Thailand Guides - Chanthaburi

Chantaburi may be better known as the city of fruits than a beach destination but that does not mean the city's attractions are less appealing than any other place in Thailand. Blessed with fertile land, this coastal city does not only have tranquil sandy beaches for weekend beachgoers but also verdant national parks that will definitely please adventurers.

Overview

Chantaburi is about 245 kilometres from Bangkok or just three and a half hour drive. Due to the lack of off-shore islands, it is overshadowed by its neighbouring towns Rayong and Trat. However, it manages to attract a different type of visitors; an adventure minded traveller.

Attractions

At Pong Nam Ron District, Khlong Pong Nam Ron is a river that makes an exciting trip for whitewater rafting. The river has the difficulty level between 2 and 4 and draws more tourists from July until January.

The small Khao Khitchakut National Park is famed for a scenic waterfall named Krathing. The waterfall is shaded by evergreen trees and features 13 levels - all of them can be accessed by nature trails. Another national park in the province is even named after its waterfall. Only 14 kilometres from Chantaburi town, Namtok Phliu National Park is covered by a dense tropical forest and boasts 3 scenic waterfalls. The most popular of all is the 3-tiered Phliu waterfall. It has a basin of clear and cool water which is good for swimming. Camping and trekking are allowed in these two parks.

Tham Khao Wong is a cave in the Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park. It perches on limestone hills and contain chambers of outstanding stalagmites and stalactites. The cave is accessible between February and April.