
2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 6,778 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views worth booking?
2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views is a 2-hour experience in Bangkok, Thailand, from $20 per person. It scores 89 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 6,778 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 89 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (6,778)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $20 per person
Step aboard for an approximately 2-hour long-tail boat tour through the canals of Thonburi; Bangkok’s lesser-known, but deeply authentic side. Cruise past stilt houses, waving locals, and hidden temples, and make a stop at the charming riverside community of Khlong Bang Luang, home to the Artist’s House. Along the way, we pass the largest Buddha in Bangkok at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. This tour shows a different side of Bangkok, far from the glossy tourist spots. You’ll see humble wooden homes perched above the water, revealing the city’s contrasts and the realities of local life. Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control, but they are part of the authentic canal experience. For a glimpse into Bangkok’s quieter, more traditional side, this canal tour offers an eye-opening journey through the city’s history and local life. Maximum 12 people per boat.
What you get
About this experience
Step aboard for an approximately 2-hour long-tail boat tour through the canals of Thonburi; Bangkok’s lesser-known, but deeply authentic side. Cruise past stilt houses, waving locals, and hidden temples, and make a stop at the charming riverside community of Khlong Bang Luang, home to the Artist’s House. Along the way, we pass the largest Buddha in Bangkok at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. This tour shows a different side of Bangkok, far from the glossy tourist spots. You’ll see humble wooden homes perched above the water, revealing the city’s contrasts and the realities of local life. Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control, but they are part of the authentic canal experience. For a glimpse into Bangkok’s quieter, more traditional side, this canal tour offers an eye-opening journey through the city’s history and local life. Maximum 12 people per boat.
What's included
Included
- English speaking guide
- One bottle of drinking water per person
- Long-tail boat & boat driver
Not included
- Meals
What you'll see and do
Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
As we cross the Chao Phraya River on our way to Thonburi, you’ll catch a beautiful glimpse of Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn. This iconic riverside temple is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, with its central Khmer-style prang (tower) rising elegantly above the water, adorned with intricate porcelain mosaics that shimmer in the sunlight. ***** Please note that we will NOT get off at Wat Arun. You will only see it from the river while on our way to Thonburi. *****
Pass by without stopping
Baan Silapin
Tucked away along the peaceful banks of Khlong Bang Luang (Bang Luang Canal) on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River lies one of Bangkok’s hidden gems: a charming riverside community where time seems to slow down. This historic neighborhood is made up of traditional wooden houses, small local shops, and family-run galleries connected by a wooden walkway that follows the edge of the canal. It offers a rare glimpse into what everyday life in Bangkok used to be like, long before the city’s skyline was dominated by concrete and glass. At the heart of the community is Baan Silapin, or The Artist’s House, a beautifully restored wooden home over 200 years old. Dedicated to preserving and celebrating Thai culture, this house functions as a small art center where visitors can enjoy rotating art exhibitions and handmade crafts. Wandering through the area, you’ll find small shops, cozy riverside cafés, and friendly locals who’ve lived here for generations. Duration of stop 30-40 minutes.
30 minutes here
As we cruise through the canals of Thonburi, we pass by Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, a historic temple founded during the mid-Ayutthaya period. Located in the Phasi Charoen district, this temple has long been a center of Buddhist learning and meditation. Today, however, it is best known for its enormous seated Buddha statue, which rises dramatically above the surrounding rooftops and is visible from far across the city. The boat will pause here briefly, allowing you to admire and photograph this awe-inspiring statue from the water. At nearly 70 meters tall, equivalent to a 20-story building, and 40 meters wide at its base, it is the tallest Buddha statue in Bangkok. Cast in shimmering gold tones, the statue sits in a calm meditative posture and makes a striking contrast against the skyline. While we don’t disembark at the temple, viewing this colossal image from the quiet of the canal offers a truly unique and memorable perspective.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Bangkok
Once you arrive at Tha Tien Pier, head toward the main covered pavilion near the riverbank. Our guide holding a WanderSiam sign will be waiting for you there.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Once you arrive at Tha Tien Pier, head toward the main covered pavilion near the riverbank. Our guide holding a WanderSiam sign will be waiting for you there.
