Mercato dei fiori Pak Khlong Talat
Bangkok
Pak Khlong Talat is the largest wholesale flower market in Thailand. It sits close to the great river, in the heart of the old city, full of colours and scents.
A port on the canal
The market was born where the canal meets the river. Its name says so: it is the market at the mouth of the canal. Long ago, boats stopped here to unload.
Today it is the flower hub of the whole country. Many families have worked here for generations. They know the journey of every flower, from the field to the stall.
What to see from outside
From the pavement of Chak Phet Road, look at the rows of stalls. There are roses, lilies, gerberas and flowers of every colour. Further on, quick hands thread flowers one by one to make long garlands.
The flowers come from many provinces of the country, even from the hills of the north. They arrive fresh, in baskets and boxes.
A tip for families
There is no air conditioning here and it is often crowded. Dress lightly and bring water. Stay on the pavement and let the workers through: the floor is often wet. Watch from outside without getting in the way, and hold the little ones by the hand.
