The province of Ratchaburi dates back to the Dvaravati period. Legend says it was once part of the mythical Suwannaphum, the "Land of Gold".

Ratchaburi sits on the banks of the Mae Kong River, and has a canal network that inter-connects it with other central provinces. Ratchaburi covers an area of over 5000 sq km and is located 100 km from Bangkok, along the Petchkasem Highway.

Places of Attraction

Khao Wang

This small hill is located about 2 km south west of town. A palace was built on the hilltop for King Rama V, although it was only used by the king once, in 1877. Later on, King Rama VII converted the palace to Wat Khao Wang.

Khao Chong Phran

This hill cave houses more than a hundred varying Buddha images. The most revered is a 9m long Reclining Buddha.

Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat

This ancient monastery is located in the north western part of town, close to the Mae Kong River. The temple is known for its prang, which shows the same characteristics of Phra That at Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Floating Market

This lively market is located on Klong Damnoen Saduak, in Amphoe Damnoen Saduak. It is best to to visit the market is before 09:00 hours when the canal gets full of tourists.