When you’ve had enough of busy Bangkok and are in need of some peace and quiet, Ko Kret Island is perfect for a daytrip. Located just 20 kilometres north of the city, Ko Kret was created in 1722 after a canal was cut through a bend in the Chao Phraya River.
Ko Kret is home to the Mon people, whose ancestors dominated Thailand for hundreds of years. You can learn about their distinct culture, temples and traditions, sample their food and purchase their unglazed terracotta pottery for which they are famous.
The Mon people originally hail from Southwest China, and were some of the first people to settle in Thailand. Known for their superstitious and spiritual nature, the Mons became Buddhists in the 5th Century, and even have their own language. Unfortunately very few of the hundred thousand Mons alive today actually speak it.
The main temple on Ko Kret is Wat Poramaiyikawt, which has a small museum explaining its history. There is a large reclining Buddha at Phra Wiharn. The island is quite small, so it’s easy to get around by bicycle or scooter, or you can even walk around it in under two hours. Alternatively, take a water taxi which will drop you off at different points on the island.
Don’t miss the distinct Mon food which is often served on banana leaves or in traditional pots. The best place to see the traditional Mon pottery is at the Kwan Aman Pottery Museum, which can be bought from the many stalls dotted around the island.
If you don’t have a car then the best way to see Ko Kret is to take a day tour as part of a river cruise, although the public ferry does operate a fast service on Sundays. To get the most out of your visit, it’s a good idea to stay overnight on the island.
