two wouldn't hurt, haha!) After indulging in the sweet treats, we continued our exploration. Our stomachs still rumbling, we opted for a delicious meal of khanom jeen at Pa Awn's restaurant. They offer a variety of curries to choose from, catering to everyone's preferences. As soon as we were seated, we eagerly called out to the waiter, "Two khanom jeen nam ngiao and one khanom jeen nam ya pa, please!" I'm a huge fan of khanom jeen nam ngiao, and this restaurant's version deserves a perfect 10. It's incredibly flavorful and affordable, and the owner's warm smile and friendly demeanor are reminiscent of a beauty queen. After our satisfying khanom jeen feast, we had to head back as time was slipping away, and we didn't want to get caught in the dark. But of course, we couldn't resist picking up some souvenirs before leaving. Haha!

Before heading back, we made a quick stop at the King Rama V Museum at Wat Paramanuchit. Unfortunately, we arrived a bit late, and the second floor of the museum was already closed. However, the first floor, which showcases pottery, was still open. As we entered, a pottery class was in progress, so we decided to stay and observe for a while.

On the way back, we chose to return via Wat Sanam Nua Temple to take pictures of both sides of the river bend. P.S. The boat driver may look a bit fierce, but rest assured, your safety is guaranteed. 555555 In summary, the total expenses for 3 people are:


  • Boat fare from Tha Talat Market Pier to Wat Sanam Nuea Pier is 15 baht (one way), and from Wat Sanam Nuea Pier to Tha Talat Market Pier is 6 baht (one way).

- Donation for flowers, incense, and candles is at your discretion. (I don't know how much each person put in, haha)

  • Iced milk tea from house number 1, 3 cups for 90 baht.
  • Two sets of Ms. Daeng's Mon-style Khao Chae cost 60 baht each, for a total of 120 baht for the three of us.
  • Three packs of Thai desserts for 50 baht. Buy three sets for 150 baht.
  • Grass jelly 2 cups 50 baht
  • 3 plates of Khanom Jeen and 1 bottle of water for 115 baht.
  • 20 baht for a mango.

The total cost is 566 baht, with a possible additional small amount for miscellaneous expenses, bringing the total to around 600 baht. For this trip, there are 3 participants, so the cost per person is 200 baht, which is 100 baht less than originally discussed. However, this does not include travel expenses.

The trip concludes with a picture of the three charming young men who joined us. If you're interested in any of them, feel free to send me a private message or follow me at [link].

IG : zongpa
All photos were taken with my iPhone5 and edited with VSCO

I hope you all enjoy reading the stories I have told. If you have any comments or suggestions, please feel free to leave them. I will use them to improve and revise my work.

Thank you.

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