Bang Kacha – Mangrove Paddles, Historic Vibes, and Seriously Good Salak!
Ever heard of Bang Kacha? Probably not—and that’s exactly why you need to go.
Tucked away in the heart of Chanthaburi, this low-key town is full of wild stories, lush mangroves, weekend markets, ancient forts, and a tropical fruit that locals are super proud of (more on that later). It’s chill, historic, and a little bit weird in the best possible way.
Let’s start with the backstory: King Taksin the Great actually camped out here back in the day—right before taking back Chanthaburi. At Wat Plub, a humble temple that still stands, he and his army received sacred amulets before charging into battle. Now? The spot’s got a retro-style weekend market called Tup Mor Market, where you can snack on old-school Chanthaburi treats while soaking in centuries of vibes.
Tup Mor Market nestled within the grounds of Wat Plub – where history and community meet.
The iconic prang and ancient chedi of Wat Plub – timeless symbols of Bang Kacha’s spiritual roots.
A serene wooden pavilion floating over the water at Wat Plub – perfect for quiet reflection.
Vendors at Tup Mor Market dress in period costumes, often as King Taksin’s soldiers – pictured here during the temple’s annual celebration.
Don’t leave Tup Mor Market without tasting Thai desserts like Khanom Sai Sai, pumpkin pudding, and banana treats.
Khanom Jaak – dangerously delicious. Once you start, there’s no stopping.
History geeks, listen up: just down the road is Nern Wong Fortress, built during King Rama III’s reign to defend the coastline. Think high walls, cannons, moats, and massive gates. Inside the grounds, you’ll also find the National Maritime Museum—and no, it’s not boring. They’ve got shipwreck artifacts, rare boats, and even a mock underwater archaeology room. It’s giving “pirate explorer energy,” and we’re here for it.
The arched gateway of Nern Wong Fortress – once a stronghold against foreign threats.
An original cannon still perched atop the Nern Wong Fortress wall, guarding history with pride.
Ancient jars, bowls, and plates recovered from the seabed of Chanthaburi now preserved at the National Maritime Museum.
The revered “Phra Yod Thong Thongkham” – an ancient golden amulet said to offer powerful protection.
And then… there’s the nature stuff. The cool kind.
At Backpacker Café @ Rai Tam Farm Suk, you can hop on a paddleboard and cruise through a maze of mangroves. Nipa palms, century-old trees, and that soft hush of nature all around you. You’ll paddle, you’ll float, you’ll feel like a chill explorer in your own nature documentary.
The tranquil view of Bang Kacha Canal – calm waters, rich with stories.
Setting off on a paddleboard adventure through the peaceful Bang Kacha Canal.
Local guide or local cat? Meet Jumper – the cheeky cat who joins kayaking trips like he owns the place.
A wide stretch of the canal, where waters from Bang Kacha flow into the Chanthaburi River and out to the Gulf of Thailand.
For centuries, the Bang Kacha Canal has been a vital route to the sea – and it’s still in use today.
Oh, and that fruit? Meet the Salak Nern Wong—spiky on the outside, sweet and addictive on the inside. If you’re gonna try salak anywhere, this is the place. Locals swear by it.
Bang Kacha is that kind of place you didn’t know you were missing. It’s where you learn something new, get your feet wet, snack like a local, and leave with better stories than any touristy checklist could ever offer.
And when you’re ready to go—
Pacific Leisure’s got your back.
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#PaddleAndPast #LocalLegendsLiveHere #TupMorMarket #MangroveMagic
#HistoryMeetsNature #SalakSeason #OffThePathThailand #ExploreWithPacific
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Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya