Ratchaburi (often short Rat'buri, Thai ราชบุรี) is one of the central provinces (changwat) of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram and Phetchaburi. In the west it borders Myanmar.

Geography

The east part of the province contains the flat river plains of the Mae Klong river, crisscrossed by many khlongs. The most famous tourist spot in this area are the floating markets of Damnoen Saduak. The west of the province is more mountainous, and includes the Tanawsri mountain range. As the mountains are made mostly of limestone, there are several caves containing stalactites. Some caves are inhabited by large colonies of bats, and it is an impressive sight when they swarm out in the evening to feed. Other caves like the Khao Binn are accessible for visitors.

At the left bank of the Phachi river the Chaloem Phrakiat Thai Prachan National Park has been established in 2003, protecting 384.39 km² of forests which had been battle ground with the Communist party of Thailand in the past.

History

The history of the city of Ratchaburi dates back to the Dvaravati period, when it was an important city of the Mon kingdom. Of the contemporary city Ku Bua nearby only ruins remains. According to legend it even dates back to the mythical Suvannabhumi kingdom predating Dvaravati.

Demographics

1.1% of the population are members of the hill tribes, mostly Karen living near the boundary to Myanmar. Also some Mon, Lawa, Lao and Khmer minorities live in the province.

Symbols

Administrative divisions

The province is subdivided into 9 districts (Amphoe) and one minor district (King Amphoe). The districts are further subdivided into 104 communes (tambon) and 935 villages.

External links

• Province page from the Tourist Authority of Thailand
• Golden Jubilee Network province guide