Day 3: KHLONG BOAT TOUR & KOH KRED CYCLING
This morning, take a boat ride through the Klongs (canals) to Bang Luang, a local artistic enclave where you can see well preserved century old houses, small temples, art studios and vintage antique galleries. Alongside typical local shops and noodle houses, the centerpiece of this community is Baan Silapin, a traditional artist house centered around a 300 year old Chedi. A traditional Thai shadow puppet show is sometimes held here at 2pm (daily except on Wednesdays). After, finish your boat tour at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), the iconic pagoda incrusted with colored faience.
Continue to Wat Sanam Nua, Pakkret. From there you will take a short 5 minute ferry ride to Koh Kret, a small island in the Chao Phraya River. This island is actually man-made, the result of the construction almost 300 years ago of a channel cut through a sharp bend in the River. Koh Kred’s inhabitants are mainly Mon (originally tribes who dominated central Thailand between the 6th and 10th centuries) and have retained a distinct identity in their flavor of Buddhism and their pottery skills. You will do an easy biking ride around the island (or a walking tour) through local villages, temples, old kilns and pottery shops along the way. If your visit falls over the weekend (Saturdays & Sundays), your will get to stop at a unique local microbrewery where you can enjoy a refreshing glass of home brewed beer and sunset views over the water. Meet the master brewer who offers weekend lessons to locals and visitors alike. The microbrewery offers up to six beers on draft, as well as several craft ales in bottles.
Overnight at Riva Surya Bangkok (Breakfast)