Introduction
Chanthaburi is a province of Thailand. It is located in the east of Thailand, at the border to Battambang and Pailin of Cambodia and the shore to the Gulf of Thailand. The neighboring provinces are Trat in the east and Rayong, Chonburi, Chachoengsao and Sa Kaeo.
Mortification Statue of Buddha at Assembly Hall of Wat Plab, Changkraja district,
Chanthaburi is located some 330 km east of Bangkok and one needs about 4 hours to get there from the capital. This is a long stretch for a one day trip, so we do not really recommend it. However, if you stay closer by (like Pattaya or Rayong) there are a few places of interest to visit around Chanthaburi town.
Chanthaburi at present is famed for its gems trade and fairs. Nowadays, most gems traded are actually imported to Thailand. Sapphires and rubies are prominent. The province is also renowned for its durian and other fruits and many fruit markets are in the vicinity of the town.
History
After the Paknam crisis in 1893 the French colonist troops occupied Chanthaburi, returning it in 1905 when Thailand gave up ownership of the western part of Cambodia. A significant minority of Chanthaburi citizens are native Vietnamese, who came there in three waves – first in the 19th century during an anti-Catholic persecution in Cochin China, a second wave came in the 1920s to 1940s fleeing from French Indochina, and a third one after the communist victory in Vietnam in 1975. Thus the town of Chanthaburi is the seat of a Bishop of Chanthaburi since 1944.
The historical background to the city is quite interesting. It is in Chanthaburi that King Taksin the Great, basically reassembled an army to drive the Burmese out of Ayutthaya and Thailand.
Ayutthaya (and the Kingdom of Ayutthaya) was sacked and looted by the Burmese in 1767. Phraya Taksin (the rules of Tak), a half-Chinese, half-Thai general wanted to come to the rescue of the city with his army, but realizing the situation was hopeless, he manage to escape the victorious Burmese army, and made his way down the the East all the way to Chanthaburi.
He conquered Rayong, and then Chanthaburi, after famously ordering his troops to destroy all remaining food supplies, so that they had to take the city in order to eat. Phraya Tak used Chanthaburi as as base to gather more troops, weapons, supplies, and to build 100 fighting chips. After that he returned his force by river to Ayutthaya overcoming many small rebellious groups along the route including those at Chonburi and Thonburi. Finally Phraya tak led his force to attack the Burmese , drove them out and regained Ayutthaya. However, the once grand city of Ayutthaya, was utterly destroyed, and Taksin decided to make his capital further south, close to the entrance of the Chao Phraya into the sea, at Thonburi. He ruled his new kingdom from 1769 to 1782, until he was deposed by his ministers and executed.
Chanthaburi, otherwise known as ‘Mueang Chan’, is a fertile province with various factors contributing to successful cultivation of fruits, especially durian, rambutan, mangosteen, and other economic crops such as pepper and para rubber tree. The province also serves as a hub of gemstone trading, with diversified tourist attractions to offer ranging from mountains, forests, waterfalls, beaches, places and objects of antiquity to soft adventure and ecotourism activities such as trekking, mountain biking, rafting, etc.
Once a prehistoric habitation area, a number of stone tools and artefacts from the Neolithic Age were discovered during surveys at several archaeological sites in Chanthaburi; namely, Amphoe Makham, Amphoe Tha Mai and a hillside plain at Ban Khlong Bon in Amphoe Pong Nam Ron.
Chong was the first Mon-Khmer hunting-gathering community to have settled in the eastern forests in what are now Chanthaburi, Trat and Rayong provinces in ca. the 13th century A.D. The first settlement in Chanthaburi was near Khao Sa Bap. The forest area, especially on the boundary between Chanthaburi and Trat, was abundant in herbs and forest products such as gamboge, lac, wax, cardamom, eaglewood, rattan, cinnamon, etc. Deforestation for cultivation as well as habitation by Thai and Chinese people has shrunken the forest. Hunting and gathering has been made illegal, so the hunter-gatherers were forced to change their lifestyle and become urban labourers or farmers. Most of the ‘Chong’ now live at Ban Khlong Phlu in Amphoe Khao Khitchakut.
Administrative Divisions
The province is subdivided in 10 districts. These are further subdivided into 76 subdistricts and 690 villages.
1 .Mueang Chanthaburi
2. Khlung
3. Tha Mai
4. Pong Nam Ron
5. Makham
6. Laem Sing
7. Soi Dao
8. Kaeng Hang Maeo
9. Na Yai Am
10. Khao Khitchakut
Geographical Locations
While the southern part of the province is located at the shore to the Gulf of Thailand and thus is mostly coastal alluvial plains, the hinterlands of the province are quite mountainous. The Chanthaburi mountain range in the north has the highest elevation of the province, the 1556 m high Soi Dao Nua Peak. The main river of the province is the Chanthaburi River.
Together with the neighboring province Trat, Chanthaburi is the center of gemstone mining, especially rubies and sapphires. Tropical fruits are also among the main products of the province. In 2000, it produced nearly 380,000 tons of durian, which was 45.57% of Thailand’s durian production and approximately 27% of the world production of this fruit.
Communications
By Car
Highway No. 3, start from Bang Na, Bangkok, via Chon Buri – Bang Saen – Si Racha – Pattaya – Sattahip – Ban Chang – Rayong – Chanthaburi, a total distance of 330 Kilometres.
Highway No. 36, start from Kilometres 140 on Sukhumwit Road in Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, turn left at Krathing Lai T-junction via Pira Circuit to end at Tambon Choeng Noen in Amphoe Mueang, Rayong Province, a distance of 60 Kilometres, then turn into Highway No. 3 for 108 Kilometres to Chanthaburi, a total distance of 308 Kilometres.
Highway No. 344, the Ban Bueng – Klaeng route, saving a distance of up to 70 Kilometres, start from Kilometres 98 on Sukhumwit Road in Amphoe Mueang, Chon Buri, via Amphoe Ban Bueng of Chon Buri Province, Amphoe Wang Chan and Amphoe Klaeng of Rayong Province, a distance of 110 Kilometres Then, continue on Highway No. 3 for 58 Kilometres to Chanthaburi, a total distance of 266 Kilometres.
Linking the Northeast and the East, start at Kilometres 200 on Highway No. 33 from Amphoe Kabin Buri of Prachin Buri Province, turn right at Kilometres 230 in Sa Kaeo Province into Highway No. 317, continue for 189 Kilometres via Amphoe Wang Nam Yen, Amphoe Soi Dao, Amphoe Pong Nam Ron, Amphoe Makham to Chanthaburi, a total distance of 219 Kilometres from Kabin Buri.
