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AMPHOE KANG HANG MAEO
Tham Khao Wong
Tham Khao Wong at Ban Khao Wongkot, Kaeng Hang Maeo district, is
part of the Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park. About 40 kilometres
before reaching Chanthaburi town on Highway No.3 at Km. 286 (Ban
Kong Din) is a left turn to the park, 11 kilometres further on.
Or take a turn at Km. 288 (Talat Na Yai Arm) instead. From the cave
proceed on foot to see the caves themselves. Advice could be obtained
from park officials.
Khao Wong is a group of limestone hills standing in circular cluster
with cliffs and caves containing stalagmites and stalactites. There
are passages connecting some of the chambers. The walking trails
outside offer views of varied plantlife. For those intending to
explore the caves, torches are advisable as there are no natural
lights inside. The best time to go cave-exploring is between February
and April, after which they tend to be flooded.
AMPHOE KHAO KHITCHAKUT
Krathing Waterfall
The park covers a rich, verdant forestland of some 58 square kilometres
where many herbal plants are found. It is also rich in wildlife.
An attraction is the Krathing waterfall with its nature trails cutting
through all 13 levels of the fall. There are clear ponds where swimming
is possible. Camping is allowed in the park. There are also accommodations
for visitors who should make advance booking at the Forestry Department
in Bangkok.
The Khao Khitchakut National Park
The Khao Khitchakut National Park has its headquarters at a site
which can be reached by taking a turning at Km. 324 (Khao Rai Ya
intersection) on Highway No. 3 and proceed on for a further 21 kilometres.
The park covers a rich, verdant forestland of some 58 square kilometres
where many herbal plants are found. It is also rich in wildlife.
An attraction is the Krathing waterfall with its nature trails cutting
through all 13 levels of the fall. There are clear ponds where swimming
is possible. Camping is allowed in the park. There are also accommodations
for visitors who should make advance booking at the Forestry Department
in Bangkok.
AMPHOE KHLUNG
The Trok Nong Waterfall
There are two other waterfalls in the park. The Khlong Narai waterfal,
about 6 kilometres from town via Highway No. 3 at a right turn at
Km. 338-339 and two kilometres further away on foot. The Trok Nong
waterfall is off Highway No. 3277 (Khlung-Makham route) with a left
turn at Trok Nong market and a further 2 kilometres on foot.
AMPHOE LAEM SING
Chantaburi Horticultural Research Centre
Located at Tambon Phliu, about 15 kilometres from the city. In its
large area are various plantations such as durian, mango steen,
rambutan and a variety of herbs and spices. The centre is opened
for group visitors (more than 10 people). Advanced contact is necessary
at Tel: 0 3939 7030.
Hat Laem Sing
Laem Sing is about 30 kilometres from town and can be reached via
Sukhumvit Road on the way to Trat with a right turn at Km. 347,
a further distance of 16 kilometres to the beach. The beach itself
is shaded with pine trees lining the entire shore and cooled by
constant gentle breezes. There are food shops and boats for rent
to visit two nearby isles, Ko Chula and Ko Nom Sao. The trip takes
30 minutes and one hour respectively.
Khuk Khi Kai
The notorious Khuk Khi Kai, just before Laem Sing beach, was built
to hold Thais who were against the French occupation of Chanthaburi
in 1893. A 7-metre high, square-shaped prison, it was built in bricks
with each side measuring 4.40 metres. The walls were holed for ventilation.
The porous roof is said to have been used as chicken coop through
which the birds dropped their excrements.
Namtok Phliu National Park
A left turn at Km. 346 on Highway No. 3 is the Namtok Phliu National
Park, covering an area of 134.5 square kilometres along forestland
at Khao Sa Bap mountain range. The 3-level Phliu waterfall features
a basin of cool, clear water for splashing around and plenty of
fish make the flowing streams their home. Nearby are a small Chedi
and a pyramid built by King Rama V as a loving memorial to Phra
Nang Chao Sunanthakumarirat, his first consort, who died in a boat
accident.
