Ratchaburi province has turned into a hotbed of tourism, becoming prominent with sightseers who are looking to visit somewhere distinctive, in Thailand. Ratchaburi is also known for the Damnoen-Saduak Floating Market, where merchants offer handicrafts, food, and souvenirs, from customary wooden boats, which float on the khlongs, or narrow canals. Ratchaburi is a relaxing getaway town, with multiple museums, royal residences, and great restaurants. In addition, you can visit the nearby Bo Khloung Hot Spring, the Khao Chon Waterfall, with its nine, terraced levels, and Khao Ngu Stone Park. Here’s a list of the 25 ultimate things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand.
1. Get to know the city at Ratchaburi National Museum
Frequently touted as Southeast Asia’s greatest historical centre, Thailand’s National Museum is home to an amazing, though once in a while dusty, collection. Also, this site is one of the most refreshing museums, in Bangkok. The greater part of the historical centre’s structures were built in 1782, as the royal residence of Rama I’s emissary, Prince Wang Na. Rama V turned it into a historical centre, in 1874, and today there are three exhibitions, spread out throughout a few structures. When you visit, you’ll notice a few of the buildings being revamped.
Ratchaburi National Museum
Address: 55 Ammarin, Tambon Na Muang, Amphoe Mueang Ratchaburi, Chang Wat Ratchaburi 70000, Thailand
Price: from 3 USD
Opening Hours: 9am - 4pm.
Facebook: Ratchaburi National Museum
2. Visit the old King's palace at Khao Wang
Phra Nakhon Khiri is a must-stop in Phetchaburi, and sits on a hill, above the city. The name Phra Nakhon Khiri means Holy City Hill, however, local people know it better as Khao Wang, which means mountain with royal residence. This is an amazing place, which offers an extraordinary perspective of the city beneath and the mountains beyond. The climb is fairly simple, but at the same time, it’s hot here, so be prepared to sweat it out a bit.
The garden is stunning, serene, and calm. The local monkeys can be aggressive so don’t encourage them and keep your belongings close. Here, as in many places in Thailand, they are known to snatch water bottles, food, cameras, and particularly, bags.
King's Palace At Khao Wang
Address: Khlong Kra Saeng, Mueang Phetchaburi District, Phetchaburi 76000, Thailand
Price: from 1 USD
Contact: +66 32 425 600
Website: Khao Wang - in Thai
3. Explore the caves of Khao Ngu
The caves of Khao Ngu exhibit a renowned figure of Buddha and are considered the most established confirmation of an archaeological period in Ratchaburi, which dates back over 700 years. There are three fundamental caves in the area, which all contain Buddha statues. In addition, you can climb the hilltop to enjoy spectacular mountainous views. It’s a truly staggering perspective from the top, and you can, without much of a stretch, see back to Ratchaburi and the farmland surroundings.
Continue onward and you’ll discover more caves that look rather rundown. A Buddha statue is revered here, as well. The celebration of this cavern is held each year, in late September or October. Observe the 7th-century Buddhist work of art in one of the caves, named Phra Phutthachai Tham Reussii. It also incorporates an engraving in Sanskrit, which reads: “The value of the recluse with Gupta”. In the event that you get worn out exploring the caves, take a seat somewhere and just observe the caves and the swarms of monkeys.
The Caves At Khao Ngu
Address: Khao Ngu Park, Tambon Ko Phlap Phla, Amphoe Mueang, Ratchaburi
Opening Hours: 8am - 5pm.
Website: Khao Ngu Caves
4. Watch football at Mitr Phol Stadium
Thai people love football and, whenever you visit a sports bar on the weekend, you will see them crowded in front of a TV, watching English Premier League. In addition, they cherish their own football teams, and Ratchaburi province is home to the Ratchaburi Mitro Phol Football Club, aka the “Dragons.” Be prepared to be swept away by the energy of 10,000 enthusiastic people, who visit the stadium to support their favourite team in the Thai Premier League. Watching a game of football in a local stadium will give you an authentic Thai football experience.
