“It is a place for storing antiques and pottery seized from an Australian tidal ship that violated Thai Gulf waters in an attempt to smuggle antiques abroad.”
Noen Wong Camp is an ancient historical site of great significance to Chanthaburi Province. It was constructed during the reign of King Narai the Great to serve as the location of the new Chanthaburi city, replacing the old city located along the Chanthaburi River. It was also a defensive fortress against invaders, especially naval forces entering via the Gulf of Thailand. The camp is rectangular, built with bricks and laterite, featuring strong walls and battlements. The camp once housed the Governor's Residence and was a crucial center for administration and trade in the region.
The key feature of Noen Wong Camp is the ancient city wall which remains clearly visible, particularly Pom Phet (Diamond Fort), a large fort located at the corner of the camp. Currently, the Fine Arts Department oversees and maintains it as a historical learning center. The area also houses the Chanthaburi National Maritime Museum, which displays stories about Chanthaburi's maritime trade prosperity and artifacts discovered from underwater archaeological surveys. A visit to Noen Wong Camp is a journey back through Chanthaburi's great past and is ideal for those interested in fortress architecture and maritime history.
How to Get There
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Private Car: Travel along Sukhumvit Road heading towards Trat Province. At the intersection to enter Chanthaburi city, turn left onto Road 3147 (Chanthaburi-Tha Mai route). There will then be signs directing you to Noen Wong Camp.
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Public Transport: You can take a public bus to Chanthaburi city, and then take a Songthaew (local minibus) or taxi to Noen Wong Camp, which is located in the Bang Kacha subdistrict.
Travel Tips
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Best Season to Visit: It is best to visit during the winter (November - February) as the weather is cool and comfortable, suitable for walking around the historical site.
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Footwear: It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking across a large area and climbing some parts of the wall.
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Photography: This location is great for those who enjoy photographing architecture and history, especially the old walls and fortresses during the morning or evening.
Admission Fee:
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Local Visitors: Adult 20 THB, Child 10 THB
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Foreign Visitors: Adult 100 THB, Child 50 THB
Opening Hours:
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Open daily: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM