Chumphon Travel Guide – How to Get There, What to Do and Where to Stay
Chumphon is a peaceful southern Thai town often seen as a gateway to the Gulf islands – Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui. With its train station, airport and ferry piers, it’s an easy stopover, but it also offers natural attractions like the Mu Ko Chumphon National Park, a top diving spot.
- Thai name: ชุมพร
- Distance from Bangkok: 466 km
- Main river: Tha Taphap
- Population: 500,575 (province) – approx. 35,000 in the city
- Province: Chumphon
- Main industries: tourism, palm oil production
- High season: November to April
- Recommended stay: 2 days
- Main highlight: gateway to Koh Ngam Yai, Koh Samet, and the Mu Ko Chumphon Marine Park
🚍 Transportation to Chumphon
Chumphon is well-connected by train, bus, plane, and boat. It’s a perfect starting point to explore southern Thailand or to catch a ferry to the islands.
🎯 Things to Do in Chumphon
Chumphon isn’t known for grand temples or historic sites, but there are local discoveries worth exploring: caves, forests, waterfalls and a vibrant night market.
🍽️ Where to Eat in Chumphon
You’ll find plenty of restaurants around the city, but the night market near the train station (200 meters, on Krumluang Chumphon Avenue) is the best place to sample Thai street food – affordable and delicious.
🏨 Where to Stay in Chumphon
There are many budget guesthouses and hotels in the city center, though the quality varies. For better comfort, consider resorts a bit outside the city — more expensive, but worth it for a relaxing break.
Booking.com🏝️ Heading to the Islands?
Chumphon is the main departure point to reach the eastern Thai islands:
Chumphon may be a quiet town, but it’s a strategic hub for travelers heading south. Whether you’re just passing through or staying overnight, it’s worth a stop for its laid-back atmosphere and easy island access.