An authentic lunch in an oasis of lush vegetation
Natura Cafe, nestled in the verdant outskirts of Bangkok, offers a truly authentic lunch experience amid lush, tropical greenery. As you step into this oasis, you’re welcomed by the vibrant hues of nature that surround you, creating a serene and refreshing ambiance. The cafe’s commitment to authenticity is reflected in its thoughtfully crafted menu, featuring a delightful fusion of Thai flavors and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you savor traditional Thai dishes or opt for international flavors, each bite resonates with the essence of Thailand. Dining under the shade of lush foliage adds to the enchantment, making Natura Cafe a hidden gem, where the culinary and natural worlds converge to offer a memorable and authentic dining experience in the heart of the Bangkok suburbs.
An exceptional place, a restaurant and café set in a lush, tropical backdrop along the banks of a canal, in the western neighbourhoods of Bangkok. While it’s a bit off the beaten path on the other side of the river from the city center (on the western bank of the Chao Praya), it’s absolutely worth the journey for a weekend day escape.
The cuisine here is authentically Thai, featuring recipes from the past and the use of incredibly fresh, natural ingredients. They grow their own vegetables and incorporate uncommon, yet delightful, vegetable varieties into their dishes, a unique touch I particularly appreciate. The view from the restaurant itself is idyllic, but the establishment also boasts an extensive garden with gravel pathways. It resembles a canal-side orchard leading to the parking area and a lush, verdant garden with small waterways covered in green lily pads. At the end of the path, you’ll find a separate café nestled by the water’s edge. Here, you can savor some delectable cakes, which are actually quite good, offering a taste of genuine Thai pastry (coconut and exotic fruits used, but they also have cheese and chocolate cakes). All this is enjoyed while sitting on a spacious wooden sala that offers a direct view of the garden and water!
Along the Khlongs of Thonburi in a private boat
Embarking on an individual boat ride along the Khlongs of Thonburi (canals leading to the Chao Praya river), right from the cafe’s pier, is an immersive and enchanting journey. We have the phone number of a local boat owner, it’s not a long tail boats – that have their charm but are very noisy – but a small fiberglass boat that’s fit for 5 people, 10 max maybe. The picturesque surroundings immediately transport you to a world of tranquility. The Khlongs offer an intimate glimpse into the timeless charm of Bangkok’s waterways, lined with traditional wooden houses, gardens, and locals going about their daily routines. Birds and monitor lizards can be seen often swimming in the khlongs (we spotted a dozen!), there are also lots of fishes that can be fed from temples.
Visit of the impressive Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen temple
Along the boat ride, several stops are possible, it’s possible to visit a few temples including the awe-inspiring Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen temple. The highlight of this sacred site is the colossal golden sitting Buddha, a majestic figure that radiates an aura of serenity and wisdom, captivating all who stand before it. The temple’s psychedelic dome, adorned with intricate and vibrant designs, adds a modern twist to the traditional architecture, creating a unique and mesmerizing contrast. As you explore the temple complex, the air is filled with a sense of reverence and tranquility, making it a spiritual and cultural pilgrimage that leaves a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of visiting.
Wat Paknam is a Buddhist temple in the Phasi Charoen, on the West side of the Chao Praya. It’s one of the temples in Bangkok, established in 1610, during the Ayutthaya period. Its main attraction are a giant golden sitting Buddha, and a huge stupa complete with inside a museum of Buddhist art and on top a decorated dome roof ceiling with psychedelic bright colors which somehow reminds me of Tool (the prog metal band) albums imagery.