Motorway – Highway No. 7, start from Si Nakharin Road in Bangkok and end in Pattaya, Chon Buri, a distance of 90 Kilometres Then, continue on Highway No. 36 for 50 Kilometres and Highway No. 3 for another 108 Kilometres, a total distance of 248 Kilometres.
By Bus
From Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) on Sukhumwit Road Air-conditioned Bus Transport Co., Ltd., there are buses leaving daily, for more details, Tel. 0 2391 2504; Chanthaburi office, Tel. 0 3932 2197.
Private operators:
* Cherdchai Tour Tel. 0 2391 2237; Chanthaburi office, Tel. 0 3935 0357.
* Pornnipa Tour Tel. 0 2391 5179; Chanthaburi office, Tel. 0 3931 1476, 0 3931 1278.
* Suparat Tour Tel. 0 2391 2331; Chanthaburi office, Tel. 0 3935 0223.
Non Air-conditioned Bus There are non-scheduled buses leaving the Eastern Bus Terminal, for more details: Tel. 0 2391 2504.
From Mo Chit 2 or Northern Bus Terminal (Chatuchak) on Kamphaeng Phet Road.
Transport Co., Ltd., there are buses leaving daily, Tel. 0 2936 2852.
Private operators:
* Cherdchai Tour Tel. 0 2936 0199
* Pornnipa Tour Tel. 0 2936 2256-7
* Suparat Tour Tel. 0 2936 3888, 0 2936 3939
Buses are also available from Chanthaburi to other provinces including Nakhon Ratchasima, Trat, Rayong, Sa Kaeo, Saraburi, Buri Ram, Prachin Buri, and Tak. For more information, please contact the Chanthaburi Bus Terminal at Tel. 0 3932 2197.
By Train
By Air
Places of Interest
Amphoe Mueang Chanthaburi
King Taksin the Great Shrine
Located in front of Taksin Military Camp on Tha Luang Road. The shrine is a nonagonal building with a roof taking the shape of a royal hat with a pointed spire constructed in 1920 A.D.
It houses a statue of King Taksin the Great to whom a large number of people come to pay respect each day. There is an annual merit-making and offering ceremony in commemoration of his heroic deeds on 28 December, the day of his accession to the throne.
City Pillar Shrine
Located on Tha Luang Road opposite the King Taksin the Great Shrine. There is no evidence as to when it was constructed except for a presumption that King Taksin the Great might have had it constructed when he occupied Chanthaburi after the fall of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya in 1767 A.D. to be a stronghold for recruitment and collection of armaments and foodstuffs for the liberation of the Kingdom.
The shrine is assumed to have been originally built of laterite though it is unknown how it looked like. The present shrine and city pillar were constructed in 1981 and have undergone restoration.
King Taksin the Great Monument
Located within Thung Na Choei Public Park on Tha Luang Road diagonally opposite the City Hall. It covers an area of approximately 300 rai with a beautiful and shady landscape
and attracts a lot of health-oriented people to exercise and relax. It also houses a fish breeding swamp of the Provincial Fishery Office. The monument of King Taksin the Great accompanied by his 4 trusted soldiers in memorial of the historic liberation of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya is situated on an islet in the middle of the swamp.
Si Chan Road
It is the commercial area and centre of gem business. Even though actual gem-mining in the province is not as extensively as it used to be, Chanthaburi remains a major centre for gem dealings with stones from neighbouring countries and abroad being bought and sold.
The Gems Market during the mornings of Friday, Saturday and Sunday attracts large crowd of gem dealers and visitors alike.
Wat Phai Lom
It is located on the Tri Rat Road, about 500 metres from the K.P. Grand Hotel. Concerning the architecture, the building is surrounded by a boundary wall in four directions with an entrance on each side.
Behind the temple, there is a corridor supported by five pillars without decorative capitals. The building’s base line is straight, and there is a pagoda with twelve-redented corners within the wall.
Statue of reclining Buddha at Wat Phai Lom.
There are also mural paintings of bonsais and Chinese-style flowers, the story of the Lord Buddha’s ten incarnations, and his biography. It is assumed that the paintings might have been drawn after the reign of King Rama III, as the pictures contain many foreigners.
The Catholic Church Chanthaburi
Located within the same area as Stree Mandapitak School on Santisuk Road, Tambon Chanthanimit. According to history, the construction of this old and large Catholic Church took 275 years to complete. It was first constructed in 1711 A.D. on the west bank of the Chanthaburi River by Father Heart Tolantino and Catholic Vietnamese immigrants and was relocated in 1834 to the east bank where it now stands for an unknown reason.
In 1903, the present church which was larger and could accommodate a larger number of Christians began to take shape to replace the former one. It was built into the Gothic architecture with beautiful stained glass decorations depicting Christian saints. The church has undergone restoration several times and a celebration was held to mark its 75th anniversary in 1985. It is claimed to be the most beautiful Catholic Church in the country. Open daily during 7.30 a.m.–5.30 p.m. Advance contact is recommended for a group visit. Tel. 0 3931 1578.
How to get there: it is accessible by the same road as Wat Phai Lom, about 1 Kilometres beyond, or from the city, cross the Wat Chan Bridge and continue on Chanthanimit Road before turning right to the church.
Wang Suan Ban Kaeo
Wang Suan Ban Kaeo is located inside Rajabhat University Rambhai Barni, 6 Kilometres from the city on Highway No. 316. The palace used to be a royal residence of Queen Rambhai Barni, the Royal Consort of King Rama VII, for 18 years during 1950–1968. It also served as the Queen’s office and demonstration centre where plants were grown and animals raised for the local people. Most importantly, she had the so-called ‘Suea Chanthabun’ or ‘Chanthabun reed mat’ which was a folk handicraft of Chanthaburi, developed to be more progressive. A reed mat weaving shelter was established only 200 metres from the palace. She designed hand bags and other products from the reed mat. The weaving shelter is now dilapidated with only some equipment left.
Buildings within the palace include Phra Tamnak Yai or Phra Tamnak Thao – a 1½-storeyed half wooden, half concrete residence where the queen stayed and accommodated her royal guests, now exhibiting a collection of her personal belongings that reflect her simple and common way of life, Phra Tamnak Don Khae (?or Phra Tamnak Daeng – a 2-storeyed European style building built of golden teak and painted in dark red where the Queen’s Private Secretary and Deputy Private Secretaries resided.
Wang Suan Ban Kaeo is open during 8.30 a.m.–4.30 p.m. on weekdays. For weekends and group visits, advance contact is required. Tel. 0 3933 5408-9 Ext. Public Relations officers.
