Kong Khong Market is a traditional retro-style market located on an important historical site in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, an area once known as “Dan Khanon Luang.” During the Ayutthaya period, this area served as a major river tax checkpoint, playing a crucial role in controlling trade and river transportation between Ayutthaya and surrounding regions. The site stands as clear evidence of Thailand’s past economic prosperity and well-organized trading system.

The unique identity of Kong Khong Market lies in the revival of traditional trading practices, where visitors are required to bend down or “kong khong” to browse goods and converse with vendors. This distinctive interaction is the origin of the market’s name and helps create a warm, friendly atmosphere, free from the rush of modern markets, allowing visitors to experience the simplicity of traditional Thai life.

The market area is designed as a traditional Thai village, featuring wooden houses, natural color tones, thatched roofs, and neatly arranged stalls. The environment is clean, shady, and historically harmonious, making visitors feel as though they have stepped back in time into an old riverside community. The overall ambiance emphasizes tranquility, simplicity, and a close connection with nature.

Products sold at the market focus on local foods and traditional Thai desserts that are increasingly rare today, such as khanom kong, khanom thuay, khanom tom, along with freshly prepared savory dishes like traditional som tam and other local specialties. The market also offers handicrafts, woven products, and household items made from wood and clay, reflecting local wisdom and a nature-based lifestyle. Most vendors use natural packaging materials such as banana leaves and coconut shells, reinforcing the concept of an eco-friendly and conservation-focused market.

Another charming aspect of Kong Khong Market is the hospitality of the vendors, who dress in traditional Thai attire, greet visitors with warm smiles, and are eager to share stories about their products and the history of the area. On certain days, cultural performances such as traditional folk dances add liveliness and entertainment to the market, making it both a relaxing and educational destination.

Kong Khong Market is an ideal destination for families, cultural travelers, and food enthusiasts seeking authentic Thai flavors while learning about local history. It is also a popular spot for photographers who wish to capture images of a vintage market atmosphere, traditional costumes, and beautifully presented local dishes. Overall, the market perfectly blends history, culture, and leisure into one memorable experience.

Private Car:

• Use the Bang Pa-In inland route (Road No. 3477) heading toward Ayutthaya; the market is right on the main road with ample parking.

Public Transport:

• Take a train to Bang Pa-In or Ayutthaya Station, then use a local songthaew that runs through the inland Bang Pa-In route.

Best Visiting Season:

• Morning (09:00 – 11:00 AM) is recommended for the widest variety of food and cooler weather.

Dress Code:

• Casual attire is fine, but wearing Thai traditional dress or Sarongs is perfect for photos here.

Photography:

• Vendors here are happy to be photographed; just a quick polite ask before close-up shots goes a long way.

Planning:

• The market is open only from Thursday to Sunday and on public holidays. Please check your calendar before visiting.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free

• Foreign visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Open Thu - Sun and Public Holidays: 09:00 – 16:00