Koh Kret Island

Koh Kret is situated in the middle of the Chao Phraya River, just north of Bangkok in Nonthaburi province. A man-made island, created when a canal was dug in 1722 to facilitate the sailing of ships from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, it is home to indigenous Mon people. The Mon are famous for making unglazed terracotta pots that are still produced in workshops along the river. This charming, green isle is a world away from Bangkok, and well worth a day trip. You get around by walking on concrete walkways; there are no roads (and thus no cars!). Highlights for visitors include: Pottery workshops which sell inexpensive pottery Kwan Aman Pottery Museum, featuring large ceramics collection with intricately carved Mon patterns and designs Wat Poramai Yikawat, located on the northeastern tip on the island right next to the ferry landing; Koh Kret’s most prominent landmark, it serves as an important Buddhist temple, featuring a reclining Buddha and a 200-year old leaning stupa. Small cafes, sweets shops and Chitbeer, a craft beer brewery To get to Koh Kret from Central Bangkok, take a Chaopraya River Express boat to the last station (#30, Nonthaburi; 13 baht fare per person). From there, get on a long-tailed boat to Koh Kret (100 baht); the ride takes about 20 minutes. From Nonthaburi, go to Wat Sanam Neua Temple in Pak Kred district, and take a ferry across the river (2 baht) to Koh Kret.