Sriracha, Thailand

Sriracha, Thailand

Sriracha, Thailand is a coastal town in the Chonburi province, located about 120 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. It is most famous for its seafood, the iconic Sriracha hot sauce, and nearby islands and parks. Sriracha is a lesser-known tourist destination compared to nearby Pattaya, but it offers a more relaxed and authentic experience.

 

Tourist Attractions in Sriracha

  1. Khao Kheow Open Zoo

    • Highlights: This open zoo spans over 2,000 acres and is home to more than 300 species of animals. The zoo focuses on wildlife conservation and offers interactive experiences like feeding giraffes, elephants, and rhinos. There’s also a night safari and opportunities to learn about endangered species.
    • Entrance Fees:
      • Foreigners: 300 THB for adults, 150 THB for children.
      • Thais: 150 THB for adults, 30 THB for children.
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
    • Activities: Animal feeding, night safaris, bird shows, and wildlife conservation learning experiences.

  2. Sriracha Tiger Zoo

    • Highlights: One of the largest tiger zoos in Thailand, home to over 200 tigers and various other animals like elephants, crocodiles, and camels. The zoo is known for its tiger and crocodile shows.
    • Entrance Fees:
      • Foreigners: 450 THB for adults, 250 THB for children.
      • Thais: 200 THB for adults, 100 THB for children.
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
    • Activities: Tiger shows, crocodile shows, elephant shows, and feeding experiences.

  3. Koh Si Chang Island

    • Highlights: A small, quiet island off the coast of Sriracha, known for its serene beaches, historical sites, and stunning views. Notable spots on the island include Phra Chudadhut Palace, an old royal palace built by King Rama V, and Chong Khao Khat Bay, a beautiful, rocky beach ideal for relaxing.
    • Entrance Fees: Free entry, though some activities on the island, like bike rentals or visits to specific attractions, may have fees.
    • Opening Hours: Accessible via ferry from 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Ferry tickets cost about 50 THB per person (one-way).
    • Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, visiting historical sites, and hiking.

  4. Bang Phra Reservoir

    • Highlights: This peaceful reservoir is a great spot for birdwatching, walking, and picnicking. The area around the reservoir is home to a variety of birds, and there are also hiking trails and bike paths.
    • Entrance Fees: Free.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, though daytime visits are recommended.
    • Activities: Walking, cycling, birdwatching, and picnicking.

  5. J Park Sriracha

    • Highlights: A Japanese-style community mall, J Park brings the vibe of Japan to Sriracha. It has beautifully designed gardens, traditional Japanese architecture, and a variety of Japanese and Thai restaurants, along with shops and entertainment.
    • Entrance Fees: Free.
    • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.
    • Activities: Dining, shopping, photography, and enjoying cultural performances on special occasions.

How to Get Around Sriracha

  1. Tuk-tuk and Songthaews: These are popular and convenient ways to get around Sriracha. Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) are a common mode of transport for locals and tourists alike, running along set routes. Tuk-tuks are available for short distances.

  2. Motorbike Taxis: Motorbike taxis are easily found around town and provide a quick and cost-effective way to get around.

  3. Car or Motorbike Rental: Renting a car or motorbike is ideal if you plan to explore Sriracha and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Rental shops can be found in town, and the cost for motorbikes is around 200-300 THB per day, while cars cost 1,000-1,500 THB per day.

  4. Ferry to Koh Si Chang: Ferries to Koh Si Chang depart from Koh Loy Pier in Sriracha. The ferry ride takes about 40 minutes, and you can explore the island by renting a motorbike or hiring a tuk-tuk once you arrive.

  5. Bicycle Rental: Some guesthouses and rental shops offer bicycles, making it a good option for getting around town and nearby areas.

Where to Eat Local Food in Sriracha

  1. Pa Ton Nam Seafood

    • Location: Along the Sriracha coastline.
    • Cuisine: Thai seafood.
    • Specialties: Freshly grilled prawns, squid, and various seafood dishes served with spicy Sriracha sauce.
    • Atmosphere: Casual, with open-air seating and views of the sea.

  2. Ruean Thai Seafood

    • Location: Near Koh Loy Pier.
    • Cuisine: Thai seafood.
    • Specialties: Steamed crab, grilled lobster, and stir-fried shellfish in Sriracha chili sauce.
    • Atmosphere: Relaxed, with indoor and outdoor seating by the pier.

  3. Somtum Khun Kan

    • Location: Near Robinson Sriracha.
    • Cuisine: Thai, specializing in Som Tum (papaya salad).
    • Specialties: Different variations of papaya salad with seafood, sticky rice, grilled meats, and Isaan-style dishes.
    • Atmosphere: Casual and affordable, popular with locals.

  4. Ko Khun Pon Yang Kham BBQ

    • Location: Downtown Sriracha.
    • Cuisine: Thai BBQ (Moo Kratha).
    • Specialties: Grilled meats served with spicy dipping sauces, including beef, pork, and seafood.
    • Atmosphere: Vibrant and interactive, with a DIY grilling setup at the table.

  5. Sriracha Food and Drink Festival (Seasonal)

    • Location: Various spots around town during festival season.
    • Cuisine: Street food.
    • Specialties: A variety of Sriracha-style street foods such as fried fish cakes, BBQ skewers, seafood pad thai, and more.
    • Atmosphere: Lively street market with food stalls offering local and regional specialties.

Highlights of Sriracha

  • Coastal Charm: Sriracha’s scenic coastal location provides a mix of natural beauty and seafood culture.
  • Wildlife and Nature: From Khao Kheow Open Zoo to Bang Phra Reservoir, the region offers unique animal encounters and peaceful nature reserves.
  • Relaxed Island Life: Koh Si Chang is an escape from the mainland, offering quiet beaches, historical sites, and beautiful views.
  • Food Scene: Sriracha is renowned for its fresh seafood and spicy dishes, making it a destination for food lovers.

Sriracha is a hidden gem that offers a balance between nature, wildlife, local culture, and incredible food, making it a great destination for travelers looking for something off the beaten path.