Tropical Delights: A Deep Dive into Thailand’s Exotic Fruits

Thailand’s tropical climate nurtures a cornucopia of exotic fruits that tantalize the taste buds and awaken the senses. Thailand and Malaysia are neighbouring countries and we share a lot of similarities in fruits that we consume and grow, however, both countries have different tastes with the same fruits as they still grow in different climates and regions.

Let’s explore some of Thailand’s most beloved fruits along with the best places to experience them.

1. Durian: The Controversial King

Known as the “king of fruits,” durian is infamous for its pungent odour and divisive reputation. Its creamy, custard-like flesh offers a complex flavour profile ranging from sweet to savoury.

Where to find it: Chanthaburi province is the durian capital of Thailand. Visit Baan Klong Sa Bua, a community-based tourism village, where you can tour durian orchards and taste various cultivars like Monthong (Golden Pillow) and Chanee.

Pro tip: Try durian in various forms – fresh, as chips, in desserts, or even in coffee!

2. Mangosteen: The Queen of Sweetness

With its deep purple rind and snow-white segments, mangosteen offers a delicate, sweet-tart flavour that’s universally loved. It’s rich in antioxidants and often referred to as the “queen of fruits.”

Where to find it: Nakhon Si Thammarat province produces some of the best mangosteens. Attend the annual Mangosteen Fair in July at Thung Song district for a mangosteen extravaganza.

Fun fact: The number of segments inside corresponds to the number of petals on the bottom of the fruit.

3. Rambutan: The Hairy Delight

These red, spiky-skinned fruits reveal a translucent, sweet flesh that’s similar to lychee but with a unique flavour profile.

Where to find it: Surat Thani province is famous for its rambutans. Visit the Rambutan Fair in August in Surat Thani city. Here, you can try different varieties and even rambutan-flavoured products.

Insider tip: Look for rambutans with bright red skin and green, flexible spines for the freshest fruit.

4. Pomelo: The Citrus Giant

This large, grapefruit-like fruit offers a refreshing, slightly sweet flavour. It’s lower in acidity compared to grapefruits and is often eaten in segments or used in salads.

Where to find it: Nakhon Chai Si district in Nakhon Pathom province is renowned for its pomelos. Take a boat tour along the Tha Chin River to visit pomelo orchards and sample the fruit fresh from the tree.

Local secret: Try it with a dip made of salt, sugar and chilli for a true Thai experience.

5. Longan: The Subtle Sweetness

These small, round fruits with translucent white flesh offer a delicate sweetness. Known as “dragon eye” fruit due to their appearance, longans are often eaten fresh or used in desserts.

Where to find it: Lamphun province in northern Thailand is famous for its longans. Visit during the Longan Festival in August to experience longan-themed parades, contests and endless fruit sampling.

Health benefit: Longans are believed to have calming properties in traditional Chinese medicine.

6. Mango: The Versatile Classic

While available worldwide, Thai mangoes offer a unique sweetness and variety. From the aromatic Nam Dok Mai to the larger, tangier Okrong, Thai mangoes are a fruit lover’s dream.

Where to find it: Amphawa in Samut Songkhram province is known for its aromatic Nam Dok Mai mangoes. Take a weekend trip to the famous Amphawa Floating Market to enjoy fresh mangoes and mango-based desserts like mango sticky rice.

Culinary adventure: Try green mangoes with a spicy-sweet dipping sauce for a true Thai snack experience.

 

7. Rose Apple: The Crisp Refresher

Often overlooked by tourists, rose apples (chom-phu in Thai) offer a crisp, watery flesh with a subtle sweetness and floral aroma.

Where to find it: Samut Songkhram province is known for its quality rose apples. Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market to find vendors selling fresh rose apples.

Local use: Thais often eat rose apples with a spicy-salty dip made from sugar, salt and chilli.

(Source: https://www.eattheweeds.com/a-rose-apple-by-any-other-name/)

8. Sapodilla: The Brown Sugar Fruit

This egg-shaped fruit with brown, sandpaper-like skin reveals a sweet flesh that tastes like brown sugar or caramel.

Where to find it: While available throughout Thailand, some of the best sapodillas come from Ratchaburi province. Visit local markets in Ratchaburi city to taste this unique fruit.

Ripeness tip: Choose fruits that are slightly soft to the touch for the best flavour.

 

When planning your fruity adventure through Thailand, remember that most fruits are seasonal. Summer (April to June) offers the widest variety, but you can find delicious fruits year-round. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations – many will be thrilled to share their favourite fruit spots and preparation tips. All the fruits here you can buy at supermarkets in Thailand or any local markets, however it depends on the season.

As you embark on this flavourful journey through Thailand’s fruit scene, you’ll discover that each region offers unique ways of enjoying these natural treasures.

MyRehat offers valuable resources for travellers, including insider tips on local markets, fruit farms open for visits and even fruit-themed tours. Whether you’re a fruit connoisseur or just beginning your tropical fruit adventure, let MyRehat guide you through the sweet, tangy, and sometimes pungent world of Thai fruits. Start planning your delicious journey today at www.myrehat.com!