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 Chanthaburi
was occupied by the French during the early part of the 20th century.
Their influence can be seen in the architecture of many buildings
including the largest Catholic cathedral in Thailand, catering to
a sizeable Christian population. As well as a signature noodle dish,
the province is a major centre of ruby and sapphire mining, with
dealers turning Si Chan Road into a great weekend market for gemstones.
For a bit of fun, Oasis Sea World, a breeding and conservation centre
for river dolphins, puts on daily shows. Or for a different type
of show, try the Chamsom Crocodile Farm and Zoo, just off the Sukhumvit
Road. The Underwater Archaeological Museum at Khai Noen Wong displays
relics and treasures recovered from old sunken ships, including
a lot of pottery.
There are spectacular waterfalls at Khao Khitchakut National Park,
whose Krathing Falls courses down 13 levels, and at Phliu-Kha Sabap
National Park, with a royal connection when King Chulalongkorn visited
the Phliu Falls and built a memorial there. About 70 kilometres
from Chanthaburi is Khao Soi Dao Waterfall. The trail to the 15level
waterfall is amid unspoiled forests with a large variety of butterfly
and bird. As it is a waterfall within a wildlife sanctuary, visitors
are permitted only daytime only.
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