Things to Do in East Thailand – See Islands, Museums & National Parks

Eastern Thailand borders the Gulf of Thailand and is characterized by short mountain ranges and small river basins. The region also features popular beaches as well as off-the-beaten-path destinations that are popular with hikers and eco-tourists. Travelers looking for outdoor adventures and serene getaways should check out these top things to do in East Thailand.

Chanthaburi

The city of Chanthaburi is located on the Chanthaburi River. The region is famous for its scenic waterfalls and deep green forests. Known for its natural attractions, the city is also celebrated for its gem markets, handicrafts, and local cuisine. Some of Chanthaburi’s most popular destinations include:

• Chanthaboon Waterfront Community – An historic community of Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese people, the Chanthaboon Waterfront Community is one of the city’s most renowned cultural attractions. The community’s historic architecture and cultural mix continues to draw tourists.
• Ao Khung Kraben – A stunning wildlife conservation area, Ao Khung Kraben represents various types of terrain, including mangrove and evergreen forests. Visitors come to walk the area’s trail that takes them through lush forest terrain to the stunning Kung Krabaen Bay.
• Chao Lao Beach – Visitors love Chao Lao Beach for its beautiful setting, coral reef diving, banana boat riding, glass bottom boat rides, and other aquatic activities.
• Namtok Phlio National Park – This beautiful national park is home to waterfalls with perfectly clear pools as well as a wealth of wildlife like black bear, Asian mongoose, and wild boar. The park is named for one of its majestic waterfalls.
• Khao Khitchakut National Park – Located in the Sao Dao Mountains, Khao Khitchakut National Park is home to the venerated “Buddha Footprint,” icons shaped in natural stone, as well as pristine forests and waterfalls.
• Kung Wiman Beach – Noted for its crystal water and serene atmosphere, Kung Wiman Beach boasts a variety of resorts, hotels, and restaurants. Swimming is a popular pastime and there are two well-known fishing areas to the north and south of the beach.
• Chedi Klang Nam Viewpoint – A great seaside sightseeing spot, Chedi Klang Nam Viewpoint is located on the edge of Ban Hua Laem Fishing Village.
• Ban Hua Laem – This small fishing village is celebrated for its seaside views and 200-year-old pagoda that can only be accessed by its path during low-tide or else by fishing boat.
• Wat Pak Nam Khaem Nu – Also known as the ‘blue temple,’ Wat Pak Nam Khaem Nu is a stunning temple that is covered with decorative blue tiles. The monks thought of decorating the temple with tiles in order to protect it from deterioration. The result is one of visual splendor.

Prachinburi

Dating back 800 years, the city of Prachinburi features a tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. The city is known as the Gateway to Khao Yai National Park. There are also many ruins and historical sites that dot the city and surrounding region.

• Prachinburi National Museum – A national museum of Thailand, the Prachinburi National Museum is home to collections that include historic Buddhist and Hindu scriptures.
• The Verona at Tub Lan – A small recreation of the city of Verona, the Verona at Tub Lan brings a touch of Italy to Prachinburi. The celebrated hotel is famous for its Italianesque architecture, sumptuous rooms, and delectable cuisine.
• Chakrapong Reservoir (Kho Ito Waterfall) – Located at the foot of the Kho Ito Waterfall and Mountain, Chakrapong Reservoir is a huge reservoir for preserving water from mountain water courses. Its stunning beauty, whether bathed in sunlight or fog, makes it popular with area sightseers.
• Naruebodindrachinta Reservoir – Another of the city’s important water preservation sites, the Naruebodindrachinta Reservoir attracts visitors with its scenic beauty and nearby pristine forests.
• Kaeng Hin Poeng Riverside – Kaeng Hin Poeng are the rapids of the Sai Yai River and, as such, they attract many white water rafting enthusiasts. It’s the ideal destination for outdoor adventure in Prachinburi.
• Dinosaur Park Prachinburi – Filled with colorful life-sized dinosaur sculptures, Dinosaur Park Prachinburi is popular with kids and adults alike, but it’s a well-known family-friendly destination.

Trat

Trat is an island-lover’s paradise with its nearby 50-plus islands, some of which are regarded as the country’s most beautiful. Its seaside and forest attractions make it a spectacular setting for nature enthusiasts. The following attractions are not to be missed.

