Things To Do
in Aranyaprathet

Aranyaprathet is a vibrant border town in Thailand, situated near the Cambodian border, known for its bustling markets and rich cultural heritage. This town serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Cambodia, featuring a unique blend of Thai and Khmer influences. Visitors can explore local temples, traditional markets, and nearby natural attractions.

Its proximity to the border makes it a lively hub for both tourists and locals alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Aranyaprathet
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Wat Tham Sarika temple, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast at a local eatery nearby.

afternoon
:

Explore the Rong Kluea Market, a large border market offering a variety of goods from clothes to souvenirs. Don’t forget to bargain for the best prices.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine and experience the bustling night market where you can sample street food and local delicacies.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Attractions
morning
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the area, including its significance as a border town.

afternoon
:

Take a half-day trip to the nearby Khao Chakan National Park for hiking and exploring nature trails.

evening
:

Relax at a local café or bar, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and perhaps live music, to end your trip on a high note.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at local restaurant$2-5
🛒Local market snacks$1-3
🚕Taxi ride within town$1-3
🏨Budget hotel per night$10-20
Coffee at a café$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions
  • Affordable cost of living and dining
  • Proximity to the Cambodian border for additional travel opportunities
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-Thai speakers
  • Hot and humid climate during summer months
  • "Sawasdee krub/kah" - Hello (male/female)
  • "Khob khun krub/kah" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Chai" - Yes
  • "Mai" - No
  • "Where is...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Aranyaprathet

Visit one of these nice places.

Wat Tham Sarika

A picturesque temple surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for capturing serene moments and architectural beauty.

Rong Kluea Market

Vibrant colors and lively atmosphere make this market a great place for street photography.

Khao Chakan National Park

Stunning natural landscapes and diverse flora and fauna offer perfect backdrops for outdoor photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aranyaprathet

Aranyaprathet offers a diverse culinary landscape with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, perfect for any food lover.

Aranyaprathet Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pad Thai

A classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish with a combination of shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts, seasoned with tamarind paste.

Must-Try!

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad that combines fresh herbs, lime, and chili for a refreshing taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rong Kluea Market

A bustling market near the border, famous for its variety of street food, clothing, and local handicrafts.

Night Market

An evening market with an array of food stalls offering grilled meats, desserts, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Aranyaprathet is tropical, characterized by three main seasons: a dry season from November to February, a hot season from March to May, and a rainy season from June to October. Temperatures range from around 20°C (68°F) in the cooler months to 35°C (95°F) during the hottest months. Rainfall is most common in the afternoons during the rainy season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Royal Family

Speaking negatively about the monarchy is illegal and culturally offensive.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples, wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.

Wai Greeting

A traditional greeting involves a slight bow with hands pressed together; it's polite to return the gesture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aranyaprathet is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas like markets. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when crossing streets. It's recommended to avoid traveling alone at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Aranyaprathet

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some establishments may accept credit cards. Always have cash for markets and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November - February)

Cool and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Summer (March - May)

Hot and humid, be prepared with water and sun protection when exploring outdoors.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Frequent rains can occur, so carry an umbrella. The landscape becomes lush and vibrant.

Festivals

The Thai New Year (Songkran) in April brings lively water fights and cultural celebrations in the town.

Nightlife Guide

Aranyaprathet at Night

Aranyaprathet has a lively nightlife scene with various bars, night markets, and restaurants. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. Visitors can enjoy live music, street food, and socializing with locals and other travelers.

Hiking in Aranyaprathet

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khao Chakan Trail

A scenic trail in Khao Chakan National Park featuring diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Phanom Dong Rak Trail

This trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is suitable for both casual hikers and seasoned adventurers.

Airports

How to reach Aranyaprathet by plane.

Poipet Airport (Cambodia)

Located just across the border in Cambodia, this airport serves as a gateway for travelers heading to and from Thailand and Cambodia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aranyaprathet is reasonably walkable, especially in the town center where many attractions, markets, and eateries are located close together. However, some areas may require short taxi rides or cycling to reach more distant attractions like national parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Locals

The predominant demographic group, maintaining traditional lifestyles and customs.

Cambodian Migrants

Many Cambodian workers live in Aranyaprathet, contributing to the local economy and cultural exchange.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional combat sport originating in Thailand, popular among locals and often practiced in gyms across the region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed in Thailand, with local teams and games being a popular pastime.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aranyaprathet is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared taxis), which are popular for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aranyaprathet.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Thai dishes can be made vegetarian, but always confirm with the vendor or chef.

Gluten-Free

Rice dishes are prevalent, but avoid soy sauce unless labeled gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Aranyaprathet include small clinics and a local hospital. For serious medical issues, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Bangkok or Siem Reap. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide