Mahachai Market (Samut Sakhon): the fish market and its harbour
Mahachai (Maha Chai) is the fishing port of Samut Sakhon, about 40 km south-west of Bangkok at the mouth of the Tha Chin River. Its seafood market is one of the largest in the country: fish, crabs, prawns, squid, shellfish and dried fish are sold by the tonne, and part of it supplies Bangkok's restaurants. The atmosphere is that of a wholesale market: wet floors, ice, vendors shouting, barrows passing. Most people come for the morning bustle, then to eat fresh fish at one of the restaurants on the quay. The visit easily extends to the Maeklong railway market, further along the same line: see our guide to the Maeklong train market.
Highlights
The fish stalls
Fish from the Gulf of Thailand, mackerel, crabs, prawns and squid lie on ice or swim alive in tanks. Mackerel and dried fish are among the best-selling products here.
The Tha Chin River ferry
The Maeklong railway line stops at the riverbank: you cross by ferry, for a few baht, to the Tha Chalom pier, then take a second train.
The Tha Chalom fishing village
Across the river, this village of wooden houses on the water and narrow lanes gives a calmer picture of harbour life.
The seafood restaurants
Along the quay and near the market, restaurants cook on request the fish, crabs and prawns bought or chosen on the spot. Check the price by weight before ordering.
Practical info
Tips
- Entry to the market is free. Restaurant prices vary a lot: ask for the price by weight or per dish before ordering. Wear closed shoes that can take water, and clothes you do not mind getting dirty; the smell of fish is strong and the floor is slippery. The stalls are liveliest early in the morning; late morning is quieter and hotter. Always ask before photographing vendors. The market is a few metres from Mahachai station: the visit combines well with the Maeklong train market and the Amphawa and Maeklong floating market trip, as well as with train day trips from Bangkok. See also: Bangkok's markets and day trips from Bangkok.
How to get there
By train from Wongwian Yai station in Thonburi (on foot from Wongwian Yai BTS station, Silom line): about one hour and 10 baht to Mahachai station, a few metres from the market. Alternatively, an air-conditioned bus from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) to Samut Sakhon. Address: Mahachai, Mueang Samut Sakhon, Samut Sakhon 74000.
Opening hours
Nearby
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