Central Thailand
Discover Central Thailand
The central plain of Thailand is the most fertile area in Southeast Asia — the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries irrigate endless rice fields, making Thailand the world's largest rice exporter. Yet among the fields lie some of the continent's most important historical sites.
Ayutthaya (1351–1767) was once one of the largest cities in the world — larger than London and Paris. The ruins of this trading metropolis are only 80 km north of Bangkok and are a must for any visitor to Thailand. Further north awaits Sukhothai, the cradle of Thai civilization (founded in 1238), with the most elegant Buddha statues in the country.
In the west, the province of Kanchanaburi leads into the jungle-covered mountains on the Burmese border — the site of the infamous construction of the Burma Railway during World War II and home to the spectacular Erawan Waterfall. In the east, the Khao Yai National Park opens the door to amazing wildlife with wild elephants, hornbills, and gibbons.
And on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin offers royal charm, excellent seafood, and beaches without the hustle and bustle of the southern islands.
Plan at least 7–10 days for Central Thailand. Most destinations are accessible as day trips from Bangkok, but a rental car or the excellent intercity buses make a round trip worthwhile.
Tipp
Central Thailand is ideal for a road trip with a rental car from Bangkok. The roads are well-developed, the distances manageable (Ayutthaya 1.5 hours, Kanchanaburi 2.5 hours, Hua Hin 3 hours), and you reach places that are difficult to access by public transport. An international driver's license is required.
Ayutthaya — UNESCO World Heritage★★★
The former capital of the Kingdom of Siam (1351–1767) was in its heyday one of the largest and most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Up to a million people lived here when London was still a village. Traders from China, Japan, India, Persia, Portugal, and the Netherlands had their own quarters. 400 temples shone in gold, three palaces towered over the city, and an intricate canal system connected everything.
1767 marked the end: Burmese troops besieged the city for months, looted the temples, and burned everything down. What remains are the majestic ruins, which have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991 — headless Buddha statues, crumbling prangs (towers), and the famous Buddha head in the tree roots of Wat Mahathat.
Ayutthaya is located on an island surrounded by three rivers — the Chao Phraya, the Pa Sak, and the Lopburi. The historic old town is compact enough for a long day, but ideally, two days to also see the temples outside the island.
Tipp
Rent a bicycle (50–80 THB/day, approx. €1.30–2) directly at the train station or from guesthouses. The old town is flat, and the temples are 1–3 km apart — the perfect distance by bike. Alternatively: Tuk-Tuk for 3 hours approx. 800 THB (approx. €21) for the highlights.
The Main Temples
★★★ Wat Mahathat
The most famous temple in Ayutthaya — not for its architecture, but for the iconic Buddha head in the roots of a Bodhi tree. The head was enveloped by the growing roots after the Burmese destruction in 1767 and now sits at perfect eye level — as if nature itself created a sculpture. Please kneel when taking photos so that your head is not higher than the Buddha's.
The rest of the site is a vast field of ruined chedis and headless Buddha statues — atmospheric and melancholic at the same time.
50 THB (approx. €1.30). Daily 8 am–6 pm.
★★★ Wat Phra Si Sanphet
The three iconic bell-shaped chedis are the landmark of Ayutthaya — you see them on every postcard and travel guide cover. This was the royal temple within the palace grounds, comparable to Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. The three chedis (built 1448–1530) once contained the ashes of three kings. In the evening light, when the red bricks glow golden, this is the most photogenic spot in the city.
50 THB (approx. €1.30). Daily 8 am–6 pm.
★★★ Wat Ratchaburana
Directly opposite Wat Mahathat — and architecturally more impressive. The massive central prang (Khmer tower) is still remarkably intact and can be climbed via a steep staircase. Inside are rare original frescoes from the 15th century — some of the oldest surviving murals in Thailand. Depictions of lotus flowers, celestial beings, and everyday scenes.
50 THB (approx. €1.30). Daily 8 am–6 pm.
★★ Wat Chaiwatthanaram
On the west bank of the Chao Phraya, outside the old town island — and the most photogenic temple at sunset. The symmetrical Khmer-style complex (built 1630) with a 35 m high central prang and eight surrounding prangs resembles a mini-Angkor Wat. King Prasat Thong had it built after his victory over the Khmer.
