About Si Racha
Si Racha lies about 120 km southeast of Bangkok and is a port town between Bangkok and Pattaya. Its name is familiar to many through the spicy sauce that originated here. On the water stand restaurants on stilts where you eat seafood with a view of Ko Si Chang, which is reachable by boat. Outside town are Khao Kheow Open Zoo and a number of temples and parks. Si Racha is less touristy than Pattaya, with a Thai and Chinese atmosphere you notice mainly in the markets. The town suits anyone seeking a calmer coastal stop or an excursion to Ko Si Chang. Because of the nearby port and industry the beach is less inviting; come mainly for the food and the boats.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: drier and less hot, with calmer seas for beaches and boats. May to October is the rainy season, though showers are often short; March to May is very hot. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by bus from Ekkamai (about 1.5 to 2 hours) or by own transport; the pier for Ko Si Chang is in town. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Si Racha
- Waterfront seafood Stilt restaurants with views of the bay and Ko Si Chang.
- Boat to Ko Si Chang From the pier you cross to the island in a short boat ride.
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo A zoo in a forested setting, open 8:00 to 18:00.
- Local market Markets with Thai and Chinese dishes and fresh fish.