Wat Phlap
Wat Phlap is located in Tambon Bang Kacha, about 1 Kilometres from Noen Wong Camp. There is a direction sign on the left leading to the entrance of the temple. The archaeological evidence shows that people took up residence around Wat Phlap and the Ban Bang Kacha community as from around 1757. This was once the place where King Taksin the Great’s troops rested. Many ancient monuments in the temple were constructed during different periods. For example, the gilded wooden scripture cabinet with the pattern in the Lai Rot Nam technique has a style of the Ayutthaya Era, and there is a Prang-shaped Pagoda which was constructed in 1898. In addition, the Ho Trai or Scripture Hall in the middle of the pool, a wooden building whose original pillars with the decoration of the Lai Rot Nam were built before the Ayutthaya Era, was last repaired in 1975. There is also a bell-shaped Pagoda in the middle of the pool which was believed to have been built in the Rattanakosin Period, and a Wooden Wihan with 4 porches which is more than a hundred years old. The hall houses the principal Buddha image in a gesture of practicing asceticism, which was constructed in the reign of King Taksin the Great when he visited Chanthaburi City. This hall was also used as the place to hold the Ceremony of Murathaphisek or making sacred water – water for pouring over the king’s head in the coronation ceremony or other royal rituals – at the beginning of the Chakri Dynasty. Furthermore, behind the temple, there used to be a “Sam Sang”, an ancient crematorium which is believed to have remained only in this temple. It had a five-layered roof, covered with Krabueang Klet Tao (baked clay tiles with sharp corners and matt red texture, which is normally used to cover the ordination hall’s or wihan’s roof.) However, it is ruined now.
Wat Thong Thua
Wat Thong Thua is 4 kilometres from town on Sukhumvit highway, is the site of an ancient Bot which was built over a Khmer-style temple. It also has a large collection of ancient Khmer sculptures such as lintels, sandstone door columns carve in various designs and inscription stone. Nearby is the Mueang Phaniat archaeological site with its remains of laterite base of a large Khmer religious sanctuary and moats marking the town limit the south. The ancient town is believed to have been dated from the 12th-16the centuries B.E. (Buddhist Era).
Boran Sathan Mueang Phaniat
Boran Sathan Mueang Phaniat is an ancient monument located at Mu 4, Tambon Khlong Narai, about 300 metres from the city. It has already been explored and registered by the Fine Arts Department. It is assumed that this monument might be the original settlement of Chanthaburi City in an early age, about a thousand years ago. Nowadays, only a ruined sandstone wall and an unidentified earth mound with a height of about 1 – 3 metres remains.
Wat Bot Mueang
Wat Bot Mueang is located on Benchamarachuthit Road. It is believed to have been constructed in the late Ayutthaya period as evident from its white sandstone boundary markers as well as ordination hall (Phra Ubosot) and Ceylonese bell-shaped Chedi. The temple also houses a lintel of the late Baphuon style (967–1080 A.D.) depicting the God Indra on his Airavata elephant in a niche.
Amphoe Laem Sing–Amphoe Mueang Chathaburi- Amphoe Tha Mai – Hat Khung Wiman Route.
King Taksin Shipyard or Samet Ngam Shipyard
The shipyard is located at Tambon Nong Bua, Amphoe Mueang, 11 Kilometres from the city. It is assumed to have served as a shipyard when King Taksin prepared his forces for liberation of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya in 1767. From underwater archaeological excavations and examination, several rectangular dock-like areas were found along the shore as well as parts of an old ship believed to be a three-masted Chinese junk using a rudder and measuring 24 metres long and 5 metres wide. Nearby is a storehouse for miniature ships and boats once used by the people.
How to get there:
Head for Ban Samet Ngam and turn right at the direction sign at Wat Samet Ngam for another 1 Kilometres.
Boran Sathan Khai Noen Wong
Boran Sathan Khai Noen Wong is an ancient army camp located in Tambon Bang Kacha, Amphoe Mueang, on Highway 3147. From the front of the Eastern Hotel, drive along Tha Chalaep Road for 6 Kilometres Turn right at the junction and go on about 400 metres. In the reign of King Rama III, the king ordered Chaophraya Phra Khlang to build this site on 9 January, 1834, by taking sandstones and bricks from the old city wall to construct the camp defending the city from an Annamese invasion; and wall of artillery was set up surrounding the camp. Within the camp, tourists can visit the King Taksin the Great’s City Pillar Shrine and Wat Yothanimit which was built to be the city temple. At present, the camp space contains an area of the Underwater Archaeology Unit, Fine Arts Department, a storage place of artefacts and pottery taken from the Australian Tide Ship, which trespass Thailand’s waters in the Gulf of Thailand to illegally transport antiques out of the country. The unit opens daily. Free admission.
Panichnavee National Museum
Panichnavee National Museum is located within Noen Wong Fort, the 2-storeyed twin building puts on an exhibition on Thai merchant marine as evidenced by over 20 years of underwater archaeological studies. The major exhibition is upstairs where an exact replica of a junk attracts visitors inside to learn about international maritime trade in the past as well as miniature royal barges. The downstairs presents a scene of an underwater archaeological excavation. There is also a room where the province’s tourism products are displayed such as gemstone mining, fruit orchards, natural attractions, as well as its original ethnic Chong people.
The museum is open during 9.00 a.m.–4.00 p.m. on Wednesday–Sunday and closed on national holidays. Admission is 30 baht. Advance contact is required for a group visit. Tel. 0 3939 1431, Fax. 0 3939 1432.
How to get there: from Amphoe Mueang, take Highway No. 3146 to Ban Tha Chalaep via the Eastern Hotel for 6 Kilometres and turn toward Amphoe Tha Mai for approximately 400 metres.
Chedi Yot Khao Phloi Waen
Chedi Yot Khao Phloi Waen is located in Tambon Phloi Waen, Amphoe Tha Mai, on Highway No. 3174. It was built by Phraya Chanthaburi in 1832 in the reign of King Rama V on top of Khao Phloi Waen. The round Ceylonese-style Chedi contains the Lord Buddha’s relic. There is also a Mondop housing the Buddha’s footprint built in 1928 to replace the original one that had been broken. The surrounding area used to be Chanthaburi’s first gemstone digging sites.
Wat Takat Ngao
Wat Takat Ngao is located in Amphoe Tha Mai, the old temple is approximately 200 years old. It contains a scripture hall or Ho Trai built in the middle of a pond by an artisan of the royal school toward the end of King Rama III’s reign. The scripture hall is believed to have been dismantled from elsewhere to be reconstructed here using wooden joints. It underwent restoration in 2001. There are also several other interesting antiquities such as the wooden principal Buddha image and preaching pulpit.
Khao Laem Sing Forest Park
Khao Laem Sing Forest Park is located at Mu 1, Tambon Bang Kachai, Amphoe Laem Sing. It covers a total land and marine area of 9,500 rai, including dry evergreen forest and beach forest which are home to important flora such as eaglewood, Krabok, queen’s flower, jambolan, Tin Pet, and fauna such as crab-eating macaque, lesser mouse deer, red-cheeked flying squirrel, red jungle fowl and birds. Marine life can be found on beaches and islands.
