Chanthaburi
![Chanthaburi](https://www.asiakingtravel.com/images/thumbs/2024/08/14683/cathedral-of-immaculate-conception-chanthaburi_1900x700xcrop.webp)
Chanthaburi is a province in the eastern region of Thailand, along the coast of the Thai province and bordering Cambodia to the east. With an area of about 6,338 km2, nature has endowed this city with lush green forests and beautiful waterfalls. The province is located about 650 km south of the capital Bangkok.
Because it is famous for its gemstone production, Chanthaburi is called the precious gem of Thailand. Diamonds and sapphires are cleaned, polished, and sold to domestic and foreign traders. This not only helps boost the province's economy but also boosts the economy of Thailand as a whole. The province nowadays attracts increasing tourist interest, partly due to the Chao Lao and Laem Sing beaches.
Laem Sing Beach - one of the most beautiful beaches in Chanthaburi (Source: Phuket Beaches Guide)
The province is attracting increasing tourist interest, partly due to the Chao Lao and Laem Sing beaches. In addition, due to the French occupation in the 20th century, the architecture and style of buildings in Chanthaburi were deeply influenced.
The old town and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception also contribute to the area's appeal. In contrast to the bustling cities, Chanthaburi province is a peaceful tourist destination with a slow pace of life. Visitors will not regret spending time here, because of the friendly locals and the ancient town space with modern art.
Thanks to its location on the border of Battambang and Pailin provinces of Cambodia, Chanthaburi province has a diverse history influenced by many different cultures. The area has been inhabited since the Angkorian period and was influenced by the Khmer Empire. Today, some of the ancient ruins that remain are remnants of the Khmer empire at that time.
The beauty of Chanthaburi (Source: Vecteezy)
In the 13th century, Chanthaburi became part of the Sukhothai Kingdom. It later became part of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and played an important role in regional trade due to its coastal location.
During the Chakri Dynasty in the 19th century, Chanthaburi was closely integrated into the Kingdom of Siam. This helped Chanthaburi develop economically and politically.
Despite the influence of the Second Dynasty, the area still developed strongly in the gemstone industry. The sapphire and ruby trade contributed significantly to the province's economy.
Today, Chanthaburi is a land famous for its peaceful natural beauty. In addition, the province also attracts tourists with many attractive tourist destinations.
General weather in Chanthaburi
Chanthaburi is located in the eastern part of Thailand and has a tropical rainforest climate, high humidity, and heavy rain throughout the year. Unlike many other areas in Thailand, Chanthaburi has only two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The climate conditions vary depending on the time of the year, but in general, Chanthaburi experiences a warm climate with temperatures from 30° to 35°.
Best season to go
The cool season from November to March can be the best time to visit Chanthaburi. Lower humidity and less rainfall will be ideal occasions for outdoor activities. Visitors who travel to Chanthaburi during this period can explore waterfalls, hike, and visit the local markets.
However, you can also visit Chanthaburi in April (pre-monsoon) because the weather is pleasant although the temperature and humidity may increase. This is also the time of the Songkran festival (Thai New Year), and visitors will have a lively and unique cultural experience.
Chantaboon Waterfront Community
Chantaboon is an ancient village located along both sides of the river and has existed for 300 years. This is currently the home of the majority of Vietnamese, Chinese, and local people. Tourists coming to Chantaboon will be surprised by the ancient houses located along the narrow alleys.
Discovering Chantaboon Water Community (Source: Take me tour)
The blend of architecture from 3 regions: France, Vietnam, and China has made this place unique and beautiful. Some of these houses have been renovated into local museums, trendy cafes, and luxury resorts. In addition, the Chantaboon Waterfront Community also won the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award.
The highlight of this village is the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, which is over 100 years old. Over the past 100 years, this cathedral has been built and continuously upgraded by Vietnamese people. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a harmonious combination of Vietnamese-Thai-Chinese-Portuguese design. With 20,000 precious stones, the statue of the Virgin Mary is one of the precious products that nature has bestowed on this land.
Khao Khitchakut National Park
Perched at a towering height, Khao Khitchakut is known as paradise, attracting many tourists every year. However, the road to this paradise is only open to the public from January to March. The scenery here is unlike any other, especially the Floating Rock or the giant Stone Pagoda.
Khao Khitchakut National Park is a paradise in Chanthaburi (Source: Take me tour)
When visitors come to Khao Khitchakut National Park, they can see Buddhist-patterned rocks scattered along the way. In addition, the forest also has interesting things for nature lovers: waterfalls and wildlife.
Phliu Waterfall
Phliu Waterfall is the most beautiful three-tiered waterfall in eastern Thailand. This tourist attraction is part of Namtok Phliu National Park. The water here is clear and cool, so tourists can see schools of cave carp swimming.
Phliu Waterfall is one part of Namtok Phliu National Park (Source: The Bear Travel)
Phliu Waterfall was once a favorite waterfall of King Rama V, so the area has several royal monuments. Visitors can visit the moss-covered pyramid of one of his queens - Phra Ruar Lom Stupa.
Chalerm Burapha Chonlathit Road
Only when you get here will you know why Chalerm Burapha Chonlathit is one of the most beautiful routes in Thailand. Tourists can drive or cycle to fully enjoy the spectacular ocean scenery of the journey.
The Coast Road with sea and sky in Chanthaburi (Source: Vecteezy)
However, choose a stop to breathe in the fresh air and feel the sea breeze. Therefore, Noen Nang Phaya viewpoint will be a great choice for this location.
Chanthaburi Gem Market
The Chanthaburi Gem Market is located along Thanon Antamani, Si Chan, and Soi Krachang Roads. This market is known as the largest gem market in Chanthaburi Province. Visitors can buy gem souvenirs at affordable prices and in a variety of designs. The market is busiest on the weekends from 10 am to 3 pm, welcoming many tourists.
Eye-catching and colorful gem at Chanthaburi Gem Market (Source: Take me tour)
Inside the center are rows of shops selling all kinds of colorful gems. The building is so large that it will take tourists several hours to explore it all. The later the afternoon, the more crowded and bustling the market becomes.
Get to Chanthaburi
Get around Chanthaburi
Exploring around Chanthaburi offers various means of transportation to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and cultural richness of the region. There are some helpful options: