Chao Phraya River, also known as Maenam Chao Phraya and dubbed “Venice of the East” is the major river in Thailand that flows south through the nation’s central plain for more than 225 miles (365km) to the Gulf of Thailand. Chao Phraya River plays an important role in the past and present Bangkok, as the capitals have all been established on the riverbanks since 1782 (the beginning of the Rattanakosin Kingdom), and a valuable means of transportation, and trading of the national’s traditional exports of teaks and rice south to Bangkok in old days.

Back in old days since the early Rattanakosin period, the citizens of Bangkok settled by the Chao Phraya River and gradually spread into the core of the country. They lived a traditional way of life by the river more than in the inland areas. Today, visitors may still find houses, temples, high-end hotels, as well as locals who still live a traditional way on board by the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.

A visit to the Chao Phraya River has always been popular for one’s Thai travel. Nowadays, visitors would explore the majestic charms of the Chao Phraya River simply through taking the dinner cruise or canal tours. There are a number of temples and must-see attractions by the river, including the Royal Barge Museum, Taling Chan Floating Market, Orchid Farm, Snake Farm, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Bangkok, Millennium Hilton Bangkok Hotel, the Peninsula Bangkok, and Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok are some of the luxurious hotels around Chao Phraya River offering sweeping city and river views, as well as shuttle boat and private pier for guests to experience the peaceful atmosphere amidst bustling Bangkok.