Khlong Dan Floating Market is a cultural floating market located at the border between Ranot District, Songkhla Province, and Hua Sai District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. This area is unique as it sits at the confluence of three canals: Khlong Ranot, Khlong Hua Sai, and Khlong Chaloem–Phraek Mueang, allowing the communities of both provinces to share a connected way of life through waterways without a clear cultural boundary. In the past, Khlong Dan served as an important water-based trading hub for agricultural and fishing communities. Locals primarily used boats to transport goods such as rice, fish, and agricultural produce. However, as road transportation developed, the role of the floating market gradually declined, leading to a period of economic slowdown, and many wooden canal-side houses were abandoned.

Later, local residents joined forces to revive the old market and bring it back to life. They began by restoring traditional wooden houses, building wooden bridges connecting both sides of the canal, and organizing a community market held once a week. The core idea of the development was to “preserve the old while keeping it alive” rather than replacing it with modern structures. Today, Khlong Dan Floating Market has been developed into a cultural tourism community that emphasizes traditional ways of life. The atmosphere is filled with raised wooden houses along the canal and wooden walkways that connect different zones of the community. Visitors can walk through and observe local riverside life closely, experiencing a continuous and unified community space.

In terms of food, the market is well known for Southern Thai local dishes and rare traditional sweets such as Khanom Kho, Khanom Padha, Khanom Bok, Khao Yum (Southern Thai rice salad), and herbal drinks often served in bamboo containers instead of plastic. This reflects a strong commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable tourism practices.In addition, the market features traditional cultural performances such as Nora dance and local music performed by community youth, as well as evening boat tours along the canal that offer visitors a different perspective of the riverside scenery. Homestay accommodations are also available for those who wish to stay overnight and experience the local lifestyle more closely.

Khlong Dan Floating Market is open only on Saturdays each week. The late afternoon is the best time to visit due to the pleasant weather and full availability of vendors, while in the evening the entire market is beautifully illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere along the canal.

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How to Get There

• By car: From Songkhla city, take Highway 408 toward Ranot District and continue toward Hua Sai District. When reaching the provincial border area, clear signs will indicate the entrance to the market. Parking is available within the community area.

• By public transport: Take a minivan or bus on the Songkhla–Nakhon Si Thammarat or Hat Yai–Nakhon Si Thammarat routes. Get off at the market entrance area, then take a motorcycle taxi into the market.

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Travel Tips

• It is recommended to visit in the late afternoon around 15:30–17:00 when the weather is pleasant and all vendors are open.

• From around 18:00 onward, the market lights are turned on, reflecting beautifully on the canal and creating a perfect photo atmosphere.

• Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept QR code payments.

• Please help keep the area clean and avoid littering into the canal to support eco-friendly tourism.

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Admission Fee:

• Free of charge (donations are welcomed to support community activities).

Opening Hours:

• Open only on Saturdays, from 12:00 – 20:00

• Peak hours: 16:00 – 19:30