Chon Buri Hiking & Trekking Guide 2025
Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Chon Buri.
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 Hiking Trails
The best hikes Chon Buri has to offer.
Khao Kheow Loop Trail
easyA 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.
Ko Si Chang Island Perimeter Walk
easyA 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.
Khao Sam Muk Summit Trail
easyA 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.
Wat Yansangwararam Forest Walk
easyA 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.
Nong Nooch Botanical Garden Walk
easyA 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.
Silverlake Vineyard Hill Walk
easyA 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.
Khao Chi Chan (Buddha Mountain) Approach Trail
easyA 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.
Ko Lan Cross-Island Trail
moderateA 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.
Trails by Difficulty
Find trails that match your fitness level.
🟢 Easy
Well-maintained paved or flat trails suitable for all fitness levels and families with children
🟡 Moderate
Some elevation and uneven terrain; reasonable fitness required; good footwear needed
🟠 Challenging
Steep sections, technical terrain or long distances; experienced hikers recommended
🔴 Expert
Not applicable in Chon Buri — the province is relatively flat; serious trekking requires traveling to national parks further east
Complete Hiking Guide
Detailed trail descriptions, packing checklists, and route recommendations.
Hiking Preparation
What to bring and how to prepare.
Essential Gear
Day Hikes
- Sturdy hiking boots/shoes
- Plenty of water (2-3 liters)
- Snacks and lunch
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Rain layer/jacket
- First aid kit
- Navigation (map, GPS, phone)
- Flashlight/headlamp
Multi-Day Treks
- All day hike essentials plus:
- Backpack (40-60L)
- Tent or shelter
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking equipment
- Water purification
- Extra clothing layers
- Emergency supplies
Physical Preparation
- Start training weeks before challenging hikes
- Build up endurance with regular cardio
- Practice on local trails with elevation gain
- Break in new boots before the trip
- Acclimatize to altitude gradually if needed
Hiking Safety
Stay safe on the trails.
Always tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time. Carry emergency communication device in remote areas.
Check weather conditions before setting out. Turn back if conditions deteriorate. Never underestimate mountains.
Stay on marked trails. Getting lost in unfamiliar terrain can be dangerous. Carry navigation tools.
Be aware of wildlife. Research local animals and know how to respond to encounters.
Start early to allow plenty of daylight. Always aim to be back before dark.
Local Hazards
- Sun exposure — equatorial sun causes rapid burning; wear hat and SPF 50+
- Dehydration — carry at least 1.5L water per person for any trail
- Macaque monkeys at Khao Sam Muk — do not display or eat food near them
- Slippery trails during or after rain — proper footwear essential
- Heat exhaustion — rest in shade regularly on hot days; Chon Buri rarely exceeds 36°C but humidity is high
- Insects — carry repellent for forested trails, especially at dawn and dusk
- Motorbike traffic on Ko Si Chang roads — stay to the side when walking road sections
Best Time to Hike
Plan your hiking adventure for optimal conditions.
🌸 Spring
Warming temperatures, wildflowers blooming. Some high trails may still have snow. Variable weather.
☀️ Summer
Most trails accessible. Can be hot at lower elevations. Start early to avoid heat. Peak season for high altitude.
🍂 Fall
Cooler temperatures, autumn colors. Stable weather. Great hiking conditions. Some facilities may close.
❄️ Winter
Snow at higher elevations. Winter gear required. Shorter days. Some trails closed. Beautiful but demanding.
Explore Chon Buri's Trails
Get our complete hiking guide with GPS routes, difficulty ratings, and local tips.
Download Hiking Guide