Panorama of Chanthaburi – The City of the Moon and Sapphires
One-day tour Chanthaburi · Eastern Thailand

The City of Moon and Sapphires

A one-day journey through Chanthaburi – a city known for sapphires, an impressive cathedral, historic quarters, and lush green landscapes. A balanced tour combining nature, history, and local culture.

Private / Small group English-speaking guide (other languages available on request)

Chanthaburi – capital of sapphires and the Moon

Chanthaburi is a lesser-known destination on classic tourist routes, yet deeply loved by locals for its old streets, colonial houses, relaxed atmosphere, gemstone markets, and lush green landscapes with rivers and waterfalls. This tour brings together the city’s most representative highlights in a single day, without the crowds of major tourist spots.

Duration 1 day (approx. 10–12h departing from Bangkok)
Destination Chanthaburi · Eastern Thailand
Tour type Private / Small group
Availability Depending on the season and weather conditions

Day itinerary

The schedule is approximate and may vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the group’s pace. The itinerary can be easily adjusted on-site together with your guide.

08:00 – Departure from Pattaya / Jomtien

Departure from Pattaya / Jomtien

Pick-up from your hotel and transfer towards Chanthaburi province.

10:30 – Visit to Pliew Waterfall National Park

Pliew Waterfall

A three-level waterfall with clear water, where you can swim alongside large fish (Maw E-Pha).

13:00 – Traditional Thai lunch

Traditional Thai lunch

Lunch at an authentic local restaurant (meal included in the tour price).

14:30 – Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Visit to the Immaculate Conception Cathedral (Cathédrale de l'Immaculée Conception) – the largest and most beautiful Catholic church in Thailand, a rare example of European-style architecture.

15:30 – Sapphire and Gemstone Market

Sapphire and Gemstone Market

Visit to the center of the ruby and sapphire trade, for a better understanding of the local gemstone industry.

17:00 – Stop at Sapphire Lake (Blue Lagoon)

Sapphire Lake (Blue Lagoon)

A spectacular natural location with turquoise-coloured water, perfect for photos.

18:00 – Drive back to Pattaya

Return to Pattaya / Jomtien

Drive back to your hotel. Estimated arrival time around 20:30–21:00.

Why choose this tour

  • • Discover an authentic area, far from the ultra-touristic routes.
  • • Combine nature, history, architecture and local life in a single day.
  • • Visit the emblematic Catholic cathedral and the old riverside quarters.
  • • Understand the role of sapphires and gemstones in the development of the town.
  • • Relaxed pace, adapted to the group, without rushing from one sight to another.

Extra options

  • • The tour can be adjusted to include more time in nature (waterfalls, short walks).
  • • Possibility to stop at local plantations or villages in the surroundings, depending on the season.
  • • Customised tour for photographers, with a focus on sunrise / sunset shots.

Important notes

  • • The tour involves a relatively long distance to cover round-trip from Bangkok.
  • • The program may be adapted according to weather conditions and water levels in natural areas.
  • • We recommend light clothing, comfortable shoes and sun / rain protection depending on the season.

Photo gallery

Waterfall in the Chanthaburi area
Green landscapes and waterfalls near Chanthaburi – a refreshing break in the middle of nature.
Cathedral in Chanthaburi
The Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Chanthaburi – one of the best-known Catholic churches in Thailand.
Lake in Chanthaburi
A calm end of the day by the water – the perfect moment for photos and a short walk.

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