50 THB (approx. €1.30). Daily 8 am–6 pm. Come at sunset!
★★ Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Southeast of the old town: a still-active monastery with a massive 72 m high chedi from the 14th century — the largest in Ayutthaya. You can climb the chedi for a panoramic view. On the temple grounds stands a 7 m long reclining Buddha, surrounded by monks in orange robes.
20 THB (approx. €0.50). Daily 8 am–5 pm.
★ Wat Lokaya Sutha
A huge reclining Buddha (37 m long, 8 m high) in the open air, without a surrounding building. Minimalistic and impressive — the sheer size only becomes apparent up close. Freely accessible, around the clock.
Eating & Accommodation
€ Food
Roti Sai Mai (Street stall on U-Thong Rd)
Ayutthaya's most famous specialty: paper-thin Roti crepes filled with cotton candy threads. Sweet, crispy, a unique snack. 10 THB per piece (approx. €0.25). Also try the savory version with egg.
Hua Raw Night Market · By the riverside
Evening street food market with a view of the water. Pad Thai from 40 THB (approx. €1), grilled river fish from 80 THB (approx. €2), fresh mangoes with sticky rice 60 THB (approx. €1.60).
Lung Lek · U-Thong Rd
Legendary boat noodles (Kuaytiaw Ruea) — small bowls with intense broth, pork, and herbs. 15 THB per bowl (approx. €0.40), order 3–5 pieces. Lunchtime only.
€ – €€ Accommodation
Baan Are Gong Riverside
Charming wooden houses by the riverside with hammocks on the veranda. Double rooms from 600 THB (approx. €16). Bicycle rental included.
Classic Kameo Hotel
Modern mid-range hotel with a pool, near the old town. Double rooms from 1,200 THB (approx. €32) including breakfast.
iuDia On The River
Boutique hotel in a renovated teak house right on the Chao Phraya. Stylish rooms, river view, infinity pool. Double rooms from 2,800 THB (approx. €74).
Tipp
The boat noodles at Lung Lek are an Ayutthaya institution. The bowls are tiny (100 ml) but incredibly flavorful — order at least 4 and stack them. That's the traditional way.
Arrival & Practical Information
From Bangkok to Ayutthaya
- Train (recommended): From Bangkok Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Grand Station. 1.5–2 hours. 3rd class: 20 THB (approx. €0.50, no air conditioning), 2nd class: 65 THB (approx. €1.70, with air conditioning). Trains every 30–60 minutes. The station is east of the river island — short ferry crossing (5 THB) to the old town.
- Minivan: From Victory Monument or Mo Chit. 1–1.5 hours. 70 THB (approx. €1.80). Direct, but less charming.
- Riverboat: Day trip boats from Bangkok (500–1,500 THB/approx. €13–40). Slow but atmospheric — you travel upstream on the Chao Phraya.
- Car: 80 km via Highway 1 (Phahonyothin). Toll approx. 100 THB. Parking at the temples 20–50 THB.
On Site
Bicycle is the best means of transport (50–80 THB/day). Tuk-Tuk for a 3-hour tour: 800–1,000 THB (approx. €21–26). Longtail boat around the island: from 1,000 THB/boat (approx. €26, up to 8 people).
Achtung
In the rainy season (September–November), Ayutthaya can be flooded — the old town is on a river island. In 2011, half the city was underwater. Check the situation before your visit and wear waterproof shoes in the rain.
Kanchanaburi & The Bridge on the River Kwai★★
The provincial capital Kanchanaburi (approx. 65,000 inhabitants) is picturesquely located at the confluence of the Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai rivers, 130 km west of Bangkok. The city is best known for the Bridge over the Kwai — part of the infamous Burma Railway (»Death Railway«), which Japan had built by over 60,000 Allied prisoners of war and 200,000 Asian forced laborers during World War II. More than 100,000 people died during its construction.
Today, Kanchanaburi is a relaxed, friendly place — popular as a base for nature experiences in the mountainous border region with Myanmar. The Erawan Waterfall, floating accommodations on the Kwai, jungle trekking, and caves make the region the perfect contrast to Bangkok.
Plan at least 2–3 days: one for the historical sites, one for the Erawan Waterfall, and one for a ride on the historic railway.
Tipp
The best accommodation in Kanchanaburi is the floating raft houses on the River Kwai. Simple bamboo accommodations on the water from 500 THB (approx. €13), more comfortable versions from 1,500 THB (approx. €40). Sit on the terrace above the river in the evening, listen to cicadas, count stars — unforgettable.
