THE CHAO PHRAYA RIVER AND BANGKOK’S CANALS (KHLONG)

In the nineteenth century, Bangkok’s had a complex network of canals that served as the major arteries of transportation. The population drew upon the river not only for transport but also for accommodation and trade, with stilted houses thronging the riverbanks and foreign ships arriving in Bangkok. Hence, Bangkok was once known as “The Venice of the East”. The river and canals can still be conveniently explored and offer the visitor a glimpse of that waterborne life of yesteryear.