9 Baht to Cross the River, A Day Worth So Much More
One Day Trip: Tha Chang – Wat Rakhang – Wang Lang – Chao Phraya Vibes
Looking for an easy, chill day trip that won’t break the bank but will fill your heart (and belly)? Let me take you on a riverside adventure that’s simple, soulful, and full of surprises—starting from Tha Chang on the Phra Nakhon side, crossing over to Thonburi to visit Wat Rakhang, then looping back for street food heaven at Wang Lang. All that magic? Just 9 baht for a river ferry ride.
First Stop: Tha Chang – Where Art Meets Architecture
Once the royal pier where elephants bathed, Tha Chang today is a mix of European-style buildings, art spaces, and river views. Grab a coffee at one of the riverside cafés and check out Tha Museum Pier, a rotating art gallery with cool exhibitions that change regularly. The newly renovated riverwalk here lets you stroll all the way to Tha Maharaj—perfect for golden hour selfies with the Chao Phraya backdrop.
European elegance by the river: The colonial-style building at Tha Chang features arched windows, intricately carved wooden details, and a fusion of Ionic columns above and Doric columns below—classic Greco-Roman charm right by the Chao Phraya.
Front view of Tha Museum Pier: A unique rotating art space nestled in the Tha Chang area, blending heritage with creativity.
Sidewalk treasures at Tha Chang: Handcrafted goods at affordable prices line the walkway—perfect for a unique souvenir haul.
Cross the River (Yes, Just 9 Baht!)
Next up, hop on the ferry across the Chao Phraya. It’s a quick ride, but it’s like jumping into another dimension. The vibe totally changes once you’re in Wang Lang—lively, local, and a little chaotic in the best way.
Wat Rakhang – Peace Before Food
Before diving into food heaven, take a detour to Wat Rakhang Kositaram, one of Thonburi’s most important temples. Home to the famous Somdet To statue, intricate murals, and centuries-old architecture, this spot is all about calm and culture. The temple’s compact but rich in detail—perfect if you’ve only got a little time but want a big dose of Thai heritage.
Wat Rakhang seen from the river: A peaceful view of this historic temple as seen from the Tha Chang pier, with its golden rooftops catching the sun.
The elegant prang of Wat Rakhang: The temple’s central stupa (prang) rises with grace, adding to the riverside skyline of Thonburi.
Inside the ordination hall of Wat Rakhang: The principal Buddha image is surrounded by mural paintings dating back to King Rama III’s era, telling stories with every brushstroke.
Ayutthaya-era scripture cabinet: This triple-roofed Thai-style pavilion houses a beautifully lacquered Tripitaka cabinet—an artifact from the Ayutthaya period that reflects the temple’s deep historical roots.
Wang Lang – Where Your Diet Goes to Die
Let’s be honest. Wang Lang = Food.
Every alley here tempts you with something—grilled skewers, noodles, Thai desserts, and random fashion finds. Take it slow, or you’ll fill up too fast. Pro tip: If you arrive before noon, visit the temple first. But if it’s closer to lunchtime—don’t fight it. Just eat.
Wang Lang Pier bustle: In the background stands Siriraj Hospital, Thailand’s oldest medical school. This pier is a major hub connecting Nonthaburi, Tha Chang, Tha Maharaj, Tha Phra Chan, Tha Tien, and Rattanakosin Island.
Temple skyline from Wang Lang Pier: This riverside shot captures the majestic spires of Wat Arun, Wat Kalayanamit, and the distant white chedi of Wat Prayurawongsawat.
Recommended stops:
- Kraft Café – Chill with river views and solid drinks
- Yor Yak Kin Phak – Vegetarian-friendly and flavorful
- Nong Bua Dumpling – Old-school Thai-Chinese goodness
- Wang Lang Boat Noodles – Cheap, classic, satisfying
- Wang Lang Bakery – Come for the cakes, stay for the queue
Modern vibes, local charm: The beginning of the Wang Lang alley is packed with trendy shops and street eats, buzzing with life.
Dumplings with a view: Enjoying premium dumplings while soaking in the river life of the Chao Phraya—this is Wang Lang bliss.
Sai Mai Shrimp Dumplings, Wang Lang: Don’t underestimate this humble-looking bowl—it’s a flavor bomb waiting to be devoured.
Pickled fruit temptation: One glance and you're hooked—these sweet and sour pickled fruits are as addictive as they look.
Back to Tha Chang for Sunset & Sips
After stuffing your face and soaking in the local charm, cross back to Tha Chang. Sit by the river with a cool drink and watch the boats cruise past as the sun sets behind the temples. It’s peaceful, pretty, and feels like you’re miles away from the city—even though you’re right in the middle of it.
Crossing back to Tha Chang: A stunning view from the boat, looking back toward Tha Chang pier and the Grand Palace on the Phra Nakhon side.
Final Thoughts
This riverside loop is proof that you don’t need a fancy plan to have an amazing day. Just curiosity, good shoes, and a 9-baht coin. The Chao Phraya isn’t just a river—it’s a moving storybook of Thai culture, food, and history.
Go once and you’ll wanna go again.
Tag your river gang. Who’s down for a Bangkok day trip like this?
#OneDayTrip #BangkokRiverside #ThaChangToWangLang #EatPrayWalk #ChaoPhrayaVibes
Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya