On April 4, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., a pivotal meeting took place in Chanthaburi Province, marking a significant step forward in recognizing the power of gastronomy as a creative force for urban development. Ms. Darunee Thammaphodol, Advisor to the Ministry of Culture and Chairperson of the National Committee for Thailand’s Creative Cities Network under UNESCO, met with Mr. Somporn Karnnijnirun, Deputy Governor of Chanthaburi, to discuss preparations for upcoming international conferences and cultural events, including a proposal to secure support from the ASEAN Cultural Fund.
This meeting underscored a firm commitment not only to advancing general cultural initiatives, but also to elevating food as the heart of the city’s creative identity, with the vision of propelling Chanthaburi to the global stage (Chanthaburi Gastronomy).
Chanthaburi Gastronomy Local Gastronomy: A Platform for Economic Value and Opportunity
The initiative “ Chanthaburi Gastronomy” has been actively promoted to integrate local cuisine into creative tourism. The project emphasizes a holistic farm-to-table approach, encompassing ingredient selection, local production, food processing, and culinary innovation. These efforts aim to transform local dishes into Functional Food that meets the expectations of modern consumers in terms of taste, health, and lifestyle.
With abundant resources such as tropical fruits, medicinal herbs, and fresh seafood, Chanthaburi’s local ingredients are more than just regional highlights—they are key assets for developing high-value food products. From ready-to-eat meals and processed foods to fusion dishes tailored for international visitors, the possibilities are boundless.
Gastronomy Tourism: A New Experience for Global Travelers
The project also weaves Gastronomy Tourism into Chanthaburi’s cultural narrative. Through culinary workshops, visits to ingredient sourcing communities, and local food festivals, visitors are offered immersive experiences that go far beyond traditional sightseeing.
By engaging Local Chefs, restaurants, and community members, Chanthaburi’s cuisine becomes not only “delicious,” but also deeply storied—a meaningful journey through flavors and heritage that travelers will remember.
From Local Roots to a Global Stage
The meeting also explored how Chanthaburi’s cultural and gastronomic initiatives could support its application to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. The project enjoys cross-sector collaboration among government agencies, academia, and civil society. Notably, members of the Chulalongkorn University Alumni Class of 1975 participated in the event and presented a “Royal Rain Tree” descended from a tree planted by King Rama IX, as a symbol of unity and sustainable growth.
Chanthaburi: More Than a Travel Destination – A Global Culinary Hub
Under the slogan “Suk Tuk Wan Tee Chanthaburi” or “Happiness Every Day in Chanthaburi”, this charming province is creating a powerful presence on the world map through food and culture. It extends a warm invitation to both locals and international travelers to discover flavors born from wisdom, local ways of life, and unparalleled natural resources.
If you seek more than just relaxation—if you’re searching for an enriching, authentic journey—Chanthaburi is your destination. Come and experience the “Flavors of a Creative City” that will leave a lasting impression on your heart.
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Home Page : มหัศจันท์ แห่งรสชาติ – Chanthaburi Gastronomy