The Bridge on the River Kwai & Death Railway
★★★ Bridge over the River Kwai
The famous railway bridge (actually: bridge over the Mae Klong, renamed Kwai Yai in 1943) is a symbol of the brutality of war and the human spirit. The original wooden bridge was repeatedly destroyed by Allied bombing; today's steel bridge contains parts brought from Japan after the war.
You can walk across the bridge — a moving experience. When a train comes (twice daily), you stand in the side niches. There is a small market and restaurants on the riverbank.
Freely accessible, around the clock. Most impressive at sunrise or sunset.
★★★ JEATH War Museum & War Cemetery
Located directly in the city are two poignant memorials. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak) houses 6,982 graves of Allied prisoners of war — perfectly maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Rows of white headstones under tropical trees, each with a personal inscription. One of the most emotional places in Thailand.
The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre opposite is the best museum on the railway's history — a modern, multimedia exhibition with personal accounts, original photos, and a detailed depiction of the construction and suffering.
Cemetery: Free, daily 8:30 am–6 pm. Museum: 140 THB (approx. €3.70), daily 9 am–5 pm.
★★ Hellfire Pass Memorial
80 km northwest of Kanchanaburi: the most harrowing site of the entire Death Railway. Here, prisoners of war had to carve a rock cutting through the mountain with hand tools — at night, by torchlight, giving the place its name. The Australian museum is excellent (free audio guide). The 1.5 km long trail along the former railway track through the jungle is deeply impressive.
Free. Daily 9 am–4 pm. Pick up an audio guide at the entrance.
Ride on the Historic Railway
A section of the Burma Railway is still in operation: the route from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok (77 km, approx. 2 hours). The journey crosses the famous bridge, through rice fields, along limestone cliffs, and over the spectacular Wampo Viaduct — a wooden structure that winds along a cliff above the river. Some passengers hold their breath.
The train travels slowly (approx. 30–40 km/h) — perfect for photography. Best to sit on the left side in the direction of travel for the best views.
2 trains daily: 6:07 and 10:35 am from Kanchanaburi. Return from Nam Tok: 12:55 and 3:15 pm. Price: 100 THB (approx. €2.60) for the entire route. 3rd class, no reservation needed — just board.
Tipp
Take the early train (6:07 am) to Nam Tok, explore the Sai Yok Noi Waterfall there (10 minutes on foot from the station), and return with the afternoon train (3:15 pm). Perfect day trip. Bring snacks and water — there is no onboard service.
Arrival & Practical Information
From Bangkok to Kanchanaburi
- Bus (recommended): From Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai). Every 15–20 minutes. 1st class with air conditioning: 120 THB (approx. €3.20). Duration: 2–2.5 hours.
- Minivan: From Victory Monument. 150 THB (approx. €4), 2 hours. Faster, but tighter.
- Train: From Thonburi Station (not Hua Lamphong!). 2 trains daily, 3 hours. 100 THB. Atmospheric, but slow and unpunctual.
On Site
The city itself is easily explored by Songthaew (shared taxi, 10–20 THB) or bicycle (50 THB/day). For Erawan, Hellfire Pass, and the surroundings, you need a rental car (from 800 THB/day, approx. €21) or book an organized tour (from 1,000 THB/person including transport and entrance).
Erawan Waterfall★★★
The Erawan Waterfall in the eponymous national park is considered the most beautiful waterfall in Thailand — and rightly so. Seven tiers cascade over moss-covered limestone rocks, each with its own turquoise natural pool. The water has an unreal emerald green color due to the high lime content. The name comes from the three-headed elephant Erawan from Hindu mythology — the top tier is said to resemble it.
The hiking trail leads over 1.5 km and about 550 meters in elevation through dense tropical rainforest from tier to tier. The lower tiers (1–3) are easily accessible and ideal for swimming. The middle ones (4–5) require some climbing. The upper tiers (6–7) are challenging — steep paths, ropes to hold on to, slippery rocks. But the reward is the most spectacular tier at the top.
Tame nibble fish (Garra rufa) swim in the pools, gently nibbling at your skin — a free fish spa in the middle of the jungle.
Tipp
Arrive as early as possible — the park opens at 8 a.m., and it gets crowded from 10 a.m. Much quieter during the week than on weekends. Sunscreen is prohibited (harms the ecosystem), instead wear a long-sleeved UV shirt. Bring water and snacks, but no plastic — checked at the entrance.
