Chonburi is a province (changwat) of Thailand. Neighbouring provinces are (from north clockwise) Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi and Rayong. To the west is the Gulf of Thailand. The eastern seaboard is heavily industrialized and underpinned by shipping, transportation, tourism, and manufacturing industries, and second to only Bangkok in economic output. Chonburi, is Bangkok’s nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometres from Bangkok. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local colours, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. In addition, Chon Buri is the centre of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.
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From historical evidence, Mueang Chonburi has been settled since the Ayutthaya period. Originally, it comprised many small towns such as Mueang Bang Sai, Mueang Bang Pla Soi, and Mueang Bang Phra. Later, King Rama V combined these towns together into Chonburi Province.
The word Chon originates from the Sanskrit word Jala meaning water, and the word buri from Sanskrit Puri meaning town or city. Hence the name of the province literally means City of Water.
The province is located at the Bay of Bangkok, the northern end of the Gulf of Thailand. A mountain range stretches from the north-west to the south-east of the province, while the fertile plains of the north were long used for farming. In Laem Chabang in the south of the province is one of the few deep-water harbours of Thailand.