Prachin Buri

Prachin Buri straddles the transition zone between Bangkok's eastern suburbs and the jungle-clad hills of Khao Yai's southern reaches. Thap Lan National Park, one of Thailand's largest protected areas, covers the province's northern edge with pristine forest, waterfalls, and wildlife corridors connecting to Khao Yai. It's far less visited than its famous neighbor and offers genuine wilderness.

The provincial capital sits along the Prachin Buri River and has roots going back to the Dvaravati period — the Prachin Buri National Museum displays ancient artifacts from the region. The Sa Morakot (Emerald Pond) area near the hills is popular for weekend getaways. Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital is an unexpected draw: a historic building now famous as Thailand's leading traditional medicine hospital, with an herbal product shop that draws visitors from across the country. The surrounding countryside is fruit-orchard country — mango and durian season brings roadside stalls piled high.