What is the best walking tour in Thonburi for hidden gems?

The Kudichin community and the riverside temples like Wat Prayurawongsawas are the top choices. This area offers a unique mix of Portuguese heritage and traditional Thai-Chinese architecture that you won't find in the city center.

Is Thonburi worth visiting?

Absolutely. Thonburi offers a much more local and quiet experience compared to the busy streets of Sukhumvit. It is home to some of Bangkok's oldest communities and most significant historical sites.

Can I find food along this walking route?

Yes, the Kudichin area is famous for 'Khanom Farang Kudichin,' a traditional sponge cake. There are also several small riverside cafes and local street food stalls near the temples.

What should I wear for a walking route in Thonburi?

Since the route includes several active religious sites like Wat Kanlayanamit and Santa Cruz Church, you should wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Is the Thonburi riverside walk accessible for seniors?

It is a moderate walk. While the temple grounds are generally flat, the alleys in Kudichin are narrow and the Memorial Bridge requires climbing some stairs to reach the pedestrian path.

What is the best time of day to explore Thonburi?

Early morning is best, ideally starting around 8:30 AM. This allows you to avoid the intense afternoon sun and see the local community markets in action.

How do I get to the start of the Thonburi walk?

The easiest way is to take the MRT to Sanam Chai station and walk across the Memorial Bridge, or take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to the Memorial Bridge Pier (N6).

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step away from the glimmering skyscrapers and neon lights of central Bangkok to discover Thonburi, the city’s historic 'other side.' For a brief period in the 18th century, Thonburi served as the capital of Siam, and today it remains a treasure trove of riverside heritage that feels worlds apart from the modern metropolis. This self-guided walk invites you to explore a unique multicultural tapestry where Buddhist temples, Catholic churches, and Chinese shrines stand side-by-side along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Your journey begins by crossing the iconic Memorial Bridge, offering panoramic views of the river traffic. From there, you will delve into the labyrinthine alleys of the Kudichin community, a neighborhood founded by Portuguese settlers over 200 years ago. This area is one of Bangkok’s best-kept secrets, famous for its unique fusion architecture and traditional bakeries that still produce 'Khanom Farang,' a Portuguese-inspired sponge cake. As you follow this walking route, you will encounter the stunning white stupa of Wat Prayurawongsawas, which earned a UNESCO Award of Merit for its restoration, and the towering Santa Cruz Church with its salmon-colored dome. This neighborhood stroll is more than just a sightseeing trip; it is an immersion into the soul of old Bangkok. You will see how diverse ethnic groups—Thai, Portuguese, Chinese, and Muslim—have lived in harmony for centuries. The route also features grand riverside temples like Wat Kanlayanamit, home to one of the largest seated Buddha images in the country, and concludes in the tranquil gardens of the Princess Mother Memorial Park. This is a moderate-paced walking tour Bangkok enthusiasts will love for its authenticity and depth, providing a rare glimpse into the hidden gems of the riverside. Whether you are a history buff or a photography lover, this self-guided adventure offers the freedom to explore independently while uncovering the layers of Thonburi’s fascinating past.

Highlights

Crossing the historic Phra Phutthayotfa (Memorial) Bridge for river views

Admiring the UNESCO-awarded white stupa at Wat Prayurawongsawas

Exploring the 18th-century Portuguese-Thai community of Kudichin

Seeing the massive seated Buddha at Wat Kanlayanamit

Tasting traditional 'Khanom Farang' sponge cakes in hidden bakeries

Finding peace in the lush Princess Mother Memorial Park

Tour Stops (6)

Phra Phutthayotfa Bridge

Known locally as Saphan Phut or Memorial Bridge, this green steel structure was opened in 1932 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Chakri Dynasty and the founding of Bangkok. As you walk across, notice the statue of King Rama I at the foot of the bridge on the Bangkok side. This bridge was the first to connect the two sides of the Chao Phraya River, symbolizing the unification of the old capital, Thonburi, with the new power center. The view from the pedestrian walkway offers a perfect vantage point to see the contrast between the modern skyline and the traditional wooden houses lining the riverbanks. It is a transition point from the bustling city into the quieter, more historic pace of Thonburi.

Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan

This temple is instantly recognizable by its massive, bell-shaped white stupa. Wat Prayurawongsawas is a masterpiece of early 19th-century architecture and was the first temple in Thailand to receive a UNESCO Award of Merit for Cultural Heritage Conservation. Take a moment to look at the unique 'fencing' surrounding the stupa; it is made from ancient iron weapons like swords, axes, and lances, donated by a high-ranking official. Don't miss the 'Turtle Mountain' (Khao Mo) area, a miniature rock garden and pond where locals come to feed the turtles. The peaceful atmosphere here reflects the temple's role as a center for community and spiritual life for nearly two centuries.

Santa Cruz Church

The striking salmon-colored dome of Santa Cruz Church is a landmark of the Kudichin community. The original wooden church was built here in 1770 after King Taksin granted this land to Portuguese soldiers who had fought alongside him. The current Renaissance-style structure dates back to 1913. It stands as a testament to the long-standing relationship between Thailand and Portugal. Look closely at the architectural details, which blend European styles with subtle local influences. The church remains the heart of this Catholic enclave, surrounded by narrow alleys where you can still hear the church bells ringing out over the river, just as they have for generations.

Baan Kudichin Museum

Tucked away in the narrow backstreets, this small private museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the Portuguese-Thai community. The ground floor often serves as a cafe where you can try the famous 'Khanom Farang Kudichin,' a sponge cake made with a recipe brought over by the Portuguese. The museum upstairs displays heirlooms, old photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of the settlers who integrated into Thai society while maintaining their faith and culinary traditions. It is a wonderful example of local pride and cultural preservation. The rooftop offers a unique 'alley-level' view of the neighborhood's tightly packed rooftops and the nearby church spire.

Wat Kanlayanamit Woramahawihan

As you approach the river again, you’ll find Wat Kanlayanamit, a temple that showcases the deep influence of Chinese culture on Thai art during the reign of King Rama III. The main chapel is exceptionally tall to accommodate the 'Luang Phor Tho,' one of the largest seated Buddha images in Thailand. The temple's name means 'True Friend,' and it was founded by a wealthy Thai-Chinese merchant. Notice the Chinese stone guardians and the intricate porcelain decorations on the gables. The riverside location makes it a popular stop for river boats, but the interior remains a solemn place of worship where the scale of the Buddha image is truly awe-inspiring.

Princess Mother Memorial Park

Your walk concludes at this serene public park, built on the site of the childhood home of Princess Srinagarindra, the mother of King Rama IX. The park features a beautiful reproduction of her modest family home and a small museum detailing her life and royal projects. The gardens are meticulously landscaped with tropical plants and ancient trees, offering a cool, shaded escape from the city noise. It is a place of deep respect for Thais, honoring a princess who was beloved for her simplicity and dedication to the poor. It serves as a perfect, quiet bookend to your exploration of Thonburi’s rich human history.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full route takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. This includes time to explore the temples, visit the museum, and enjoy a snack in the Kudichin neighborhood.