Mitr Phol Stadium
Address: Huai Phai, Mueang Ratchaburi District, Ratchaburi 70000, Thailand
Facebook: Mitr Phol Stadium
5. Dine out at Krua Mon Khai Restaurant
Krua Mon Khai Restaurant features delightful Tom Yum, pleasant staff and speedy service. Be that as it may, many individuals arrive before the actual opening time, since they take a break at 3 pm. Heavenly food options worth trying include the omelette bun, black rice, and the sweet and sour fish.
Despite the fact that the restaurant lacks air conditioning, the food is definitely delectable. The fish dish is enough for four people and costs only 350 THB (10.25 USD). Don’t be surprised when one of the staff serves you drinks you didn’t order. For instance a sugarcane juice or butterfly pea beverage, which are both pleasant to try. Before leaving, visit the gift shop, where you can get souvenirs, vegetables and natural products.
Krua Mon Khai Restaurant
Address: Suan Phueng, Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand
Contact: +66 86 173 5762
Facebook: Krua Mon Khai Restaurant
6. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Damnoen Saduak is a renowned floating market, flaunting a timeless snapshot of exotic Thailand. This market is situated 100 km (62.1 miles) from downtown Bangkok and is easily reachable. Rent a private vehicle or take a guided tour to the market. Drive towards Samut Songkram Province and along the way, enjoy listening to stories with cultural context. Also, visit the coconut farm and learn about how sugar is created for authentic Thai desserts.
Once you arrive at the market, take to the water on a traditional long tail Thai boat and shop from hundreds of similar boats, selling souvenirs, local produce, and delicious Thai food.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Address: Damnoun Saduak, Ratchaiburi, Damnoen Saduak 70130, Thailand
Price: from 32 USD
Opening Hours: 7am - 7pm.
Facebook: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
7. Alpaca Hill
Alpaca Hill features the opportunity to get very close to this hairy herd of animals. Alpaca Hill is Thailand’s first alpaca farm and a great place where visitors can get a close-up look at these delicate creates. This little petting ranch allows for a great learning experience, for both children and adults. Take the reasonably priced VIP tour, for 280 THB (8.20 USD), which will take you around 28 destinations within the farm, on a guided visit. Awesome and supportive staff guarantee the most out of your time at Alpaca Hill and you will always remember the memories you build, here.
Alpaca Hill
Address: 357 Moo8, Phapok-Tako Land Rd, Suanphung Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand
Price: from 7 USD
Opening Hours: 9.30 am - 5pm.
Contact: +66 81 145 9565
Website: Alpaca Hill
8. See the “animals” in Khao Bin Cave
Khao Bin Cave is a beautiful cave system within the National Reserved Forest in Ratchaburi. This cave is sometimes also known as Little Sheep for the rock formations that resemble animals within the cave. The cave stretches about 300 meters (984 feet) long and is divided into 8 rooms that brim with unique stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colored lights. As you walk through the cave, use your imagination to see if you can pick out any familiar shapes! Visitors typically spend 35-40 minutes walking through the cave. To reach Khao Bin Cave, follow Highway 3087 Ratchaburi - Chom Bueng until you see a guidepost.
Khao Bin Cave
Address: Moo 11, Hin Kong Subdistrict, Mueang, Ratchaburi 70000, Thailand
Website: Khao Bin Cave
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 4pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 4:30pm
Price: 0.6 USD
9. Enjoy family-friendly fun at the Scenery Vintage Farm
For a day of fun for the whole family, visit the Scenery Vintage Farm in Suan Phueng. This small farm brims with engaging activities, including archery, horse riding, and a photo booth. The farm is also home to horses, dogs, sheep, and goats which you can feed and pet. After you feed the animals, stop by the on-site restaurant for your own delicious meal. The farm-themed park is open daily, in case you plan to visit with your loved ones.
