Chanthaburi, Thailand

CHANTHABURI, THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE | TOURIST SPOTS, HOTELS

Chanthaburi, Thailand: A City of Gems

Situated in the eastern part of Thailand, along the borders of Pailin and Battambang of Cambodia lies a province called by the name Chanthaburi. It also is a city called by the same name. The province is surrounded by neighboring provinces, namely Trat to the east and Chonburi, Chachoengsao, Rayong, and Sa Kaeo to the west.

Although originally had been a part of what is now Thailand (Siam), Chanthaburi once fell to the French as part of the French Indochina in the Southeast. The French’s annexation of Chanthaburi was a result of the conflict between the Thai and the European power back in 1893 dubbed Paknam Incident which led to the defeat of the former.

However, resulting from trade between parties, Thailand was able to reclaim Chanthaburi in exchange for the western part of Cambodia.

Taken as a place of refuge for the persecuted in Vietnam, Chanthaburi has had a significantly small population of Vietnamese people who came into the land in three instances, each of which as a result of the disturbance in their own land.

Mostly covered by land and a portion partially exposed to the Gulf of Thailand, the hinterlands of Chanthaburi are rather mountainous than flat. The highest elevation in all of the provinces lies to the north which is the Soi Dao Nua which peaks at 1,556 meters. Coincidentally, the province also inhabits a flowing river named after itself.

Chanthaburi, Thailand: A Hub for Gems

Like its neighboring province of Trat, Chanthaburi centers around gemstone mining, particularly sapphires and rubies. Consequently, this makes the city within Chanthaburi a place for commerce involving gorgeous-looking and precious stones. At the heart of this trade is the Talad Ploy market which, while seemingly sleepy during the weekdays, shifts to vibrancy on the weekends as a place for valued stones.

The supply of these appraised gems may have already dwindled since the coming of the mechanized means of farming stones but the Thais developed a mastery towards the craft, making the precious stones of greater value, the less they are available. This knowledge is thanks to the French jewelers who had been known to practice the craft in Europe for a long time which they brought to Chanthaburi in the 1960s.

However, the act of “cooking” stones to become a polished gem is not always considered an ethical practice. With the right means, even non-gemstone varieties and roughs can be converted into gemstones which can generate a good profit.

Venturing into the market, it is hard to find gemstones that are priced at $2 to $3 per carat. The cheaper the item is, the more it tells that it had undergone considerable treatment to get polished.

But the controversy behind the idea of “cooking” stones is also subjective. For the artisans who were behind their practice, there is nothing wrong with polishing roughs and turning them into a piece of art like all gemstones are.

Yet, it is not always just sellers who are the people behind every table in this market. Importers, too, occupy a space in the market who buy gemstones from willing sellers.

Chanthaburi, Thailand Tourist Spots

Baan Nam Prik Kao Suay is an interesting restaurant in Chanthaburi offering Thai dishes. One must try their dishes with flowers as the main ingredient

 more dishes offered by  Ban Namprik Kaosauy in Chanthaburi

Do you love oysters? If you do, you will surely love a visit to Pa Louise Lung Thom oyster farm or  Uncle Tom’s Oyster Farm. The place is owned and managed by Uncle Tom together with his wife, Auntie Louise. They started oyster farming 30 years back.  

Laem Sing District, Chanthaburi, Thailand

Ao Yang Beach

Located at Laem Sing District, this beach resort is what you are looking for if you want to visit an all-in experience. They have accommodation for those who will stay overnight, a beautiful beach and shore, and seafood restaurants!

Khao Laem Sing Forest Park

Located at Laem Sing District Khao Laem Sing Forest Park are a combination of a forest and a beach! Well, you can actually spend the night here if you want. Just build a tent in between the woods and of the shore or you may also go for the nearby accommodation place. This is going to be fun and super worth it.