Khao Laem Sing a small hill located 172 metres above sea level, with a pile of rocks that look like a crouching lion at the front and that gave it the name Khao Laem Sing or the hill of a lion cape. On top is the Phairi Phinat Fort built in the reign of King Rama III but named by King Rama IV on his visit to Chanthaburi prior to his accession to the throne. There is a Chedi nearby which was built by the people of Chanthaburi in 1904 to commemorate the withdrawal of the French troops in Laem Sing from Chanthaburi.
A panoramic view of the seashore and beautiful setting sun is available from the hilltop forest park headquarters. There is a path leading down to Hat Ao Krathing, a small serene sandy beach, which is also accessible by renting a boat from Hat Laem Sing for 20 minutes or travelling on the Tha Mai– Bang Kachai route for 25 kilometres to the headquarters, then walking down the hill for approximately 400 metres to the beach. No accommodation is provided but camping is allowed.
In front of Ao Krathing is Ko Nom Sao, which covers an area of approximately 150 rai of wild and densely growing plants. There are steep cliffs in the south, and beaches and coral reefs of some 500 metres long ideal for diving in the north. To get there, board an 8-10 passenger boat at Laem Sing Pier. The trip will take about 45 minutes and cost 400 baht for a round trip. No accommodation or food shops are available on the island and, hence, not convenient to stay overnight.
Ao Yang a small shady beach near Ao Krathing with private accommodation and food shop available. It is accessible by renting a boat from Hat Laem Sing for approximately 30 minutes or travelling along the Tha Mai – Bang Kachai route for some 22 kilometres to the entrance to Ao Yang and walking for another 1 kilometre. The only available accommodation and foodshop is Ao Yang Resort, 43/2 Mu 1, Tambon Khlong Khut, Amphoe Tha Mai, Tel. 0 3945 6032, 0 3945 6440, 3 guesthouses, each with a capacity of 5-20 person, available at 900-3,000 baht.
Ko Chula a small island with beautiful corals accessible by rental boat from Hat Laem Sing for 30 minutes. Neither accommodation nor food shop is available.
How to get there
Khao Laem Sing Forest Park is accessible by 2 routes. Route 1, board a ferry from Amphoe Laem Sing to Hat Krathing, the fare is 10 baht each. Then, walk on for another 400 metres. Route 2, a convenient one, travel along the Tha Mai–Bang Kachai route for approximately 25 kilometres via Wat Khao Laem Sing uphill to the forest park headquarters.
Hat Khung Wiman
Hat Khung Wiman is located 50 Kilometres from Chanthaburi in Amphoe Na Yai Am, turn left for another 18 Kilometres at Kilometres 301 on Sukhumwit Road. It is a long stretch of sandy beach with seaside accommodation available. The best period for visiting is during November–May.
Laem Sadet–Ao Khung Kraben
Located 25 Kilometres from Amphoe Tha Mai along the Tha Mai–Ban Mu Dut route. The serene and shady beach lined with pine trees and beach plants is ideal for camping. The Royal Forest Department’s tents for rent for 2 – 4 persons are available at 80 – 120 baht per night. In case of own tent, a campsite fee of 20 baht/person/night will be required. For more details, please call the Forestry Section, Ao Khung Kraben Development Study Centre, Tel. 0 3936 9237. There is also the Chaloem Phra Kiat Aquarium exhibiting marine fish inhabiting Ao Khung Kraben such as grouper, snapper, butterfly-fish, angelfish, etc. It is open during 8.30 a.m.–4.30 p.m. on Tuesday–Friday, and 8.30 a.m.–5.30 p.m. on weekends. Tel. 0 3938 8117 ext. 130.
Ao Khung Kraben also accommodates the royally-suggested Ao Khung Kraben Development Study Centre which won the Thailand Tourism Awards 2002: the Award of Outstanding Performance in the category of Tourism Promotion Organizations. The centre is responsible for research and study for appropriate development guidelines of Chanthaburi’s shoreline.
One of the projects implemented by the centre to educate interested people about mangrove ecology and how to make the supreme benefit of these resources is the Ao Khung Kraben Nature Trail Boardwalk. The trail takes 30–45 minutes, a total distance of 1,600 metres running through the mangrove forest, with nature interpretation signs along the way. Visitors will be informed about mangrove flora and the significance of the mangrove toward the coastal ecological system as well as sustainable shrimp culture, as home to marine life, source of food and herbs for nearby communities.
In addition, visitors will understand how various plants in the mangrove forest depend on each other and are useful to humans. For example Lamphu Thale which grows well in sandy soil will prepare the marine mire for other plants to grow. Samae Khao is not only used as firewood, but its core when boiled with Samae San makes an emmenagogue, mangrove wood makes good quality charcoal, paper pulp and medicines for treatment of sickness and injury. There are many more useful plants in this mangrove forest other than obtainable knowledge and natural beauty. The centre is open daily during 6.30 a.m.–6.00 p.m. Advance contact is recommended for a group visit. Accommodation is available for seminars held by government agencies by making prior contact at Tel. 0 3936 9216-8.
Ao Khung Kraben Non-hunting Area
This beautiful place is located 15 Kilometres from Amphoe Tha Mai. The area suffered deforestation 40 years ago and has just recently seen pioneer plants. There are 4 types of forest within the area; namely, dry evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest, beach forest and mangrove forest. A 1-hour nature trail with scenic viewpoints of Hat Chao Lao and Khaem Nu Estuary is provided.
Hat Chao Lao
Hat Chao Lao is located 19 Kilometres from Amphoe Tha Mai next to Hat Laem Sadet. This long serene sandy beach with a shady coconut grove is a favourite attraction among holidaymakers, with medium to standard accommodation and restaurants available.
Glass-bottomed and speed boat services are also provided to view the corals in the shallows, only 2 Kilometres off shore, which are rare to be seen as corals are usually formed near islands where there is an appropriate unpolluted current of stream and temperature. Seeing corals near the coastline is convenient and takes roughly one hour only. The recommended period is between November – May. A glass-bottomed boat with a capacity of 5–20 passengers is available at Hat Suai Resort, Tel. 0 3936 9111, 08 1945 6723 at 800–1,800 baht.
How to get there: Hat Khung Wiman, Hat Khung Kraben, Hat Laem Sadet and Hat Chao Lao are accessible by two routes. At Kilometres 301 on Sukhumwit Road 30 Kilometres before reaching Chanthaburi, turn right into Highway No. 3399 and follow the direction signs. Or from the provincial town, drive for 17 Kilometres to Amphoe Tha Mai, turn toward the Wang Tanot Dam and continue to the beaches.
