Chanthaburi Thailand All You Need To Know

Chanthaburi wouldn’t be on your mind I’ll bet when you’re thinking of a Thailand holiday. Because, it’s a bit of a hike from Bangkok ‘245km’, (4-5 hrs by car or minibus). And, generally not promoted as a vacation hotspot. The Chanthaburi province borders Cambodia to the east. So, most would only come through town en route to Cambodia to stamp a passport. Of course, some will be going to Trat, the main access point for the ferries to the South East islands. But I discovered Chanthaburi has a lot to offer the traveler looking to cut loose from the norm. In this post I give you ten plus reasons to visit Chanthaburi, Eastern Thailand’s hidden gem!

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Location and Setting of Chanthaburi Town

The town of Chanthaburi is located in the far east of Thailand, on the banks of the Chanthaburi River. It’s the capital of the Chanthaburi province which has a population of ~360,000. Although, it’s a town with a strong river influence. It’s also a seaside town, with the Chanthaburi river running straight out into the Gulf of Thailand.

Three bridges provide access over the main river. One to the north, one to the south, and a central footbridge facing the ‘Cathedral of The Immaculate Conception’. Quaint little bars and restaurants dot both sides of the riverbanks, between the bridges, a distance of ~1km.

My first trip down to this seaside beauty was in 2019 to visit friends before their return to Australia. I’ve made the trip back three times since!

This trip, I arrived off the ferry from Koh Chang. After driving straight to Chanthaburi town, I checked into my villa, and I was off exploring the old town.

The Chanthaboon Waterfront Community Chanthaburi Thailand

The Chanthaboon Waterfront Community is a top town for history buffs. It’s also a great place just to spend an afternoon or early morning walking around. This was first up on my Chanthaburi hit list, and it was pretty quiet because of the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s effect on tourism was just beginning to filter through to Thailand, and I could now see that here in Chanthaburi.

History

The inner old town Chanthaburi has a Vietnam, Thai, Chinese population of approx. 200 households along the riverbanks. They are the descendants of a riverside community that settled here some 300 years ago. Because the land was fertile, they soon developed their adopted homeland as a prominent center for agriculture, transportation, and trade.

Buddhist, Muslim, and Catholic religions lived together in perfect harmony … and still do.

Architecture

Walking through this old riverside community, I couldn’t help but see Vietnam, Thai, Chinese architecture with a French influence.  France did, after all, have its military rule this town for 11 years at the end of the 19th century. Old town ‘Street Art’ is classically used to reflect the historical roots of the town.

Most of the buildings are quaint old Chinese townhouses, cleverly decorated with classic wooden carvings. Furthermore, the style and mix of the decor are typical of the historical Asian, French era. So, this old riverside community will get your camera clicking and the history buffs will leave town full of excitement!

Some old buildings have been converted into cafés, boutique accommodation, craft shops and a museum that is full of the town’s history.

Summary

This old town is definitely worth a visit! However, you should allow yourself a good afternoon. So, I liked the feel of this place and the history. Besides, it’s easy to spend a full afternoon just strolling through the streets and cafés … actually, pretty cool!

The Chanthaboon Waterfront Community has won the Asia-Pacific Heritage Award from UNESCO … But that doesn’t surprise me; not after this visit.

Gem Traders Chanthaburi Thailand

It’s well known that Chanthaburi town is associated with gems, yes ‘REAL GEMS’. But gem-mining in Thailand, and in particular Chanthaburi itself is not a big thing.

Si Chan Road however, is the commercial center of the Gem business worldwide. For instance, traders congregate here, to buy and sell their stones. Also, the largest Gem and Jewelry Center in Asia is right next door. So, you can even get yourself an education on what the Gems are all about.

I walked up to the Sri Chan Road, locally known as ‘Gem Road’, rather than jump in the car. Because, it’s right beside the Chanthaboon Waterfront Community, and an easy stroll to see the Gem Traders in action. But I picked the wrong damn day, and I’m telling you, so you don’t do the same! Yes, I saw a trader, ‘a little action’ but it was a very, very quiet!

