In total, the canal passes through three districts, namely Bangkok Yai, Thon Buri and Phasi Charoen.

[1][2] The course of Khlong Bangkok Yai was originally a meandering part of the Chao Phraya River, which used to be longer than in the present day.

In the reign of King Chairachathirat (1534–46) of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, he ordered the construction of a canal bypassing a loop of the Chao Phraya River, known as Khlong Lat Bangkok (คลองลัดบางกอก; 'Bangkok Short-Cut Canal'), thus reducing travel times.

The Chao Phraya then changed course along the new canal, and the old course became what is known today as Khlong Bangkok Yai (lower section) and Khlong Bangkok Noi (upper section).

Khlong Bangkok Yai was also the first canal in Thailand to have lampposts installed.