Koh Kret, Thailand

An island with its own culture

Experience

The Chao Phraya river slowly snakes it’s way through Bangkok and into the mouth of the sea. For centuries it has been a primary transportation method, including the movement of products and of people. Just as a vein twists and turns through your body, pumping the vital life nutrients and oxygen throughout, rivers have a very similar 2 dimensional twists and turns. Some of these twists almost appear as if the river will fold back in on itself on the return. This switchback navigation is of course not ideal, as the fastest way from point A to point B is a straight line. You can imagine how much slower and strenuous that would be moving upstream, especially before the days of motors! This begins the story of how Bangkok’s very own island of Koh Kret was born into the world. (Variations of the spelling include Ko Kret, and Koh Kred).

What is the history of Koh Kret Island?

Koh Kret is an artificial island that came into existence in 1722 during the construction of the Om Ket river, which was originally a canal. Over time, as the canal underwent multiple widening processes, a portion of land became isolated, giving rise to what is now recognized as Koh Kret.

Slavery, sadly, has at one point or another found it’s way to nearly every corner of the world. In Thailand’s past, it was the indigenous hill tribe people who dominated Northern Thailand, but were often enslaved by the dynasties of the South. In the early 1700’s, a bypass was needed to speed up access along the river. The Mon hill tribe slaves set up along the riverside and dug the trenches which would eventually be widened and spread.  This caused that piece of land in the peninsula of the old loop of river to be cut off from the mainland, creating an island large enough to eventually house 7 villages in the middle of the river. The island later became known as Koh Kret. The Mon tribes settled along the river front, and occupied much of the newly formed island. The isolation on Koh Kret from the rest of their northern counterparts has in turn created a unique branch of the Mon’s lineage, with it’s own unique foods, handicrafts and culture.

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SEE – Photos & Videos

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Do – Activities & Attractions

Along with some beautiful temples, parks, handicraft shops and food vendors, which seem to be found at every turn in Thailand, there are some very unique things to see and do while visiting Bangkok’s island villages. Koh Kret has several small, quaint villages scattered around the island. You can easily get from one to another by foot or bicycle, these being the most popular choices, as many paths are too narrow for practical use of scooters.

The largest village contains a couple age-old Wats (Thai Buddhist temples). There are food stalls scattered throughout. Most interestingly, there is a typical Buddhist stupa which has a slight twist. At one point it started sinking down a slope into the river, until reinforcements were made and the stupa was saved. Rather than propping it back upright, it was left on its tilt, and has become iconic amongst Thais, much like the leaning tower of Pisa in Italy. There is also a large museum with fairly old relics, paintings, wood carvings, and historical depictions of life on Koh Kret when it was initially created.

Within all the villages, amidst the handicraft shops, you will find an overwhelming amount of gorgeous pottery. An island built on a clay bedded river has its perks. You will find many huts are actually housings for massive kilns which cook the pottery solid. Most were busy working away as we passed through, yet all had a warm welcome to invite you in to see their workshop and experience a moment of their craft. Watching the wet clay pot spinning on the kick wheel spun Marianne into a short rendition of Unchained Melody. It’s a good thing there were others present, as the rustic setting could easily encourage visitor reenactments of the famous scene from Ghost. We bought ornamental clay pots and quickly got out of there, before things got hotter than the kiln.

Walking through a marshy part of the island, on a path connecting two of the villages, there is an old traditional Mon housing complex on stilts and bamboo platforms which has been preserved for visitors to explore. It holds relics from the ancient way of life which used to occupy this manmade island. It’s serene and certainly intertwined with its natural surroundings. As with much of Koh Kret, it’s certainly a breath of fresh air away from the heavily polluted streets of Krong Tep (Bangkok).

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Stay – Accommodation

Cast Away.

Cast Away in Nonthaburi offers a peaceful stay surrounded by a garden and terrace with inviting outdoor seating areas. Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the greenery, and thoughtful touches like parquet floors and free toiletries. The property is close to local highlights such as IMPACT Muang Thong Thani and the Grand Palace, making it a convenient base for both leisure and exploration. Visitors enjoy cycling, fishing, and the warm hospitality, often praising the excellent location and freshly prepared breakfast.

Check Rates and Availability here!

BAANYA HOMESTAY Ko Kret

BAANYA HOMESTAY Ko Kret in Pak Kret offers a welcoming stay with family-style rooms and a cozy atmosphere. Guests can unwind in the garden or on the sun terrace, where outdoor seating provides views of the river. The homestay also organizes cultural activities and bike tours, giving visitors a chance to connect with the local way of life. With its peaceful setting, thoughtful service, and homemade breakfast, it is an ideal spot for travelers looking to relax while still being close to some of the area’s well-known attractions.