Laem Sadet Arboretum
Laem Sadet Arboretum is located 25 Kilometres from Amphoe Tha Mai, the picturesque small beach is shady with pine trees and several beach plants.
Rayong-Chanthaburi Route
Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park
Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park is located in the headwater of Lam Nam Prasae–Rayong’s principal river, covering a total area of approximately 83 square kilometres in Amphoe Khao Chamao, Rayong Province, and Amphoe Kaeng Hang Maeo, Chanthaburi Province.
Places of Interest within the National Park include:
*Tham Khao Wong : Located at Ban Khao Wongkot and surrounded by limestone mountains and evergreen forest which is a habitat of Chan Pha (Dracaena loureiri Gagnep.)–a precious economic plant, and serow–an endangered species of wild animal.
More than 80 caves have been discovered in this area with a complex of some 20 connected caves divided into 3 zones being open for tourism. Caving and potholing the caves take only one whole day. Please contact the Park’s Safeguard Unit at Khao Wong for guidance. A torch is recommended during the cave tour.
Some caves do have an astonishing background. To mention just a few, Tham Rong Bon used to be a gambling den, as its name suggests, before the area was proclaimed a national park in 1975. Tham Lot was named after the fact that part of the potholing into the cave would include wading through water of about knee height to get to a small waterfall flowing down a cliff inside. Tham Chum Saeng suggests its beauty in the afternoon sunlight. And there is Tham Lakhon, which is the habitat of a large flock of bats whose droppings have been taken by villagers to fertilize their rambutan and durian orchards. Because of its near distance and easy accessibility, Tham Lakhon has attracted a lot of visitors and is now lying in a deteriorated condition. Sweat or grease from the human skin can halt the growth of, in other words – kill, stalagmites and stalactites in the cave.
A 2-Kilometres and 2-hour nature trail is provided starting from the national park’s headquarters to Namtok Wang Matcha. Please contact the official before trekking.
The rainy season at the national park, which falls during May–October, usually sees heavy rains with average annual rainfall of 3,000 millimetres. The climate is pleasantly cool during November–February and with an average summer temperature of 26–27 degrees Celsius during March–April. The park is accessible by the Rayong–Chanthaburi route, turn left at Kilometres 288 off Sukhumwit Road, 40 kilometres before reaching Chanthaburi, into Highway No. 3344 near Na Yai Am Market and continue for 15 kilometres.
Admission is 200 baht each for adults and 100 baht each for children.Accommodation, there are 6 guesthouses, each with a capacity of 4–7 persons, available at 800–1,000 baht, a campsite for 30 persons at 3,000 baht and tents for rent for 2–4 persons at 150–500 baht. A camping fee of 30 baht/person/night will be required for own tent. For more details, please contact Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park, Tel. 0 3889 4378, or National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Tel. 0 2562 0760 or www.dnp.go.th
Amphoe Mueang Chanthaburi–Namtok Krathing Route
Wat Khao Sukim
Situated on a hill covering an area of some 1,320 acres, Wat Khao Sukim was built in 1966 by devout Buddhists who had faith in Phra Achan Somchai Thitawiriyo. The objective of the temple is to be used as a meditation venue. The expansive temple compound offers a peaceful haven surrounded by shady orchards. The temple also houses a large collection of religious items and valuable antiques donated by the public. On display are wax sculptures of over twenty Buddhist monks highly revered by the public. In the temple’s newly built Ubosot (ceremonial hall), mural painting created by Chakrabhand Posayakrit, National Thai Artist in Painting of the year 2000, can be appreciated. Open daily during 6.30 a.m.-5.00 p.m. For more information, please contact Tel. 08 9931 5544.
How to get there
Wat Khao Sukim is in Tambon Khao Bai Si, Amphoe Tha Mai, about 20 Kilometres from the city. Tourists can travel to the temple by many routes. From Sukhumvit Road, Kilometres 305, near Ban Huai Sathon, turn into Highway 3322 and go on for 13 Kilometres before arriving at Wat Khao Sukim. Otherwise, go to the other entrance at Ban Noen Sung after driving for another 16 Kilometres, or take the route which passes Namtok Krathing by driving along Sukhumvit Road. Turn into the Khao Rai Ya Intersection and drive for about 7 Kilometres Turn left again at the intersection and go on for about 10 Kilometres.
Khao Khitchakut National Park
Covering areas in Amphoe Makham and Amphoe Khao Khitchakut, the national park is the main headwater of the Chanthaburi River. Its moist evergreen forests, hill evergreen forest as well as deciduous forest abound in various herbs, wild orchids, and the rare eaglewood. Its mountainous area provides home for copious wild animals such as guar, tiger, bear, deer, barking deer, serow as well as birds. Its creeks are also habitat for soro brook carp, red-tailed snakehead, and Nieuhof’s walking catfish.
Places of interest within the national park include:
* Namtok Krathing a large 13-tiered waterfall originating from the Khitchakut Range. A return trip to Namtok Krathing takes 3 hours. The distance between each tier is approximately 20 metres, with the 8th and 9th tiers being the most picturesque. There are bamboo forests and various plant species along the way, with a blanket of moss and ferns on both sides. The trail to the waterfall is especially colourful when the trees shed their reddish yellow leaves. There is also a large beach formed by sand washed down by a flash flood in 1999. The first tier of the waterfall is only 100 metres from the national park’s headquarters. Admission is 10 baht for adults and 5 baht for children.
* Yot Khao Phrabat a peak of the Khitchakut Range accessible from Wat Phluang along a steep road of 8 Kilometres and some 1.2 Kilometres walk further up the mountain. Interesting spots on top of Khao Phrabat are formed by geological phenomena and related to Buddhist legends such as Sila Chedi, the Buddha’s footprint, stone in the shape of an overturned alms bowl, Tham Ruesi or hermit cave, God Indra’s carriage racing ground, and stones in the shape of a giant turtle and elephant. A panoramic view of Chanthaburi including Khao Sa Bap Range, Khao Sukim and Ko Nom Sao is available from the mountaintop. During the period of the Chinese New Year through to the Magha Puja Day, a lot of people will come to pay homage to the mountaintop Buddha’s footprint during the day and night. For more information, please contact Khao Khitchakut National Park, Tel. 0 3945 2074.
* Namtok Khlong Chang Se located some 10 Kilometres from the national park’s headquarters on the way up the Khao Phrabat. It is a circular nature trail starting from the Safeguard Unit, with signs of natural interpretation along the 4-Kilometres and 3-hour trail.
* Namtok Khlong Krasan a large waterfall amid shady surroundings located near Safeguard Unit 2 (Khlong Phaibun) 8 Kilometres from the national park’s headquarters. Swimming is allowed here.
Admission to the national park is 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children.
