Ayothaya Floating Market & Elephant Village

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About Ayothaya Floating Market & Elephant Village

The floating market in question is a place that many travelers have found to be less than satisfactory. The mandatory 200 baht fee for a 15-minute boat ride back to the entrance has been a point of contention for many. The market itself is not a lengthy experience, with most visitors able to walk through it in about 20 minutes. The infrastructure of the market has also been called into question, with some of the bridges showing signs of aging, including holes and protruding nails, which can pose a safety risk.

The food at this location has also been a disappointment for some. One visitor described their lunch as the worst food they had experienced in Thailand, with the dishes lacking any discernible flavor. This left them regretting their decision to visit.

The authenticity of the market has also been called into question. Despite the 200 baht entry fee, the market is not a floating one. The stalls are all located around a lake, rather than on the water. This has led to some visitors advising others to avoid this location and instead visit the real floating markets if they find themselves in Bangkok.

The treatment of animals at this location has also been a cause for concern. There are captive animals, including elephants, goats, and cows, which some visitors have found distressing to see. There is also an elephant riding place, which has raised questions about the treatment of the animals.

The market has been described as a tourist trap, with the products sold being similar to those found elsewhere. The 200 baht entry fee includes a ride around the lagoon area, but some visitors have found this to be a poor value for money. However, one positive note was the delicious ice cream sold for 10 baht.

The market has been criticized for its lack of authenticity. It has been described as a collection of stalls surrounding a lake, rather than a genuine floating market. The entry fee for foreigners has also been seen as discriminatory, as Thai nationals can enter for free. The boat ride included in the entry fee takes visitors around a small lake, but there is not much to see or buy.

The market has also been criticized for its treatment of animals. After visiting an elephant sanctuary, one visitor was distressed to see the animals at the market. They reported seeing monkeys being made to dance and jump through hoops, with their chains being yanked when they wouldn't comply. They also reported seeing a baby elephant that appeared to be sick and highly stressed, moving in a way that suggested mental distress from animal abuse. This visitor believed that the market should be shut down due to its treatment of animals.

In conclusion, this floating market has been a disappointment for many visitors. The mandatory entry fee, lack of authenticity, poor food quality, and questionable treatment of animals have all been points of criticism. Those looking for an authentic Thai market experience may want to consider other options.