Joanna James
Chanthaburi is a colourful province in Eastern Thailand that is home to a picturesque town. A hidden gem which boasts of cultural diversity, this charming town offers a range of less explored destinations and unique experiences to visitors.
One must-visit attraction in Thailand is the exquisite Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. This beautiful building is more than 300 years old and is nestled close to the Chanthaburi River. Boasting of Gothic architecture, this mammoth construction is 60 meters long. The main feature which makes this iconic building stand out is its 20-meter-tall towers. Another striking aspect is the jewel-laden statue of the Virgin Mary which stands in front of the altar on a gold podium.
Originally known as "Baan Lum," Chanthaboon is an ancient waterfront community on the west side of the Chanthaburi River. Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants are believed to have moved there during the early Rattanakosin period. During King Rama VI’s era, this place evolved into an economic and commercial centre. Visitors will be able to have a glimpse into the past through the ancient architectural buildings preserved on this site. Shops and eateries too dot the place. You will also be able to witness some artisans at work making local craft items like lanterns.
Located around 70 km from Chanthaburi town and within the Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, Khao Soi Dao Waterfall is one of Thailand’s natural wonders. This stunning waterfall reflects the appearance of a massive staircase with its sixteen tiers formed by multi-level stone ledges. The place also houses some unique wildlife and plant species like the spiny-breasted frog which is endemic to this area. This is an ideal place to engage in bird and butterfly watching as there are ample of them available hidden in the lush greenery. Guests staying at a hotel in Chanthaburi will be able to visit this splendorous cascade as early as 6 am. It is only about a 40-minute drive away from a property like Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi.
If you are someone who loves bling then a visit to Chanthaburi Gem Market should be included in your itinerary. Equipped with a history which can be traced back several centuries, the Gems Market is considered one of Thailand’s premier gem trading centres. The place functions from Friday to Sunday, 10 am to 3 pm, and is thronged with buyers and gem enthusiasts waiting to inspect the latest coloured gemstones on sale. It is believed that Chanthaburi is the transit point for 80% of the world's supply of rubies and sapphires. Anyone who frequents the place knows that it provides some of the best values on coloured gemstones available anywhere in the world.
Those with a sweet tooth would find Nong Bua Thai Dessert Market a paradise since it houses a range of exotic and unusual Thai sweets and desserts. The place is located on the Nong Bua Canal’s banks and holds more than a hundred stalls today. Unique snacks like khanom khuay ling (cylindrical-shaped glutinous flour covered in coconut shreds) and khanom talum (coconut pudding garnished with egg custard), which have been sourced from Chinese descendants, can be found here.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
