If you’re visiting Bangkok and want to catch a glimpse of traditional Thailand, look no further than the community of Kudee Cheen. Located near the banks of the Chao Phraya River amongst a network of canals, this multicultural community dates back to the Thon Buri period.

Teeranand Chuangpinit is the director of the Thon Buri Historical Information Centre. In a recent interview with the Bangkok Post he stated that: “The Kudee Cheen area has several layers of historical complexity. Its value will be fulfilled with this cultural map. The Kudee Cheen community consists of six sub-communities of three religions and probably seven to eight ethnic groups. Its charm lies in its clusters of old wooden houses, particularly two beautiful houses alongside khlong Bang Luang.”

It is possible to explore this interesting community by simply hiring a motorized longtail boat with a driver and taking a trip along the canal network that branches off the mighty Chao Phraya River. Along the way you will see sights such as the Bang Luang Mosque and Wat Prayurawong as well as plenty of scenes of traditional life.

-TN