In Bangkok, markets are not just about shopping deals and bargains but a way of life. They blend with the very  fabric of the city and are an integral part of the local flavour and culture. I wanted to spend an entire trip photographing markets but I had to be contended with a floating market near Bangkok – Taling Chan Floating Market Bangkok.

Everyone has an opinion when it comes to the best floating market Bangkok but to me, it has to be the Taling Chan Floating Market. Full of life, the market comes alive in the weekend as I take a ferry and soak in the moment.

It is an assault on the senses – a riot of hues blinds the eye. The entire market is swamped with locals and tourists, adding a dash of colour to the scene. The women are warm and friendly as they anchor their boats near the wooden bridge while the locals crowd around them. My nostrils are tickled as a variety of flavours float around in the Taling Chan Floating Market Bangkok.

The concept of a floating market near Bangkok started way back in 1987. Most of the locals sit in long wooden boats and whip up a meal for the locals and tourists .

Many a time you can see them in these traditional boats, dressed in colourful clothes as they are chatting away with the tourists.

Some markets start early in the morning. It starts with one boat and soon I can see a montage of boats floating in the waters, causing a traffic jam.  The men and women are cooking or grilling a meal or selling fresh produce.

As I walk around, I realize that Taling Chan Floating Market is a part of the landscape of Bangkok and it offers a glimpse into traditional Thailand and Thai cuisine.

Bangkok is often called as the Venice of the East with a labyrinth network of canals and the floating market near Bangkok comes alive during weekends. At Taling Chan Floating Market Bangkok my taste buds are literally tickled by the many flavours.

Pleasantly I discover that most of the delicacies are vegetarian dishes. Sticky mango rice is one of my favourites along with the papaya salad.

But the boats bring in many more  flavours – from sweets to rice, fruits to greens to fish and snakes, you are spoilt for choice.  Grilled meat is a favourite here. There is a variety of local fish. Noodles are a staple diet. The candies are eye catching. The durians cannot be missed.

Bursting with energy and full of delicious delicacies, these men and women will give any Masterchef contestant a run for their money. There is a burst of life at Taling Chan Floating Market that defines the very landscape of the Bangkok.

I wander away as the spirit of the market spreads from the waters to the land. Tiny lanes come alive with pots and pans. Music echoes from the streets. Suddenly the entire atmosphere turns into a carnival as the best floating market Bangkok turns into a vibrant hot spot. If you are looking at an authentic souvenir, you can pick one gift from Taling Chan Floating Market Bangkok.

If you have been to Bangkok and you have not been to Taling Chan Floating Market, you have missed the very spirit of the city.

Which is the best floating market Bangkok that you recommend ? For me, it has to be Taling Chan Floating Market Bangkok. It is also one of my five best markets from around the world.  Have you been there ?

There is more to Bangkok than just markets. If you have time, do visit the Old Town, go for a cruise on the Chao Phraya and visit Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn and head to Wat Pho or the Reclining Buddha Temple in Bangkok