[2025 Samut Sakhon Attraction] Travel Guide for Tha Chalom Roundabout (วงเวียนท่าฉลอม) (Updated May)

#Get a discount without relying on luck **Review of Ban Laem Station Pier, Samut Songkhram Province** Ban Laem Station Pier is a connecting point for travel between **Ban Laem-Mae Klong Train Line** and **Mae Klong River**. It is located near Ban Laem Railway Station. The retro atmosphere and the way of life of the riverside community combined with the lush green nature make it a suitable starting point for traveling to Samut Songkhram. --- ### **Highlights not to be missed** 1. **Take a boat ride to see the way of life by the river** - Rent a long-tailed boat from the pier (price approximately **300-500 baht/boat** for 1 hour) and cruise along the Mae Klong River. See the scenery of the mangrove forest, coconut plantations and traditional fishing communities. - Stop by **Oyster farm** and learn how to farm oysters in a local way. 2. **Experience the shortest train line in Thailand** - The pier is only a 5-minute walk from **Ban Laem Railway Station**. Take the Ban Laem-Mae Klong train (fare **10 baht**) that runs through the iconic Rom Hub Market. 3. **Take vintage photos** - The pier still preserves the identity of the old wooden structure. There are cute photo spots such as trains parked at the platform, colorful fishing boats, and the retro-style Ban Laem station sign. --- ### **Travel and service information** - **Location**: Ban Laem Subdistrict, Mueang Samut Songkhram District (near Amphawa Floating Market) - **Opening and closing hours**: The pier is open all day, while trains have limited trips (check the schedule in advance). - **Cost**: - Mae Klong River cruise fare is 300-500 baht/boat (can accommodate 4-6 people). - 10 baht/person for the train to Mae Klong. - **Parking**: There is a free parking lot near the pier. --- ### **Travel tips** - **Time to visit**: Come during **09.00-11.00** or **15.00-17.00** to conveniently catch the train and get beautiful light for taking photos. - **Prepare**: Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen. Because the pier area has little shade - **Must-try**: Fresh oysters from a riverside farm, starting at **50 baht/tray** --- ### **Nearby places** - **Amphawa Floating Market**: Only 10 minutes away by songthaew (fare **8 baht**). Enjoy boat noodles and Thai desserts - **Samut Songkhram City Pillar Shrine**: Pray for blessings and admire ancient Chinese architecture --- **Summary** Ban Laem Station Pier is a small stopover that should not be missed for those who enjoy the local way of life. Although it is not grand, it is full of the simplicity and charm of the riverside community. This place is suitable for stopping before going to Amphawa Floating Market or taking a car-free train to Mae Klong Umbrella Market!

