Getting around in Bangkok

The Chao Phraya River is a prominent river of Bangkok. The translation of its name in English is ‘General’ or ‘Lord’. Many times it is also referred to as ‘River of Kings’.

The river originates in the Nakhom Sawan province, then flows from north to south for about 372 kms, covering the central plains of Bangkok and then to the Gulf of Thailand.

The river splits in Chainat. Some of the main cities along the river, listed from north to south are: Uthai, Singburi, Ayutthya, Nonthaburi, Bangkok and Samut Prakan. The river serves as a main transportation medium in Bangkok.

Vast network of water taxis and ferries run along the ‘piers’ constructed at various locations in the city. Some notable bridges on the river include Rama VI (a rail-road bridge),Phra Pin-klao (near Grand Palace), Rama VII and Mega Bridge.

The Chao Phraya watershed occupies about 35% of the nation’s land and is divided into several basins.