Maeklong market in Thailand.
The Maeklong market in Thailand: a journey through Siam ‘s history and tourism.
Located in Samut Songkhram province, some 70 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, Maeklong market is one of the most unique markets in the world. This picturesque place, which attracts thousands of tourists every year, is not only a traditional market where locals come to buy and sell fresh produce. It’s famous for its railroad tracks, which literally run through the market, creating a fascinating and almost surreal scene. But how did this market become such a phenomenon? To understand, it’s important to delve into the history of the Maeklong railroad and see how it developed into a major tourist attraction.
History of the Maeklong railway.
The history of the Maeklong Railway dates back to the time when Thailand, formerly known as Siam, was looking to modernize its infrastructure. Construction of the railroad began in 1905 during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), a visionary monarch who wanted to develop rail transport to boost the country’s economy. Initially designed to transport goods, particularly seafood, the railroad linked the coastal areas to Bangkok, facilitating the delivery of fresh produce to the capital’s markets.
The Maeklong-Ban Laem train was completed in 1907, and the line soon became vital to the local economy. It transported the produce of local fishermen and farmers to markets in Bangkok, including Samut Sakhon, an important town on the train route. The railroad played a crucial role in the region’s economic development, enabling locals to move their goods quickly and efficiently.
A market like no other.
As the village of Maeklong grew, a market naturally formed around the station, with locals taking advantage of the regular influx of trains to sell their wares to travelers. Over time, the market expanded, and stalls began to be set up directly on the tracks, a practice that at first sight seems surprising, but has become an essential feature of the market.
What makes the Maeklong market so special is that it operates in perfect harmony with the passing trains. Several times a day, each time a train approaches, a unique spectacle unfolds: shopkeepers quickly fold up their umbrellas, tables and wares to let the train pass. Once the train has left, everything is back in place within minutes, and the market resumes business as usual.
The transformation into a tourist attraction.
This unusual sight did not go unnoticed by curious travelers. From the 1990s onwards, as Thailand began to establish itself as a major tourist destination, the Maeklong market attracted the attention of international tourists. The idea of seeing a train pass through an active market became a must-see experience for many visitors.
The local authorities, realizing the tourist potential of this singularity, began promoting the market as an attraction. Day trips from Bangkok were organized, allowing tourists to discover not only the Maeklong market, but also other cultural and natural attractions in the area.
Today, the Maeklong market is one of the most photographed places in Thailand. Tourists flock to capture the moment when the train cuts through the crowd of traders, creating a striking contrast between tradition and modernity. However, despite the influx of tourists, the market remains a lively place for the locals, who continue to sell their wares as they always have.
Maeklong Market is much more than just a place to trade; it’s a living testimony to Thailand’s history and evolution. What was once a simple railroad used to transport goods is now a global attraction, drawing visitors eager to experience something unique. Maeklong Market symbolizes a place’s ability to evolve, adapt and prosper while preserving its cultural and historical essence. A visit to this market is not just a tourist attraction, but a living piece of Thai history.
Maeklong (Thailand) – May 2024