Achtung
The upper tiers (5–7) are only safely accessible in shoes with tread — no flip-flops! Shoes are checked at the entrance. Since 2023, there is a ticket limit: a maximum of 1,700 visitors at a time. In the high season (Nov–Feb) on weekends, tickets can be sold out by 10 a.m.
The Seven Levels in Detail
Level 1 — Lai Kuen Rang: Wide, flat, easily accessible (200 m from the park entrance). Large pool for swimming. The busiest, but also the most convenient. Changing rooms and toilets available.
Level 2 — Wang Matcha: 300 m further. Several small cascades over wide rock slabs. Excellent for sitting in the shallow water. Many nibbling fish.
Level 3 — Pha Nam Tok: The most popular level for swimming — a large, deep pool (2–3 m) with a 5 m high waterfall. Ropes for swinging into the water (unofficial). Turquoise like from a catalog.
Level 4 — Oke Nang Phee Seua: Climbing begins here. Steep path, partly with ropes. Smaller, more intimate pool. Fewer visitors, more jungle feeling.
Level 5 — Bua Mai Long: Most difficult section — steep rocks, slippery when wet. Reward: a beautiful pool surrounded by dense tree roots.
Level 6 — Dong Pruk Sa: Wide cascade over moss-covered rocks. Less for swimming, more for marveling. Only a few visitors up here.
Level 7 — Phu Pha Erawan: The crowning glory — a 20 m high waterfall, said to resemble the three-headed elephant Erawan. Pool at the foot of the falls. Up here, you are often almost alone. The return takes 30–40 minutes.
Arrival at Erawan Waterfall
From Kanchanaburi
Bus No. 8170: From Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal. Departure 8:00, 8:50, 9:30, 10:10, 1:20 pm. Return from Erawan: 1:30, 2:30, 3:30 pm. Duration: 1.5 hours. Price: 50 THB (approx. €1.30). The bus stops directly at the park entrance.
Scooter/Car: 65 km, approx. 1 hour via Route 3199. Good road. Scooter rental in Kanchanaburi from 200 THB/day (approx. €5.30).
Tour: Almost every guesthouse in Kanchanaburi offers day tours: 800–1,200 THB (approx. €21–32) including transport, entrance, and lunch. Often combined with a stop at the bridge.
Sukhothai — Cradle of Thailand★★★
Sukhothai (»Dawn of Happiness«) is the birthplace of the Thai nation. Here, King Sri Indraditya founded the first independent Thai kingdom in 1238. His grandson Ramkhamhaeng the Great (1279–1298) invented the Thai alphabet, established Theravada Buddhism as the state religion, and created a flourishing period of art whose influence is still visible today.
The Sukhothai Historical Park (UNESCO World Heritage since 1991) houses the ruins of the ancient capital — 193 temples and monuments spread over 70 km². The site is more extensive, well-maintained, and peaceful than Ayutthaya. Where Ayutthaya exudes the grandeur of a fallen empire, Sukhothai radiates a meditative elegance — silent lakes, graceful Buddha figures, and temples reflected in lotus ponds.
The Buddha statues of Sukhothai are considered the most beautiful ever created — the so-called Sukhothai style with its flowing lines, oval face, and hinted smile defines Thai Buddhist art to this day.
Tipp
Sukhothai is most magical at sunrise or during the Loy Krathong Festival (November — full moon). During the festival, the temple ruins are illuminated, lanterns rise, and thousands of floating krathongs (flower boats) drift on the lakes. Thailand's most beautiful festival takes place right here, where it was invented 700 years ago.
The Main Temples
★★★ Wat Mahathat
The largest and most important temple in Sukhothai — the spiritual center of the kingdom. A vast complex with 198 chedis, numerous viharns, and the iconic large Buddha on a lotus throne. The reflection of the temples in the surrounding water channels at sunrise is the epitome of Sukhothai. Plan at least 30 minutes.
★★★ Wat Si Chum
The most iconic sight of Sukhothai: a 15 m high seated Buddha, whose enormous hand protrudes through a narrow slit in the wall. The mondop (building) no longer has a roof — the Buddha sits under the open sky, framed by thick stone walls. A masterpiece of staging that has been effective for 700 years. A secret passage with Jataka reliefs leads up through the walls (currently closed).
