Talat Phlu Food Market Walk: Hidden Gems on King Taksin’s Historic Thonburi Trail

Introduction

Talat Phlu Food Market: Explore the Authentic Heart of Thonburi

Are you ready to peel back the modern layers of Bangkok and explore a side of the city where history and street food culture still reign supreme? My Talat Phlu Food Market Walk is your off-the-beaten-path route to an authentic corner of the city. Perfect for the adventurous traveler. 

Forget the bustling tourist traps. Instead, this self-guided journey takes you deep into the soul of Thonburi (Thon Buri), the historic west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The route connects the iconic Wongwian Yai Circle to the legendary food stalls of Talat Phlu.

Prefer to jump straight to the action? Then access the full map instantly.

From the Big Circle to the Golden Viewpoint

The trail begins in Wongwian Yai which literally means “big circle”.  This refers to the large roundabout which was opened in 1932.  In the centre, the majestic statue of King Taksin the Great has stood watch since 1953. This neighborhood, a vibrant blend of old wooden homes and low-rise apartments, immediately throws you into a local rhythm.

Initially, dive into the hidden lanes near Wongwian Yai SRT station, where you’ll explore bustling morning markets and find a traditional betel leaf workshop. Afterwards, as you venture deeper, you’ll cross the train tracks (taking care) into a peaceful Muslim community. There, you can catch a glimpse of a beautiful purple mosque and historic wooden houses.

Along the way, we make a stop at the culturally significant Wat Intharam Worawiharn, which houses a shrine dedicated to King Taksin. You’ll also find a small personal plaque of remembrance from a husband to his wife, which is mentioned in my ‘Detailed Guide’. Continuing on, we reach a remarkable viewpoint of the Golden Buddha along a tranquil canal terrace. Afterward, we take a well-deserved rest at Suriya Coffee (06:00 to 11:00 Tue to Sun). A special thanks to Sayantan’s Photography for revealing this hidden gem.

Talat Phlu: Movie Location

The acclaimed movie, “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” (also known as Lahn Mah), was primarily filmed in the historic Talat Phlu community where the old-world streets served as the ideal setting for the film. The neighborhood anchors the intergenerational story, immersing viewers in rich culture and tradition.

Key filming spots include the Talat Phlu SRT Station and the surrounding streets lined with their charming old Sino-Thai shophouses. The bustling character of the neighborhood, with its historic markets and legendary food stalls, became an integral part of the film’s charm. Why not take a stroll in the footsteps of the movie’s characters? Experience the magic of Talat Phlu for yourself.

Talat Phlu Street Food Paradise at the End of the Line

Talat Phlu, a name derived from the Thai words for “market” and “betel leaf,” holds immense cultural and historical significance. In the past, it served as the primary wholesale market for betel nut and betel leaf, a traditional Thai chew. These betel leaves were once cultivated extensively in the surrounding fields of Thonburi by Sino-Thai families. However, large-scale betel cultivation declined due to a mid-20th-century government ban on betel chewing as part of modernization efforts. Despite this setback, the market’s name and commercial legacy continue to thrive, transforming it into a foodie paradise.

This neighborhood, renowned throughout Bangkok for its culinary heritage, is the culmination of the route. The main Talat Phlu Street Food Market, nestled beneath the expressway overpass, and the surrounding area near the Talat Phlu SRT station, are where generations-old recipes are preserved. Occasionally, an amulet market also takes place here, evoking a similar atmosphere to its larger counterpart on the other side of the Chao Phraya River.

In Conclusion

This walk is a feast for the senses and definitely one of the top non-touristy things to do in Bangkok. Ultimately, the true heart of hidden Bangkok’s local street food scene lies along this historic Thonburi trail. Along the way, grab a coffee and Thai snack at the classic Suriya Coffee as you explore the Wat Klang Market. 

Lace up your shoes—it’s time to discover the hidden gems waiting between the circles and the tracks (watch for the camera emoji 📷). Along your journey, remember, local Thai people are incredibly welcoming. Just offer a smile and a “hello,” and you’re sure to receive one right back!

Highlights

Superscript links indicate waypoints on the map below

• Wongwian Yai market.¹
• Road circle and King Taksin’s statue.²
• Wongwian Yai SRT station, nearby alleys and betel leave workshop.³ 
• Train tracks, Muslim area and mosque.⁴ 
• Wat Intharam Worawiharn.
• King Taksin’s shrine.⁵
• Somboon Bridge Shrine.
• Suriya Coffee.⁶
• Golden Buddha viewpoint on the canal terrace. 
• Wat Klang Market.⁷
• Talat Phlu Food market.⁸
• Talat Phlu SRT station.

Directions

The journey begins at the Wongwian Yai BTS station. After navigating a few interesting lanes, you’ll arrive at the bustling Wongwian Yai Market¹ 📷 and the central traffic circle featuring the statue of King Taksin the Great.² 📷

The route then progresses to the adjacent Wongwian Yai SRT station³ where scheduled trains can be seen arriving and departing . Here, keep an eye out for a traditional betel leaf workshop 📷 and the charming nearby alleys, before the path follows the train tracks directly into the local Muslim community, passing a serene mosque.⁴

Along the way, key historical and religious stops include Wat Intharam Worawiharn and the revered King Taksin’s Shrine.⁵ 📷 Further on, you’ll be rewarded with scenic views, notably a Golden Buddha viewpoint 📷 from a peaceful canal terrace, and a welcome break at the traditional Suriya Coffee.⁶

The final segment covers two more vital local hubs. The walk continues through the Wat Klang Market⁷ and eventually leads to the ultimate destination: the famed Talat Phlu Street Food Market⁸ and its adjacent SRT station.📷 The final stretch along the railway tracks and a road concludes the walk at the Talat Phlu BTS station. The total distance is about 4.5 km.

Map

The following map shows the entire route, with highlights and reference points to help you stay on track.

To view the map legend or follow the route in Google Maps, tap these icons in the map header.

View the map legend.

Follow the route in Google Maps.

Detailed Guide

For comprehensive directions and additional information, click ‘Detailed Guide’ below.

Wongwian Yai to Talat Phlu

Detailed Guide

Send download link to:

Wrapping up

This walking route guides you through the undeniably vibrant, historic heart of Thonburi, taking you from the buzz of Wongwian Yai Market to the renowned street food of Talat Phlu. Be prepared for narrow alleys, lively markets, and hidden cultural and historic gems.

As always, if you find any errors in this post, I would be very grateful if you would reach out to me. You can drop a comment below, use the contact form, or email me at lens_wanderings@icloud.com.

Best wishes
Derek

Return to Hidden Bangkok Gems: Your Ultimate Guide