Bangkok 2-Hour Teak Boat Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Wat Paknam

4.17

(6 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

Right from the start in Thonburi, you feel the city’s contrasts—old wooden houses tucked between glass towers, laundry flapping over narrow walkways, and the hum of river life. Our teak boat glided quietly past tiny shrines and kids fishing off rickety docks. The air smelled faintly of incense and river water, a mix that somehow just fits here. Our guide, Nok, pointed out how some families have lived along these khlongs for generations—she even waved to an aunt selling mangoes from her porch.

The ride toward Wat Paknam was peaceful, almost meditative. As we neared the temple, its white chedi rose above the rooftops—hard to miss. Inside, it was cooler and calm; monks moved silently through shaded courtyards. Nok shared stories about Luang Por Sodh Candasaro and showed us a small museum with old photos and handwritten notes from his students. I liked how visitors left lotus flowers at the altar—there’s a quiet respect here that’s easy to feel.

Wat Arun was our last stop—a real highlight. Up close, those mosaic tiles catch the light in ways photos never show. We arrived just as sunlight hit the spires; everything shimmered for a moment before clouds rolled in again (typical Bangkok). Nok explained how the temple’s name comes from Aruna, god of dawn, and why locals still come here early in the morning for blessings. There’s something grounding about standing on those old steps with the river breeze and city noise all around.