Ever wondered how Bangkok’s waterways shaped its history? The Bangkok Yai Canal \u2192 Chao Phraya River Boat offers a unique journey. It connects two vital waterways. Let’s explore the story of this important route.
Khlong Bangkok Yai is more than just a canal. It is a historic waterway with a rich past. Its current length stretches 6 km. The canal winds through Bangkok Yai Thon Buri and Phasi Charoen districts.
Originally Khlong Bangkok Yai was part of the Chao Phraya River. The river used to meander. This made boat travel slow and lengthy. King Chairachathirat sought to change this in the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
He ordered a shortcut canal’s construction. This was Khlong Lat Bangkok. It reduced travel time significantly. The Chao Phraya River shifted its course. The old path became Khlong Bangkok Yai and Khlong Bangkok Noi.
During King Taksin’s reign the Thonburi Kingdom arose. It was on the Chao Phraya River’s west side. Khlong Bangkok Yai’s banks became home to many. Nobles resided here. This led to names like Khlong Bang Luang meaning Canal of Nobles. Khlong Bangkok Yai was the first canal in Thailand to have lampposts.
Today the Bangkok Yai Canal \u2192 Chao Phraya River Boat route highlights cultural tourism. You can see many houses of worship along the banks. These include Wat Molilokayaram and Bang Luang Mosque. Historic sites also dot the landscape. One example is Khlong Bang Luang Artist House.
The Chao Phraya Express Boat Company facilitates travel here. It was established in 1971. Khunying Supatra Singholaka founded it. The company provides essential river transport services.
The Chao Phraya Express Boat has played a vital role for over 53 years. It helps people navigate Bangkok’s waterways. New air-conditioned catamaran boats launched in 2020. These boats run between Nonthaburi and Sathorn. They connect to rail systems like the BTS and MRT.
The Chao Phraya Express Boat operates various types of boats. Most are built of wood. Single-screw boats can carry 90 to 120 passengers. Twin-screw boats accommodate 120 to 180 people.
The Chao Phraya Express Boat service uses a color-coded flag system. This helps passengers identify routes. The boats transport about 40000 passengers daily.
The Bangkok Yai Canal \u2192 Chao Phraya River Boat route is a journey through time. It showcases Bangkok’s history and culture. As you glide along these waterways remember the kings and nobles who shaped them. The lampposts once new are now a reminder of progress.