Top 06 Things to See and Do in Chanthaburi – Culturally Rich Heritage City

Chanthaburi is home to a large collection of temples, shrines and churches. The eastern Thai city is greatly influenced by a large community of Vietnamese, Chinese and Khmer. Walk around and you will discover Chanthaburi was also influenced by the French, Burmese and Shan as well; the French ruled the area from 1893 to 1905, leaving behind lasting memories. The best of this mixed heritage is reflected in the vintage architecture, as well as, the delicious cuisine.

Chanthaboon Old Town is where you can savour history and culture in large doses. A treasured precinct, and definitely one of the best areas to explore in Chanthaburi, it is a centre for the city's lucrative gem trade and is a truly picturesque area to explore. The locale is made up of lovely riversides, framed by buildings showcasing French architectural styling, vintage churches and shrines and sunny places to sit and enjoy some local cuisine.

If you manage to free yourself from the pleasures of a exploring the historic sites and locales of Chanthaburi, do head on over to the coast. The beaches there are not white sand havens like Ko Samui, but instead are rustic oases free from crowds and lovely to explore. Made up of peninsulas, hidden inlets, charming fisher villages and rugged coastlines these areas are quite a treat for nature lovers.

Fast gaining popularity as a top tourist destination, Chanthaburi may not be listed amongst the top holiday destinations of Thailand; but it certainly should be. You can discover why, on a scout of the area; discover the breezy coastlines, stunning beauty of the riverside villages and culture reflected amongst vintage buildings, as well as, the religions, traditions and local food. The environment is made up of waterfalls, sleepy streets, mysterious alleys and old shop-houses. Golfing is another lure here and those in search of a golf resort Thailand has to offer can look to stay in Chanthaburi; the award-winning 18-hole course at Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi set amidst a mountain backdrop is one option worth considering.

There is a large community of Vietnamese Roman Catholics in Chanthaburi, and the Gothic style Cathedral of Immaculate Conception is the country's largest. Rising over the eastern bank of the Chanthaburi River this magnificent structure is located across from the Old Town. The site is where the city's very first missionary chapel was set up, way back in 1711, while the present structure is the work of Vietnamese, built around 1909.

This iconic 200 year old shrine is located in the middle of town, between Sukhapiban Road and Benchamarachutis Road. The building is a fine example of the city's mixed heritage, as it boasts Chinese style gateways and a huge image of the mythical Garuda which is Thailand's national emblem.