Accommodation, there is 6 guesthouses for 2-8 persons, available at 600-1,800 baht, tents for 3-6 persons at 250-500 baht and camping ground for own tents at 30 baht/person/night. For more details, please contact Khao Khitchakut National Park, Tel. 0 3945 2074, or National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Tel. 0 2562 0760, or www.dnp.go.th
How to get there: take Sukhumwit Road, turn left at Khao Rai Ya Intersection into Highway No. 3249 for 24 Kilometres or take the blue “Song Thaeo” minibus, the Chanthaburi-Chanthakhlem route, at Tha Chalaep Post Office.
Amphoe Mueang Chanthaburi-Amphoe Makham-Amphoe Soi Dao Route
Chanthaburi Herbal Garden an agency under the Medical Science Department, Ministry of Public Health, located 25 Kilometres from Chanthaburi provincial town. There are an experimental plantation and nursery of various herbs to be used in research and experiments for medical production. Open daily during 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m. A group visit will have to seek prior permission from the Director of Herbal Research Institute. For more information, Tel. 0 3941 3177 Bangkok Tel. 0 2589 9850-8 ext. 9042-3.
Khiri Than Dam
Located in Amphoe Tha Makham 40 Kilometres from Chanthaburi. Follow Highway No. 317 for 20 Kilometres and turn right for 14 Kilometres to the dam. It was built by the Energy Development and Promotion Department, Ministry of Science Technology and Environment into a multi-purpose dam for electricity generation, irrigation, fishery, as well as, prevention and alleviation of floods in the rainy season. Its highest altitude for water is 205 metres from sea level, with a carrying capacity of approximately 76 million cubic metres. Its reservoir offers a picturesque scenery but without any facilities available.
Chong Phakkat Thai-Cambodian Border Market
The market located at Ban Khlong Yai, Mu 4 Tambon Khlong Yai, 30 Kilometres from Pong Nam Ron District Office, 20 Kilometres from Pailin and 68 Kilometres from Preah Tabong in Cambodia. It is a commodity market but shopping across the border is allowed for Thai citizens only. Open during 7.00 a.m.–8.00 p.m.
Ban Laem Thai-Cambodian Border Market
Located at Ban Laem, Mu 4 Tambon Thep Nimit, 46 Kilometres from Pong Nam Ron District Office. It is a commodity market along the border, with an occupational promotion in making wooden furniture for sale to the general public and tourists. Shopping across the border is convenient but available only for residents of Amphoe Pong Nam Ron and Amphoe Soi Dao during 7.00 a.m.-8.00 p.m. The market is 86 Kilometres from Preah Tabong. For more information, please contact the Security Department, Tel. 0 3931 2730.
Namtok Hin Dat
Namtok Hin Dat is located on the Soi Dao Range at Mu 2 Tambon Thap Sai, 10 Kilometres and another 3 Kilometres walk which takes about 2 hours from Pong Nam Ron District Office. The 12-tiered waterfall is surrounded by an intact evergreen forest, with its 9th-12th tiers being especially breathtaking. A return trip takes about 3 hours and will require a guide. Contact Subdistrict Chief Thongchai Phrae-ngam at Tel. 0 3944 7247, 08 7143 5521.
Namtok Khao Soi Dao
Namtok Khao Soi Dao is located within Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary in Amphoe Soi Dao, some 4 Kilometres from the sanctuary’s headquarters. The waterfall has 16 tiers with a large swarm of butterflies ideal for butterfly watching and plant study. The Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary covers mixed decicuous forest, decicuous dipterocarp forest, with an abundance of herbs, flora and fauna. Its topography is mountainous with 2 peaks; namely, Soi Dao Nuea and Soi Dao Tai. The Soi Dao Tai is the highest peak rising approximately 1,675 metres above sea level. The verdant forest is the watershed of several streams that become the large Namtok Khao Soi Dao in the deep jungle. It is accessible by foot along a scenic and adventurous trail. The large topmost tier is breathtaking and accessible by climbing banyan roots up the cliff of about 20 metres high. Visitors can walk as far as the 9th tier which is a distance of 2.5 Kilometres and takes nearly 2 hours. The 10th -16th tiers will require a guide and another 1 hour walk. Guesthouses are available near the waterfall.
The sanctuary also provides a nature trail named “Lila Sai” or the grace of the banyan, starting from the sanctuary’s headquarters. Along the trail, visitors will notice the buttress roots, lichens, banyan trees, Yang Daeng, natural salt lick, etc., with nature interpretation signs. The 2 Kilometres trail takes about 2 hours.
Accommodation, there are 3 guesthouses for 8-70 persons available at the sanctuary, tents for 2 persons at 100 baht/night and camping fee of 30 baht/person/night for own tents. Camping is allowed but contact in advance is required. For more information, please contact the Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, Amphoe Khao Soi Dao, Chanthaburi 22180, Tel. 08 1384 5164 or National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Tel. 0 2562 0760 or www.dnp.go.th.
How to get there: Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary is 70 Kilometres from the provincial town along Highway No. 317 toward Sa Kaeo. After passing Amphoe Pong Nam Ron, at Kilometres 22 before reaching Patong Market, turn left for another 4 Kilometres to the sanctuary’s headquarters. The waterfall is about 5 Kilometres away: 2.5 Kilometres by car and another 2 Kilometres on foot, or take a bus, the Chanthaburi–Sa Kaeo route, get off at Patong Market and charter a Song Thaeo minibus to the sanctuary.
Amphoe Mueang Chanthaburi–Amphoe Laem Sing–Amphoe Khlung Route
Wat Mangkon Buppharam or Wat Leng Hua Yi
It is located on Sukhumvit Road, Chanthaburi – Khlung Route, 16 Kilometres from the city. It is a Mahayana Sect’s temple, built in 1977. There is a reception hall and ordination hall, decorated with mosaics in different beautiful patterns. The temple’s atmosphere is shady and serene, suitable for people who are interested in practice meditation. Accommodation is available.
There are two major events arranged at the temple every year: Kathin Offering Ceremony, held after the Buddhist Lent, and Temple’s Annual Fair, held 21 days after the Chinese New Year. People will go to the temple to make merit, practice precepts, and stay at the temple during the festival period of 7 – 10 days.
Namtok Phlio National Park
Namtok Phlio National Park is located in Amphoe Laem Sing on the Sa Bap Range, covering a total area of 84,063 rai with various species of flora such as Khanun Pa, Krathon Pa, Phimsen, etc., and fauna, the most frequently seen including boar, serow, mongoose, ground squirrel, Asiatic black bear, gibbon, monkey, etc. It is also home to several kinds of fish.
It is said that “Phlio” is a Chong term for sand or beach. However, it was understood that the name of the waterfall was derived from a kind of vine growing in sandy soil and bearing small reddish yellow fruits. Namtok Phlio is a large waterfall with water all year round which is so clear that its sandy soil bed is visible.
