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| Off the tourist trails, Chantaburi is literally a real gem of a place which travellers should not miss to visit. Chantaburi, or "Muang Chan" as Thais call it, is the gem centre of Thailand. Here, rubies, sapphires and a dazzling array of semi-precious stones are cut and polished for the international gem market. But there is more to Chantaburi than meets the eye. French influence The town has a rich character. The French ruled it for a brief period during the 19th century, and that part of the past is still reflected in the architecture that shows Indochinese colonial-period influences in buildings and street planning. The French influence is most obvious in the numerous cafe-style street restaurants, which incidentally serve some of the town's finest foods. There is also a large Vietnamese-Chinese community in the town. Along the riverbanks are many wooden stilt houses, typical all over Thailand. But those in Chantaburi are in better state and are very photogenic. The town is also home to the largest Christian church in Thailand, the focal point of Catholics in the country. |
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| Wicker works Chantaburi is also well known for its abundance of tropical fruits such as rambutan, durian, mangosteen, and zalacca. Its fruit market is one of the best in the land, and Thais from all over come to buy them as prices are very low and quality is very high. . The area is likewise famed for rattan work. You can find products such as baskets, mattresses, and fancy wicker works extensively displayed in the shops and markets. |
Neighbouring
attractions Just out of town is the Phliu waterfall in the Khoa Sabab National Park. This place is ideal for swimming. There is also an unusual chedi near the falls, which commemorates the death of King Rama V's consort who was drawn in a boating accident near Bangpa-In Palace. |