There are two other waterfalls in the park. The Khlong Narai waterfal,
about 6 kilometres from town via Highway No. 3 at a right turn at
Km. 338-339 and two kilometres further away on foot. The Trok Nong
waterfal is off Highway No. 3277 (Khlung-Makham route) with a left
turn at Trok Nong market and a further 2 kilometres on foot.
Oasis Sea World
Just before Laem Sing beach is the Oasis Sea World, which attracts
visitors who delight in watching the exciting dolphin shows. Also
on hand are butterfly farm and other animals. The dolphins are mainly
those accidentally caught in fishermans nets in the Gulf of Thailand.
Trained by Thai experts, they are now capable of showing off their
high degree of ability. There are five shows daily. Tel: (039) 363238-9.
Tuek Daeng
Tuek Daeng or Red Building near Khuk Khi Kai is the site of the
Phikhat Patchamit Fort built in the reign of King Rama III. It was
subsequently turned into living quarters and military command post
by the French. A single storey, red-tiled roof building, today it
serves as the Laem Sing district public library.
Wat Mangkon Buppharam
Wat Mangkon Buppharam, or Leng Hua Yi, is a temple in Chinese architectural
style. Located on Sukhumvit Highway, it is at Km. 345 some 12 kilometres
from town.
AMPHOE MUEANG
Chanthaburi Cultural Centre
Located at Rampaipannee Rajabhat Institute. In three buildings that
have been a residence of Queen Rampaipannee - the Queen of King
Rama VII. This centre displays many utensils used by the Queen,
such as clothes, shoes, golf equipment, etc. There are also local
ancient collections.
Khai Noen Wong
The ancient site of Khai Noen Wong, also at Tambon Bang Kacha, was
established as the town in circa 1834 during the reign of King Rama
III. The town was moved from Ban Lum to this location because of
its high grounds which were more suitable for defensive purposes
against the invading Vietnamese. The laterite walls and bricks from
the old town were also dismantled and moved to the new site. A serve
drought during the reign of King Rama V forced its return to the
original site at Ban Lum.
The old town at Khai Noen Wong was square-shaped with extensive
laterite walls mounted with large cannons. Each side had its own
ramparts and defensive moats. It was regarded as a powerful military
camp of the time. The towns principal temple was Wat Yothanimit
Si Chan Road
Si Chan Road is the commercial area and centre of gem business.
Even though actual gem-mining in the province is not as extensively
as it used to be, Chanthaburi remains a major centre for gem dealings
with stones from neighbouring countries and abroad being bought
and sold. The Gems Market during the mornings of Friday, Saturday
and Sunday attracts large crowd of gem dealers and visitors alike.
Suan Sadetyat
Adjacent to Wat Khao Sukim is Suan Sadetyat, an extensive fruit
plantation growing rambutan and durian in the main. During the fruit
season of April-June, it is open to the public. Admission fee includes
free fruit-tasting.
Taksin Maharat Memorial
Located in the public park near the town hall on Liap Noen Road,
is the Taksin Maharat Memorial. The equestrian statue is guarded
by statues of his four royal guards. The expression on the kings
face clearly shows the resoluteness and determination to carry out
the task of restoring the national independence. The large pond
in the park serves as a popular recreation area and is stocked with
a large variety of fish.
The Catholic Church
The Catholic Church on Chanthanimit Road on the river bank is the
largest Catholic edifice in Thailand. Built in 1909, it is of Gothic
architectural style. The original tall roof was taken down during
World War II to make it less conspicuous as a possible target.
The Chamsom Crocodile Farm and Zoo
This zoo has a number of crocodiles of different species as well
as other animals. The facility is surrounded by fruit orchards.
To reach it, go on Sukhumvit Highway until Km. 324 (Khao Rai Ya
intersection) then turn left and proceed on for a further 4 kilometres.
Open daily from 8.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. Elephant shows every Saturday
and Sunday at 12.00 noon and 3.00 p.m. Tel: (039) 324247.
