Rightfully nicknamed the treasure of the kingdom of Siam's eastern region, this eponymous provincial city possesses an ineffable beauty. Situated by the sea, it reveals multiple facets. Modern constructions interspersed with greenery and historic monuments, landscapes shaped by the ocean, mangrove forests, waterfalls, mountainous zones with rugged terrain… There is so much to discover in this locality. Let's explore.

The province's past

Chanthaburi means city of the moon. Its first inhabitants were the Chong, a proud tribe living mainly from hunting and gathering. In the early 18th century, the city fell into the hands of the great King Taksin following an epic assault by 5,000 soldiers. Under French occupation for 11 years, Chanthaburi adopted the architecture of the land of Molière. Numerous monuments and ancient buildings bear witness to this. Compared to the rest of Thailand, Chanthaburi has a larger Vietnamese population. Nevertheless, it remains a minority in the city. The search for a better life drove these men and women to migrate from the 19th century onward. This phenomenon continues to this day.

Today, a city of exotic fruits and gemstones

Chanthaburi's natural orchards do more than beautify the landscape. During fruit season, they become hunting grounds for exotic delights. The most sought-after are the salak, pomelo, mangosteen and rambutan. Tasting is unlimited—seize the opportunity.

Chanthaburi is renowned for its sapphire and ruby deposits. A veritable open-air jewelry store, the Si Chan road is lined with precious stone merchants and ornamental objects. It is one of Thailand's largest gem markets. Here you can admire or even acquire the famous Siamese red sapphire.

Where to go in Chanthaburi?

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Chanthaburi

Built in a neo-gothic style, this monument with idyllic facades is Thailand's largest Catholic church. An icon of the city, this century-old place of worship is a visual identity unique to Chanthaburi. The cathedral houses a statue of the Virgin Mary adorned with hundreds of semi-precious stones and effigies of her parents.

Khao Khitchakhut National Park

Thronged with crowds between January and March, this protected area is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists throughout Siam. Rising above 1,000 meters in altitude, one of its mountains preserves a sacred relic—the footprint of Buddha himself. The faithful come here to earn merit. The park is lush and boasts numerous viewpoints. A must-see visit.

Pliew Waterfall

Crystal-clear waters cascade down three levels in an exceptional display. Various subaquatic caves shelter numerous fish. On-site, visitors amuse themselves feeding these scaled creatures while bathing in the cool pools. The pure air and humid atmosphere invigorate the body. One feels wonderfully at ease. The place is calm, relaxing and destressing. An excursion to these waterfalls will set you back on your feet in just moments.

Khung Wiman Beach

With marvelous landscapes, this beach is an essential visit in the city. In emerald tones, the ocean carries refreshing breezes to your face. The place invites the mind toward serenity and the body toward relaxation. Its shallow waters delight swimmers. Numerous picturesque corners serve as picnic areas.

Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Center

A wooden bridge traverses the entire mangrove forest. Canals also wind through this ecosystem to empty into the lagoon. These waterways are the ideal place for kayaking. Out at sea you will see fishermen hauling nets back to their boats. The picturesque beach formed by the ocean is an ideal spot for birdwatching. Many bird species live here.

The Village of Chanthaboon

Numerous wooden constructions wonderfully line the Chanthaburi River. They are mostly residential houses and shops. Their architecture is colonial. Once an important commercial center, this hamlet is today the historic heart of the city. Its museum preserves Chanthaburi's memories. A fascinating past.

Wat Thong Tua

Known for its century-old Khmer pagoda, this temple is an architectural gem realized in the Thalaboriwat style. It houses several ancient sculptures visible on lintels and porticoes. You will achieve two aims with one stone by visiting this sanctuary. The Muang Phaniat archaeological site is close to the monastery. Your excursion will only be more thrilling.

What to do in Chanthaburi?

Relax at Chanthaburi's beaches

Chanthaburi is renowned for its sandy beaches. Hat Chao Lao, in the western part of the province, offers a vast ribbon of sand bordered by coconut palms. Visitors can enjoy fine sand, bathe in shallow waters and savor meals by the beach.

Nearby, Hat Laem Sadet beach attracts with its 3 km of white sand and casuarina trees. It is an ideal setting to lounge, swim or stroll through the sand.

Continuing west, Hat Khung Wiman beach, on the other side of Khung Kraben Bay, offers crystalline water and golden sand. Take long swims, relax in the sun or explore the surroundings.

At the mouth of the Chanthaburi River, near the fishing village of Ban Pak Man, Hat Laem Sing beach is highly favored by locals. Unwind, savor local specialties and enjoy the tranquility.

Neighboring beaches, Hat Ao Krating in Laem Sing forestry park and Hat Ao Yang, also offer opportunities to relax, swim and enjoy meals with sea views.

Visit the precious stone market

Chanthaburi's precious stone market, also known as Gems Road or Si Chan Road, is a true nerve center for gem enthusiasts and professionals. This dynamic marketplace brings together around a hundred specialized shops where precious stones, semi-precious stones and gold jewelry mingle. Weekends are particularly lively, with an influx of visitors seeking to negotiate and acquire the rarest and most precious stones.

Culinary treat: Chanthaburi madeleines

In the shops of the Chanthaboon Waterfront Community, it is easy to find one of the local delicacies: small light cakes, reminiscent of madeleines, but airier and delicately vanilla-scented. These simple and savory confections will delight both children and adults alike.

The weather

In Chanthaburi, the climate is typically tropical, with abundant rainfall during much of the year. The dry season is short and not pronounced. Annual precipitation reaches approximately 2,418 mm.

When to visit?

Throughout the year, the city's average temperature hovers around 29°C. You should dress and equip yourself accordingly. The periods of heavy precipitation are between April and October. And we finally arrive at the ideal season. The best time to visit Chanthaburi is between January and February or November to December. Climatic conditions are optimal for excursions.

How to get there?

It takes approximately 4 hours of driving to reach Chanthaburi from the city of angels. The distance separating the two metropolises is 230 km. Two options are available if you plan a trip from Bangkok. You can take a coach from the Ekamai Eastern Bus Terminal or a minibus from Mochit New Van Terminal. For those on the Cambodia side, Songthaews depart from Ban Pakard to serve the city.

Getting around the city

Car rental is the way to explore Chanthaburi thoroughly. If renting a vehicle is not appealing, you can always take walks or cycle within a limited radius. Go at your own pace; the essential thing is to savor every moment spent in this edenic city.