★★ Wat Sa Si
On an island in the Sri-Satchanalai Lake — the most romantic temple of Sukhothai. A classic Lanka chedi (bell-shaped) and a walking Buddha in Sukhothai style. Most beautiful in the golden afternoon light when the outlines are reflected in the water.
★★ Wat Saphan Hin
"Temple of the Stone Bridge" — on a 200 m high hill west of the central zone. A 30-minute ascent over a path made of stone slabs (hence the name) leads to a standing Buddha (12.5 m) with a panoramic view over the entire historical park. Best at sunset.
Arrival & Practical Information
Arrival
- Flight: Bangkok Airways flies daily from Suvarnabhumi to Sukhothai (1 hour, from 2,500 THB/approx. €66 one way). Small, charming airport in pagoda style.
- Bus: From Bangkok (Northern Bus Terminal Mo Chit): 6–7 hours. 1st class with air conditioning: 350 THB (approx. €9.20). From Chiang Mai: 5 hours, 250 THB (approx. €6.60).
- Car: 427 km from Bangkok via Highway 1 + Route 101. Approx. 5–6 hours.
On Site
The new city of Sukhothai is 12 km east of the historical park. Songthaew between old and new town: 30 THB (approx. €0.80). In the park itself, a bicycle is a must (30 THB/day at many rental stations at the entrance). The central zone can be done in a morning, for all three zones (central, north, west) you need a full day.
Better to stay in the new town (more options): simple guesthouses from 300 THB (approx. €8), boutique hotels from 1,500 THB (approx. €40). Or directly at the park: Legendha Sukhothai Resort (traditional Thai houses, pool, from 2,500 THB/approx. €66).
Lopburi — The Monkey City★★
Lopburi, 150 km north of Bangkok, is famous for its hundreds of macaque monkeys that rule the old town. They climb on temples, raid market stalls, steal tourists' sunglasses, and boldly pose for photos. Every November, the city celebrates the Lopburi Monkey Banquet Festival — a huge feast on tables in front of Prang Sam Yot, just for the monkeys.
But Lopburi is much more than a monkey spectacle. The city has a 3,000-year-old history — first the Dvaravati capital, then an outpost of the Khmer Empire (hence the Angkor-style prang towers), then an important secondary capital under King Narai the Great (1656–1688), who received French diplomats here and had a magnificent palace built.
Lopburi is an authentic Thai provincial town without mass tourism — perfect as a stopover on the way from Bangkok to the north.
Tipp
Do not wear sunglasses on your head, dangling earrings, or open bags in the old town — the monkeys are lightning-fast and surprisingly skilled. Never carry food openly! For photos: The monkeys in front of Prang Sam Yot are used to tourists and relatively tame. They are calmer in the morning than in the afternoon.
Sights
★★ Prang Sam Yot
Three majestic Khmer prangs from the 13th century — and the headquarters of the macaques. Originally a Hindu temple (Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma), then converted to Buddhism. The monkeys inhabit every corner of the site. A surreal image: ancient Khmer architecture full of lively, chaotic monkeys.
50 THB (approx. €1.30). Daily 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
★★ Phra Narai Ratchaniwet (King Narai's Palace)
The extensive palace complex (1665) of King Narai the Great is a fascinating blend of Thai, Khmer, and European architectural styles. French architect de Lamare designed parts on Narai's behalf — hoping to convert the king to Catholicism (which did not succeed). The Narai National Museum in the palace displays Khmer sculptures and artifacts on French-Siamese diplomacy.
150 THB (approx. €4). Wed–Sun 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Closed on Monday and Tuesday.
★ San Phra Kan (Kala Shrine)
Small shrine right next to the train station — particularly many monkeys gather here. Locals come here to pray, unimpressed by the macaques on their heads. Free of charge.
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat
Directly opposite the train station: impressive Khmer prang and a large standing Buddha. Less visited than Prang Sam Yot, quieter and more photogenic. 50 THB.
Arrival & Tips
From Bangkok
- Train (recommended): From Bang Sue Grand Station. 2–3 hours. 2nd class: 108 THB (approx. €2.80). Trains every 1–2 hours. The station is located in the middle of the old town.
- Bus: From Mo Chit: 2.5 hours, 150 THB (approx. €4).
Lopburi can be perfectly planned as a day trip from Bangkok or as a stopover on the way to Phitsanulok/Sukhothai. 3–4 hours are enough for the main attractions. Everything is within walking distance around the train station.
