Ratchaburi, about 100 km west of Bangkok, is best known for Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, but there is much more: limestone hills full of caves, giant glazed “dragon jars” made in local kilns, a temple that keeps the art of large shadow puppets alive, and the cool, hilly countryside of Suan Phueng near the Myanmar border. It makes an easy road trip from Bangkok or a stop on the way to Kanchanaburi or Hua Hin.
- Best for: floating markets, caves, ceramics, shadow puppets, cool hill resorts in Suan Phueng
- From Bangkok: roughly 100 km, about 1.5–2 hours by car or van; trains on the southern line stop in Ratchaburi town
- Getting around: a car is easiest; songthaew link the town with Damnoen Saduak
- Best time: November–February for cooler weather; go early in the morning for the floating market
Getting there and around
Vans and buses run from Bangkok’s southern bus terminal to Ratchaburi town and to Damnoen Saduak, and trains on the southern line stop at Ratchaburi station. The sights are spread across the province, from the floating market in the east to Suan Phueng in the west, so a car gives the most flexibility.
Top things to do in Ratchaburi
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Map
Thailand’s most famous floating market: canals crowded with wooden boats selling fruit, noodles and snacks. It is busiest and most atmospheric early in the morning, before the tour groups arrive. Agree on boat prices before you set off.
Ratchaburi National Museum Map
In a handsome former provincial hall, the museum covers the province’s long history, from prehistoric finds to Dvaravati and Khmer art and local ceramics.
Wat Khanon and nang yai Map
This temple in Photharam preserves nang yai, large leather shadow puppets used to tell the Ramakien. A museum displays the panels, and performances are held at set times; check the schedule before you go.
Khao Ngu Stone Park Map
Limestone cliffs rising above a lake on the edge of town, with walking paths and viewpoints. Nearby caves on the same range contain old Buddha images carved in the Dvaravati period.
Tham Khao Bin Map
A cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites; guided walks lead through the chambers.
Dragon jar workshops Map
Ratchaburi is famous for glazed earthenware jars decorated with dragons. Several kilns and shops in town welcome visitors to watch the making process and buy ceramics.
Suan Phueng Map
A hilly district near the Myanmar border with cool air, farm stays, resorts, Karen communities and viewpoints; popular for weekend breaks.
Mae Klong riverside Map
The town sits on the Mae Klong River, with an evening market and riverside walks.
Suggested 1–2 day itinerary
Day 1: start at Damnoen Saduak at dawn, then visit a dragon jar workshop and the National Museum in town, ending at Khao Ngu Stone Park for sunset. Day 2: see nang yai at Wat Khanon, then head west to the hills of Suan Phueng.
Festivals and events
Songkran in April is celebrated with merit-making and water play in Ratchaburi town and around the floating market areas. Temple fairs and cultural events, including shadow-puppet performances, take place through the year. Dates change; check with TAT, and read our Songkran etiquette and survival guide before joining the water fights.
On King Taksin’s trail
King Taksin’s campaigns passed through this province: the siege of the Burmese camp at Bang Kaeo, Ratchaburi. The full story with maps is on our King Taksin trail site (in Thai).
Travel tips
- Arrive at Damnoen Saduak before 8am for the best atmosphere.
- Bring a light jacket for evenings in Suan Phueng in the cool season.
- Wrap fragile ceramics well if you buy them.
FAQ
Is Damnoen Saduak worth visiting?
Yes, if you go early. Later in the day it becomes crowded and more touristy.
Can I see a nang yai performance?
Wat Khanon holds performances on certain days; check the current schedule.
What is Ratchaburi known for?
The floating market, dragon jars, caves and the cool hills of Suan Phueng.
What should I eat?
Boat noodles and fruit at the floating market. See our Ratchaburi food guide.
More from songkran.com
- Where and what to eat in Ratchaburi
- Ratchaburi, Chic and Chilled: An Underrated Escape Near Bangkok
- Things to do in Samut Songkhram
- Kanchanaburi travel guide
Cover photo: Khao Ngoo Rock Park.jpg · Manoonp · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