Khuk Khi Kai

Another ancient site to visit is the Khuk Khi Kai. Just like the previous one, this attraction served as the comfort zone of the Thai in defense of the French. The square-shaped prison that is approximately 7-meters high was made up of bricks. To allow air to come in and out, ventilation through the holes of the wall was also made. In fact, the roof is also being used as hay for chickens whereas the birds would usually drop their poops.

Laem Sing Beach

Located at Laem Sing District, this place that is also known as Sing Cape is a place if you would like to spend a day in a beach surrounded with tall and robust pine trees. Walk along the shore and feel the cool breeze of air or if you want a more adventurous one, you may also rent a boat to hand visit nearby islands.

Oasis Sea World

Located at Laem Sing District is this attraction which showcases different dolphin shows. Additionally, there is also a butterfly farm and a collection of other animals in the place. It is open from 9:00 am to 3:40 pm.

Wat Mangkon Buppharam

Located at Laem Sing District, this place is a temple that was designed after the Chinese architecture and is then one of the essential Chinese Buddhist temples in the entire Bangkok. It is well-designed with mosaics using different patterns.

Mueang District, Chanthaburi, Thailand

Chanthaburi Cultural Centre

The Thao Villa is a must-see place too with its given European style. This building was built with a combination of concrete and timber materials.

Khai Noen Wong

This attraction is only approximately 8-kilometers from the city center. This ancient attraction was built around 1834 that was originally built as a form of wall protection against the invaders. During that time, it was one of the most powerful military camps. In the same area is the soon to rise national maritime museum as well as an exhibition chamber which primarily showcases the beauty of tradition and culture of the people of Chantaburi. This attraction is open from 9:00 am up to 4:00 pm.

King Taksin the Great Shipyard

Located at Mueang District, this believed to be a place of construction place for the war vessels when King Taksin was trying to liberate Ayutthaya. You can see here multiple basins that are square in shape. You can visit this place from 8 am to 4 pm.

Si Chan Road (Gems Market)

This gem market is one of the best places to visit in the area. Be ready to be amazed at the different gems with varied designs and cuts displayed and being sold. The quality along with the lower price is surely an advantage if you are planning of buying an item. The market is open from 10:00 am up to 3:00 pm.

Taksin Maharat Memorial

Located at Mueang District, this monument aims to commemorate the Great King, Taksin, on his successful liberation at Chanthaburi. The astute and robust personality of the King is visible in how his facial features were sculpted. The large pond filled with varied fishes in the area also serves as an additional attraction.

The TAT Bloggers at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

Considered as the largest Catholic church in entire Thailand, this is no wonder a usual hub for tourists. The gothic architecture design of the church took a total of 275 years to be finished and thus, the beauty of this is beyond words as manifested by the beautiful stained glass which has the design of Christian Saints. This is open every day from six o’clock in the morning until six o’clock in the evening.

The Chamsom Crocodile Farm and Zoo

Located at Mueang District, this zoo houses more than a thousand crocodiles belonging to different species along with other animals. More than that, you can also feel that as if you are on a farm in this place because of the planted fruits at the surrounding. The zoo is open from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm.

The National Maritime Museum Chanthaburi

Located at Mueang District, this museum serves as a house for the discovered under the sea artifacts and shipwrecks. There are also displayed items made up of ceramics for variety. The museum is open from 9 am up to 4 pm.

One exciting thing to do in Chanthaburi is to walk through the street of Chanthaboon Riverside Community. The street is lined with European style structures; interesting coffee shops, street vendors selling conical straw hats, shops selling gems and much more.

Tuk Daeng

This attraction is located about 30-kilometers from Chanthaburi which is conveniently near the Singha beach. This building is also an addition to the historical pieces located in the area. Created by the French army, the combination of bricks and plaster and red paint made it even unique than the rest. It has a total of five rooms with connecting doors and a beautiful corridor on the sides. It is now serving as a school library. The attraction is open from 9 o’clock in the morning until five o’clock in the afternoon.

