The Chao Phraya river meanders through Bangkok and has been the city’s lifeblood for centuries. Starting at the confluence of the Ping and Nan rivers at Nakhon Sawan, it flows south for 372 km into the Gulf of Thailand.
This small riverside village with roots in the 15th century grew; the abundance of fish, surrounding fertile lands and close proximity to the river mouth saw it flourish into a vital settlement and customs outpost.
With the fall of Ayutthaya to the Burmese in 1767, King Taksin relocated the capital to the western river bank in the area now called Thonburi. In 1782, under the rule of King Rama I, the capital was relocated to Rattanakosin on the eastern bank, where the magnificent Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew were built. This was the founding of modern Bangkok.
Khlongs (canals), natural and constructed, weaved throughout the city, with travel and trade on these waterways being most common, thereby earning early days Bangkok with the tag of “Venice of the East”. Although many of these khlongs have been filled in to create roads, the mighty Chao Phraya River remains an essential aspect of life for many Bangkokians for commuting, living, working and relaxing.
This riverside evolution has seen Bangkok sprawl outwards and shoot upwards, with residential and commercial highrise buildings dominating the skyline. Water views have restorative powers, reduce stress and help calm the mind, so it’s little wonder many people are attracted to living along the Chao Phraya.
Popular Districts on the Chao Phraya
If you are moving to Bangkok or are a foreigner buying property in Thailand, you will find a vast range of housing all along the Chao Phraya. However, some districts are considered more appealing.
Khlong San and Thonburi
Khlong San and Thonburi districts have increased in popularity with the addition of some excellent residential developments, the extension of the BTS rail line and the completion of the retail and entertainment precinct ICONSIAM. For those living close to the river, the public river boats and cross-river ferries provide easy commuting to Chinatown and central Bangkok.
Banyan Tree Residences Riverside Bangkok, in Khlong San on the western bank, is a luxurious condominium on a spectacular river bend. Offering a tranquil sanctuary to residents, it is close to dining, entertainment, Bangkok CBD and a mere five-minute walk to the BTS rail. It has 45 floors and 133 apartments, with several floors dedicated to superior facilities, including a swimming pool, sauna, gym, garden, bbq, playground/kid’s area, restaurant, wi-fi, parking, 24-hours security, and CCTV. Every residence has commanding views, allowing you to indulge in the ever-changing colours of Bangkok and activity on the river.
Also in Khlong San is Magnolias Waterfront Residences ICONSIAM, the tallest residential tower in Thailand at 315 meters and 70 stories high. Comprising 379 residences with 3-meter ceiling heights, the views of the heritage of the riverfront and city skyline are mesmerizing. It is part of the grand ICONSIAM development, with the mega glitzy shopping centre and entertainment zone. Residences are fully-fitted and exquisitely designed, providing a luxurious and comfortable living. Dedicated first-class common facilities are available on the 6th and 42nd floors, plus there is a large garden.
Another favourite on the western bank is The River By Raimon Land. This condominium, completed in 2010, has two buildings comprising 42 and 71 floors. Developers Ramon Land bagged a prime spot on the Chao Phraya, and with their own cross-river ferry, you can be at BTS Saphan Taksin in minutes. The buildings and common areas are well maintained and offer a lovely swimming pool, fitness centre, sauna, garden/bbq areas and 24-hour security. ICONSIAM, a BTS station, shops and restaurants are a short walk away.
Bangrak and Sathon
Bangrak and Sathon on the eastern bank are home to some of the finest residential projects in Bangkok. Sathon is a major commercial district, and Sathon Pier is a vital commuter hub with Chao Phraya river boats connecting with BTS Saphan Taksin. It has a green leafy environment and is home to swanky eateries, bars and nightclubs.
The Four Seasons Residences in Sathon boasts the most extensive waterfront plot in Bangkok’s CBD and the 4th tallest building in Thailand, with 73 floors. It is part of the Chao Phraya Estate, including two ultra-luxury hotels. Each apartment occupies a corner position offering amazing city and river views, and award-winning San Francisco-based interior design firm BAMO applied sophisticated and luxurious finishes. This is superb waterfront living.
Bang Kho Laem and Yan Nawa
Bang Kho Laem and Yan Nawa districts are further downstream on the eastern bank and have more affordable housing options. Public transport is more limited in these districts without the BTS rail system.
If you are considering investing in Thailand, properties with river frontage make an excellent choice as they hold or increase in value well. Property prices in Bangkok are relatively stable. However, our Lazudi team expect an increase in demand for ready to move into properties in late 2022. Perhaps you hold a long-term resident visa and are pondering where to live. Our Lazudi team have excellent knowledge of the Bangkok and Thailand property market. Get in touch.
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