Khao Yai National Park★★★
Thailand's oldest and most visited national park (established in 1962) is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and one of the last large intact rainforest areas on the Southeast Asian mainland. Over 2,168 km², dense monsoon forests, grasslands, and evergreen mountain forests stretch with breathtaking biodiversity.
Here live wild elephants (approx. 300–400 individuals), Asian black bears, gibbons, macaques, wild boars, deer, over 70 reptile species, and more than 300 bird species — including four hornbill species that fly over the treetops in the morning. At night, civet cats and binturongs hunt.
The park is only 2.5 hours northeast of Bangkok, making it the closest first-class nature experience. There are 50+ km of marked hiking trails, waterfalls, viewpoints, and guided spotlighting tours for nocturnal animals at night.
Tipp
Be sure to book a night safari with a licensed guide — from 1,000 THB (approx. €26) per person. Roam the jungle in the dark with red-light flashlights and discover civet cats, porcupines, sleeping hornbills, and, with luck, elephants. An unforgettable experience you can't do alone.
Highlights & Hikes
★★★ Haew Suwat Waterfall
The most famous waterfall in the park — a 20 m high plunge into a jungle-framed pool. Known from the film "The Beach" (2000) with Leonardo DiCaprio. Swimming allowed. 15-minute walk from the parking lot.
★★★ Wildlife Watching at Nong Phak Chi Platform
Elevated observation point at a salt lick in the heart of the park. At dawn (5–7 am) and dusk (4–6 pm), wild elephants, sambar deer, and gaur (Asian wild cattle) come to drink. Patience and silence are needed — plan at least 1 hour. More likely with a guide.
★★ Kong Kaeo–Haew Suwat Trail
The most popular day hike: 8 km through dense rainforest to the Haew Suwat cascade. Duration: 3–4 hours. Moderately challenging. Iguanas, gibbons (you'll hear them call), and hornbills are common. Guide recommended (mandatory on some trails).
★★ Pha Diao Dai Viewpoint
Spectacular cliff with a panoramic view over the endless rainforest. Magical at sunrise. 1.3 km easy hike from the parking lot.
★ Bat Exodus at Khao Luk Chang Cave
Every evening around 5:30 pm, millions of bats stream out of the cave — a black stream in the sky that lasts 20–30 minutes. One of Thailand's most impressive natural spectacles. 3 km south of the park entrance.
Arrival & Accommodation
Arrival
- Car (recommended): 200 km from Bangkok via Highway 1 + Route 2090 to Pak Chong, then 30 km uphill to the park. Approx. 2.5–3 hours.
- Bus + Songthaew: Bus from Bangkok (Mo Chit) to Pak Chong: 3 hours, 180 THB (approx. €4.70). From Pak Chong Songthaew to the park entrance: 40 THB. Last return trip around 4 pm — be sure to check in advance!
- Organized Tour: From Bangkok as a 2-day package: from 3,500 THB (approx. €92) per person including transport, guide, accommodation, night safari.
Accommodation
In the Park: Simple accommodations (bungalows from 1,000 THB/approx. €26, campsite 30 THB + tent rental 225 THB). Book online via portal.dnp.go.th — fully booked weeks in advance during high season (Nov–Feb)!
Outside (Thanarat Road): The access road has dozens of hotels and resorts:
Lala Mukha Tented Resort — glamorous safari tents in the jungle, from 3,500 THB (approx. €92).
Hotel des Artists — eccentric art hotel with pool, from 2,200 THB (approx. €58).
Pak Chong Budget: In the town of Pak Chong, there are simple accommodations from 400 THB (approx. €10.50).
Achtung
The roads in the park are frequented by wild elephants — especially at night. Drive slowly and with high beams. If an elephant is on the road: turn off the engine, turn off the lights, wait. Never honk, never approach. The elephants have the right of way.
Hua Hin — Royal Seaside Resort★★
Thailand's oldest seaside resort (since the 1920s) is located 200 km southwest of Bangkok on the Gulf of Thailand — and is the preferred retreat of the Thai royal family. King Rama VII had the Klai Kangwon Palace (»Far from Worries«) built here in 1926, and since then, Hua Hin has retained a touch of royal elegance.
Hua Hin is not a backpacker destination and not a party place — it is a relaxed, somewhat upscale seaside resort with long beaches, excellent seafood restaurants, golf courses (eight in the area), and a charming night market. The target audience is Thai families, expat retirees, and travelers looking for a beach without a full moon party.
