This magnificent province in eastern Thailand is cherished for its serene atmosphere. It comprises eleven districts, and its capital, the city of Chachoengsao, borders the right bank of the Bang Pakong River. It's a charming place with Sino-Thai character that remains relatively undiscovered by foreign tourists. Nevertheless, Chachoengsao has become a preferred destination for Thai travelers, who love to visit for well-deserved holidays.

Exploring the City of Chachoengsao

This rather rural city brings together several monuments and historical sites worth discovering. Temples are deeply revered here as throughout the country. However, the most visited are Wat Sothon and Wat Saman Rattanaram.

• Wat Sothon: This is the city's most famous temple. It takes its name from a Buddha statue discovered 200 years ago in the Bang Pakong River, called Luangpho Sothon. It's a bronze representation of Buddha covered with a layer of gold, standing 2 meters tall.
• Wat Saman Rattanaram: This second most-visited temple in Chachoengsao features giant statues of Hindu and Chinese deities. Its facilities continue to expand, and visitors grow increasingly numerous to purchase food, amulets, and regional products on site.
• The Chinese temples on Supphakit Street: Under Sino-Thai influence, this street is home to four Chinese temples.

The stilt houses along the riverbank impart a unique charm to the city. They have existed for nearly a century and form the Ban Mai floating market. Don't miss this welcoming commercial hub to discover regional specialties and purchase quality products in a traditional and spectacular atmosphere.

The city also offers riverside night restaurants to familiarize yourself with local cuisine, and a splendid public park to recharge.

Climate

With a tropical climate, Chachoengsao experiences heavy rainfall in summer. Consequently, average precipitation reaches up to 2004 mm throughout the year. Rains are particularly intense in October and weaken during winter. In February, the driest month, precipitation averages only 23.3 mm.

The best time to visit Chachoengsao is during winter, from November to February. During this period, the season is predominantly dry. You'll enjoy pleasant temperatures, averaging 28°C in December, the coolest month.

Getting to Chachoengsao

You can reach the city from Bangkok. Either by:

• Train: Trains from the main Hua Lomphong Station reach the city in 1.5 hours. A train journey lets you enjoy extraordinary scenery, including rice paddies stretching for kilometers, irrigated by several canals called khlongs.
• Bus or minivan: Bus and minivan lines depart hourly for Chachoengsao.
• Taxi: Rented by the day, it's the ideal transport to receive your driver's tips and travel in complete comfort.
• Car rental: This is the most comfortable way to enjoy complete freedom during your journey.

Getting Around the City

The city has public transportation suited to all budgets.

• Tuk tuk: These motorized tricycles are abundant in Chachoengsao to ease city travel.
• Songteaw: This shared pickup line is a great opportunity to connect with locals.
• Bus: It's practical for crossing the city and moving between temples.

Don't hesitate to visit Chachoengsao. The inhabitants are genuinely friendly, and the city will surprise you with its tranquility and beauty.