The Scenery Vintage Farm
Address: 234, Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand
Website: The Scenery Vintage Farm
Opening hours: 9am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 1.6 USD
10. Spend the day by the lake at Veneto Suanphueng
Veneto Suan Phueng is the perfect place for a peaceful afternoon. The picturesque park is located in Suan Phueng, and it is filled with activities the whole family will love. Stop by the small zoo to see goats, giant rabbits, and deer; there is also an aviary and a large pond filled with hundreds of koi fish. Rent a paddleboat and skim across the lake, then play games in the activity zone. There’s also a 4D Art Gallery where you can take stunning photographs as well as an on-site restaurant.
Veneto Suanphueng
Address: 231 Moo 2 Suan Phueng, Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
Price: 4 USD
11. Admire the statues at Wat Nong Hoi Park
Wat Nong Hoi is located in Khao Raeng Sub-District, about 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) away from the city. Built in 1873, the temple is known to be sacred, so it’s no wonder why people flock here to pray. This site is famous for its golden statue of Guan Yim, a goddess figure of mercy and compassion also known as Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. Altars surround their statue, and visitors can pay their respects and leave joss or incense sticks at the site. The temple is open daily, but it is recommended to book a tour in advance.
Wat Nong Hoi Park
Address: 3089 Khao Raeng, Ratchaburi-Phapok Road - 3089 Ko Phlappla, Mueang Ratchaburi, Ratchaburi 70000, Thailand
Opening hours: 7am - 5pm (daily)
12. Shop for souvenirs at Oh Poi Market
A holiday in Ratchaburi will not be complete without shopping for unique items. While in the province, don’t miss the chance to visit Oh Poi Market, a picturesque morning market in Ta Nao Si. Surrounded by forest and overlooking a rushing stream, this market is as good a photography spot as it is a shopping delight. Stroll through the bamboo stalls, and shop for artisanal crafts, snack on delicious local foods, and enjoy cultural performances. The market is open every weekend from 7 am to 2 pm.
Oh Poi Market
Address: Ta Nao Si, Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi 70180, Thailand
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 7am - 2pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
13. Watch a traditional performance at Wat Khanon Nang Yai Museum
Learn about the cultural heritage of Nang Yai at this brilliant museum on the banks of the Mae Klong River. Nang Yai is a traditional Thai form of shadow puppetry that dates back to 1458, and performances include stories narrated by songs and music ensembles that synchronize with the large puppets. The museum features 313 complete Nang Yai puppets, all of which are hand-carved. Many of the puppets on display are characters from the Indian epic, Ramayana, but the museum also holds complete show sets from Hanuman Thawai Waen, Sahatsa Kuman, and Phao Krung Longka. On Saturdays, the museum hosts Nang Yai performances enacted by students from Wat Khanon School.
Wat Khanon Nang Yai Museum
Address: Soi Fa, Photharam District, Ratchaburi 70120, Thailand
Website: Wat Khanon Nang Yai Museum
Opening hours: 8am - 5:30pm (daily)
14. Discover vintage artifacts at Ban Pong Wan Warn
Ban Pong Wan Warn is another museum that should be included in your Ratchaburi itinerary for that enriching travel experience. Take your buddies with you and delve into local history at Ban Pong Wan Warn. This specialty attraction brims with a wide variety of antiques, retro items, and historical artifacts. Meander through the exhibits for a glimpse into bygone days. There is also an on-site restaurant, so you can stop to enjoy a bite to eat after perusing the vast, eclectic collection.
