Chon Buri is a coastal province on Thailand's Eastern Seaboard, best known for the resort city of Pattaya and its string of sun-drenched beaches along the Gulf of Thailand. The province blends vibrant beach tourism with industrial heritage, traditional fishing villages, and lush tropical landscapes just 80 km from Bangkok.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
-
1
Khao Kheow Loop Trail
A forested walking loop through the zoo's wildlife areas with views over the Si Racha coastal plain from the highest point. Well-marked trail passes animal enclosures and secondary forest with good birdwatching opportunities.
-
2
Ko Si Chang Island Perimeter Walk
A combined road-and-trail circuit around the forested perimeter of Ko Si Chang island, passing the royal palace ruins, a Chinese cliff temple, quiet beaches and viewpoints over the Gulf of Thailand with anchored cargo ships in the distance.
-
3
Khao Sam Muk Summit Trail
A short but rewarding climb up Khao Sam Muk hill via a paved staircase through trees to a Chinese shrine and panoramic viewpoint at the top. Resident macaque monkeys make this a uniquely entertaining ascent.
-
4
Wat Yansangwararam Forest Walk
A peaceful walking circuit through the extensive grounds of Wat Yansangwararam royal temple, covering forested hillsides, ornamental lakes, the Chinese pagoda and a Buddha footprint pavilion. Excellent birdwatching in the early morning.
-
5
Nong Nooch Botanical Garden Walk
A leisurely walking tour of the world-renowned 500-acre botanical garden, weaving through French gardens, cactus valleys, orchid collections, a stonehenge replica and tropical forest areas — more pleasant exploration than strenuous hiking.
-
6
Silverlake Vineyard Hill Walk
A gentle stroll through the grapevines on rolling hills at Silverlake Vineyard east of Pattaya, with views over the surrounding countryside and the Gulf of Thailand in the distance. Combine with wine tasting.
-
7
Khao Chi Chan (Buddha Mountain) Approach Trail
A flat approach trail through landscaped grounds to the viewing area below the giant Buddha cliff carving, with ornamental lakes, flowering trees and excellent early-morning light on the image.
-
8
Ko Lan Cross-Island Trail
A hike across the hilly spine of Ko Lan island connecting the pier village to Nual Beach via forested trails, with views of both the Pattaya coast and open Gulf on opposite hillsides. Mostly shaded but can be slippery after rain.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Chon Buri.
- Cool Dry
- November–February: best hiking conditions — comfortable temperatures of 24–30°C, low humidity, clear views and dry trail surfaces
- Hot Dry
- March–May: viable but very hot; hike early (6–9 AM) before heat peaks; carry 2L water minimum
- Rainy
- June–October: trails can be muddy and slippery; heat and humidity high; hiking possible in morning windows between showers but less ideal
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Sun exposure — equatorial sun causes rapid burning; wear hat and SPF 50+
Hazard: Dehydration — carry at least 1.5L water per person for any trail
Hazard: Macaque monkeys at Khao Sam Muk — do not display or eat food near them
Hazard: Slippery trails during or after rain — proper footwear essential
Hazard: Heat exhaustion — rest in shade regularly on hot days; Chon Buri rarely exceeds 36°C but humidity is high
Hazard: Insects — carry repellent for forested trails, especially at dawn and dusk
Hazard: Motorbike traffic on Ko Si Chang roads — stay to the side when walking road sections