Check Rates and Availability here!

Sabai Sabai House Koh Kret

Sabai Sabai House Koh Kret in Nonthaburi offers a peaceful holiday home with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can relax on the sun terrace, enjoy the outdoor seating areas, or dine at the on-site restaurant that serves authentic Thai cuisine. The property also provides spaces for barbecues and casual gatherings, creating a homelike setting. With its riverside charm, cozy design, and opportunities to enjoy local culture and leisurely activities, it is a great choice for travelers seeking a relaxing escape while exploring Koh Kret.

Check Rates and Availability here!

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Eat – Restaurants

If the quiet atmosphere, the seemingly overly friendly locals, or the bike friendly pathways interconnecting Koh Kret aren’t enough to entice you to come, perhaps some of the unique cuisine found here might do the trick. Many of the dishes were of the typical Thai variety – ranging from stir fried noodles and rice, to some soups and fresh fruit based refreshments. There was, however, something I hadn’t seen before in Thailand. Stands that were set up selling deep-fried tempura. This wasn’t your regular run of the mill tempura, mind you. There weren’t any zucchinis, potatoes or shrimp on these stands. They were brightly coloured, and sweetly fragrant tempuras. These were deep fried flowers of all different varieties! I quickly got a mixed bag and dug right in. I’m not a flower tasting connoisseur  but these flowers were delicious. Really, though – why don’t we eat flowers more often? Too pretty to eat? Mix them with a homemade sweet chili dipping sauce and I would easily indulge on a flower buffet!

One of the highlights to the day was a small coffee shop we found, almost by accident. If it weren’t for it’s funky decor on the outside, we would have simply dismissed it as a general instant-coffee stand, and kept walking. Serving up some delicious brews, in addition to some yummy finger foods, we took a seat on some pillowed benches overlooking a canal and enjoyed it’s simple tranquility, resting our feet for well over an hour. I decided against it, but could have easily taken a nap there. The service is accompanied by a smile which seems to inhabit much of Koh Kret.

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Time – Seasonality & Schedules

How do you get to Koh Kret Island?

To conveniently access Ko Kret, the simplest method is to board the weekly Chao Phraya Express. Departing from the Central Pier (BTS Saphan Taksin) every Sunday at 09:00, the boat journey includes visits to various attractions before returning at 15:30. The cost of the guided tour and cruise is about 300 baht.

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Safety – Possible risks

Please Note: Travel inherently comes with an element of risk (just like crossing the road does). You are putting yourself in elements that are unfamiliar and foreign to your usual lifestyle and with that, become more susceptible to fall victim those who try to play off those unfamiliar to their local scams. There are also potential dangers in the environments to which you may not be accustomed to.

Please take extra care in travelling, ensure that you have adequate medical insurance (accidents seem to happen when you least expect them), and have let a trusted colleague, family member or friend know your whereabouts and activities.

Where Sidewalks End travel advises you to travel at your own risk, and to be extra aware of your surroundings (without letting it spoiling your time).

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Pay – How much does it cost?

Coming Soon!

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Responsible Travel – Best Practices

Coming Soon!

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Reality Check – Be Aware

The isolated Bangkok island of Koh Kret is certainly one of the most unique and fascinating places to visit, with respect to its history and cultural identity. The Mon who inhabit the island have a culture which is completely different from anywhere else. You won’t find many foreigner visitors here either, as it’s more of a weekend destination for Thais looking to escape the city’s bustle for a day. This means prices are considerably lower still, as the foreigners’ strong exchange rates haven’t saturated the pricing of the food, attractions or handicrafts found here. It is going to be a full day outing  factoring in the journey there and back, waiting times for buses and ferries, mixed with traffic, and the slower pace of walking from village to village. If you have a day to spare, I would certainly encourage everyone to go see this lush, green oasis in the midst of the murky madness of the city!

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JOIN US! WSE Travel Packages

This sounds like quite the adventure, right? We thought so too! Though we realize it can be pretty intimidating to get out there into the world on your own, especially when travelling to some of these off the beaten path locations. We love it when our readers give it a shot and try it for themselves! In fact, please leave us feedback if you do!! If trying something ‘this’ adventurous on your own is just a bit outside of your comfort zone, WSE Travel is here to help!

Follow this link for our ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ Tours – packages that are highly personalized and tailored at your request.

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Have you ever found a man-made island? What was its story? Was it created to serve a purpose, or as a result of something else? Were there any inhabitants on the island?

While you’re in Thailand, be sure to also check out Koh Pu Island and other tropical destinations in the country!

Please feel free to share your stories, feedback, and opinions in the comment section below!

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