‘TAKE NOTE’, it’s a weekend-only thing, from Friday through to Sunday with Monday to Thursday pretty quiet. So, don’t make the same mistake I made, and arrive on a Thursday afternoon! Besides, if you want to actually buy the stones you’d better go there on the weekend. Furthermore, weekends are pretty busy around the tables with gem trading taking place now in Chanthaburi for over ten years.

The guy in the photo is a die-hard, and you can see him any day of the week!

Summary

Worth a visit, but better to schedule for the weekend!

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Chanthaburi Thailand

Surprise, surprise! I’ve got a church/chapel for you to check out. In other words, it’s not a temple, we’re looking at here, it’s ‘Thailand’s largest Catholic Cathedral’. Because, when the Vietnamese Christians took refuge in the city, they arrived with their French priests. So, in came the Roman Catholic influence.

Crossing the footbridge, and still looking over my shoulder, I soon found myself at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Incredibly, this chapel was built in 1909, on Chanthanimit Road and to this day, it’s still a place of worship. In fact, the Vietnamese migrants or the descendants of, who arrived here in the 20th century still use it.

During World War II, some felt this awesome Gothic architectural beauty was a sitting duck for the enemy. And so, they removed the original spires in an attempt to hide the building. The plan worked, and the spires were later replaced.

The classic interior is spectacular and obviously well preserved. As a result, this old building is good for another hundred years or more.

Summary

A must-see, worth a visit, but allow two hours, and combine with a trip to ‘The Chanthaboon Waterfront Community’.

I’d had a super busy day in the old town, so, now I was off to the Chanthaburi coast. It was also time to check in to my coastal retreat!

Scenic Coastal Road Chanthaburi Thailand

Day two was going to be another jam-packed day, driving the rural roads of Chanthaburi Thailand.

First up, was the main scenic road through the Chanthaburi province, ‘Route 4036’, also called ‘The Chalerm Burapha Chonlathit Road’.

‘Route 4001’ further branches south off ‘4036’ leading to the ‘Khung Wiman Beach’ area. Moreover, the coastal scenic section of ‘4001’is recognized as one of the most beautiful roads in Thailand. Because, it curves its way around the mountains, meters from the sea.

So, I followed this route by car, some use a bicycle, and it leads to the ‘Noen Nang Phaya viewpoint’.

Noen Nang Phaya Viewpoint

Climbing up the hill, around the bends, and totally taking in the views across the sea I thought “this road is so good”! In fact, with an early morning breeze, and the sun rising it’s ‘phenomenal’.

I passed many scenic spots along the way, finally arriving at the top, the pinnacle, the place to be. And so, it was a camera clicking time! Because, quite simply, ‘The Noen Nang Phaya Viewpoint’ is the cherry on the cake. Due to its location, high up on a mountain curve with commanding views across the Gulf, and Thailand’s East Coast.

Jaedee Klang Nam Viewpoint

Back in my car, after my little ‘photo fest’, I drove a further 5min along ‘4001’, SE down the hill. And I found another scenic beauty, the ‘Jaedee Klang Nam Viewpoint’ of the Ban Hua Laem Pagoda.

In contrast to ‘Noen Nang Phaya’, ‘Jaedee Klang Nam’ is hidden at the end of a small fishing community. So, you could easily miss the boardwalk that stretches 50m out into the sea towards the Pagoda built on rocks. Hence this is a classic spot, that photo fanatics don’t want to miss, and absolutely superb!

Summary

The scenic Coastal Road is a no brainer. So, add it to your list, because, you’ll get two fantastic view spots, plus an incredible stretch of road! Go early morning, that’s best!

Pink Rock, Kung Krabane Wildlife Reserve Chanthaburi Thailand

Pink rock is a short hike from the Noen Nang Phaya area by car. To get there, I had to get back onto the 4036 and head SE for approx. 20km.

Eventually, after passing all the beach resorts and restaurants of the Chao Lao Beach area, I climbed a little mountain. After that, the road disappeared through a tunnel of trees and bends and then doubled back on itself. When it did, I hooked right onto a lane the descended down into the Kung Krabane Wildlife Reserve.

