Suphanburi Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Suphanburi with our detailed travel guide, featuring must-visit attractions, recommended activities, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Suphanburi

Located in the Chao Phraya Basin in central Thailand, Suphanburi is a quiet province that boasts a rich history and culture. Its name means “city of gold” and has lived up to its title because of its historical sites and beautiful scenery.

Suphanburi town is divided into two parts by the Tha Chin River, which runs through the city center. On the eastern side of the city, you will find modern architecture and bustling streets. The western side of the city is more traditional and home to many historical landmarks. The town is small enough to explore by foot or bicycle, but there are also many modes of transportation available.

List of Places to Visit in Suphanburi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Suphanburi is renowned for its cultural heritage, and there is no shortage of museums and historical sites to visit here. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • Chao Sam Phraya National Museum: This museum showcases the history of Suphanburi and the Chao Phraya Basin. It houses a vast collection of artifacts that date back to the Dvaravati period, Sukhothai and Ayutthaya era, and the Rattanakosin times.

  • Wat Pa Lelai Worawihan: This temple is considered one of the most important Buddhist sites in Suphanburi. It is famous for its magnificent choir with Buddhist stories and vibrant murals.

  • Wat Khae: This temple is known for the shrine of Buddha’s footprints, especially during Buddha’s birthday, Chakri day, and Songkran.

  • Pratu Chai: A significant historical gate from Ayutthaya era, made up of bricks and located along Tha Chin River.

Natural Attractions of Suphanburi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Here are some natural attractions in Suphanburi that should be on your list:

  • Sam Chuk market: Enjoy the scenic views and explore this beautiful vintage marketplace. You can also indulge yourself in various traditional Thai foods on sale.

  • Bueng Chawak Chaloem Phrakiat: A bird sanctuary and wildlife preserve located in the north of Suphanburi. It is home to various species of birds and has a vast lake that is ideal for a scenic picnic and bike ride.

  • Don Chedi Memorial: A remarkable tower located on Don Chedi hill serves as a memorial to King Naresuan, who defeated the Burmese army on elephants back in 1592 CE.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Suphanburi

Suphanburi is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with a wide range of trails to explore. Here are some recommendations:

  • Bueng Chawak Chaloem Phrakiat, Muang District: A route of 21 km around the lake with a beautiful view of the environment allowing you to reach the bird sanctuary.

  • Wat Pa Lelai Chaloem Phrakiat Bike and Run: A route of 7 km around Wat Pa Lelai consisting of natural scenes that are suitable for biking, walking, jogging or running, and offering exceptional natural scenery.

  • Narai Narai Heritage Walking Trail: A beautiful 1.5 km walking trail, taking you back to the Ayutthaya period, and telling the story of a prosperous merchant from the past.

Best Things to Do in Suphanburi: Activities and Tours

Here are some of our recommended activities to do in Suphanburi:

  • Visit Sam Chuk Market for traditional Thai food and vintage shopping experience.

  • Take a leisurely bike ride along the Bueng Chawak Lake, enjoying the birdlife and scenery.

  • Visit Don Chedi Memorial to learn about and pay your respects to King Naresuan.

Week-Long Itinerary for Suphanburi

Here is a suggested itinerary for your week in Suphanburi:

Day 1: Historical Day

Head to Chao Sam Phraya National Museum in the morning and explore the cultural heritage of Suphanburi. Then, visit the iconic Wat Pa Lelai Worawihan before finishing with a stroll along the Tha Chin riverside.

Day 2: Nature Day

Spend the morning exploring the beautiful bird sanctuary and stunning scenery around Bueng Chawak Chaloem Phrakiat. After lunch, take a bike ride or a boat ride on the lake to relax after a long day.

Day 3: Local Day

Rise early and savor the delicious Thai street food at the vibrant Sam Chuk Market. Take a selfie by the picturesque vintage shops and explore the local handicrafts and Thai desserts on display.

Day 4: Respected King Day

Explore the Don Chedi Memorial, a vital structure that honors King Naresuan’s historical victory against the Burmese on elephants’ back.

Day 5: Farm Day

Spend the day on an interactive farm, learning about tropical agriculture in Suphanburi. We highly recommend experiencing a unique Thai buffalo cart ride.

Day 6: Relax and Explore

Start your day with a leisurely bike ride around Chai Nat. Afterwards, take time to research what other destinations are nearby and create either a day trip or overnight trip option.

