Khlong Saen Saep

Khlong Saen Saep is a canal (khlong) in Central Thailand, connecting the Chao Phraya River to Prachinburi Province and Chachoengsao. A portion of the canal is used for public transport by an express boat service in Bangkok. The 72 km long canal passes through 21 districts and is connected to more than 100 smaller canals.

The Saen Saep Canal was built on the order of King Rama III during a conflict between Siam and Annam over Cambodia in order to establish water transport for soldiers and weapons.  Construction began in 1837 and was finished within three years. Klong Saen Saep was once filled with lotus plants. King Mongkut in his fourth reign (1851-1868) built Sa Pathum Palace (Lotus Pond Palace) in Siam District. The name of the palace and present-day Pathum Wan District are derived from it.

Nowadays, a boat trip on the Klong is not only a refreshing experience but can also be a great time-saver in the ever-present traffic chaos in Bangkok. Have a look at the film of our member Philipp Lischer: https://vimeo.com/834972946