South-east Thailand / Chanthaburi

South-east Thailand

The south-eastern part of the country is dominated by a valley winding from west to east and a mountain range parallel to the coast, the two gradually merging into one another. The landscape is characterized by evergreen tropical forest and by mountainous granite country up to 1600 m (5250 ft) above sea level. Also typical of this region are the sharply articulated coastline with its deeply-indented bays and the many islands of varying size. The numerous fishing villages along the coast bear witness to the good fishing to be had here.

It is here that the visitor to Thailand will realize his dream of tropical beaches. As a result this south-eastern region has better roads and caters more for the tourist than any other part of Thailand; seaside resorts - including well-known Pattaya - are strung out along the coast like a string of pearls.

This is also an important mining area. The region around the town of Chanthaburi, 245 km (152 mi.) from Bangkok, is a center for precious stones, especially rubies and sapphires which are either mined or panned from the sand of the rivers.