Things To Do
in Ban Ratchakrut

Ban Ratchakrut is a quiet rural village in southern Thailand along the Andaman coast. It blends roadside markets, mangrove scenery, and small temples to offer a glimpse of authentic local life. The area serves as a calm base for nature lovers exploring nearby parks, waterfalls, and coastal viewpoints.

Visitors come to slow down, savor regional flavors, and experience Thai hospitality away from the crowds.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Visit the Local Market
morning
:

Start your day with a vibrant visit to the local Talad Ban Ratchakrut market. Here, you can experience the colourful atmosphere as vendors display fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Engage with the friendly locals and sample traditional Thai breakfast dishes like khao tom.

afternoon
:

After the market, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps even spotting some local bird species. Visit a nearby temple, such as Wat Ban Ratchakrut, to admire its intricate architecture and soak in the serene atmosphere. Spend your afternoon unwinding at a local café, sipping on traditional Thai iced tea.

evening
:

As evening falls, head to the riverside to witness the beautiful sunset over the water. The local eateries come alive with tantalizing aromas; indulge in a delicious dinner featuring freshly caught seafood or Thai curry. End your day by enjoying a traditional dance performance that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.

day 2
Explore the Natural Wonders
morning
:

Start this day with an early morning hike in the nearby national park, where trails wind through lush greenery and offer breathtaking views. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature, and keep your camera ready for the stunning wildlife you might encounter. Breathing in the crisp morning air will rejuvenate your spirit for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

After your hike, drive to a local waterfall where you can relax and take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. Enjoy a packed lunch while absorbing the tranquil sounds of nature around you. This afternoon is perfect for unwinding, with plenty of space for meditation or simply enjoying the peace.

evening
:

Return to Ban Ratchakrut and explore the town's food scene with a dinner at a traditional restaurant known for its authentic northern Thai cuisine. Engage with locals and share stories while feasting on dishes that have been passed down through generations. Conclude your evening by taking a leisurely stroll through the town’s quiet streets under the starlit sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
🥤Soft drink or smoothie$1-2
🚗Local transport (short ride)$1-3
💧Bottled water (1.5 L)$0.5-1
🍚Rice dish at mid-range restaurant$4-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic Thai coastal experience
  • Affordable prices and warm hospitality
  • Good base for nature trips and photography
  • Less tourist crowds than bigger destinations
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options
  • Rural transport can be sparse and schedules may vary
  • "Sawasdee ka/krub" - Hello (female/male)
  • "Khob khun ka/krub" - Thank you
  • "Kaw pai tee nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Nee thooa tao rai?" - How much is this?
  • "Aroy maak" - Very tasty

Places to Visit in Ban Ratchakrut

Visit one of these nice places.

Wat Ban Ratchakrut Temple Grounds

Temple grounds with a golden chedi and morning light over a tranquil courtyard.

Mangrove Boardwalk Overlook

Raised boardwalk through mangroves offering reflections of trees and water at sunset.

Coastal Viewpoint

Scenic overlook along the coast for sunrise or sunset over the Andaman Sea.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ban Ratchakrut

Thai coastal cuisine here emphasizes fresh seafood, herbs, coconut milk, and bright lime flavors, with a strong influence from Malay and local riverine traditions.

Ban Ratchakrut Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tom Yum Goong

A hot and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves, widely available at local eateries.

Must-Try!

Pla Tod Nam Pla

Deep fried fish with a sweet and sour fish sauce glaze, a common coastal specialty.

Khao Yum

A fragrant southern rice salad with herbs, shredded coconut, and lime dressing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ban Ruay Market

Early morning market with fresh seafood, fruits, and quick bites.

Coastal Night Market

Grilled seafood skewers, roti, and fruit shakes along the waterfront.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ban Ratchakrut has a tropical monsoon climate with hot, humid seasons and a pronounced rainy period; temperatures typically range from 24 C to 32 C (75–90 F) year-round, with humidity often high. The dry season offers clearer skies and better beach and outdoor conditions, while the monsoon season brings rain that can affect travel plans. Plan for occasional temperature variation and pack accordingly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Wai greeting

A polite wai with hands pressed together at chest level is common; greet elders or monks first.

Shoes and modesty

Remove shoes before entering homes or temples; dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered in religious sites.

Photography etiquette

Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in private homes or markets.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise normal travel precautions: watch valuables in crowded markets, use reputable transport, and be mindful of roads during rain. Road conditions can be slippery in the rainy season; travel during daylight and wear a helmet when riding a scooter. For medical emergencies call local numbers and seek nearest hospital or clinic; keep copies of documents and emergency contacts.

Tipping in Ban Ratchakrut

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up bills or leave small tips for good service, especially in restaurants that do not add a service charge.

Payment Methods

Cash in Thai Baht is widely accepted in rural areas; many places in towns take cards or mobile wallets, but carry cash for markets and small eateries.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Mar–May)

Hot and humid with clear skies; carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Rainy Season (Jun–Oct)

Frequent afternoon showers and occasional flooding in lower areas; waterproof footwear and rain gear recommended; lush landscapes thrive.

Cool Season (Nov–Feb)

Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Ban Ratchakrut at Night

Nightlife here is low-key, centered on small cafes, local markets, and occasional live music in nearby villages. In coastal towns nearby you can find a few beach bars and restaurants with sunset vibes, but there is limited late-night entertainment. The scene is more about relaxing evenings, lantern-lit temples at night, and friendly conversations with locals.

Hiking in Ban Ratchakrut

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mangrove and coastal trails

Short nature trails and boardwalks around mangroves and coastal viewpoints within a short drive.

Hill viewpoint trails

Gentle hikes to scenic overlooks with chances to see birds and butterflies.

Forest waterfall trails

Seasonal forest paths leading to waterfalls; best after rains.

Airports

How to reach Ban Ratchakrut by plane.

Phuket International Airport (HKT)

Major regional gateway with international and domestic flights; roughly a 2–3 hour drive to the village depending on traffic and routes.

Krabi International Airport (KBV)

Another convenient option with many domestic flights and some international routes; accessible by road through the coastline.

Surat Thani International Airport (URT)

A larger hub for regional domestic flights; useful for certain itineraries though farther away.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable within the village core and along the waterfront; longer day trips require a scooter, bicycle, or car; some roads may be unpaved during the rainy season.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai residents

Predominantly Thai Buddhist communities with fishing and farming backgrounds.

Seasonal and visiting workers

Some seasonal workers and small expatriate communities may visit for work or tourism; interactions are typically friendly.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Traditional Thai martial art and a popular sport in local gyms and training camps.

Football (soccer)

Common recreation among locals and visitors in parks and school grounds.

Transportation

Traffic

Travelers will mostly encounter light rural traffic. Public transportation is limited; scooter or car rental is common for exploring. During the rainy season roads can be slippery and some routes may be affected by flooding; plan extra travel time.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Ratchakrut.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In many places you can request vegetable dishes or tofu; Thai dishes can be adapted by requesting no fish sauce or shrimp paste.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There is a local clinic and a district hospital in the region; for major care or emergencies you may travel to Phuket or Krabi where larger hospitals and specialists are available. Basic English is often spoken at larger clinics; carry essential medicines and health insurance details.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide