Things To Do
in Chanthaburi
Chanthaburi is a charming coastal province located in southeastern Thailand known for its picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters. The province is also famous for its gemstone mines, particularly for sapphires and rubies, making it a popular destination for gem enthusiasts. Chanthaburi is rich in cultural heritage, with influences from various ethnic groups such as Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese.
Visitors can explore the historic buildings, temples, and local markets that showcase the diverse cultural tapestry of the region.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Laem Sing Beach where you can enjoy the soft sands and warm sun. Take a refreshing swim in the clear waters to kick off your beach day.
After a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant, head to nearby Namsak Waterfall for some sightseeing. The area is perfect for a leisurely hike and refreshing dips in natural pools.
As the sun sets, return to the beach for a picturesque sunset. Enjoy dinner at a beachfront café with fresh catch of the day.
Visit the Khao Khitchakut National Park early to hike its scenic trails. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including unique birds and other local fauna.
After your hike, picnic in the lush surroundings of the park. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty before you head back to town.
Dine at a local restaurant in Chanthaburi, sampling traditional Thai dishes. Consider visiting a night market for some evening shopping and snacks.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with various temples and festivals.
- Famous for its gemstones and jewelry industry, attracting tourists and traders.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, rivers, and waterfalls.
- Delicious local food, particularly seafood and tropical fruits.
- Laid-back atmosphere compared to larger cities, ideal for relaxation.
- Limited public transportation options, making it difficult to navigate without a car.
- Hot and humid climate, which may not be comfortable for all travelers.
- Less developed tourist infrastructure compared to popular destinations in Thailand.
- Insect issues, such as mosquitoes, particularly during the rainy season.
- Potential language barriers, as English may not be widely spoken.
Best Activities in Chanthaburi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the mangrove forest and take a boat tour through the waterways.
Hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the scenic viewpoints.
Relaxing on the beach, swimming, and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chanthaburi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chanthaburi
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Chanthaburi and is a popular spot for photography.
Ideal for capturing images of the scenic coastal landscapes and traditional fishing boats.
Provides a beautiful backdrop for architectural and cultural photography.
Food in Chanthaburi
Chanthaburi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing rice salad with a mix of herbs, vegetables, and often seafood, topped with a zesty dressing. Can be found at local eateries and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried snakehead fish served with a tangy green mango salad. Look for this dish at riverside restaurants and seafood vendors.
Thailand's infamous 'king of fruits' is particularly revered in Chanthaburi. Try it at the local fruit markets or from street vendors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chanthaburi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Apart from gemstones, this market also offers an array of local food stalls serving everything from spicy salads to fresh seafood.
This bustling riverside market is a fantastic spot to sample local street food, including grilled seafood, noodle dishes, and tropical fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Thailand, it is important to show respect for the monarchy, including refraining from any disrespectful behavior or speech towards the royal family.
When entering someone's home or a temple, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect for the space and those who reside there.
The traditional Thai greeting called 'wai' involves pressing your palms together at chest level and bowing slightly as a sign of respect. It is important to use this greeting when meeting people, especially those who are older or in positions of authority.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chanthaburi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chanthaburi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chanthaburi, Thailand, tipping is not widely practiced. While it is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants, hotels, or for taxi drivers, some upscale establishments may include a service charge. In such cases, leaving an additional tip is not expected.
Cash is widely used for most transactions in Chanthaburi. Credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and department stores, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and local markets. Foreign currency exchange is available at banks and currency exchange booths.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Chanthaburi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool and dry weather, making it the best time to visit with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. The annual Chanthaburi Fruit Festival also takes place during this time.
Hot and dry season with temperatures reaching high levels. This is the harvesting season for various fruits, especially durian, making it a great time for fruit lovers to visit.
Humid and wet weather, with frequent rainfall. This period is ideal for those interested in experiencing the lush greenery and seeing the waterfalls at their best.
Chanthaburi at Night
Hiking in Chanthaburi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park featuring beautiful waterfalls, lush forested areas, and various hiking trails that lead to scenic views and natural attractions.
Home to diverse flora and fauna, this sanctuary offers several hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
This park features numerous trails and a stunning waterfall, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature in a serene environment.
Famous for its mountain views and various hiking paths, this park is popular among those looking for adventure and spiritual experiences.
Offers picturesque hiking trails that navigate through jungle landscapes, leading to tranquil waterfalls and picnic areas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Chanthaburi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Chanthaburi by plane.
The main international airport serving Bangkok, located approximately 250 km from Chanthaburi.
One of the two international airports in Bangkok, around 260 km away from Chanthaburi.
A smaller airport serving domestic flights, located about 50 km from Chanthaburi.
An international airport located approximately 120 km from Chanthaburi, serving the eastern part of Thailand.
An international airport on Koh Samui island, around 500 km from Chanthaburi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, primarily of Thai descent, comprising the largest demographic in Chanthaburi.
A significant ethnic minority in Chanthaburi, mainly residing in districts close to the Cambodian border.
A notable community involved in trade and commerce, contributing to the local economy.
A smaller group predominantly found in specific areas, engaged in various businesses and trade.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and immigrants contributing to the diverse cultural landscape.
The Soul of Chanthaburi
Discover the essence of Chanthaburi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art and combat sport from Thailand, highly popular in Chanthaburi, known for its rigorous training and competitive events.
A widely followed sport in Chanthaburi, played at both amateur and professional levels, with many local teams and tournaments.
An increasingly popular sport in Chanthaburi, with many residents participating in local clubs and competitions.
Commonly played on beaches and in parks, volleyball has a strong community presence in Chanthaburi, with both recreational and competitive play.
A growing sport in the region, with schools and communities establishing leagues and teams for various age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chanthaburi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Chanthaburi's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries and dishes, particularly in cafes and restaurants catering to tourists and health-conscious locals.
Gluten-free options may be limited in traditional eateries, but more modern cafes and health-oriented restaurants are increasingly offering gluten-free choices. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly and seek recommendations from locals or expats.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Chanthaburi with these cultural adventures.
