Chachoengsao, often called “Paet Riu” by Thais, lies on the Bang Pakong River about an hour east of Bangkok. It is a pilgrimage town first of all: Wat Sothon Wararam houses Luang Pho Sothon, one of the most revered Buddha images in the country, and the province is famous for giant Ganesha statues that draw worshippers from across Asia. Add a 100-year-old riverside market, mango orchards and river cruises, and it is an easy, rewarding day trip.
- Best for: temple pilgrimages, Ganesha shrines, old markets, river trips, mangoes
- From Bangkok: roughly 80 km, about 1–1.5 hours by car or by train on the eastern line
- Getting around: songthaew and taxis in town; a car for Bang Khla and the outer temples
- Best time: November–February; March–May for mango season
Getting there and around
Trains on the eastern line from Bangkok stop at Chachoengsao station near the town centre, and vans run from Bangkok. Wat Sothon and the old market are in town; the Ganesha temples and Bang Khla are a short drive away.
Top things to do in Chachoengsao
Wat Sothon Wararam Map
A huge, gleaming white ordination hall on the riverbank houses Luang Pho Sothon, a seated Buddha image believed to grant wishes. Crowds come every day to make offerings; go early on weekdays for a calmer visit.
Wat Saman Rattanaram Map
Famous for a giant reclining pink Ganesha beside the river, surrounded by smaller deities and a lively atmosphere of worship.
Ganesha Park, Khlong Khuean Map
A large standing Ganesha statue in a park in Khlong Khuean district, one of the tallest of its kind.
Ban Mai 100-Year Market Map
A wooden market along the Bang Pakong River with Chinese shophouses, coffee, snacks and old-style shops, busiest at weekends.
Wat Pho Bang Khla Map
A riverside temple in Bang Khla with a shrine to King Taksin, close to the site of his victory at Pak Nam Jo Lo; the temple grounds are also known for the large fruit bats that roost in the trees.
Bang Pakong river cruise Map
Boat trips from town run along the river past temples and riverside villages, sometimes towards areas where Irrawaddy dolphins have been seen near the river mouth.
Chachoengsao City Pillar Shrine and old fort walls Map
The town’s spiritual centre beside remains of the old fortified walls.
Khao Hin Son Map
A royal development study centre in Phanom Sarakham showing farming projects, with a temple and rock garden nearby.
Suggested 1-day itinerary
Morning at Wat Sothon, late breakfast at Ban Mai market, then drive to Wat Saman Rattanaram and the Ganesha park. In the afternoon, head to Wat Pho Bang Khla or take a river cruise.
Festivals and events
Wat Sothon holds a major annual fair honouring Luang Pho Sothon, with processions on land and water; check the temple’s announcements for dates. Songkran in April brings merit-making and water play in town. Mango season (around March–May) brings fruit fairs. Dates change; check with TAT and read our Songkran etiquette and survival guide.
On King Taksin’s trail
King Taksin’s campaigns passed through this province: the breakout march, including the victory at Pak Nam Jo Lo. The full story with maps is on our King Taksin trail site (in Thai).
Travel tips
- Dress modestly at Wat Sothon; remove shoes inside the hall.
- Ganesha temples get crowded on auspicious days and weekends.
- Combine with Chonburi or Prachin Buri for a longer eastern trip.
FAQ
Why is Wat Sothon so famous?
It houses Luang Pho Sothon, one of Thailand’s most revered Buddha images.
Where is the pink Ganesha?
At Wat Saman Rattanaram, by the river outside town.
Can I visit by train?
Yes, eastern-line trains stop at Chachoengsao station.
What should I eat?
Mangoes in season and snacks at Ban Mai market. See our Chachoengsao food guide.
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Cover photo: Wat Sothon Wararam Woraviharn in Chachoengsao.jpg · Preecha.MJ · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
