Chai Nat is a small river province where the Chao Phraya is first tamed. The Chao Phraya Dam, finished in 1957, feeds irrigation canals across the central plains. Around it are riverside temples, a large bird park and orchards growing Khao Tang Kwa pomelo, one of Thailand’s best-known pomelo varieties.
Getting there: Chai Nat is about 190 km north of Bangkok, around 2.5 hours by car on Highway 32. Buses run from Mo Chit. It is an easy stop on the way to Nakhon Sawan or Uthai Thani.
Top things to do in Chai Nat
1. Chao Phraya Dam
A long barrage across the river at Sapphaya district. Drive across, watch the water at the sluice gates and stop at the riverside park. Map
2. Chai Nat Bird Park
A large park with a walk-in bird cage, lakes and an aquarium, popular with families. Map
3. Wat Phra Borommathat Worawihan
An old royal temple by the river with an ancient chedi, one of the province’s most important sites. Map
4. Wat Thammamun Worawihan
A temple at the foot of a hill by the river, home to the revered Luang Pho Thammachak image. Climb up for river views. Map
5. Wat Pak Khlong Makham Thao
The temple of the famous monk Luang Pu Suk, much visited by Thai pilgrims. Map
6. Sapphaya riverside
A quiet riverside town near the dam with old wooden houses and a local market. Map
7. Pomelo orchards
Khao Tang Kwa pomelo orchards are spread along the river; in season, fruit is sold at roadside stalls. Map
Suggested itinerary
One day: Wat Thammamun → Chai Nat Bird Park → lunch in town → Wat Phra Borommathat → Chao Phraya Dam for late afternoon.
Day 2 (optional): Wat Pak Khlong Makham Thao → pomelo stalls → continue to Uthai Thani or Nakhon Sawan.
Festivals and annual events
- Pomelo and Chai Nat products fair – held at the Chai Nat Bird Park, usually early in the year, known for its giant straw-bird sculptures and local produce. Dates vary, so check before you go.
- Pomelo season – the main harvest of Khao Tang Kwa pomelo is around August–September.
- Songkran – mid-April. See also Suphan Buri and Uthai Thani.
Dates change each year, so check with the province or TAT before you travel.
On King Naresuan’s trail
During this campaign the Chiang Mai army came south by land and river as far as Chai Nat: The Phraya Phasim Campaign and the Chiang Mai Army (1584). Read the full story with maps on our King Naresuan trail site.
Travel tips
- Chai Nat is easy as a day trip from Bangkok if you start early.
- Dress modestly at temples.
- Bring cash for roadside fruit stalls.
FAQ
What is Chai Nat known for?
The Chao Phraya Dam, the bird park and Khao Tang Kwa pomelo.
When was the Chao Phraya Dam built?
It was completed in 1957.
Is Chai Nat a good day trip from Bangkok?
Yes, about 2.5 hours each way by car.
When is pomelo season?
The main harvest is around August–September.
More to read
- What to eat in Chai Nat
- Things to do in Uthai Thani
- Things to do in Nakhon Sawan
- Things to do in Suphan Buri
Cover photo: Chainat Chao Phraya Dam 1.jpg · Mr.Peerapong Prasutr · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
