Background
Khlong Prem Prachakorn was dug following the royal command of King Chulalongkorn, Rama V, as given to the Regent at the time, Somdet Chao Phraya Borom Maha Sri Suriwongse (Chuang Bunnag). Chinese labour was used to dig a canal from Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem in front of Wat Somanas, Bangkok, to Ko Yai Sub-district, Krung Kao District, Ayutthaya Province, a distance of 50.846 kms.
The King saw that travel by boat along the Chao Phraya River was very winding and time-consuming. As a result, digging began in 1869, and completed in 1870 over a period of 18 months. This was the first canal dug during the reign of King Rama V. Upon its completion, the King called for a celebration with various forms of entertainment. He bestowed the name “Khlong Prem Prachakorn” to indicate a link with Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem which was dug during the reign of King Rama IV. The khlong was open for public use without the need to pay any fees or duties, since the King wanted the khlong to be used in his honour and to facilitate public transport.
Distance
Khlong Prem Prachakorn is 50.846 kms long, It starts from Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem in Dusit District of Bangkok, and joins the Chao Phraya River in Bang Krasan Sub-district, Bang Pa-in District, Ayutthaya Province.
Project Khlong Prem Prachakorn Development
Khlong Prem Prachakorn Development Volunteer Project
