Koh Kret Island, Bangkok

Koh Kret Island is a tiny artificial Island found in Nonthaburi, right next to Bangkok. It was formed in 1722 by the canal excavation, and it houses the Mon ethnic community as a rich heritage, with rich pottery handiwork and traditional food.

Tourists travel to Koh Kret to:

• Car-free walking and cycling paths
• Traditional Mon pottery workshops
• Local weekend markets
• Riverside cafés and food stalls
• Buddhist temples and cultural landmarks
• Peaceful nature and slow-paced lifestyle

One of the most popular day-trips around Bangkok is Koh Kretwhicht is mainly recommended to those tourists who wish to visit the real life of the Thai villages.

• No entry fee
• Only pay for ferry charges, food, souvenirs, or bicycle rentals.

Average Expenses (approx with INR conversion):

• Ferry ride: 3–10 THB (Rs 7–25)
• Bicycle rental: 40–60 THB (Rs 95–145)
• Pottery items: 50–200 THB (Rs 120–480)

Local snacks: 20–50 THB (Rs 50–120)

Koh Kret is always open, but the best time to visit is:

• Daily: 6 AM – 7 PM
• Weekend Market: Fully active on Saturdays & Sundays

Weekends are the liveliest with the most shops open.

• Address: Koh Kret Island, Pak Kret, Nonthaburi Province
• Distance from Bangkok city centre: ~20 km

1. By Taxi / Grab: The most convenient way.
Set the destination to Wat Sanam Nuea Pier, where the ferry departs.

2. By Ferry from Bangkok: Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Nonthaburi Pier (N30) and grab a taxi to the Koh Kret ferry point.

3. By Local Bus: Buses to Pak Kret Market are available, followed by a short walk to the ferry terminal.

4. Koh Kret Ferry

• Depart from Wat Sanam Nuea
• Cost: 3–10 THB (Rs 7–25)
• Crossing time: 2–3 minutes

1. Explore the Traditional Mon Pottery Village: Koh Kret’s biggest attraction is its ancient Mon-style pottery.
Visitors can-

• Watch artisans handcraft earthenware
• Buy pottery souvenirs
• Take pottery-making workshops

2. Walk or Cycle Around the Island: The island is car-free and ideal for slow travel.
Bicycle rentals are cheap and easily available.

3. Visit Wat Poramai Yikawat: The main temple of Koh Kret features-

• A white leaning Chedi
• Intricate Mon architecture
• Historical artifacts

4. Enjoy the Weekend Market: A lively riverside market offering-

• Mon desserts
• Coconut sweets
• Herbal drinks
• Handicrafts
• Local street food

Best visited on Saturdays and Sundays.

5. Try Authentic Mon Food: Must-try dishes-

• Thot Man Nor Kala (banana blossom fritters)
• Khao Cher (rice in iced jasmine water)
• Pottery-shaped sweets

6. Explore Riverside Cafés: Relax with views of the Chao Phraya River, ideal for photography and quiet breaks.

7. Take a Boat Tour Around the Island:

• 60–100 THB (Rs 145–240)
• Scenic ride showing village life and floating houses

Best Season

• November to February (cool and pleasant weather)

Best Days

• Saturdays and Sundays for the full market experience

Best Time of Day

• Morning to early afternoon: 9 AM – 2 PM

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• Carry cash; many stalls do not accept cards.
• Visit on weekends for maximum activity.
• Stay hydrated, especially in hot months.
• Be respectful when entering temples.
• Try Mon sweets, they’re unique to this island.
• Rent a bicycle early before crowds arrive.

Koh Kret Island, Bangkok, is a rare cultural retreat that reveals Thailand’s quieter, more traditional side. With its centuries-old pottery heritage, scenic riverside paths, vibrant weekend markets, and warm Mon community, the island offers an authentic local experience far removed from Bangkok’s busy streets. Whether you’re cycling through shaded lanes, tasting traditional Mon cuisine, photographing village life, or watching artisans shape clay by hand, every moment on Koh Kret feels deeply rooted in culture and simplicity. Ideal for families, culture lovers, and slow-travel enthusiasts, this serene island makes a perfect day trip and a meaningful addition to a well-planned Bangkok package.