Options you can book
Small Group: Hotel Pick-up
Van or Minivan Or Car: Round-trip hotel tranfer within Bangkok.Your exact pick-up time will be sent via booking platform's private message.
Cool Season: 2-Hr Canal Tour
Small Group Tour
Private Tour: Hotel Pick-up
Private Car, Van
Cool Season: Canal w/Transfer
Van or Car
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- th, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- WanderSiam
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The most convenient way to reach the meeting point, and avoid Bangkok’s often congested road traffic, is by taking the MRT (metro) to Sanam Chai Station. From there, take the 'Museum Siam' exit. The meeting point is just a short 5-minute walk from the station.
- Please note that during the tour, we may experience a wait at one of the water locks, which regulate canal levels. These operate on no fixed schedule and are beyond our control.
- Bangkok’s traffic can be heavily congested. As our tours run on a group basis, we can wait a maximum of 10 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. After this grace period, the guide will begin the tour. If you cannot make it on time, please let us know before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available time slot or day, though a rescheduling fee will apply. No refund will be provided in case of late arrival.
- Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour start time are eligible for a full refund. For cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or in case of no-show, no refund will be issued.
- Our tours operate rain or shine, as tropical rain showers in Thailand usually don’t last long. If it rains heavily, we try to seek shelter and will continue as soon as the weather improves. During the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or poncho. Please note cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.
- Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, as boarding and disembarking the boat may be difficult due to the lack of stairs at the piers.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6,764 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
6,764 verified traveler reviews for 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Longboat tour
Joe was a great guide. Explained everything in detail and was attentive.
via Tripadvisor
Canal wandering
Paula was absolutely fantastic, we thoroughly enjoyed the boat trip and would recommend to anyone wanting to see the old canals and life. The skipper was fantastic 👌
via Tripadvisor
Longtail boat ride
We had an excellent guide, was a very interesting trip with a stop at a great market area, beautiful smoothies on a very hot day, was lovely to have a good day after all the rain we'd had.
via Tripadvisor
Worth trying
Worth trying but may not provide good value for money for some
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your honest feedback. We’re glad you found the experience worth trying, and we appreciate your comments regarding the overall value for money. Feedback like this is helpful as we continue reviewing and improving our tours to provide the best possible experience for our guests. Thank you for choosing WanderSiam.
via Tripadvisor
Good tour
Pam was very kind and knowledgeable. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the Pier by Bolt. Take baht for the market to shop. Due to flooding, the tour started on the other side of the river. We were delayed due to traffic but the company was so kind to book us on the next tour. Thank you for working with us! Go early to explore the temple near the pier.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We’re delighted to hear that Pam was kind and knowledgeable and that you enjoyed the experience. We’re also very glad our team could accommodate you on the next tour after the traffic delay and the change in starting point. Thank you for sharing your helpful tips for future travelers as well. We truly appreciate your understanding and flexibility, and thank you for choosing WanderSiam!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $20 to $9,300
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 2,372
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by WanderSiam, who run 46 experiences we rank across 5 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.9 and 4 in the 90+ Club.
See everything WanderSiam runsWhy this scores 89
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Bangkok.
How much does 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views cost?
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Prices start at $20 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Bangkok usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Bangkok is not rushed.
Is 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 89 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 6,778 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Bangkok, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views?
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Around 2,372 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Bangkok can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Bangkok and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Bangkok within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Bangkok?
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On Outty we rank every Bangkok experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Bangkok Backstreets Food Tour with 15+ Tastings, Old Siam Bangkok Food Tour with 15+ Tastings, Tingly Thai Cooking Class with Morning Market Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Bangkok?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Bangkok?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views?
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Included: English speaking guide; One bottle of drinking water per person; and Long-tail boat & boat driver. Not included: Meals. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views?
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Once you arrive at Tha Tien Pier, head toward the main covered pavilion near the riverbank. Our guide holding a WanderSiam sign will be waiting for you there. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views offered in?
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It is offered in Thai and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, as boarding and disembarking the boat. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Bangkok. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views?
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Across 6,778 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for 2-Hour Bangkok Longtail Canal Tour: Wat Arun & Big Buddha Views?
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There are 5 options to choose from, including Small Group: Hotel Pick-up, Cool Season: 2-Hr Canal Tour, Small Group Tour, Private Tour: Hotel Pick-up. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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