Things To Do
in Khlung
Khlung is a rural district in Chanthaburi Province along Thailand's eastern Gulf coast. The area features lush tropical scenery, rivers, and farmland that give it a laid-back, authentic vibe. Visitors encounter traditional markets, temple architecture, and seafood-forward cuisine away from the more crowded coastal towns.
Exploration is easy by scooter or car, with opportunities for fruit orchard visits, mangrove walks, and scenic viewpoints nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting Wat Phu Khlong, an ancient temple adorned with intricate carvings that reflect the rich history of the region. Begin your exploration early to avoid the heat, and take time to appreciate the peaceful surroundings and the local monks going about their morning rituals. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the serene beauty of this spiritual site.
After lunch at a nearby local eatery, head to Wat Chaiyo, another stunning temple famous for its unique architecture and colorful murals. Spend the afternoon wandering through the lush gardens and interacting with friendly locals who are always eager to share stories about the temple's significance. As the sun moves in the sky, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and perhaps meditate in the serene surroundings.
As the sun sets, return to the town for a casual dinner at one of Khlung's traditional Thai restaurants. Enjoy local specialties while soaking in the vibrant evening atmosphere of the town, filled with the sounds of laughter and chatter. As night falls, take a stroll around Khlung's small markets, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs to remember your trip.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to Khlong Phanom National Park for a refreshing nature hike. The cool morning air is perfect for exploring trails that wind through lush tropical forests, where you might spot various wildlife and breathtaking waterfalls. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch near one of the park's many scenic spots, where you can relax and take in the stunning views. Post-lunch, consider a guided boat tour on the river, giving you a unique perspective of the park's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. This afternoon is perfect for capturing the beauty of nature and perhaps even getting a glimpse of some elusive wildlife.
As evening settles in, return to Khlung and enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving fresh seafood sourced from local fishermen. Sample regional dishes and perhaps join in on a cooking class to learn how to prepare your favorite Thai meals. Spend the rest of the night relaxing at your accommodation, reflecting on the wonders of nature you've experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Thai experience away from crowded tourist hubs
- Excellent seafood and fresh tropical fruit
- Relaxed pace, friendly locals, and easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife and few large-scale attractions
- Public transport can be sparse; a vehicle helps exploration
- Smaller-scale infrastructure may mean longer waits in busy periods
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (polite, male/female)
- "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
- "ขอโทษ" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "ไปที่ไหน" - Where is...?
- "ราคานี้เท่าไหร่" - How much is this?
- "ช่วยด้วย" - Please help me
- "ฉันไม่เข้าใจ" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Khlung
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats and fishermen at dawn with reflections on calm water.
Long rows of tropical fruit trees at golden hour, ideal for wide landscape shots.
Silhouette of traditional temple architecture against a pastel sky.
Boardwalk through mangroves full of birds and reflective waterways.
Food in Khlung
Khlung Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chili.
Must-Try!
Shredded green papaya with chilies, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts for a bright, spicy salad.
Creamy coconut curry with meat or tofu and Thai basil, usually served with rice.
Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, eggs, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
Seasonal tropical fruits enjoyed fresh or in simple desserts, often at markets and stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls offering tropical fruit, seafood, herbs, snacks, and ready-to-eat dishes.
Regional market where you can taste and buy iconic fruits like durian, rambutan, and mangosteen.
Informal stalls by the river serving grilled fish, shellfish, and spicy dips.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove shoes before entering temples, and speak softly.
Do not touch anyone's head or point feet at people or sacred objects; use a wai as a polite greeting.
Be patient, polite, and avoid raising voices in public; offer respect to elders and monks.
Casual but neat clothing is preferred; shopkeepers appreciate courteous interaction.
Safety
Tipping in Khlung
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not compulsory but appreciated in tourist-focused spots; rounding up bills or leaving 10% at nicer restaurants is common.
Cash is widely used in markets and small shops. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants; ATMs are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with strong sun. Hydrate, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings.
June to October brings heavy rain and high humidity; carry a light rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor time.
November through February offers cooler, drier weather with pleasant temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploration.
Khlung at Night
Hiking in Khlung
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle trails through forested hills and river valleys suitable for day hikes.
Scenic walks along river embankments that connect villages and markets.
Airports
How to reach Khlung by plane.
Regional airport serving eastern Thailand; access to Chanthaburi and Khlung via road transport.
Larger international airport near Pattaya/Rayong area; connects to Bangkok and regional destinations; longer drive to Khlung but useful for international arrivals.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Thai Buddhists with a mix of rural communities and fishing/farming families.
Small communities of Chinese-Thai and local migrant workers in some areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing widely practiced and watched across the region.
Coastal and river fishing is a common pastime, often with local guides.
Popular at local schools and parks; casual matches and community events occur on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khlung.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian; request no fish sauce or shrimp paste and ask for tofu or mushrooms.