I hope you’ve got your hiking boots? You’ll need them along with a day pack and water bottle and of courseyour camera! I paid the tourist fee 200 Baht ($6), for the national park entrance, you’ll have to too, so let’s make it worth it!

Why Pink Rock

This area is referred to as the ‘Pink Rock.’ That is, pink in color due to the presence of potassium (k) feldspar in the sandstone. Because it’s an ‘arkose-sandstone sedimentary rock’ and it adds a pretty damn nice color to your photos, check out the coastal views too.

Nature Trails

There are two trails in the park. One along the water’s edge, and another one up through the scrub to a hilltop peak. Due to the potassium-rich rocks, both are tempered with a pinkish color, and both are well signposted.

The coastal trail ends, at what I’d call the ‘peninsula point’. While the hilltop trail ‘if you get up there’ will provide you with amazing views across the Gulf of Thailand. In fact, both trails will give you that!

I found Kung Krabane very private and quiet. So, you’ll likely have the nature trails all to yourself, how good is that? Also remember, it’s a wildlife reserve so you should expect some wildlife.

Summary

Definitely worth a visit but, make sure you have your hiking gear. Also, if you combine this with the Scenic coastal drive, you could have a whole afternoon here.

Phliu Waterfall, Namtok Phlio National Park, Chanthaburi Thailand

Nature lovers, “Your gonna fall head over heels with this waterfall”. But, don’t take my word for it, go check out ‘The Phliu Waterfall’ within the stunning Namtok Phlio National Park. Besides Chanthaburi, it’s ranked as one of the best in Thailand.

The waterfall is located, some 14km SE of Chanthaburi town and clearly signposted off Hwy 3. To the locals, of course, this is no hidden gem, while most tourists have never heard of the waterfall!

Incredibly, water belts straight out of the Khao Sabap scarp into a cool clear basin of mountain water. After that, it works its way down three-tiered levels with water pretty much cascading all year round.

So, I’d say a visit to ‘Phliu’ warrants a full afternoon or morning if not a full day. While I did spend an afternoon here after driving over from the coast, I could have stayed longer. You won’t regret a short drive out of town for this mountain beauty.

Points to note

If your foreign, it’ll cost ya 200 baht for the national park entrance (but it’s worth it). Also, hold on to your ticket in case you visit another national park waterfall before the end of the day. Then, you won’t have to pay twice! You can swim, and there are hordes of fish in the water, don’t feed them, rather just let them nibble on your feet and legs!

Again, you’ll need your hiking boots, along with a day pack, water bottle and of course your camera! So, you can have the ultimate experience with nature. Because it’s not all sitting on your bum with the water flowing on ya! There’s a 45 min ‘trail’ in the jungle all mapped out waiting for ya and you don’t want to miss that!

Summary

Definitely worth a visit but, get there early morning, and allow at least half a day!

I found this place well set out with toilets, coffee shops, and a restaurant. Also, the trail is marked out pretty well. Again, get there early to beat the crowd and then move on to your next adventure fix! It was the afternoon for me and so the locals were enjoying their waterfall.

After another busy day, it was back to my retreat on the coast!

Kung Krabaen Bay Nature Centre Chanthaburi Thailand

Kung Krabaen Bay Nature Centre is a must for the environmental buffs! However, it also makes a super day trip morning or afternoon and provides a sterling opportunity for that captivating photo shot … Trust me! This was my first stop, of the morning!

Where to Find

The ‘Nature Centre’ is located within the Royal Development Study Center, Kung Krabaen, Khlong Khut, Tha Mai district of Chanthaburi. It’s not hard to find because access is directly off the scenic route ‘4036’. Furthermore, you’ll find a 1.6km forest trail, essentially a wooden bridge-like structure, for walking through the mangrove forest.

Mangrove Education

The forest trail was designed to provide a fabulous walk throughout a canopy of mangrove trees. While at the same time, providing education on the importance of the mangroves within the ecosystem. For example, there are placards positioned at various stop points along the way providing info!

