Waterways, from rivers to canals, have long served as means of transportation. But did you know that in many places, they also serve as market areas? For example, in Thiland and Vietnam, they are a way of life. Along the Dal Lake, in Jammu and Kashmir, you will find boats laden with goods doing brisk business. Interestingly, these floating markets make for great travel destinations and offer photography opportunities. However, do remember to respect the people and their customs and ask for permission before photographing people.
Watch the local people buy and sell. Savour the local street food sold by the boatpeople or from the quayside cafes. Usually, the floating markets operate early in the morning. So check with your hotel or a tourist office for the timings. Usually, vendors deal only in cash (local currency), and it may be convenient if you carry change.
This floating market in Ratchaburi is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Thailand. The canal was built when King Rama IV of Thailand wanted to link the Mae Klong River with Chinese riverways for ease of transportation and trade. The canal is 32 kilometers long, is said to be straightest and longest canal in the country , and has more than 200 branches. The canal has featured in the Roger Moore starred James Bond movie 'The Man With The Golden Gun' and other films. The market is usually open from 7am to 11am.
Note: The floating market can be reached by bus from Bangkok unless you are taking a package trip. From the bus terminus, walk down to the market (touts tell you it is not possible, according to many travellers) and then get into a boat to enjoy the market.
If you cannot visit Damnoen Saduak in the morning, then you may try visiting the Amphawa Floating Market, located in Samut Songkhram province. The market is spread over a series of canals off the Makelog River. However, this market operates only during the weekend, from Friday to Sunday. It usually starts around 2pm and runs till 9pm. Being closer to Bangkok (though getting there by public transport can be a tad difficult), it is usually very crowded in the evening. The market is also known for its seafood. According to veteran travellers, this market still retains the traditional look.
You may like to visit this market if you are travelling in the Mekong delta. The Nga Nam Market, located at the confluence of five river channels, in Soc Trang province, is a combination of several smaller markets spread over a network of canals. This colourful market usully start in the wee hours of dawn (around 3am) and continues till 7am. The market is still an important trade centre with farmers bringing their produce here to be transported to other places. You cannot miss the unique style of advertising the goods on sale - samples of the products hung in a series from a long bamboo pole. You may enjoy local breakfast here.
The famous Dal Lake of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir is known for its scenic beauty and houseboats. For the local people, it is also a means of transportation and trade. You will find a large vegetable market operating here in the morning. Vegetable sellers arrive at the market to buy the fresh produce from farmers growing a variety of vegetables and flowers here. These are then carted away to different parts of the city. The vegetable market operates for a few hours, starting from 4am. However, thoughout the day, you will find vendors travelling along the lake, selling flowers and souvenirs in small boats for tourists to buy.