Places of interest within the National Park include:
* Namtok Khlong Narai
Namtok Khlong Narai otherwise known as “Namtok Khao So Bap”, located some 8 Kilometres from the provincial town on the Chanthaburi – Laem Sing route. The 25-metre high waterfall is accessible by walking along the trail in a verdant forest. The atmosphere is ideal for nature-lovers who wish to spend a night amid serene nature.
* Namtok Phlio
located only 200 metres from the national park’s headquarters. It is a medium-scale waterfall originating from an underground stream that springs and cascades over the cliff down to a pool below. The water is clear and ideal for swimming. Before reaching the waterfall, there is a pool which is a natural habitat of soro brook carp that reside in the stream of waterfalls in some regions only. There are also 2 important monuments within the waterfall area including:
* Alongkon Chedi
Built from laterite in 1876 A.D. by King Rama V in memory of the king’s and his beloved consort’s, Queen Sunantha Kumarirat, visit to the waterfall in 1874. The royal couple was much pleased with the waterfall.
* Phranang Ruea Lom
Pyramid a pyramidal stupa built from granite in 1881 in memory of the affectionate love of King Rama ?toward Queen Sunantha who was killed in a boat accident on the Chao Phraya River. The stupa also contains part of her royal ashes.
* Namtok Trok Nong
located to the west of Namtok Phlio 26 Kilometres from Chanthaburi provincial town along Sukhumwit Road, the Chanthaburi–Khlung route. Turn left at the Amphoe Khlung Intersection into the Amphoe Khlung–Amphoe Makham route for approximately 10 Kilometres and turn left at Ban Trok Nong for another 2 Kilometres to the Safeguard Unit 2 (Namtok Trok Nong).
The waterfall has 3 tiers. The 1st tier is known as “Namtok Mai Si” (Mai Si refers to bamboo). It is only 500 metres from the Safeguard Unit. The 1st tier is accessible through a 50-metre long bamboo forest tunnel. The 2nd tier is called “Namtok Klang” which is about 1 Kilometres away from the 1st tier and surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers. The 3rd tier is “Namtok Trok Nong” located about 1 Kilometres from the 2nd tier and cascades down a cliff of approximately 20 metres high. Walking to the waterfall will need a guide. Visitors to the 3rd tier are recommended to contact the national park’s official. Camping is allowed within the national park with tents for 2 persons available at 270 baht per night.
Admission to the national park is 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children.
Accommodation, there are 4 guesthouses for 6 persons available at 1,800 baht, camp for 30 person at 3,000 baht, tents for 2 persons at 270 baht and a camping fee of 30 baht/person/night for own tents. For more details, please contact Namtok Phlio National Park, Tel. 0 3943 4528 or National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Tel. 0 2562 0760 or www.dnp.go.th. How to get there: it is 14 Kilometres from Chanthaburi along Sukhumwit Road, the Chanthaburi–Khlung route. Turn left at Kilometres 346 for another 2 Kilometres to Namtok Phlio. Or take the Song Thaeo minibus on the Chanthaburi Namtok Phlio route. Phuttha-utthayan Wat Chak Yai located on Highway 3149 approximately 500 metres off Sukhumwit Road toward Amphoe Laem Sing. It is a Buddhist park featuring a fine sculptural exhibition of the Life of the Lord Buddha with narrative signs.
* Khuk Khi Kai just before Laem Sing beach, was built to hold Thais who were against the French occupation of Chanthaburi in 1893. A 7-metre high, square-shaped prison, it was built in bricks with each side measuring 4.40 metres. The walls were holed for ventilation. The porous roof is said to have been used as chicken coop through which the birds dropped their excrements.
How to get there: take Highway No. 3, the Chanthaburi-Trat route, and turn right into Highway No. 3149 before reaching Amphoe Laem Sing.
Tuk Daeng near Khuk Khi Kai is the site of the Phikhat Patchamit Fort built in the reign of King Rama III. It was subsequently turned into living quarters and military command post by the French. A single storey, red-tiled roof building, today it serves as the Laem Sing district public library.
Hat Laem Sing is about 30 kilometres from town and can be reached via Sukhumvit Road on the way to Trat with a right turn at Kilometres 347, a further distance of 16 kilometres to the beach. The beach itself is shaded with pine trees lining the entire shore and cooled by constant gentle breezes. There are food shops and boats for rent to visit two nearby isles, Ko Chula and Ko Nom Sao. The trip takes 30 minutes and one hour respectively.
Oasis Sea World
Oasis Sea World is located in Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe Laem Sing, 25 Kilometres from the city, covering an area of more than 68 rai (108,800 square metres). It is the place to reproduce and conserve dolphins in Chanthaburi’s watercourses.
The two species of dolphins conserved are Irrawaddy Dolphin and Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin. In addition, there is a butterfly garden where visitors can closely see varieties of butterflies and their life cycles in nature. Accommodation for tourists is available.
There is a dolphin show 5 times a day. On weekdays, the show starts at 9.00 a.m., 11.00 a.m., 1.00 p.m., 3.00 p.m., and 5.00 p.m. On weekends, there will be an additional show at 7.00 a.m. Admission fee is 180 Baht. For further information, please contact Tel. 0 3939 9015, 0 3936 3238-9, or www.oasisseaworld.net
Amphoe Pong Nam Ron
Hot Springs 3 natural hot springs surrounded by longan and durian orchards, located 18 Kilometres from Amphoe Pong Nam Ron on Highway No. 3193.
“Manut Boran” Archaeological Site excavation site located 25 Kilometres from Amphoe Pong Nam Ron. Prehistoric human skeletons, stone tools, artefacts, pottery and ornaments of some 4,000 years old, now removed from the pits, were unearthed.
Khao Sip Ha Chan National Park or Namtok Nam Pen.
Khao Sip Ha Chan National Park is located in Tambon Khun Song and covering a total area of 75,000 rai (not yet officially declared a national park). Places of interest include waterfalls like Namtok Saba, Namtok I Kek and especially Namtok Khao Sip Ha Chan, a breathtaking 15-tiered waterfall with water all year round. It is accessible by climbing up the high altitudes and skirting along the stream or climbing up the waterfall’s cliff. Camping is possible on the 6th and 13th tiers, the latter being the highest one with a cascade of some 35 metres high. The surrounding forest is verdant with various wild animals having been noticed such as monkey, gibbon, elephant, gaur and banteng. Camping grounds are also provided for those bringing their own tents at Khlong Maduea and near Namtok I Kek. For further information, please contact Khao Sip Ha Chan National Park, Tel. 08 9550 3639 or National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Tel. 0 2562 0760 or www.dnp.go.th.
