Breakaway Destination Guides (International)

In the past, Chanthaburi was a part of the great history of Thailand. When Ayutthaya was sacked by marauding Burmese, a group of patriots led by Phraya Tak (later King Taksin the Great) stayed at Chanthaburi to prepare the patriot forces were strong enough to repel the Burmese forces.

Chanthaburi is the world-renowned Thai gem mining centre, an area famed for its varieties of juicy tropical fruit and great handicraft centre for woven reed mats. Visitors to Chanthaburi are also recommended to visit the abundant natural beauties and the many historical attractions. Chanthaburi is the durian capital of the world in terms of production, with the largest concentration of durian orchards on the planet - over 137,000 hectares (340,000 acres), producing about half of Thailand's entire durian crop [which in 2000 was reportedly approximately 927,000 tons, or 840 million kg!]). There are also about 11,000 hectares (28,000 acres) of mangosteen orchards, producing 42 million kg (46,000 tons) of mangosteens per year.

King Taskin the Greats' Monument, located on Tha Luang Road opposite the old Governor's Office was bulk in 1893. The building houses a bronze statue of the King. King Taskin the Greats Park on Gems Street and Unyamanee Road is the largest gem stone market place in Thailand. It is the newest marketing place for gemstones in Chanthaburi.

Sri Chan Road is a well known location for cut gems. A very informal atmosphere of trading can be seen on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in Kranchang Lane, or Trek Kranchang as the Thai's call it.

Nern Wong Fort, about six kilometer's from the Eastern Hotel along Tha Lab Road and about 400 metres on the left, is a deserted fortress town bulk in Rama III's time with the old cannons still in position on the battlements.

Wat Phai Lom, approximately 500 metres on the left from the bridge across the Chanthaburi River is full of fine art decorations on the wall of the temple created during the last period of the Ayuthdaya reign.

The Catholic Church one kilometre past Wat Phai Lom is Thailand's largest French-style Church. The Church of the Immaculate Conception was built by the Vietnamese Catholic community in 1880. The unusual design of the stained glass windows, Moorish style arches and polished wood pews contrast to its European sister establishments.

A Laem Sing or Lion Peninsula, 31 km from Chanthaburi Town, you can view the remains of the fascinating forts built during the reign of King Rama III.

Khuk Khi Kai, one kilometre from the pier was built by the French in 1912. It was used as a detention centre for Thai nationals. The Tuk Daeng (or Red House) located near the Laem Sing Pier was bulk at the same time as Khuk Khi Kai. It was originally the headquarters of the Phikat Patchamit Fort, but the French adapted it to living quarters for its officers.

Wat Khoa Sukim, some 13 km on the left at the Sukumvit Highway Km 305, is a religious centre for meditation in a tranquil and tree shaded atmosphere.

Phliu Waterfall and its 42,000 acre National Park is covered with numerous species of wild plants and fruits. The waterfall boasts a noble stupa built by King Rama V in 1876. The stupa, in its pyramid type structure, houses the remains of Queen Sunantha. A mini bus to the park is available daily at the municipal market in Chanthaburi.

Khoa Khichakut National Park at Tambon Phluang of Amphure Makkham is some 30km from Chanthaburi. At its high point is revealed a print of the Lord Buddha's foot and there is a very beautiful cave called Tham Reusi or Hermit's Cave. Soil of a yellow colour, believed to cure diseases, is in the Bo Ya (or medicine well) in the cave. The Krathing Waterfall in the park is one of the most beautiful falls in Chanthaburi. Tourists are permitted to stay in the park. Contact its Bangkok Office on (02) 5794842.

Laem Sadet and Khung Kraben in Tambon Klong Kut of Amphure. The Mai is an ideal combination of the natural beauty of beach, cave, mountain and bay.

Khoa Pioi Waan, Bor Rai and Mong Born near Chanthaburi, are all well known gem mines.

The Oasis Sea World just 25 km from Chanthaburi Town and 15 km from Laem Sing covers more than 68rai. It is a breeding and conservation station for dolphins from waters off Chanthaburi. Shows are performed at 8am and 5pm daily. Admission is 40B for adults and 20B for children.

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