Chumphon Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally charming town of Chumphon, Thailand. Find out about the must-visit places, local cuisine, accommodation options, local customs, safety tips, and much more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Chumphon

Chumphon is a picturesque coastal town located in the Central Gulf Coast region of Southern Thailand. It is an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore the beauty of Thailand minus the crowds of tourists, and also dive into the local culture and customs. With a blend of museums and historical landmarks, natural attractions, and delicious local cuisine, Chumphon has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Chumphon

Here is a comprehensive list of places to visit in Chumphon:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wat Pradoen Temple
  • Chumphon National Museum
  • Krom Luang Chumphon Shrine
  • Prince Chumphon Monument

Natural Attractions of Chumphon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Thung Wua Laen Beach
  • Hat Thung Makham Beach
  • Mu Ko Chumphon National Park
  • Khao Dinsor Viewpoint
  • Sai Ri Beach
  • Koh Ngam Noi Island

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chumphon

  • Khao Chao Mueang Chumphon

Best Things to Do in Chumphon: Activities and Tours

  • Snorkeling and diving
  • Island-hopping
  • Fishing
  • Surfing
  • Taekwondo

Week-Long Itinerary for Chumphon

Day Activity
1 Visit Krom Luang Chumphon Shrine and Prince Chumphon Monument
2 Explore Chumphon National Museum
3 Go for an early morning hike to Khao Dinsor Viewpoint
4 Snorkel and dive at Koh Ngam Noi Island
5 Spend the day at Thung Wua Laen Beach
6 Take a boat tour of Mu Ko Chumphon National Park
7 Indulge in local cuisine and souvenir shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Chumphon

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khao Soi Chumphon
  • Som Tam Kao Niew
  • Kanom Jeen Nam Ya Pla Chumphon
  • Hoy Tord Chumphon

Local Beverages

  • Kra Dtong Liang
  • Cha Yen
  • Chumphon Coffee

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

  • Novotel Chumphon Beach Resort and Golf
  • Retro Box Hotel
  • Saphli Villa Beach Resort

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

  • Handwoven fabrics
  • Chumphon Fruit Snacks
  • Salt products from the Phak Hai Salt Farm
  • Fertilizer-free rice

Local Culture and Customs of Chumphon

  • Visitors must dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Shoes must be removed before entering someone’s home or a temple.
  • It is customary to bring small gifts when invited to someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Chumphon

The best time to visit Chumphon is from December to February when the weather is relatively cool and dry. However, visitors can explore the town all year round as the weather is relatively moderate in Thailand.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chumphon

Do:

  • Learn a few words of Thai to communicate with locals
  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Try local cuisine and drinks

Don’t:

  • Disrespect Buddha images or religious sites.
  • Touch someone’s head or point your feet towards someone.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chumphon

Chumphon is a safe destination, and violent crimes are rare. However, visitors must exercise caution when using public transportation to avoid pickpocketing incidents.

Health in Chumphon

Visitors must take standard precautions such as carrying mosquito repellents and drinking bottled water to avoid contracting mosquito-borne diseases and gastrointestinal illnesses.

Getting to Chumphon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chumphon

Chumphon is served by the Chumphon Airport, which connects the town to destinations across Thailand.

Bus Stations Near Chumphon

Chumphon Bus Terminal is the primary bus station in the town, with daily connections to many cities across Southern Thailand.

Other Options

Visitors can rent a car or hire a private minivan to reach Chumphon from Bangkok or Phuket and explore the town’s surrounding regions.

How to Get Around in Chumphon

Tuk-tuks, motorcycles, and bicycles are the most common modes of transportation for getting around the town and exploring nearby regions.

Where to Go Next from Chumphon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Koh Tao
  • Koh Samui
  • Ranong
  • Phuket

Conclusion

Chumphon is a hidden gem in Southern Thailand that is worth exploring for its local culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. This comprehensive travel guide will help visitors plan their Chumphon itinerary and make the most of their visit.