Lad Chado 100-Year Market is a historic riverside market of great cultural and historical significance, located along Lat Chado Canal in Phak Hai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. The market was established during a period when water transportation was the primary route of travel and trade. Boats served as the main means of transportation, making the Lat Chado canal area an important commercial hub that supported the daily lives of local communities and flourished for more than a century.

The most distinctive feature of Lat Chado 100-Year-Old Market is its rows of traditional wooden shophouses built parallel to the canal, which have been remarkably well preserved. The original wooden structures, doors, shutters, and vintage shop signs remain intact, creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. The market reflects a simple, warm, and close-knit way of life and has been carefully preserved as a living cultural heritage site that tells the story of riverside commerce and community life in the past.

One of the highlights not to be missed is a walk through the old-style coffee roastery, traditional grocery shops, and long-established stores that still display original tools, utensils, and antique items. The market’s classic charm has made it a popular filming location for Thai films and television dramas such as Boonchu and My Memory Is Short but My Love Is Long. Visitors can observe traces of traditional river life, including boat travel during certain periods, and experience the warm hospitality and friendly smiles of the local residents.

The market becomes especially lively during weekends and important festivals, particularly the Buddhist Lent Candle Procession by Water, a unique tradition held exclusively along Lat Chado Canal and considered one of a kind in the world. On regular weekdays, the market is calm and peaceful, with cool breezes flowing from the canal, making it ideal for leisurely walks, admiring old wooden architecture, and relaxing while enjoying a slow-paced riverside lifestyle that is increasingly rare today.

Lat Chado 100-Year-Old Market is also a paradise for vintage photography enthusiasts and food lovers. The area offers charming photo spots with retro wooden signs and canal-side walkways. Culinary highlights include local specialties such as flavorful boat noodles, traditional brewed coffee, and freshly made Thai desserts prepared by local households. Every element of this historic market is filled with stories and memories, inviting visitors to experience timeless charm while supporting the preservation of Thai riverside culture at Lat Chado.

Private Car:

• From Ayutthaya city, take Highway 3412 (Ayutthaya-Phak Hai) to Phak Hai District, then follow the signs towards Nong Nam Yai Subdistrict and the market.

Public Transport:

• Take a Bangkok-Phak Hai van from Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Phak Hai Market, then take a local taxi or songthaew to reach Lad Chado Market.

Best Time to Visit:

• Saturdays and Sundays between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM are recommended as most shops are open and the atmosphere is livelier than on weekdays.

Dress Code:

• Wear breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes since the market consists of long wooden walkways.

Special Event:

• If you wish to see the Candle Festival on Water, plan your trip during Asalha Puja Day each year.

Souvenirs:

• Don't forget to buy dried salted leaf fish (Pla Salid), a famous local product of Phak Hai District.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free

• Foreign visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 07:00 – 17:00

• Most vibrant on Saturdays and Sundays