The Gateway Between Central Thailand and the Northeast
Saraburi Province is a strategically important province located in Central Thailand, serving as a key gateway between Bangkok, Central Thailand, and Northeastern Thailand (Isan). Known for its industrial base, Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and mountain landscapes, Saraburi plays a vital role in Thailand’s transport, economy, and religious life.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Saraburi’s history is closely tied to religion, trade routes, and regional connectivity.
Key Historical Timeline
| Year/Period | Major Event |
|---|---|
| Ancient era | Early Mon–Khmer settlements |
| 16th century | Development around Phra Phutthabat |
| Ayutthaya period | Important pilgrimage province |
| 1899 | Administrative reforms |
| 1933 | Established as a modern Thai province |
Saraburi gained prominence due to Wat Phra Phutthabat, one of Thailand’s most sacred temples.
🧭 Basic Provincial Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Saraburi Province |
| Capital City | Saraburi |
| Region | Central Thailand |
| Governor (2025) | Appointed by Ministry of Interior |
| Area | ~3,577 sq km |
| Population (2025 est.) | ~650,000 |
| Time Zone | UTC +7 |
| Main Languages | Thai |
| ISO Code | TH-19 |
Saraburi is directly connected to Bangkok and Isan corridors.
⚖️ Government & Administration
Saraburi follows Thailand’s provincial administrative framework.
| Level | Authority |
|---|---|
| Province | Governor |
| District | District Chiefs (Amphoe) |
| Local | Municipalities & Subdistrict Administrative Organizations |
The Saraburi Provincial Hall oversees governance.
🗺️ Administrative Districts of Saraburi
Saraburi Province consists of 13 districts (Amphoe):
Mueang Saraburi
Kaeng Khoi
Nong Khae
Wihan Daeng
Nong Saeng
Ban Mo
Don Phut
Nong Don
Phra Phutthabat
Sao Hai
Muak Lek
Wang Muang
Chaloem Phra Kiat
🌐 Geography & Environment
Topography: Plains, limestone hills, mountains
Mountain Range: Dong Phaya Yen Range
River System: Pa Sak River
Borders: Lopburi, Ayutthaya, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Nayok
Saraburi’s geography supports industry, agriculture, and eco-tourism.
🏘️ Local Government Structure
Saraburi City Municipality
Nong Khae Municipality
Kaeng Khoi Municipality
Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (TAO/SAO)
Urban planning balances industry, transport, and residential needs.
🧩 Provincial Development & Priorities
Key development focuses include:
Industrial production & logistics
Transport & infrastructure hubs
Religious tourism & pilgrimage
Environmental management
Workforce development
Saraburi is one of Thailand’s major cement and industrial production centers.
🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Saraburi Provincial Police | Law enforcement |
| Highway Police | Transport safety |
| Disaster Response Units | Flood & industrial safety |
Safety management includes industrial and traffic regulation.
🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religion | Buddhism (Theravada) |
| Cultural Identity | Central Thai |
| Language | Thai |
| Pilgrimage | Phra Phutthabat |
Major Religious & Cultural Sites
Wat Phra Phutthabat Ratchaworamahawihan
Sao Hai Floating Market
Saraburi City Pillar Shrine
Phra Phutthabat is one of Thailand’s top pilgrimage destinations.
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Industry | Cement, manufacturing |
| Agriculture | Rice, corn |
| Tourism | Religious & eco-tourism |
| Logistics | Transport hub |
| Services | Local commerce |
Industry and logistics drive Saraburi’s economy.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Higher Education | Regional universities |
| Major Hospitals | Saraburi Hospital |
Healthcare supports both residents and industrial workforce.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Roads | Mittraphap Road (Friendship Highway) |
| Rail | Northeastern Railway Line |
| Nearest Airport | Bangkok (Don Mueang) |
Saraburi is a key junction between Bangkok and Isan.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Attractions
Wat Phra Phutthabat
Muak Lek Waterfall
Sao Hai Floating Market
Dong Phaya Yen mountain trails
Pa Sak River landscapes
Tourism blends faith, nature, and local culture.
🌍 Regional & National Role
Gateway to Northeastern Thailand
Major industrial province
National pilgrimage center
Central transport hub
📝 Summary
Saraburi Province stands at the crossroads of Thailand’s regions. As a gateway between Central Thailand and Isan, an industrial powerhouse, and a major Buddhist pilgrimage center, Saraburi plays a crucial role in the nation’s economic, spiritual, and transport networks.
📢 News & Articles
“Industrial Growth and Sustainability in Saraburi”
“Phra Phutthabat Pilgrimage and Tourism”
“Transport Connectivity Between Central and Isan Regions”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, delivering structured, link-ready, and authoritative provincial knowledge.