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck **Review of Ban Laem-Mae Klong Railway Route: Traveling to the View of Salt Fields and Beautiful Nature** Traveling by train from Ban Laem Station to Mae Klong in Samut Songkhram Province is one of the short train routes but is full of charm of riverside lifestyle and nature that is hard to find. Although the distance is only about 30 kilometers and takes about 1 hour, every minute on this wedding train will take you back to experience the simplicity that blends with the salt fields, rivers, canals and old communities that still maintain their uniqueness impressively. **Starting point at Ban Laem Station** Ban Laem Station is located in Ban Laem District, Phetchaburi Province. It is a small colonial-style station that still maintains its original structure. Although it is not as bustling as the big stations, it gives a friendly and intimate feeling. Most of the passengers are locals who use the service regularly or tourists heading to Mae Klong to see the famous Umbrella Market. When the train slowly starts off, the faint sound of the whistle and the rhythm of the wheels hitting the tracks echo in a familiar melody. You will experience the slowness of a "Thai train" that gives you time to absorb every image around you. **Salt Fields: Rare Images of the Samut People's Way of Life** A few minutes after leaving the station The first sight that catches your eye is the vast "salt fields" spreading on both sides of the railway. This area is an important source of sea salt in Thailand. Farmers work from early morning to scoop seawater into the salt fields and wait for the sunlight to burn the produce until they get clean white salt. During the dry season (around November-May), the salt fields are especially beautiful when the salt crust forms into sheets like a mirror, reflecting the sunlight like the sea hidden on land. In some places, there are piles of salt in the shape of cones, similar to small icebergs. Sometimes you can see villagers diligently scooping salt into baskets with brooms. These images are not only beautiful, but also tell the story of the hardships and wisdom of traditional salt production. **Nature on both sides of the road: From mangrove forests to waterways** In addition to the salt fields, this route also takes you through wetlands and lush mangrove forests. Looking out the window, you will see rows of nipa palms, mangroves, and coconut trees leaning down close to the railway tracks. At some points, there are narrow canals winding between the salt fields and the communities. Villagers' fishing boats are parked along the roadside. Some boats are sailing back and forth with the roar of their engines. It is a life that truly relies on nature. When the train passes through the Mae Klong River, you will see a panoramic view of the river. The morning or evening sunlight reflects the sparkling water surface. This is the best time to take pictures because the train moves slowly until it almost stops while people on the boat wave to greet each other in a friendly manner. **Life of the community along the tracks: Simplicity that still breathes** This train not only takes you to see nature but also reflects the way of life of the community along the tracks. There are no tall buildings or shopping malls here, but there are small, colorful wooden houses built along the tracks. Some houses have flower pots lined up, some houses dry fish along the road. Children run around in the rice fields, dogs sleep in the sunlight, while vendors wave to greet passengers warmly. This is a scene that makes the journey not boring even for a second. **Destination at Mae Klong Station: A worthwhile destination** When the train slowly stops at Mae Klong Station, you may feel sorry that the journey has ended. But don't worry, because Mae Klong still has interesting places waiting, such as the Umbrella Market (Mae Klong Market), where tourists can walk to taste local food and continue shopping. **Summary: Poetry on the tracks** Taking the Ban Laem-Mae Klong train is not just a journey. But it is an experience that deeply connects you with nature and local culture. This route is perfect for those who love photography, love the slow life and want to see a glimpse of Thailand that is fading away. Every second on the train is a poem composed by nature and humans, reminding us that...true beauty is often not far from simplicity. **(Additional advice)** - The best time to travel is **in the morning (train departs around 10.30 am)** to avoid the hot sun and enjoy the beautiful light. - **The recommended tourist season is late-early summer** (November-March) when the salt fields are at their most beautiful. - Don't forget to bring your camera and a sun hat!

#Get a discount without relying on luck **Review of Baan Tha Ruea Coffee Shop, Tha Chalom, Samut Sakhon Province** Baan Tha Ruea Coffee Shop is located in Tha Chalom, Mueang Samut Sakhon District, near the Tha Chin River and the famous Tha Chalom Market. It is a simple-style cafe that combines the classic style of the old community with a chill atmosphere. It is suitable for sitting and sipping coffee while watching the riverside lifestyle. **Atmosphere and design** The shop is decorated in natural tones, using wood and leftover materials to create a warm and friendly feeling. It emphasizes both indoor and outdoor seating areas, especially the riverside balcony area where you can see the Tha Chin River and fishing boats passing by. The atmosphere is peaceful and cool. In the evening, you will feel the cool breeze and the setting sun. **Signature menus and snacks** There are both hot and cold coffee drinks, Thai tea, and seasonal fruit smoothies. The must-try menu is the homemade dessert menu, such as young coconut cake, sweet egg dumplings, and freshly fried rice crackers. We recommend trying them with the shop's special iced coffee recipe. **Highlights and Activities** - **Relaxing by the river**: The main selling point is the view of the Tha Chin River and the life of fishermen. - **Take retro photos**: The shop's decorations and the atmosphere of the Tha Chalom community give the picture a lifestyle. - **Walk around the old community**: From the shop, you can walk to the Tha Chalom Market, the local museum, or an important temple like Wat Krok Krak. **Things to know** - The shop may be crowded during holidays. It is recommended to come in the morning or on weekdays for peace. - There is limited parking. You should use a small private car or park in the nearby lot. - Check the opening hours in advance because some days it may be closed for renovation. **Summary** Baan Tha Ruea is a cafe that has "local" as a selling point. It is suitable for those who like a simple atmosphere that still maintains the identity of the old community. The drink and dessert menu is not flashy but has a homely taste. With a riverside view that helps you feel relaxed If you stop by Tha Chalom or the Samut Sakhon-Mahachai route, you should stop by to recharge before continuing. ☕🌊