Wat Thong Thua

This site is the place where the magnificent statue of Luang Phor Thong is situated. More than that, what amazes the tourists a lot are the displays of sculptures like lintels and the likes.

Wat Phlup

This archaeological site is also considered as the oldest temple in the province. To fully make it into reality, it took 250 years to finish it back at the time of the ancient kingdom of Ayutthaya. Be ready to feel amazed at the view of two old pagodas along with a pavilion made up of Thai wood.

The TAT Bloggers at Noen Nang Phaya Viewpoint

Na Yai Am District, Chanthaburi, Thailand

Noen Nangphaya Viewpoint

This famous viewpoint is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the East offering a great sea view, nice curvy road and cliff. The place is located at Khamong, Tha Mai, Chanthaburi, Thailand.

Khung Wiman Beach

This is one of the best beaches in the province. Take your family with you and enjoy your vacation here as you spend some time having a tan at the creamy white shore. Relax and be ready to experience the scenic beauty of the place.

Chao Lao Beach Resort, Chanthaburi, Thailand

Thai Mai District, Chanthaburi, Thailand

Chao Lao Beach

Located at Tha Mai District, this red sand beach resort will allow you to join varied water sports and activities. Boat trips are also available if you would like to explore the place further.

Khung Kraben Beach

Located at Tha Mai District, this white sand beach offers you the adventure with the different nursery of marine animals. To match it further, there are a total of four types of forest that you may also explore.

Laem Sadet Beach

Located at Tha Mai District, Chanthaburi, Thailand this beach resort is famous for its white sand and is perfect for those who would like to do some camping activities. Additionally, there are also other marine animals available in the area.

Wat Khao Sukim

This meditation temple covering a vast acre of land is just so perfect for those who would like to do spend some time alone and do some reflection or meditation. Another thing that you can see here are the displays of donated religious items as well as wax sculptures portraying more than twenty highly respected monks. Another thing to watch out in this place is the Ubosot or the ceremonial hall with a mural painting.

The Happy Trip’s JoJoy, The traveling mask at Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Center

Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Center

Another interesting place to visit in Chanthaburi is the Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Center.L earn how to crab eggs are being harvested and propagated and much more. The place is located at  Khlong Khut, Tha Mai District.

Khao Khitchakut District, Chanthaburi, Thailand

Khao Phrabat

This mountain offers a scenic and a breathtaking view from the top. Consider hiking here and be one with nature as you enjoy your adventure.

Khung District

Chanthaburi Horticultural Research Center

This agricultural area has varied fruits, herbs, and spices. Bring your family or friends with you and be ready to explore this place. Just note that they entertain a group of more than 10 visitors.

National Archives – Chanthaburi Branch. This European Colonial building was founded in 1916. Before it was converted into Chanthaburi Archives of Thailand, the building was used as a precinct administration office and was converted into Chanthaburi’s City Hall until 1978. The place now serves as a research and learning center and at the same time hosts to exposition related to history, culture, and arts.

The place is located at Old City Hall of Chanthaburi, 13/3 Tha Luang Road, Wat Mai Mueang Chanthaburi Chanthaburi 22000. Telephone : 039 – 323923, 039 – 324685 | Fax : 039-323923 (8.30 am – 4.30 pm daily)

List of Hotels in Chanthaburi, Thailand

There are so many hotels and resorts around Chanthaburi suited to various types of travelers. You can book your hotel room when visiting the place by clicking on the link below.