Ban Pong Wan Warn
Address: 23 ซอย 14 Pak Raet, Ban Pong District, Ratchaburi 70110, Thailand
Website: Ban Pong Wan Warn
Opening hours: Fri - Tue: 10am - 7pm (closed on Wed & Thu)
Price: 0.9 USD
15. Walk through time at Na Satta Cultural Center
For an interactive exploration of Thai history and heritage, a visit to Na Satta Cultural Center is a must. This museum uses sculptures and life-size wax figures to illustrate important events and figures in Thai history, and includes examples of traditional houses and other cultural aspects. Guests can also rent traditional Thai costumes to wear as they explore the park. Na Satta Cultural Center includes an indoor museum as well as open-air exhibitions, beautiful, landscaped grounds, and an on-site restaurant and refreshment stands.
Na Satta Cultural Center
Address: 41/1 Petchkasem-Damnoen Saduak Road, Wang Yen, Bang Phae District, Ratchaburi 70160, Thailand
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 13 USD
16. Stroll around Haadsai Photharam
If you want to take a break from crowded areas, visit Haadsai Photharam. It is a quiet public park surrounded by picturesque scenery. With its tranquil trails and scenic riverside location, this park in Photharam is a great place to enjoy a quiet moment or have a picnic with your family. The park is open 24 hours daily, and public events are sometimes held here throughout the year.
Haadsai Photharam
Address: Photharam, Photharam District, Ratchaburi 70120, Thailand
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
17. Plan a visit to Wat Phra Sri Arn
Wat Phra Sri Arn is a Buddhist temple in Ban Lueak. The temple is renowned for its golden ordination hall (ubosot), and the exterior designs of stucco imagery depicting stories from the Ten Incarnations of the Lord Buddha and the Five Buddhas. The main Buddha image within the ordination hall is a large icon of Buddha in the posture of subduing Mara, constructed in white jade. Colorful murals also decorate the interior of the ordination hall. Many people believe that touching the hand-carved wooden door is lucky and will bring good fortune to those who do so.
Wat Phra Sri Arn
Address: Ban Lueak, Photharam District, Ratchaburi 70120, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
18. Check out the shops at Koyky Old Market and Walking Street
Koyky Old Market and Walking Street is a vibrant marketplace overlooking the banks of the Mae Klong River. A shopper’s delight, this market brims with interesting vendors offering a variety of wares. Check out the shops, look for artisanal products, and meet the locals as you explore the bustling area. There are also plenty of places to grab a snack if you start getting hungry. The market is open on Saturdays and Sundays, with shops open late into the evening.
Koyky Old Market and Walking Street
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 5:30am - 10pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
19. Have a meal with a view at Inlaya Ratchaburi
For delicious food and a scenic setting, the restaurant in Inlaya Ratchaburi is a fantastic dining option. Inlaya Ratchaburi is a boutique hotel in Ratchaburi, and in addition to chic rooms, it includes Inlay Bar & Grill. This lakefront restaurant serves up a menu of brilliant Thai fusion dishes, including signature seafood recipes, mouthwatering appetizers, and shared plates. There are also global-inspired dishes such as Western pasta, steaks, and Japanese sushi and sashimi sets. Finish your meal with a traditional Thai dessert or a scoop of refreshing ice cream while you look out over the lake.
Inlaya Ratchaburi
Address: 85 Ko Phlappla, Mueang Ratchaburi, Chang Wat Ratchaburi 70000, Thailand
Website: Inlaya Ratchaburi
20. See the Buddha images at Wat Mahathat Worawihan
Wat Mahathat Worawihan, which is also known as Wat Na Phrathat and Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 10th century. The temple has been rebuilt several times throughout the centuries which led to a unique confluence of architectural styles and features, reflected both on the interior and exterior of the temple. Wat Mahathat Worawihan features several unique Buddha images, including a stucco Buddha image with Pre-Ayutthaya artistic elements, a cement reclining Buddha image from the Ayutthaya Period located in front of the Phra Prang, and stone Buddha images ranging across the Dvaravati, Lop Buri, and Ayutthaya eras.
