Chanthaburi is a Thai province renowned as a global gem trading center, famous for its bustling gemstone markets and high-quality sapphires and rubies. The province offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, visible in the historic Chanthaboon Old Town with its colonial and Chinese influences, and natural beauty, including lush fruit orchards, scenic beaches, and the waterfalls of Khao Soi Dao National Park. Key attractions such as the large Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the National Maritime Museum further enrich the cultural experience, making Chanthaburi a destination that seamlessly combines natural wonders with a dynamic economic landscape. Notable sites include Laem Sadet–Kung Graben Harbor, Khao Khitchakut National Park, and Laem Sing Beach.
Chanthaboon Waterfront Community
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Chanthaburi
Phlio Waterfall National Park
International Gems Market Chanthaburi
Wat Khao Sukim
King Taksin Shrine
Somdet Phra Chao Taksin Maharat Park
Khao Khitchakut National Park
Wat Pak Nam Khem Nu
Hom Din Klin Chan
Chanthaburi Gem Market: A world-class gemstone market where dealers buy, sell, and trade precious gems, especially rubies and sapphires.
Nong Bua Thai Dessert Market: A flea market known for its old-style houses adorned with street art and offering a variety of traditional Thai sweets.
Chanthaburi Waterfront Community: A historic area along the Chanthaburi River featuring traditional houses, cafes, restaurants, and local shops, offering a charming atmosphere.
JingJai Farmers’ Market at Tops Market: Located inside Central Chanthaburi shopping center, this market showcases fresh local products and ingredients from the community.
Local Markets and Restaurants: Explore Chanthaburi’s food scene, from charming roadside stalls to modern restaurants.
Local Ingredients: Discover the unique diversity of local ingredients that form the foundation of Chanthaburi’s cuisine.
Annual Food Festivals: Visit during food festivals to taste a variety of local dishes and learn cooking techniques from local experts.
Specialty Dishes: Seek out restaurants offering dishes that reflect local traditions and the connection between nature and culinary wisdom.
Local Crafts and Artisanal Goods: Explore artisanal goods and handicrafts at places like Nong Bua Walking Street.
Engage with Vendors: Interact with local vendors to learn the stories behind their handmade creations, from clothing to crafts.
Cultural Immersion through Food: Experience local culture through its cuisine, as each dish carries the identity and heritage of the people.
Support Local Heritage: Participating in these activities helps conserve and preserve Chanthaburi’s food culture and traditions.
It is a popular pilgrimage site for Thai Buddhists, offering an opportunity to cultivate patience and mindfulness. The area also serves as a hub for gemstone trading and provides a diverse range of tourist attractions, including mountains, forests, waterfalls, and beaches, making it a destination that combines spiritual significance with natural and cultural experiences.
Bangkok to Chanthaburi: Travel by car or bus. Approximate travel time: 4 hours.
Pattaya to Chanthaburi: Travel by car or bus. Approximate travel time: 2 hours.
November to February: Cool season with sunny, dry days and comfortable temperatures, ideal for travel.
March to April: Hot and humid summer months with clear skies, suitable for outdoor activities like visiting beaches, markets, and the waterfront community.
May to October: Rainy season, which may disrupt outdoor activities.