Things To Do
in Ratchaburi
Ratchaburi sits along the Mae Klong River in central Thailand, blending river life with historic temples and bustling markets. The province is known for its timeless countryside, traditional handicrafts, and easy access from Bangkok. Within the city and surrounding districts, visitors can explore ancient ruins, riverside communities, and colorful market scenes.
From floating markets to scenic farmland and quiet temple precincts, Ratchaburi offers an authentic, laid-back Thai travel experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike through Erawan National Park, known for its stunning emerald green waterfalls. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the seven-tiered cascades and explore the various trails. Enjoy a picnic breakfast in the tranquil surroundings of nature.
After a morning of exploration, indulge in a delicious Thai lunch at a local eatery near the park. Spend the afternoon swimming in the cool waters of the waterfalls or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic paths. Immerse yourself in the lush landscape as you spot colorful birds and local wildlife.
As the sun sets, head back to the city of Kanchanaburi for a relaxing dinner at a riverside restaurant. Savor traditional Thai cuisine while enjoying the view of the river and the fading daylight. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll along the River Kwai, soaking in the atmosphere.
Wake up early and make your way to the renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for an authentic Thai shopping experience. Drift along the canals in a long-tail boat as you admire the vibrant stalls selling fresh fruits, local delicacies, and handmade crafts. Famous for its lively atmosphere, the market provides numerous opportunities for unique photo ops.
After wandering through the market, head to a nearby local restaurant for lunch where you can try dishes cooked with ingredients purchased from the vendors. In the afternoon, explore the canals further, visiting a nearby coconut plantation to learn about traditional Thai coconut production. Sample fresh coconut products and enjoy some traditional sweets.
Return to Ratchaburi for the evening and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant that highlights regional dishes. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals as you taste their favorite evening meals. Take a leisurely walk through the streets to appreciate the charm of the small town at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental for a day | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich river scenery and temples
- Affordable travel with delicious street food
- Compact, easy to explore from Bangkok
- Limited upscale nightlife
- Crowded markets can be busy on weekends
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
- "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
- "เท่าไร" - How much?
- "อร่อยไหม" - Is it delicious?
- "ช่วยแนะนำร้านอาหารดีๆ หน่อย" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Ratchaburi
Visit one of these nice places.
Elegant temple with a golden stupa and detailed carvings; best photographed in the early morning or golden hour.
Calm riverside scenes with traditional boats and sunset reflections; ideal for silhouettes and reflections.
Colorful boats and vendors; capture market life from water-level vantage points or boardwalks.
Striking limestone rocks and forested trails offering dramatic landscape shots and unique textures.
Food in Ratchaburi
Ratchaburi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sticky rice cooked in bamboo with coconut milk and beans; a popular market snack and portable option.
Must-Try!
Hot, sour, and fragrant shrimp soup common at most Thai eateries; bright with lime, lemongrass, and chilies.
Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, shrimp or chicken, peanuts, and lime; widely available in markets and restaurants.
Green papaya salad tossed with chilies, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts; a staple in street stalls and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant canal-side market offering boat-based snacks, fresh fruit, coconut treats, and photo-worthy scenes.
Markets along the Mae Klong riverfront with grilled river fish, fried snacks, sticky rice, and tropical fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shoulders and knees should be covered; remove hats inside sacred spaces.
A polite wai (palms together at chest level) shows respect; return with a nod or smile.
Avoid pointing feet at people or religious objects; the head is considered sacred and should not be touched.
Safety
Tipping in Ratchaburi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Thailand; rounding up or leaving a small tip for service is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards. Some smaller stalls and markets may operate on cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often above 35°C. Plan early starts, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak heat.
June to October brings heavier afternoon showers. Carry a light raincoat or umbrella and protect electronics.
Pleasantly mild, especially in mornings and evenings; comfortable for outdoor exploring and photography.
Ratchaburi at Night
Hiking in Ratchaburi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hiking with limestone rocks, forest trails, and panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Ratchaburi by plane.
Bangkok's older international hub; convenient for domestic and regional flights; about 1.5–2 hours by road depending on traffic.
Bangkok's main international hub with wider flight options; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road with typical traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority urban and rural Thai communities with a mix of aging rural populations and younger city residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing widely practiced in the region; occasional events and gym practice are common.
Popular water-based activities reflecting the Mae Klong and riverine culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ratchaburi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Thai cooking often uses fish sauce and shrimp paste; request no fish sauce or meat and ask for tofu or vegetables as protein.