Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Chanthaburi beckons with its captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known as the "Gem Capital of Thailand," this charming city boasts a unique allure that captures the hearts of travelers.
Discover Chanthaburi's illustrious past through its architectural wonders, such as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the Old Town district, where colonial influences converge with Thai traditions. You also wouldn’t want to miss a trip to Chantabhuri’s bustling markets like the Chanthaboon Riverside Community, where local artisans showcase their handicrafts and culinary delights.
Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the enchanting landscapes surrounding the city. From the lush Khao Khitchakut National Park, offering picturesque waterfalls and wildlife, to the tranquil beaches along the Gulf of Thailand, Chanthaburi provides a serene escape.
Aside from it’s beautiful nature, the city is also renowned for its fresh seafood and delectable tropical fruits. Taste the region's renowned durian and rambutan, and savor the fusion of Thai and Cambodian flavors in local dishes.
With its welcoming atmosphere, cultural treasures, and natural wonders, Chanthaburi invites you to experience an unforgettable journey that encapsulates the essence of Thailand's diverse beauty.
Chanthaburi is generally a walkable city and most of the tourist spots there can be covered by foot. However, in case you want to get around the city using public transport because of the hot weather, one of the most popular transport is motorbike taxis.
You can easily find motorbike taxis everywhere in the city, particularly at bus terminals and in front of Thetsaban Market. The fares for travel within town vary, but usually they are within the range of around 20 - 75 Baht.
To reach Chanthaburi, Thailand, you can fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok and then take a bus, minivan, or taxi from Bangkok to Chanthaburi. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from Bangkok to Chanthaburi, which offers a scenic route but takes longer, about 5 to 6 hours. Buses also run directly from neighboring provinces to Chanthaburi.
Chanthaburi is renowned as the "Gem Capital of Thailand," celebrated for its thriving gem and jewelry trade. The city is famous for producing exquisite gemstones, particularly sapphires and rubies, which are sought after worldwide.
Beyond its gem industry, Chanthaburi is also known for its historic architecture, including the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, vibrant markets like the Chanthaboon Riverside Community, and its scenic landscapes encompassing Khao Khitchakut National Park and tranquil Gulf of Thailand beaches.
This blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gem trade has made Chanthaburi a captivating destination for travelers.
In Chanthaburi, you can explore the Gem Market to admire and purchase precious gemstones, visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception for its stunning architecture, and wander through the vibrant Chanthaboon Riverside Community. Discover history at the Old Town district, savor local flavors at bustling markets, and embrace nature's beauty at Khao Khitchakut National Park and tranquil beaches.
You can also delve into the gem trade's history at the Gem and Jewelry Museum, or take a boat trip along the Chanthaburi River. With a rich blend of culture, nature, and gem-related attractions, Chanthaburi offers a diverse range of experiences.
When in Chantaburi, you mustn’t miss sampling the local delicacies. For example, ‘kao chase’, a jasmine rice dish, ‘goong tung soda’ a fermented shrimp paste with veggies, or ‘kapi’, a shrimp paste dip. You’re also recommended to try local tropical fruits like durian and rambutan, as well asdesserts like ‘kanom chan’.
To travel from Pattaya to Chanthaburi, take a bus or van from Pattaya's Eastern Bus Terminal. The journey takes around 3-4 hours depending on traffic and stops. Alternatively, consider hiring a taxi for a more convenient and direct option.
Travel Tips for Chanthaburi