Wat Mahathat Worawihan
Address: 2 Kaow Ngu, Na Muang, Mueang Ratchaburi, Ratchaburi 70000, Thailand
21. Enjoy a warm soak at Bo Khlueng Hot Stream
After a busy day of sightseeing, relax and unwind in Bo Khlueng Hot Stream. This natural hot spring flows from the Tanao Si Mountains, and the water runs at 50-68 degrees Celsius (122-154.4 degrees Fahrenheit). Some visitors believe the water’s rich minerals have healing benefits for the skin and body. On-site, there is a bathroom and a pool filled with hot water from the stream. Bo Khlueng Hot Stream sits near the beautiful Kao Chon waterfall, and the stream can be accessed by following the road from Amphoe Suan Phueng for 5 kilometers (3 miles) until reaching Bo Khlueng Hot Stream access road.
Bo Khlueng Hot Stream
Address: Suan Phueng, Ratchaburi
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
22. Admire stunning flowers at The Blooms Orchid Park
Marvel at the beauty of orchids and tropical flowers at the Blooms Orchid Park. This picturesque park in Wat Kaeo brims with a lush variety of orchid species and is filled with other blooms year-round. Meander through the quiet forest setting, and get lost in nature as you smell the fragrant air, listen to the tranquil rush of the stream, and stop to enjoy the delicate blooms and vibrant colors. There are also family-friendly activities to enjoy, such as sheep feeding and a children’s playground.
The Blooms Orchid Park
Address: 65 หมู่ 7 ตำบลวัดแก้ว อำเภอบางแพ Ratchaburi, Thailand 70160
Website: The Blooms Orchid Park
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 3.2 USD
23. Sign up for a tour of Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory
Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory creates beautiful ceramic pieces in a variety of styles. This ceramics manufacturer was established 60 years ago and specializes in unique designs and art pieces. Chinese ceramics, Thai ceramics, modern ceramics, and custom pieces fill their workshop, and you can tour their factory in Ratchaburi. Whether you want to shop for unique souvenirs or just learn more about the art form, Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory is a great place to dive into the world of ceramics.
Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory
Address: Chedi Hak, เจดีย์หัก Mueang Ratchaburi, Ratchaburi 70000, Thailand
Website: Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
24. Snuggle with cuddly toys at Suntree, Land of Dolls
If you love all things cute and cuddly, you will enjoy the collections at Suntree, Land of Dolls. This specialty museum was opened by a doll-maker with over 30 years of experience and has an extensive collection of teddy bears and stuffed animals, along with interactive displays. As you explore the museum, you can take pictures with cuddly backdrops, learn about doll-making, and even make your own dolls to take home. There is also a gift shop where you can purchase dolls for your friends and loved ones back home.
Suntree, Land of Dolls
Address: ทางหลวงหมายเลข 3335 Ban Sing, Photharam District, Ratchaburi 70160, Thailand
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
25. Explore the wild landscape of Chaloem Phrakiat Thai Prachan National Park
Chaloem Phrakiat Thai Prachan National Park is a wondrous recreation area filled with thick forests, cascading waterfalls, and lush hillsides. The park spans a massive section of the countryside, and the area is popular for hiking, camping, bird-watching, and picture-taking. Enjoy scenic sights such as the cascades of Mae Prachan waterfall, soak in Mae Prachan hot spring (also known as Ban Beung hot spring), or cycle along the shady trails. Leave the bustle of cities far behind you, and enjoy rest and recreation at Chaloem Phrakiat Thai Prachan National Park.
Chaloem Phrakiat Thai Prachan National Park
Address: บ้านไทยประจัน Yang Hak, Pak Tho District, Ratchaburi 70140, Thailand
Website: Chaloem Phrakiat Thai Prachan National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Ratchaburi unveils an authentic Thai experience
From Buddhist temples and caves to hot springs, splendid mountains and authentic Thai food, Ratchaburi has it all. When visiting Thailand, plan at least a three-day trip to this tropical haven, which offers plenty of opportunities to keep you entertained.