You’ll learn all about the mangrove, trees, (Avicennia alba and cork), and the small aquatic animals, (mudskipper, sesarma, and horseshoe crab) that call this place home.

At the last point of the trail, you have majestic views across the bay because you are at the edge of the mangrove forest. Finally, there is also the opportunity to kayak through the mangroves … If that floats your boat, go for it!

Summary

Worth a visit, allow a couple of hours unless of course, you go kayaking!

This project was developed to preserve the marine ecosystem while educating the local community on their surroundings. At the same time, It’s a great nature trail and another hidden gem! The center is open from 6:30 am to 6.:00 pm every day. Admission free!

Chanthaburi Tropical Fruits of Thailand

Chanthaburi is the go-to spot for tropical fruits in Thailand; well known worldwide for the quality and diversity of the produce. Also, the abundance of natural resources and geographic location make it, an ideal location for agriculture and farming. Besides, most of the residents are agriculturists who have experience and expertise in the fruit production process.  Essentially, they are the experts!

OK, What Have We Got

Durian, mangosteen, logan, bananas, rambutan, longkong and salacca, they all readily grow in this tropical region. Because the fruit is super high quality it’s sought-after by worldwide traders for their global markets.

Where to Go

Most farms are in the Tha Mai district. While there a few in Amphoe Ma Kham, and Amphoe Muang areas of the Chanthaburi Province. But you’ll see many of these farms just driving along the road. Besides, you could almost pluck the fruit on the way past, if your arm was long enough … (maybe!).

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the fruits is May through to July. That’s when many farms cater to tourists with fruit buffets and the like. You can even book yourself a full day fruit Orchard tour. That way, you’ll really get into the tropical fruits and cover the whole district … then you’ll be the expert!

Festivals, Buffets, Further Info

Durian is the king of fruits. But, ‘I hate the smell, hate the fruit, do not like it at all’. With that said, it’s no excuse not to go check it out when others I know, would kill for the stuff! If your really keen on the fruits, go join the Thailand durian eating contest at the Chanthaburi Fruit Festival. Formerly, known as the Durian Festival.

For further info on the Chanthaburi tropical fruits, check out Thailand’s Everlasting Fruit Buffet! From, my research Mark Wiens of migrationology.com is the go-to guy for all you need to know. In particular, on fruit day-trips out of Bangkok and booking that Orchard tour.

Chao Lao Beach Chanthaburi Thailand

Cho Lao Beach, is a tranquil laid-back beach, one of several close to the Chanthaburi town. Because, it’s quiet, peaceful and the perfect spot for watching the sun go down. After all, the trekking, site seeing and photo sessions you had in one busy day. You could just spend the next day here before moving on … It’s that good!

I stayed at the ‘Sand Dunes Resort’ on one of my trips to Chanthaburi. It’s got a super location because it’s right on Chao Lao Beach. Also, it’s a great place to access all the Chanthaburi attractions.

Where to Stay in Chanthaburi Thailand

Where would you like to stay? Personally, I’m a sucker for the sea and hence the coastal resorts $$. But, hey if you’re a ‘Towne’ go the boutique accommodation in the old town $$. Then again, your maybe not cashed up, there’s always a super B&B $ for you. Finally, you possibly, just can’t help yourself refrain from luxuries. So, go the city chic hotel $$$ in Chanthaburi new town/city. Either way, I reckon this place has got you covered!

On this trip, I went for the private bungalow option – pictured above – on the coast not far from Chao Lao Beach. So, I smashed my budget …, take a look, you’d do the same. It cost me ~$100 per night, but it’s right on the coast. I only stayed for two nights. Besides, the rooms are comfortable villa-styled private bungalows set amidst landscaped gardens. Also, a good location for all the hidden gems!

Yes, far from city life, this is Chanthaburi Thailand, by the sea.

Summary

So, there you have it. The beachside getaway resorts ($$) dotted along the coast from Kung Wiman Beach, Chao Lao Beach, and further east. The Old town Chanthaburi boutique hotels $$, and B&B ($). And finally, the modern upmarket city chic hotels $$$ in Chanthaburi by the river.

