Taksin Camp in Chanthaburi Province is a historic and strategically vital site that has played an important role in Thailand’s military, political, and cultural history. In 1767, after the fall of Ayutthaya, King Taksin the Great marched to capture Chanthaburi and established a military base here to gather forces for the nation’s liberation. Chanthaburi was chosen not only for its strategic position but also for its natural wealth and abundant resources, which supported the building of a strong army. During the Franco-Siamese Crisis of 1893, Siam was forced to cede territories to France, and French troops occupied Chanthaburi for 12 years, recognizing its significance in controlling the Gulf of Siam and its access to fertile regions. The French also made use of the shipyard at the river mouth, which could build vessels of up to 400 tons, further asserting their dominance. They stationed troops at Laem Singh and Ban Lum, the latter being the present site of Taksin Camp, where several structures such as the guardhouse, arsenals, and warehouses from that era still remain.

 

After the French withdrew in 1904, the area underwent many changes. It became home to government offices, schools, and provincial administration buildings before being used by the navy, army, and border patrol police at different times. In 1936 it housed the 4th Cavalry Battalion, and in 1945 the 3rd Marine Infantry Battalion was stationed here, notable for its role in the Indochina War before being disbanded in 1951. Later, the Special Defense Battalion of Chanthaburi was established, eventually expanding into the 2nd Marine Infantry Battalion, which marked October 24, 1955, as its founding day. In 1964, the camp was officially named Taksin Camp.

 

The importance of the camp increased in 1975 when the Chanthaburi–Trat military command moved its headquarters here, and in 1979 the Chanthaburi–Trat Border Defense Command was established to safeguard the eastern frontier. The 2nd Marine Infantry Battalion underwent several reorganizations and eventually became part of the 1st Marine Infantry Regiment, Marine Division, in 1989. Today, Taksin Camp continues to serve as an important naval base, housing the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Infantry Regiment, the Chanthaburi–Trat Border Defense Command, and the 41st Naval Air Unit. Facilities within the camp include a medical company, shooting range, helipad, and swimming pool.

 

One of the main attractions for visitors is the French Military Camp archaeological site, which dates back to the French occupation. In 2008, the site was extensively restored through cooperation between the Old Palace Conservation Foundation and the Fine Arts Department, with support from both Thai and French organizations. The restoration, costing 45 million baht, was officially inaugurated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Seven historic buildings were adapted into educational spaces, such as the guardhouse displaying the life and duties of King Rama V, the barracks turned into a library, the warehouse showcasing Chanthaburi’s history and restoration works, the command building presenting Thai–French relations, the detention house explaining conservation processes, and two arsenals illustrating the Battle of Koh Chang and modern Thai–French relations.

 

The French Military Camp site is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM with free admission. It has become an important destination for historical and cultural tourism, reflecting the evolution of Chanthaburi from the time of King Taksin the Great to the present era of international relations. Taksin Camp remains not only a symbol of courage and the struggle for independence but also a valuable cultural and military heritage of Thailand.

 

Getting there is convenient by following Highway 3, then turning right at Khao Rai Ya intersection onto Highway 316 for about 6 kilometers. At Phraya Trang intersection, turn left onto Tha Luang Road, where Taksin Camp will be found on the left-hand side.