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck **Review of Ban Laem Railway Station, Samut Songkhram Province** Ban Laem Railway Station is located in Ban Laem District, Samut Songkhram Province. It is part of the Mae Klong Railway Line (Wongwian Yai-Mae Klong Line) which is famous for the Rom Hub Railway Market (Mae Klong Market). Although Ban Laem Station is not the point where the train passes directly through the market, it is the starting point of the journey to this historical railway line. **Atmosphere and Interest** Ban Laem Railway Station gives a retro feel with its old architecture, simple green-cream wooden structures, and peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere. It is suitable for those who love taking pictures and experiencing local life. The station has a long railway track that cuts through the community and coconut fields, creating a unique and beautiful view. **Transportation and Services** From Ban Laem Station, tourists can take the train to Mahachai Station (Mahachai Market) to change trains to Mae Klong Railway Market. Along the way, you will be able to experience the beautiful rice fields, coconut groves, and the Gulf of Thailand coast. There are only a few trains per day, so you should check the schedule in advance. (Normally, there are trains leaving Ban Laem at around 8:30 and 14:30) **Highlights and recommended activities** - **Take vintage photos** at the station and along the railway tracks - **Take a scenic train ride** and experience rural life and nature along the way - **Visit nearby attractions** such as Amphawa Floating Market (20 minutes away), Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram, Don Hoi Lot **Things to know** - The station has basic services such as seating, but there are not many shops. It is recommended to bring water or snacks with you. - Check the latest train schedule before traveling because it may be changed. - If you want to visit the Rom Hup Railway Market, you have to take a connecting train to Mae Klong Station. **Summary** Ban Laem Railway Station is suitable for tourists who want to find peace and local identity. Although it is not crowded, it is full of the charm of the traditional way of life. If you plan well, taking the train from here will be the perfect start to your trip to fully experience both nature and Samut Songkhram culture. 🚂🌴

#TravelPlan 🚂🚂 This weekend, let's find a day trip near Bangkok. We'll go to Tha Chalom. Today, we'll take a chugging train. 😽We'll start our trip at Wongwian Yai Railway Station, which is located on Somdech Phra Chao Taksin Road, near Wongwian Yai. We can buy train tickets here from an automatic ticketing machine. The Wongwian Yai-Mahachai train costs 10 baht. It's a short train, and the trains come almost every hour. While waiting for the train, I recommend having some red pork and crispy pork rice near the station. It's delicious and inexpensive. 🌞The train will be a 3rd-class fan van. You can choose any place you like. We can sit and enjoy the view along the way for about an hour before we reach Mahachai. From here, we'll have to cross the river to Tha Chalom again. But before going to the pier, we'll stop by the 🦑🐟market for a bit because it's on the way. There will be lots of seafood, fruit, and dessert stalls. As we walk along, we'll stop to pay homage to 📌Samut Sakhon City Pillar Shrine📌 and Chao Pho Wichian Choti at the Samut Sakhon City Pillar Shrine, which are nearby. 🛶Then we will walk to the clock tower, which is a ferry port to Tha Chalom. The ferry costs 3 baht per person. The ferry is a car ferry, which means you can also take a motorcycle across. 🚶After arriving at Tha Chalom, we can walk around, visit, and take pictures. The area is not very big. The highlights of Tha Chalom include: 📌Street art with manhole covers in various patterns and bright colors 📌Ban Tha Chalom is a place to stop and take pictures. Inside is a museum of Tha Chalom people's way of life. 📌Wat Laem Suwannaram, pay homage to Luang Pu Leng. There is also a train station here to go to Mae Klong. 😋😋After stopping at the cafe and finding something to eat, we will cross the river back to catch the train back to Bangkok at the same place. #Tha Chalom #Train