Honestly, check your calendar, your budget and get down there

How to Get to Chanthaburi

Cambodia border

Travelers coming from the Sihanoukville beach area in Cambodia, typically come through the Koh Kong border (probably on a bus). Once in Thailand, they make their way to Chanthaburi via Route 3, a two ½ hour trip.

The cost of a bus or taxi from Sihanoukville to Chanthaburi is ~$80 – $90. I recommend the rome2rio.com website because it’s pretty reliable info. You could, of course, fly from Sihanoukville to Bangkok. And then, bus it down to Chanthaburi, saving about one ½ hours, but that’ll cost ya! It’s more expensive!

If you’re coming to Chanthaburi from the closet border with Cambodia into Thailand, that’s probably Ban Pakard. Maybe, you’re out there on a visa run. Ban Pakard is, opposite Phsar Prum in Cambodia, about 1-2hr from Chanthaburi by road on Hwy 317. You can either travel by minibus ~ ($4-6), songthaew ($3) or car ($6). Again, I recommend checking here for the latest info.

Bangkok to Chanthaburi

By Car, Taxi or Bus

Get out of the airport onto the Bangkok – Chonburi highway (Toll road) No 7 and just keep driving south. I’m making this seem very simple because it is. Drive this road out till you are almost in Pattaya. After that, head for Rayong and Route 3. Once you’re on Route 3 keep driving till you get to Chanthaburi, (sort of rhymes) yes, my friends that simple!

A bus can cost ($6-9), a taxi ($76-92), driving your own car or hired car. Allow ($18 – 30) for fuel, toll fees are about 150 baht, ($5), that’s plenty.

Public buses are available from the Bor Khor Sor public transport service, at the airport passenger terminal. Also, other daily buses are available from the Bangkok city center, Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) on Sukhumvit Road. Again, check here for the latest info. Then again, you could get a taxi directly at the Suvarnabhumi airport.

I recommend booking your travel in advance through 12GO Asia – an online travel agent that makes traveling around Asia very easy.

By flight to Trat / Pattaya (U-Tapao)

I know, you might not want to drive or bus! Ok, we have a flight for you in that case from Suvarnabhumi airport to Trat airport! That’ll cost ya anywhere between $70 – $230. Follow that up with a taxi from Trat to Chanthaburi for $20 – 28, and you’re there. But you will have missed all the beautiful scenery on your way into Chanthaburi by car!

Now you have another option. Which isn’t so bad, and that is to fly from Bangkok to U-Tapao airport south of Pattaya. After that, take the taxi from there! Costs for that would be a little more expensive, given you’re going to be in the taxi longer! Again, always check online for other info and updates, and where possible book your travel in advance.

You can, of course, fly directly into U-Tapao airport from overseas and get a taxi or car from there. Not a bad option but check and compare prices for that compared to the other options.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Chanthaburi Thailand

The best time to visit Chanthaburi Thailand purely from a weather point of view is early December through to mid-late January. Because it’s not so hot, but, having said that, it’s always going to feel hot due to the tropical location. This is Thailand after all!

But If you’re chasing the Chanthaburi tropical fruits and the festivals, you need to go between May through to July.

So, you loved your waterfalls to be really pumped. OK, you need to go between June to July ‘wet season’ when the water’s really pumping!

If you’re just passing through en-route to the Islands, then any time is a good time to visit Chanthaburi.

Getting around Chanthaburi Thailand

You can easily walk around most of the town. Motorcycle taxis are available, tuk-tuks are not. But you can get a songthaew at the bus station in town for accessing the waterfalls, etc. Then again, if you prefer, you can hire a motorbike in town for the day/week/month from ~ $6-10 per day.

Having said all that, I recommend a hire car straight from the get-go in Bangkok or if you prefer to pick one up when you get to Chanthaburi. In short, having your own wheels is by far the best method of transport in Chanthaburi and the driving is pretty safe!

Just finished Chanthaburi and still driving around Eastern Thailand? You might want to check out ‘Trat‘ the little brother of Chanthaburi.