Khao Khitchakut National Park
The Khao Khitchakut National Park has its headquarters at a site
which can be reached by taking a turning at Km. 324 (Khao Rai Ya
intersection) on Highway No. 3 and proceed on for a further 21 kilometres.
The park covers a rich, verdant forestland of some 58 square kilometres
where many herbal plants are found. It is also rich in wildlife.
An attraction is the Krathing waterfall with its nature trails cutting
through all 13 levels of the fall. There are clear ponds where swimming
is possible. Camping is allowed in the park. There are also accommodations
for visitors who should make advance booking at the Forestry Department
in Bangkok.
Underwater Archaeological Office
Soon to be established as a national maritime museum, the Underwater
Archaeological Office is located within Khai Noen Wong specialising
in exhibits on Thailands merchant marine and items discovered from
underwater archaeological explorations from all over the country.
There are also exhibits of ancient sailing routes and products.
An exhibition chamber deals with the history and culture of the
people of Chanthaburi.
Wat Khao Sukim
Situated on a hill covering an area of some 1,320 acres, Wat Khao
Sukim was built in 1966 by devout Buddhists who had faith in Phra
Achan Somchai Thitawiriyo. The objective of the temple is to be
used as a meditation venue. The expansive temple compound offers
a peaceful haven surrounded by shady orchards. The temple also houses
a large collection of religious items and valuable antiques donated
by the public. On display are wax sculptures of over twenty Buddhist
monks highly revered by the public. In the temples newly built Ubosot
(ceremonial hall), mural painting created by Chakrabhand Posayakrit,
National Thai Artist in Painting of the year 2000, can be appreciated.
The temple is near Khao Khitchakut National Park, 20 kilometres
from downtown Chanthaburi and can be reached through three accesses
branching off Sukhumvit Road (Highway No. 3):- at Km. 305 (Ban Huai
Sathon); at the Ban Noen Sung intersection; or at Km. 324 (Khao
Rai Ya intersection)
Wat Phai Lom
Going across the Chanthaburi River from Si Chan Road and taking
a left turn 1 kilometre from the bridge, 800 meters off the main
road is Wat Phai Lom. The Rama III-era Ubosot features wall murals
on all four sides portraying the story of Lord Buddha with Chinese
floral designs as well as illustrations of foreigners with must
have been commissioned after the time of his reign. There is also
a ubosot of western architectural influence attesting to Chanthaburis
artistic and cultural contact with the western world.
Wat Phlup
Wat Phlup at Tambon Bang Kacha to the southwest of town was the
site of an old community during the late Ayutthaya period. Special
features are two ancient pagodas of different styles and an old
Thai wooden pavilion.
Wat Thong Thua
Wat Thong Thua, 4 kilometres from town on Sukhumvit Highway, is
the site of an ancient Bot which was built over a Khmer-style temple.
It also has a large collection of ancient Khmer sculptures such
as lintels, sandstone door columns carve in various designs and
inscription stone. Nearby is the Mueang Phaniat archaeological site
with its remains of laterite base of a large Khmer religious sanctuary
and moats marking the town limit the south. The ancient town is
believed to have been dated from the 12th-16the centuries B.E. (Buddhist
Era).
AMPHOE PONG NAM RON
Namtok Khao Soi Dao
At Km. 62 on Highway No. 317, about 70 kilometres from Chanthaburi,
is a left turn to Namtok Khao Soi Dao. The trail to the 15-level
waterfall is amid unspoiled forests with a large variety of butterfly
and bird. As it is a waterfall within a wildlife sanctuary, visitors
are permitted only daytime only.
Shooting the Rapids at Khlong Pong Nam Ron
Shooting the Rapids at Khlong Pong Nam Ron is an adventure travel
during the season of July-January. Enthusiasts will thrill to the
exciting passage through streams and rapids, an exercise of 2-4
level of difficulty. The two-hour trip passes through verdant forestland
and fruit orchards. Contact tour agents or resorts in Pong Nam Ron
district.