BOOK YOUR HOTEL/RESORT ROOM HERE

Baansuanramita Resort
Address:88/10 moo 10 T.Thachang, Mueng

Baan Rim Ao
Address:76 Nongbua, Muang Chanthaburi, Koh Samet Ngam

Bussarakam Place Hotel
Address:5/6 Moo 3 Tambon Tha, Mueng, Chanthaburi, Thailand, 22000

Bedgasm Hostel
Address: 21/27-28 MOO 7 T.CHANTHANIMIT, MUANG

Blues River Resort Chanthaburi
Address:1/8-9 Moo 4, Klongkud, Thamai, Chao Lao Beach

Blue rabbit hotel
Address:188 moo2 Raksakchamul road tumbol Thachang, Mueng

Chanpraya Resort
Address: 8 Moo 10, Phraya Trang Rd., Thachang, Muang, Mueng, Chanthaburi, Thailand, 22000

D Varee Diva Rimnaam Chanthaburi
Address: 54/15 Maharaj Rd.,Talad, Muang, Chanthaburi Thailand, Mueng

Hop Inn Chanthaburi
Address: 169/5 Tha Chalaep Road, Talad Sub District

Kasemsarn Hotel Chanthaburi
Address: 98/1 Benchamarachootit Rd., Wat Mai district, Mueng

PIMDARA HOTEL
Address: 69/5 Raksakchamul Road soi 24 Moo 5 T.Thachang, Mueng

Rabbiz Hill Resort
Address: 139 Moo 1 Khao Wongkot Soi 2, Kaeng Hang Maeo, Kaeng Hang Maeo

Riverawan Hotel d
Address:49 moo 2 Soi Chanthanimit, Mueng

Sand Dunes Chaolao Beach Resort
Address: 73 Moo.5, Chaleomburaphachonlathit Rd, Khong Khut, Thamai District, Chao Lao Beach

Sabydee Resort
Address: 55 Moo 8, (Baanpatai), Tambon Bang Kaja, Amphoe, Mueng

Saint Tropez Beach Resort Hotel
Address: 54/6 M. 4 Leam Sadej Beach, T. Khlong Khut, A. Tha Mai, Leam Sadej Beach, Chanthaburi, Thailand, 22120

The Natural Garden Resort
Address:175/3 Moo 8, Soi 14 Tambon Tubsai Amphur Pongnamron

The Peak Chanthaburi
Address: 9/9 Tungdondang Road, Talad Tumbon, Mueng

Windy Sea View Resort
Address: 48/8 Moo. 9, 4002 Roads, Takadngao Tamai, Chao Lao Beach

How to get to Chanthaburi, Thailand

You can be reached Chanthaburi, Thailand by bus from Bangkok. You can proceed to the Eastern bus terminal which is Bangkok’s Ekkamai. There are also a few buses traveling to Chanthaburi From the northern terminal which is Bangkok’s Morchit and some minibusses from Bangkok’s Victory Monument.

Moreover, buses from various regional destinations are also serving Chanthaburi as follows Chachoengsao, Pattaya, Aranyaprathet, Rayong, Sa Kaeo, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Trat (Ko Chang).

Bangkok (Ekkamai)

Every hour air-conditioned/first-class buses run between 02:00 AM and 9:30 PM and there’s also a 12:00 MN departure.

Bangkok (Morchit): 

Air-conditioned/first-class air-con buses leave at around 09:30 AM and 2:45 PM, travel time would take approximately 5.5 hours. Also, minibusses run every hour between 06:00 AM and 6:00 PM from the Tesco Lotus on Thaluang Rd.

Khlung: 

Buses leave every thirty minutes from 05:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Aranyaprathet: 

Every hour, buses leave between 03:00 AM to 1:00 PM and again from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Travel time is approximately 3.5 hours.

Ko Chang:

Buses leave at the following schedules: 06:30 AM, 08:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 6:00 PM. Travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Rayong:

Every hour, buses leave between 04:00 AM and 3:00 PM and travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Pattaya: 

Airconditioned/ first-class buses depart at 06:00 AM , 10:00 AM , 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Travel time is approximately 4 hours.

Nakhon Ratchasima: 

Airconditioned/first-class buses leave at 02:30 AM, 06:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM and 8:00 PM. Travel time is approximately 8 hours.

Pin Me! Chanthaburi, Thailand

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