Koh Kret Travel Guide

Koh Kret Travel Guide

Koh Kret (เกาะเกร็ด) is a small island in the Chao Phraya River, located in Nonthaburi Province, just north of Bangkok. Known for its rich Mon heritage, Koh Kret is famous for traditional pottery, a serene atmosphere, and a slower pace compared to bustling Bangkok. The island offers a unique day-trip experience where visitors can explore traditional Thai and Mon culture, handicrafts, and local food, all in a peaceful riverside setting.

How to Get There:

• By Public Transport:

  • From Central Bangkok: Take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station (Sukhumvit Line) or Chatuchak Park (MRT). From there, take a bus or taxi to Pak Kret Pier in Nonthaburi.
  • By Boat: You can catch a public boat along the Chao Phraya River to Pak Kret Pier. Once at the pier, take a short ferry ride (around 2-3 THB) across the river to Koh Kret.

• By Car: Drive along Chaeng Wattana Road towards Nonthaburi. Parking is available near the ferry pier.

Top Attractions:

1. Mon Pottery Village:

• Description: The island is famous for its pottery, a craft brought by the Mon people. You can visit several pottery workshops to see artisans at work and purchase beautiful earthenware as souvenirs. The village showcases traditional Mon-style pottery, which is known for its intricate patterns and unglazed clay.
• Tip: Join a pottery-making class for a hands-on experience!

2. Wat Poramai Yikawat:

• Description: This is the island’s most prominent temple, showcasing Mon-style architecture. The temple houses a large reclining Buddha and an ancient stupa, as well as a small museum displaying Mon artifacts and pottery.
• Highlight: The leaning chedi, a famous slanted pagoda by the river, offers great photo opportunities.

3. Koh Kret Walking Trail:

• Description: A picturesque walking trail circles the island, passing through quaint villages, local markets, and lush greenery. The path is about 6 kilometers long, and you can rent a bicycle to explore the island at your own pace.
• Tip: Start your walk in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.

4. Wat Phai Lom:

• Description: Another temple on the island, famous for its peaceful ambiance and the sacred Buddha images inside. The temple complex is surrounded by serene gardens and traditional Mon architecture.

5. Mon Community Museum:

• Description: This small museum provides insight into the history, culture, and daily lives of the Mon people, who are the original inhabitants of Koh Kret.

Activities:

1. Pottery Making Workshop:

• Learn the traditional art of Mon pottery with hands-on workshops where you can create your own pottery piece. Most workshops allow visitors to keep what they make, or you can buy professionally made pieces.

2. Cycling Around the Island:

• Rent a bike from one of the local shops and ride around the island’s perimeter. The ride is leisurely, passing temples, lush greenery, and riverside homes. There are many shady spots to stop, rest, and take in the view.

3. Food Tasting at the Weekend Market:

• The local market, especially bustling on weekends, is filled with vendors selling traditional Thai and Mon dishes. Try some unique local snacks, such as:
  • Tod Mun Pla Krai (Fish Cake)
  • Khao Chae (Rice soaked in cool fragrant water)
  • Kanom Jeen (Fermented rice noodles)
  • Kanom Krok (Coconut pancakes)

4. Boat Ride Around the Island:

• For a different perspective, hire a long-tail boat and cruise around Koh Kret. You’ll get to see riverside temples, stilted homes, and beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River.

Local Food and Drinks:

Koh Kret is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of unique Thai and Mon dishes. Here are some must-try local dishes:

• Mon-style Rice Noodles (Kanom Jeen): These fermented rice noodles are often served with curry or spicy sauce.
• Fried Flowers (Dok Kae Tod): Edible flowers deep-fried in batter, served as a crispy snack.
• Khao Chae: A traditional Mon dish, featuring jasmine-scented rice soaked in cool water, served with side dishes like deep-fried shrimp and stuffed peppers.
• Mon Desserts: Try Kanom Tom (coconut-covered rice balls) and Khao Lam (sticky rice cooked in bamboo).

For drinks, grab a fresh coconut or try some local herbal teas, available at the market.

Best Time to Visit:

Koh Kret can be visited year-round, but the cooler months from November to February are ideal due to the comfortable weather. The weekends are the best time to visit as the markets are livelier, but if you prefer a quieter experience, visit during the week.

Tips for Visiting Koh Kret:

• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking or cycling a lot around the island.
• Bring cash since most local shops, especially in the market, do not accept credit cards.
• Arrive early to avoid the heat and enjoy the island before the crowds arrive, especially on weekends.
• Respect local customs when visiting temples—dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering temple buildings.
• Bargain politely at the market, but remember the locals appreciate fair trade for their handmade products.

Suggested Itinerary:

Morning:

• Arrive at Pak Kret Pier and take the ferry to Koh Kret.
• Explore Wat Poramai Yikawat and the leaning chedi.
• Visit the Mon Pottery Village to see artisans at work and join a pottery workshop.

Lunch:

• Head to the weekend market for a local lunch of kanom jeen and fried flowers.

Afternoon:

• Walk or cycle around the island, visiting Wat Phai Lom and the Mon Community Museum.
• Take a boat ride around the island to enjoy the riverside views.

Evening:

• Catch the sunset at one of the riverside spots before taking the ferry back to Pak Kret Pier.

Koh Kret is a perfect destination for a day trip, offering a glimpse of traditional Thai and Mon life, unique crafts, and local culinary delights. Its proximity to Bangkok makes it an easy and relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.