Day 7: Relax

Spend your last day in Suphanburi lying back by the poolside at your hotel or exploring a little more of historical Suphanburi. Take an evening stroll along winding waterways to relax and unwind before packing up to head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Suphanburi

Must-Try Dishes

When visiting Suphanburi, consider these must-try local dishes:

  • Tom Luen Ruen is a local favorite of grilled chicken served on a bed of vermicelli noodles, accompanied by a variety of herbs, garlic, and chilies.

  • Khao Mun Gai Tha Phra Road is a dish of boiled chicken served with a bowl of fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and a side of ginger sauce.

  • Bami Thanon Nai Wat is a hot and spicy noodle dish with meat and vegetables made from a traditional recipe from the local Muslim traders.

Local Beverages

Trying a cup of Chailaman coffee is a must in Suphanburi. It’s made from a blend of locally produced coffee beans and served black, chilled, or latte form.

Where to Stay in Suphanburi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Suphanburi has a diverse range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • The Puthamonthon Sai 4 Resort: A peaceful and quiet resort with excellent facilities, featuring modern amenities, lush gardens, and outdoor swimming pools.

  • Chuan Chom The High Resort Suphan: A delightful hotel set in a tranquil environment, featuring a large pool, comfortable rooms, and beautiful surroundings.

  • Vatanya Hotel Suphanburi: A charming guesthouse with a locally inspired design and warm atmosphere. Each room has a Thai-inspired feel and has connections to the community through its local designers and artists.

What to Buy in Suphanburi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Suphanburi is known for producing a wide range of quality goods to suit any price range. Some examples of great souvenirs to bring home with you are:

  • Handmade Thai Silk: You will find many shops selling handmade Thai silk scarves, dresses, and shirts.

  • Local Spices and Sauces: Suphanburi is famous for its spicy sauces and condiments that are not typically found outside of Thailand.

  • Handmade Handicrafts: You can find handmade handicrafts and traditional Thai silk handbags and accessories in various markets and shops in the city.

Local Culture and Customs of Suphanburi

Suphanburi residents are quite formal, with manners and etiquette carrying significant importance. We advise visitors to learn a few basic phrases in Thai as it will help them navigate the city and communicate with the locals.

Suphanburi is a Buddhist province and is home to many beautiful temples. It is advisable to dress modestly when visiting these sites. Visitors should also remove their footwear before entering any religious buildings.

Best Time to Visit Suphanburi

The best time to visit Suphanburi is from November to February when the weather is less humid and cooler. Alternatively, March to May marks the hottest season in Suphanburi, with temperatures soaring up to 35°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Suphanburi

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Be sure to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Thai to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Do not disrespect the Royal Family, as it is illegal under Thai law.

  • Do not use your feet to point to someone.

  • Do not touch a Thai person’s head as it’s considered rude in their culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Suphanburi

Suphanburi is a generally safe city, and violent crimes are rare. However, it is always advisable to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night or not carrying too much cash.

Health in Suphanburi

Suphanburi has a good standard of healthcare facilities with a number of public and private international hospitals available. Visitors should be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of fluids, as temperatures can be high.

Getting to Suphanburi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Suphanburi

The nearest airport to Suphanburi is Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok, which is located approximately 103 km from the city. From there, visitors can either hire a taxi or travel via public transport.

Bus Stations Near Suphanburi

Buses from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal to Suphanburi operate frequently daily. The journey takes approximately two hours.

Other Options

Hiring a private taxi, renting a car or hiring a motorcycle are convenient options for tourists who want to explore different places in Suphanburi.

How to Get Around in Suphanburi

Suphanburi is a small town, and you can quickly get around on foot, by bicycle, or on a motorbike. Visitors can also hire a cab or tuk-tuk for comfortable and affordable city travel.

Where to Go Next from Suphanburi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Suphanburi lies in the center of Thailand, offering easy access to many of the country’s must-visit destinations. Some nearby destinations include:

  • Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ancient city that served as the second capital of Thailand, located to the south of Suphanburi.

  • Kanchanaburi: A beautiful and charming province located to the west of Suphanburi, renowned for its scenic countryside, historical landmarks, and the infamous Death Railway.

Conclusion

Suphanburi is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a provincial town known for its rich history, beautiful scenery, and friendly people. With so much to see and do, it is the perfect place for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and taking a break from bustling city life. We hope this travel guide has helped you in planning your trip to Suphanburi and that your journey is both enjoyable and satisfying.

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