AMPHOE SOI DAO
Khao Soi Dao Waterfall
At Km. 62 on Highway No. 317, about 70 kilometres from Chanthaburi,
is a left turn to Nam Tok Khao Soi Dao. The trail to the 15-level
waterfall is amid unspoiled forests with a large variety of butterfly
and bird. As it is a waterfall within a wildlife sanctuary, visitors
are permitted only daytime only.
AMPHOE THA MAI
Hat Ao Yang
Hat Ao Yang is a small beach some 2 kilometres before the park.
Cool and shady, it offers accommodation facilities for visitors.
Hat Khung Wiman, Hat Khung Kraben, Hat Laem Sadet and Hat Chao
Lao
These are all peaceful beaches in Tha Mai district and clustered
in an area about 30 kilometres from town. At Km. 310 of Highway
No. 3 is a right turn into Highway No. 3399 which leads to the area.
Or one can proceed from Tha Mai district on the route passing through
Wang Tanot dam. There are accommodation facilities for tourists,
particularly at Hat Chao Lao where there are several hotels and
bungalows to choose from. About one kilometre off shore from Hat
Chao Lao are ranges of shallow water coral reefs covering an area
of 14 square kilometres. Glass-bottomed boats are available. Over
at Ao Khung Kraben are nature trails to study mangrove areas.
Khai Noen Wong
The ancient site of Khai Noen Wong, also at Tambon Bang Kacha, was
established as the town in circa 1834 during the reign of King Rama
III. The town was moved from Ban Lum to this location because of
its high grounds which were more suitable for defensive purposes
against the invading Vietnamese. The laterite walls and bricks from
the old town were also dismantled and moved to the new site. A serve
drought during the reign of King Rama V forced its return to the
original site at Ban Lum.
The old town at Khai Noen Wong was square-shaped with extensive
laterite walls mounted with large cannons. Each side had its own
ramparts and defensive moats. It was regarded as a powerful military
camp of the time. The town's principal temple was Wat Yothanimit.
Soon to be established as a national maritime museum, the Underwater
Archaeological Office is located within Khai Noen Wong specialising
in exhibits on Thailands merchant marine and items discovered from
underwater archaeological explorations from all over the country.
There are also exhibits of ancient sailing routes and products.
An exhibition chamber deals with the history and culture of the
people of Chanthaburi.
Khao Laem Sing Forest Park
Using the Tha Mai-Bang Kachai route cars can easily access the Khao
Laem Sing Forest Park, some 25 kilometres from Tha Mai. The route
passes through Wat Khao Laem Sing right up to the park headquarters
on a hill. Alternatively, visitors can charter a boat from Laem
Sing beach to Ao Krathing Beach, just 400 metres away, and walk
up to the park. Camping is allowed on application.
Khao Laem Sing is a small hill 172 metres above the sea. Located
to the east of the mouth of the Chanthaburi River, it has a cape
jutting into the sea which looks like a sprawling lion. There is
an old fortification called Pom Phairi Phinat built during the reign
of King Rama III.
Suan Sadetyat
Adjacent to Wat Khao Sukim is Suan Sadetyat, an extensive fruit
plantation growing rambutan and durian in the main. During the fruit
season of April-June, it is open to the public. Admission fee includes
free fruit-tasting.
Wat Khao Sukim
Wat Khao Sukim is about 20 kilometres north of town. Built in 1966,
it houses a large collection of religious items and valuable antiques
donated by the public. On display are wax sculptures of over twenty
Buddhist monks highly revered by the public. The temple can be reached
through three accesses:- at Km. 305 (Ban Huai Sathon); at the Ban
Noen Sung intersection; or at Km. 324 (Khao Rai Ya intersection)
Wat Phlup
Wat Phlup at Tambon Bang Kacha to the southwest of town was the
site of an old community during the late Ayutthaya period. Special
features are two ancient pagodas of different styles and an old
Thai wooden pavilion.
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