First Time in Prachinburi
What You Need to Know

🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026

Prachinburi is a province people usually drive through on the way to Khao Yai or up into Isan, but the province itself has more to offer than you'd expect. The first thing most people associate with it is herbs and traditional Thai medicine, because this is home to Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital, the original source of the herbal products you'll find sold all over the country. On top of that there's a Bodhi tree believed to be the oldest in Thailand, an ancient city over a thousand years old, and nature around the Khao Yai park and the Hin Phoeng rapids for those who want a bit of adventure.

How to get to Prachinburi

The easiest way is to drive yourself. From Bangkok it takes around 2 hours, a distance of roughly 130–160 km depending on the route. If you don't have a car, there are vans, buses and trains to choose from, since the town of Prachinburi and Kabin Buri district both sit on main roads.

• Private car — the most convenient way to get around here, since the sights are spread out. The Abhaibhubejhr building and the town are on one side, while Khao Yai and the Hin Phoeng rapids are on the other, so driving yourself is far easier.
• Van/bus — there are several departures from Bangkok each day, fares are around a hundred-something baht, and the trip takes about three and a half hours. You arrive in town and then sort out local transport.
• Train — the Bangkok–Prachinburi line has several trains a day, good for anyone who enjoys the train atmosphere, though you'll still need onward transport once in town.

When to visit Prachinburi

Prachinburi is good year-round, with each season offering a different feel. If you want lush green nature and rapids running strong, come in the rainy season. If you want pleasant weather for relaxed wandering around town, come in the cool season.

• July–October (rainy season) — what nature lovers wait for: the trees are green, the waterfalls are full, and it's the season for rafting at Hin Phoeng, with the water strong enough to be fun.
• November–February (cool season) — cool, comfortable weather, ideal for strolling around the Abhaibhubejhr building, the herb garden, and sitting at cafes up in the hills.
• March–June — a bit hot, but it's santol season — Prachinburi's signature fruit. If you love fruit, come now for sweet, fresh santol.

Top sights you can't miss

There's also Khao Ito waterfall near town, the Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr herb garden where you can walk and learn about the plant species, and several scenic cafes along the road up to Khao Yai in the Noen Hom area. If you have time to spare, you can add these on.

What to eat in Prachinburi

The dish locals are proudest of is boat noodles (kuaytiao ruea) — there are several famous shops in town, with rich broth that needs no extra seasoning, and prices starting very cheap. Another thing to try is the healthy herbal food at the Abhaibhubejhr restaurant, plus santol, the signature fruit of the hot season.

A 2-day 1-night plan for first-timers

This plan is set up to flow nicely for anyone driving in from Bangkok. Day one covers the town, herbs and history; day two takes in the nature around the Prachinburi side of Khao Yai before you head back. Adjust the timing to suit the weather and your own energy.

Things first-timers should know before going

• The sights are spread out — the town, the herbs and the nature are in different zones, so plan well by day to avoid driving back and forth.
• Check opening days — Abhaibhubejhr Day Spa is open Wed–Sun, and Hin Phoeng rafting only runs in the rainy season. Plan around this so you don't miss out.
• Hill roads get slippery in the rain — if you drive up the Prachinburi side of Khao Yai while it's raining, go slow and check your vehicle first.
• Bring cash — some noodle shops and fruit stalls mainly take cash, so it's handy to keep some on you.