Experience authentic rural life in Thailand at the Baan Saladin Agrotourism Village. Here's what you need to know.
The Baan Saladin Agrotourism Village is located near the Maha Sawat canal in Nakhon Pathom province, just 35 kilometers west of Bangkok. It's an off-the-beaten-path destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital and immerse yourself in Thai rural life.
Once a simple agricultural village, Baan Saladin has undergone a remarkable transformation thanks to the OTOP economic program, which aims to promote local resources and community development in Thailand. With active participation from the residents, the riverside lands have been developed into tourist attractions. Local craftsmanship has seen significant growth, both in terms of diversity and quality. Meanwhile, agriculture still holds a central place in village life, as evidenced by the lush rice paddies and expansive fields.
Leave the stresses of the cities behind, head to Baan Saladin, and immerse yourself in the peaceful and authentic life of rural Thailand. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional houses and visit the workshops of artisans to admire their craftsmanship. Also, taste the local products: fragrant rice, sun-drenched fruits, and vegetables… A true delight! Throughout your visit, the warm and welcoming locals will gladly guide you to the activities and nice spots in their village.
Floating markets are true Thai gems, and Baan Saladin's stands out for its authenticity. Far from tourist traps, this picturesque place is not just an artificial attraction. It has been a part of villagers' daily lives for decades. It's where they gather to exchange fresh products, local crafts, and warm smiles. Across from the Baan Saladin Floating Market, explore the souvenir shops of Ban Khao Tang. Indulge in the famous Khao Tang rice crackers, whose secret recipe has been passed down through generations.
While enjoying a boat ride on the canal, visit the Lung Jam Lotus Farm. There, marvel at a romantic landscape colored by abundant lotus flowers. Learn more about these wonders of nature while treating yourself to some lotus-scented soaps. You can also taste lotus tea, which is appreciated for its refreshing flavor.
Gac, also known as Cochinchin gourd or bitter cucumber, is a widely consumed fruit in Thailand. This food is renowned for its skin benefits, thanks in part to its richness in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. In the small community of Ban Fak Khao, not far from Baan Saladin, you can visit a gac garden to taste this unusual delicacy in various recipes: gac noodles, gac juice, etc. A gac soap is an excellent souvenir to bring back to your loved ones. Shop while enjoying the serene atmosphere of the place.
By buying local products in Baan Saladin, you're doing much more than just shopping. You're contributing to the preservation of craftsmanship and enabling artisans and farmers to make a living from their work. You can support them even more by spreading the word to other visitors, introducing them to local food, attractions, and goods. In summary, buying local in Baan Saladin is a supportive and enriching gesture. You help the village, make unique discoveries, and have an authentic experience.
Different options are available to reach the Baan Saladin Agrotourism Village:
From Bangkok, with your own car, it takes about an hour to reach Baan Saladin. Take the Petchkasem highway towards Nakhon Pathom. Take exit 10 and follow the signs to the Baan Saladin Agrotourism Village. There is parking available on-site.
Head to the southern bus terminal in Bangkok and take the bus to Nakhon Pathom. Get off at the Phutthamonthon bus stop, then take a taxi or tuk-tuk for the rest of the journey to Baan Saladin.
From Bangkok's Hua Lamphong station, board the train to Nakhon Pathom. Get off at the Phutthamonthon station and continue the journey by taxi or tuk-tuk to Baan Saladin.
The dry season, between November and April, is the best time to visit the Baan Saladin Agrotourism Village. During these months, the weather is generally sunny. Although it's hot, temperatures remain moderate between 25°C and 30°C. Precipitation is minimal, favoring outdoor activities.