Commonly called Muang Chan, Chanthaburi is another Eastern province which has played an important role in the history of the nation both before and during the Rattanakosin Period. It is rich in natural resources, particularly gems, in addition there are plentiful fruits including rambutan, durian and mangosteen. Products from the seas are also extensive. It is also blessed with natural beauties and attractions equal to any sister province.

Chanthaburi is about 291 kilometers from Bangkok on Highway 3, or 245 kilometers on Highway 36, taking a right turn at km. 323.

 

What to see and what to do in Chanthaburi?

 

More : An updated recent travel account (with images) of Chanthaburi

King Tak Sin The Great's Monument is located on Tha Luang Road in Amphoe Muang, opposite to the old governors office. It was built in 1893 and houses a bronze statue of the King Tak Sin.

Si Chan Road
Also known as "gem road", it is an economic route of the province. Cut gems are put on sale here. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, gem trading in Trok Krachang or Krachang Lane creates a very informal atmosphere.

Underwater Archaeological Museum is the place where antiques taken from ancient junks lying on the sea floor of the Gulf of Thailand are displayed. Most of the objects are earthenware or Sangaloke China. The office is situated in Khai Noen Woag , a military camp built in the reign of King Rama III as a barrier against enemies from Vietnam.
At present, some traces of wall and bulwark are still left to be seen at the camp site. It is on the route to Ban Tha Chalap, 8 kms. away from town to the west.

Laem Sing (Cape Sing) has a likeness of a lion facing the sea. It is about 31 kilometers from Chanthaburi on Sukhumvit Highway, with a right turn at km. 347. On the Laem Sing hill are the remains of one of the two forts built during King Rama III's reign. The Laem Sing beach itself isn't very appealing at present as it serves as the landing pier for fishing boats.

Khuk Khi Kai is located just one kilometer before the pier. Built by the French in the year 112 of the Rattanakosin Bangkok Era, it was used by the builders as a retention center for Thai Nationals. It is a rectangular-shaped structure built with red bricks with two rows of ventilating slits and perforated roof. It is said that the roof was used as a chicken coop from which fowl waste was dropped onto the prisoners.

Tuk Daeng or the Red House, was built at the same time as the Khuk Khi Kai (1893). Originally it was the headquarters of the Phikhat Patchamit Fort but the French adapted it into living quarters for officers. There are mini buses from the municipal market leaving for Laem Sing, Khuk Khi Kai and Tuk Daeng daily.

Oasis Sea World located at Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe Laem Sing. It is 25 kilometers from the city on Sukhumvit Highway (the Highway 3) with a right turn towards Laem Sing at kilometer 347 travel 15 kilometers . Oasis Sea World covers a total area of more than 68 rai. It is a breeding and conservation station for dolphins from the waters of Chanthaburi. There are 2 breeds, namely Humpbacked dolphin and Irrawaddi dolphin. Dolphin shows are performed daily from 9:00-18:00 hrs. Admission fee is 120 baht for adults and 60 baht for children.

Laem Sadet and Khung Kraben located in Tambon Khlong Kut of Amphoe Tha Mai. To get there, take Sukhumvit Highway to km. 301, then turn right and go about 27 kms. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of beach, cape, mountain and bay. Both turbulent and calm seas can be seen here at the same time. Bungalows are available.

Wat Khao Sukim is a religious center for meditation in a tranquil and tree shaded atmosphere. To get there go to km. 305 on Sukhumvit Highway,turn left and go about 13 kilometers.

Krathing Water Fall is one of the very beautiful waterfalls in Khao Khitchakut National Park Tambon Phluang of Amphoe Makham. It is 30 kms. from Chanthaburi. To get there, take Sukhumvit Road to km. 324 then turn left go about 21 kms. Located on top of Khao Khitchakut are imprints of Lord Buddha's foot and a very beautiful cave called "Tham Ruesi" (Hermit's Cave). In this cave there is a water-well called "Bo Ya" (medicine well). The soil in the well has a yellow color. It is believed that the water can be used to cure some diseases. To get to the cave takes about 2 hours along a hiking trail.

Phliu National Park Water Fall
The 42,000 acre park was established in 1975, with numerous species of wild plants and fruits in perfusion. Namtok Phliu ( Phliu Waterfall ),itself boasts a stupa which was built by King Rama V in 1876. It also has a pyramid-type structure housing the remains of Queen Sunantha, who 2 year earlier had visited Namtok Phliu. Accommodation is available by contacting National Park Division Tel. 5790529, 5794842. Namtok Phliu is a famous tourist spot. There are mini-buses from the municipal market leaving for the waterfall daily.

Chanthaburi Fruit Fair
This annual fair is held in May or June to celebrate the abundance of such local fruits as rambutan, durian, jackfruit and pomelo which are then at their peak of succulent ripeness. Besides stalls selling the produce of surrounding orchards, there are cultural shows and exhibitions of provincial handicrafts.