Khlong Hae Floating Market is a traditional floating market located in Hat Yai, Songkhla province, southern Thailand. It is one of the largest and most popular floating markets in the region, known for its wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Visitors can also find traditional Thai snacks, clothing, and souvenirs. The market is usually crowded during the weekends and holidays, so it is best to visit during the weekdays.
In addition to the traditional offerings of fresh produce and seafood, Khlong Hae Floating Market also offers a unique shopping experience as vendors sell their goods from boats rather than from a fixed location on land. Many of the boats are decorated in colorful traditional Thai style, adding to the market’s lively atmosphere.
The market is open from early morning until late afternoon, and it is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, sample local food and drink, and experience the local culture. There are also several small restaurants and food stalls located around the market where visitors can enjoy a meal or snack.
Khlong Hae Floating Market is also a popular spot for photography as it offers a variety of interesting and picturesque scenes, including the colorful boats, vendors, and the lively atmosphere.
It is also important to note that Khlong Hae Floating Market is a popular tourist spot, and it can get very crowded during peak tourist season. It is best to visit the market early in the morning or during the week to avoid the crowds and to have a more enjoyable experience.
There are several activities visitors can enjoy at Khlong Hae Floating Market. Some popular activities include:
- Shopping: Visitors can browse the boats and shops for traditional Thai goods such as clothing, souvenirs, and handmade crafts.
- Food tasting: Visitors can sample a variety of traditional Thai foods and snacks such as fresh fruits, seafood, and desserts.
- Boat rides: Visitors can take a boat tour around the market and the surrounding canals to see the market from a different perspective.
- Photography: Visitors can take pictures of the colorful boats, vendors, and the lively atmosphere of the market.
- Cultural Experience: Visitors can learn about the local culture by observing the daily life of the vendors and their customers.
- Enjoy the scenery: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the market and enjoy the scenery of the canals and the surrounding area.
- Take a Thai cooking class: Many vendors offer cooking classes where visitors can learn how to cook traditional Thai dishes.
It is worth noting that many vendors and shops at the market accept cash only, so it is best to bring cash with you when you visit the market.