Located partway between Bangkok and Pattaya City, Si Racha is a coastal town overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. It was here that the popular hot sauce, Sriracha, was created by Thanom Chakkapak using chilli peppers, vinegar and garlic before being exported around the globe.
Things to do in Si Racha
Offering magnificent views across the Gulf of Thailand is the Khao Phra Kru Monastery, which encompasses a small shrine dedicated to Buddha. Admire the carved dragons and listen to the monks chanting before relaxing on the colourful terrace. A highlight is the crystal ball offering an inverted view of the townscape below.
Connected to Si Racha by a causeway is the rocky island of Ko Loi, which is ringed by beaches and coral reefs. Pay your respects at the ornately decorated Buddhist temple and let the kids run loose in the playground before spotting sea turtles in the surrounding waters. Ko Loi can easily be accessed from Surasak Montri Public Park, a picturesque green space that stretches along the waterfront of Si Racha.
Sprawling north-east of Si Racha is the Bang Phra Reservoir, which is ringed by a trail that’s ideal for walking and jogging. Adjacent is the Bangpra Golf Club, one of the first golf courses to be established in the Pattaya area. Brightly coloured bougainvilleas and a densely wooded forest frame the undulating fairways and greens. After your round, you can enjoy a soak in the Japanese-style baths of the modern clubhouse.
Getting around Si Racha
Si Racha is around 30 minutes’ drive from Pattaya City and one hour from U-Tapao–Rayong–Pattaya International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. Regular trains connect from Bangkok to the Si Racha Junction railway station and buses travel through the town centre.