Plong Liam is a rare and significant industrial heritage site located in Krathum Baen District, Samut Sakhon Province. It is a remaining structure of a sugar factory established by Western investors, particularly British merchants, who entered Thailand during the reign of King Rama IV. This site stands as an important piece of evidence reflecting the prosperity of the sugar industry in the past, when both banks of the Tha Chin River were once filled with sugarcane plantations and numerous sugar mills.

The architectural design of Plong Liam is highly distinctive. The chimney was constructed entirely of solid red bricks in a square shape, rising to a height_ of approximately 30 meters. The structure is remarkably strong and stable, even though it stands on low-lying riverbank land. The traditional bricklaying technique without plaster reveals the natural texture and color of the bricks, which have changed over time, giving the chimney a mysterious and unique character.

The surrounding atmosphere of Plong Liam is quiet and peaceful, as it is located along the Tha Chin River and surrounded by trees and the orchard-based lifestyle of the local community. Visitors can enjoy the cool river breeze and sense the lingering historical atmosphere hidden within the modern environment. Although the factory buildings themselves have disappeared over time, the chimney still stands tall as a symbol of diligence, labor spirit, and Thailand’s transition into the industrial era.

Plong Liam is also an ideal destination for those interested in industrial or vintage-style photography. The reddish-brown bricks contrast beautifully with the blue sky and the lush greenery around the site. For historians and artists, this location serves as a valuable learning resource and a source of inspiration regarding technological development in the past. General visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the river and absorb the calm and simple atmosphere.

Plong Liam is therefore a cultural tourism destination well worth visiting, offering travelers a chance to experience a living fragment of history and to appreciate the perseverance and hard work of people in the past who helped build the economic foundations of Samut Sakhon that continue to this day.

Private Car:

• From Bangkok, take Phet Kasem Road to Setthakit 1 Road towards Krathum Baen. Follow signs towards Wat Tha Mai; Plong Liam is located near the temple by the river.

Public Transport:

• Take a Bangkok-Krathum Baen bus to the Krathum Baen market, then take a local taxi or motorcycle taxi to Plong Liam.

By Boat:

• Charter a boat from Mahachai Pier or nearby piers to cruise along the Tha Chin River for the most impressive view of the chimney from the water.

Best Season:

• Recommended during late afternoon (15:30 - 17:00) when the sunlight hits the red bricks, creating a stunning golden-orange glow.

Attire:

• As it is an open outdoor area by the river, bring a hat or umbrella and wear comfortable shoes for walking on soil or grass.

Photography:

• The view from the river captures the height_ of the chimney most clearly. From the ground, use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale.

Conservation:

• Please help keep the area clean and do not scratch or damage the ancient bricks to preserve them for the future.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

• Foreign visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

Opening Hours

• Open Daily (External viewing 24 hours)

• Special note: Recommended to visit during daylight (06:00 – 18:30) for safety and better visibility.