How to get there: take a bus from Bangkok, and get off at Amphoe Na Yai Am and connect the Song Thaeo minibus at the market to the park or an agreed price for a chartered one.
Beaches of Chanthaburi
Of all provinces in the eastern coast of Thailand, Chanthaburi is lesser known to tourists, partly due to its 250 kilometre distance from Bangkok. However, that does not mean it lacks the beauty a good beach destination has.
Perhaps unknown to many tourists, Khung Wiman Beach , Khung Krabain Bay , Laem Sadet Beach and Chao Lao Beach are both peaceful and picturesque. Their scenic beachside roads are featured in several TV commercials.
Khung Wiman
The most scenic beach in Chanthaburi, Khung Wiman has a beautiful beachside road that goes along a fine brown sandy beach and winding hillside roads. The beach is flanked with pine trees while the water is clear and good for swimming. It is considered one of Thailand ’s most beautiful beachside roads and often used in TV commercials in Thailand . Next to Khung Wiman Beach is Khung Krabain Bay . It is the site of Chanthaburi’s verdant mangrove forests and the Khung Krabain Study and Development Centre under Royal Patronage. You can explore the mangrove forest via an 850 metre -long wooden bridge. Spare at least half an hour.
Laem Sadet Beach
Located opposite Khung Krabain Mangrove Forest , Laem Sadet beach stretches 3 kilometres long on a white sandy beach. The bay is shady with pine trees and fine for swimming. There are a few resorts on this beach.
Chao Lao Beach
Located east of Khung Krabain Bay is Chao Lao Beach . The beach is popular among locals who come here on weekend. It boosts brown sandy beach and shallow water suitable for swimming. There are some good resorts by the beach.
Khung Krabain Bay
After admiring the scenery from the most wonderful beach road, you will reach Khung Krabain Bay, which is the highlight of Chanthaburi, of Ray shape.(Ray means Krabain in Thai). It is the site of Khung Krabain Study and Development Center under royal patronage in order to develop this area by using modern knowledge and technology. It takes at least half a day to explore the area thoroughly including seeing mangrove forests reached by 850-meter long wooden bridge. Along the ways are information signs to inform tourists.
Activities
Rafting
Pong Nam Ron Rapids situated 18 Kilometres from Amphoe Pong Nam Ron featuring a 12-Kilometres long scenic rafting channel which will take about 2–3 hours along Khlong Pong Nam Ron. Originating on the Khruea Wai Range, the canal meanders through rocky valleys and villages in Amphoe Pong Nam Ron to end up in Cambodia. There are fruit orchards and rich greenery of various plants. The difficulty of the rafting is between Levels 2–3 (depending on the volume of water of each year). The starting point for the rafting is at Ban Khruea Wai and Khlong Pong Nam Ron, passing various interesting and scenic spots such as Kaeng Cha-om, Kaeng Yao, Wang Nam Un, Saphan Wat Chai–a small hanging bridge from where visitors can jump into the water, dyke, to end up at Wat Khlong Yai. The appropriate period for rafting is during the green season (May–November).
Rafting is available at Wang Khon Chalet, 3/8 Mu 8, Amphoe Pong Nam Ron, Tel. 0 3931 7024, 08 1639 4629; Bangkok, Tel. 0 2885 5355, offering rafting boats for 8 persons at Bt 2,500–3,900, canoes for 2 persons at Bt 1,000–1,500, and Fuji Tour, Bangkok, Tel. 0 2540 2971–2, 0 2918 6067–8, offering rafting boats for 8 persons at Bt 3,000 and canoe for 1-2 persons at Bt 200/hour. and Phayakumpuch Resort, Amphoe Pong Nam Ron, Tel. 0 3938 7225-6, 08 1523 1678 www.phayakumpuch.thiewthai.com , offering rafting boats for 8 persons at Bt 2,000–3,500, canoes for 2-3 persons at Bt 1,000.
Festivals/Events
Phra Phutthabat Phluang Homage-paying Fair
Held on the new Mun day of the 2nd lunar month during the period of the Chinese New Year to Magha Puja (around January-March) on top of Khao Khitchakut, Tambon Phluang, Amphoe Makham. The fair features an offering ceremony to guardian angels, gilding the Lord Buddha’s footprint, and climbing up Khao Khitchakut. The tradition has been observed for generations out of a folk belief that climbers will gain high merit, in addition, to mental endurance from so doing. In the past, merit-makers had to walk on foot for a distance of some 15 Kilometres up the mountain.
Phra Phutthasaiyat Gilding Fair
Held around the period of the Chinese New Year to pay homage and gild the image of Phra Phutthasaiyat or Reclining Buddha at Wat Phai Lom and featuring Dharma preaching and various forms of entertainment.
Rajamangala Rak Lueang Chan Festival
Rajamangala Rak Lueang Chan Festival is held in February of every year at Rajamangala Institute of Technology (Eastern Campus). There will be an academic exhibition, Lueang Chanthabun Orchid Competition, and sales of agricultural products and plants.
Kwian Phrabat Tug-of-war Tradition
Kwian Phrabat Tug-of-war Tradition held around the Songkran Festival at Wat Tapon Yai, Amphoe Khlung. This tradition has been observed for more than a century and will feature a Rot Nam Dam Hua ceremony (pouring scented water onto the hands of the elderly to seek their blessing), Kwian Phrabat or the Buddha’s footprint cart tug-of-war, and various forms of entertainment during the night.
World Durian Festival
World Durian Festival held annually for 1-2 weeks in the month of May at the Triangular Na Choei Ground. The fair features contests of fruit decorated floats, beauty queens, Eastern famous fruits such as rambutan, durian, mangosteen, Rakam and Sala zalaccas and varieties of santol and Thai ridgeback dog, as well as booth displays of gems and jewellery and other farmer housewife groups.
Chanthaburi Gemstone and Local Product Fair
Chanthaburi Gemstone and Local Product Fair is the largest jewellery fair in the eastern region, held during 8-12 December of every year, at the Chanthaburi Gems Centre, on Tri Rat and Chanthanimit Roads.
King Taksin the Great Commemoration Day and Chanthaburi Red Cross Fair
King Taksin the Great Commemoration Day and Chanthaburi Red Cross Fair annually held from 28 December to the first week of January at the Provincial Stadium to commemorate his courageous liberation of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. The fair will feature exhibitions by public agencies, booth display of the province’s local products, and Miss Chanthaburi Beauty Pageant.
Khao Soi Dao Tourism Festival
Khao Soi Dao Tourism Festival held toward the end of the year at viewpoints of Soi Dao District Office and Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary. Activities include selling of agricultural produce and OTOP products, cultural performances, Soi Dao lucky draw, and sales of the district’s famous fruits such as longan, sweet tamarind, etc.
January 18th, 2010 | 
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