The wide, 5 km long sandy beach is pleasant but not a postcard paradise — the water is more murky than turquoise. Hua Hin's strengths are the atmosphere, the food, and the excursion possibilities: national parks, vineyards, a floating market, and spectacular cave temples.
Sights & Excursions
★★★ Phraya Nakhon Cave (Sam Roi Yot National Park)
45 min south of Hua Hin: one of the most spectacular caves in Thailand. A collapsed cave roof lets a beam of light fall on the royal pavilion Kuha Karuhas (built in 1890 for King Rama V). With the right lighting (morning 10–10:30 a.m.), the scene looks unreal — a golden-lit pavilion in a huge cave. The ascent takes 30 min over steep steps.
Sam Roi Yot: 200 THB entrance. Boat to Laem Sala Beach: 400 THB/boat (up to 8 people). Then 30 min uphill.
★★ Hua Hin Night Market
Every evening from 5 p.m., Dechanuchit Road transforms into a lively street food market. Grilled seafood (shrimp from 100 THB/approx. €2.60, whole fish from 150 THB/approx. €4), Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, fresh fruit juices. At the end of the street: souvenir stalls with silk goods and coconut oil products.
★★ Hua Hin Railway Station
The most beautiful train station in Thailand — a wooden Victorian building in red and cream yellow with the former royal waiting pavilion. Perfect photo opportunity, still in operation. Free access.
★ Khao Takiab (Chopstick Hill)
5 km south: a hill with a temple, dozens of monkeys, and a panoramic view over the entire bay of Hua Hin. Large standing Buddha statue on the summit. The beach at the foot is quieter than the main beach.
Hua Hin Hills Vineyard
Yes, there is wine in Thailand — and it's surprisingly good. The Monsoon Valley Vineyard offers wine tastings (from 250 THB/approx. €6.60), a bistro, and elephant tours through the vines. 45 km west of Hua Hin.
Eating & Accommodation
€ Budget (under 200 THB / €5.30)
Jek Pia Coffeeshop · Dechanuchit Rd
Since 1958 — Hua Hin's most legendary breakfast spot. Hainanese Chicken Rice, pork noodle soup, Thai coffee. All under 80 THB (approx. €2). Only mornings until noon.
Chatchai Market · Phetkasem Rd
Covered market with dozens of food stalls. The best value for money in town: complete meals from 40–60 THB (approx. €1–1.60).
€€ Mid-range (200–600 THB / €5.30–16)
Koti Restaurant · Naresuan Rd
Legendary for seafood — since 1957. Grilled tiger prawns, squid with garlic, fish in lime sauce. Portions for 2: 400–800 THB (approx. €10.50–21). Reservation recommended in the evening.
Lung Ja Seafood · At the fishing harbor
Fresh from the boat to the plate. Large selection of fish and seafood by weight — you choose, they cook. 300–500 THB (approx. €8–13) for a sumptuous meal for two.
Accommodation
€ Budget: Guesthouses from 400 THB (approx. €10.50) in the old town. Baan Manthana — charming small hotel, double rooms from 800 THB (approx. €21).
€€ Mid-range: Amari Hua Hin — beach hotel with pool, double rooms from 2,500 THB (approx. €66). Putahracsa Hua Hin — stylish boutique hotel, double rooms from 3,000 THB (approx. €79).
€€€ Luxury: Centara Grand Beach Resort — the historic Railway Hotel (1923), colonial style, tropical garden, right on the beach. Double rooms from 5,000 THB (approx. €132). InterContinental Hua Hin — modern luxury, infinity pool, from 6,000 THB (approx. €158).
Arrival & Practical Information
From Bangkok
- Bus (recommended): From Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai). Every 30 min. 1st class with air conditioning: 200 THB (approx. €5.30). Duration: 3–3.5 hours.
- Minivan: From Victory Monument or Khao San Road. 250 THB (approx. €6.60), 3 hours.
- Train: From Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue. 4 hours. 2nd class: 232 THB (approx. €6). Slow, but the pretty station in Hua Hin compensates.
- Car: 200 km via Highway 35 + Route 4. Approx. 2.5–3 hours.
On Site
Songthaew (green shared taxis) run up and down Phetkasem Road: 10–20 THB. Scooter (200–300 THB/day) for trips to the surroundings. Tuk-Tuk in the city: 50–100 THB per ride. For Sam Roi Yot National Park, you need a scooter or rental car.
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