• Koh Mak – A small tranquil island, Koh Mak is part of the Eastern Thailand’s Marine National Park. The island isn’t overly developed, so it’s popular with visitors looking for a quiet getaway.
• Koh Chang – Another island in Eastern Thailand’s Marine National Park, Koh Chang is home to restaurants, nightclubs, and shops that attract vacationers.
• Koh Kood – It’s been called Thailand’s most beautiful island, Koh Kood features a paradise-like setting. It’s dotted with guest houses that cater to visitors who come to relax on the island’s idyllic beaches.
• Koh Kham – Located a short boat ride from Koh Mak,Koh Kham is a small tree-covered island that’s home to clear water, white sandy beaches, and tranquil seabreezes.
• Koh Kradat – Known for its coral reefs, Koh Kradat attracts snorkelers, divers, and beach lovers with its enchanting setting.
• Ko Rang – The island of Ko Rang has few beaches, but it attracts many divers. The clear water makes for breathtaking underwater sightseeing.
• Koh Wai – A small, crescent-shaped island, Koh Wai is an undeveloped paradise. Visitors should not expect restaurants or even electricity, but its few beaches boast untouched brilliance.
• Trat City Museum – With exhibits explained in both Thai and English, Trat City Museum celebrates the history of the city from its days as a rest stop for Chinese traders to the present.
• Trat City Pillar Shrine – The Trat City Pillar Shrine is an ornamental Chinese shrine that’s noted for its colorful accents and nearby market.
• Salak Khok Boat Tour – Located on Koh Chang, the village of Salak Khok is known for its traditional way of life and its celebrated boat tours that provide visitors with a trip through picturesque mangrove forests.

Sa Kaeo

Located on Thailand’s eastern border, Sa Kaeo is known for its ancient remains that date back to the Dvaravati period and stunning natural scenery. Owing to his proximity to Cambodia, So Kaeo is also the site of considerable trade.

• Pang Sida National Park – Part of the Dong Phayayen Forest Complex Unesco World Heritage Site, Pang Sida National Park is home to jungles, mountain terrain, waterfalls, grasslands, and forests. Its diverse landscapes are home to a myriad of wildlife, including the endangered Siamese crocodile, Sunda pangolin, and tigers.
• Lalu – The natural rock formations of Lalu form part of the barrier with Cambodia and are a popular Eastern Thailand tourist destination. The rocks have been referred to as the Grand Canyon of Thailand.
• Prasat Sdok Kok Thom – Prasat Sdok Kok Thom is a Kmer temple that dates to the 11th century. It is the largest temple of its kind in the province.
• Wat Tham Khao Chakan – A traditional Buddhist monastery located in the Khao Chakan Arboretum, Wat Tham Khao Chakan is located at the base of Khao Chakan Mountain. There is a cave on the grounds as a well as stairs to the lookout on the mountaintop.
• Tha Krabak Reservoir – The Krabak Reservoir is a popular area destination for its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors come to relax and enjoy the natural sights.
• Rong Kluea Market – The Rong Kluea Market is located near the Cambodian border and features a wide range of Cambodian merchandise and handicrafts ranging from antique brass and crockery to baskets and clothing.

Nakhon Nayok

Situated near Bangkok, Nakhon Nayok is a popular destination for day trips from the capital, but its natural and cultural attractions easily warrant a longer stay. Visitors will find excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring old Kmer ruins.

• Greenland Nakhonnayok (Khao Chong Lom) – Known as one of the greenest areas in Thailand, Greenland Nakhonnayok features a lush grassland setting and waterfalls. Visitors come to enjoy the enchanting natural scenery.
• Ganesha Park Nakhon Nayok – Ganesha Park Nakhon Nayok pays homage to the Hundu deity Ganesha, which is also revered by many Buddhists. The park is home to the two largest statues of Ganesha in the country.
• Sarika Waterfall – One of the most celebrated waterfalls in the region, Sarika Waterfall is a nine-tiered waterfall that plunges over a cliff. Many people choose to swim in the pools at the base of the falls.
• Ban Na Red Lotus Lake – A stunning natural attraction, Ban Na Red Lotus Lake may well be one of the country’s most breathtaking sights when the pink water lilies (not technically lotus flowers) are blooming.
• Wang Takrai National Park – Featuring 600 acres of lovely acreage, Wang Takrai National Park features a wide range of outdoor activities, including swimming, tubing, canoeing, hiking, and more.
• Wat Maniwong – One of the oldest temples in Nakhon Nayok, Wat Maniwong features ornately carved accents that decorate its historic architecture.
• Khao Lon Adventure Point – Outdoor lovers flock to Khao Lon Adventure Point to enjoy activities like cliff rappelling, cycling, ATV driving, and more.