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NAKHON NAYOK

2010-02-27T21:06:00.000-08:00

Nakhon Nayok is a destination which is often taken for granted by many tourists. The fact that it is located just 106 kilometers from Bangkok and its attractions may be visited as a day trip makes it just a stop over spot for travelers. But this is not always the case. Nakhon Nayok is famous for its refreshing natural beauty including waterfalls and parks, renowned historical sites, soft adventure activities, and its variety of fruits.

Nakhon Nayok is one of Thailand's central provinces. Covering some 2,130 square kilometres, it borders Saraburi and Nakhon Ratchasima Provinces on the north, Prachin Buri Province on the east, Chachoengsao Province on the south and Pathum Thani Province on the west.

The northern part of Nakhon Nayok is located in the Dong Phaya Yen mountain range an area covered by the Khao Yai National Park. Yod Khao Kiew, its highest peak, is 1,292 meters above sea level. The central part of the province is on a contrary, a rather flat river plain formed by the Maenam Nakhon Nayok. The southern part of the province has relatively unfertile acidic soil.

The provincial seal says a lot about Nakhon Nayok. It is a picture of a circle indicating the unity of Nakhon Nayok people. An elephant raising an ear of rice in the circle represents fertile forests with numerous elephants. An ear of rice refers to farming which is fruitful. The background with a pile of straw, trees and clouds depicts fertility and the natural beauty of the province.

Nakhon Nayok is a province with a history of over 900 years. It was believed to have been established in the Dvaravati period as indicated by some remains found in Ban Dong Lakhon, a village to the south of the town. During the Ayutthaya period and the reign of King U-Thong, the town which was an eastern garrison was only a forested but infertile highland called Ban Na (village of the rice field). Jungle fever, unfruitful and unproductive agriculture forced the settlers to migrate elsewhere. It was not until the King granted an exemption of paddy field tax that people began to move in and settle down as a community. It was then named Muang Nayok which literally means the town that the paddy tax was lifted.

In 1894, under the royal command of King Rama V, Nakhon Nayok was designated as part of Prachin Buri province. Eventually, it became a province in its own right.

Sights

San Lak Mueang (City Pillar Shrine) at one time it was a shrine housing a 1-metre wooden column topped with a carving in the form of a lotus bud, situated near the Old City Wall. Later the shrine was rebuilt into an elegant four-cornered pavilion. Nowadays, City Pillar Shrine is the most revered shrine of the townspeople.

Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy : It is a training centre for the Thai military cadet. There are several interesting attractions in the Academy compound, which can be accessed by car. Attractions in the Chulachomkloa Royal Military Academy include:

King Rama V Monument : It was built in honour of and reverence to His Majesty King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V) who was the founder of the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy.

Circular Pavilion , historically, under the command of Field Marshall Crown Prince Pitsanulok Prachanat, the circular pavilion was built as a recreation area for the military cadet. It enshrines a sculpture of King Rama V.

100 Year Royal Military Academy Museum exhibits biographies of the graduates who performed public services and also displays history of wars, weapons that were used in wars in the past, various uniforms of soldiers of all forces as well as a wax sculpture of King Rama V.

Shrine of Chao Pho Khun Dan is a revered shrine of the Thais. Historically, Khun Dan was a commander in Nakhon Nayok during the Ayutthaya period. His heroic deed was the expulsion of the Khmer rebels in the year 1587, during the reign of King Naresuan Maharat.

Phra Phutthachai or Wat Phra Chai was formerly named “Wat Khao Cha-ngok”. In the year of 1942, the Army’s Map Department built a marble quarry at the foot of the hill and restored and enhanced the Buddha images. Phra Phutthachai is sacred to the townspeople.

Luang Pho Sian Nakhon, the revered Buddha image of the townspeople is enshrined at Bunnak Rakkitaram temple (Wat Tam). It is assumed that this sacred Buddha image dates back to Phra Ruang Era of the Sukhothai period.

Lord Buddha’s Footprint Replica at Khao Nang Buat, housed in a square structure with four arches and a pyramidal roof (mondop) on top of Nang Buat hill. The festivity to worship the Lord Buddha’s Footprint Replica at Khao Nang Buat is held annually in the middle of the fifth month of the lunar calendar.

Ban Dong Lakhon Archeological Site : It is the site of the location of the old town during the Khmer period. Artefacts discovered in this are include; an elaborate gold head of a Buddha image about the size of a fingertip, crab and elephant ring-stamps, bronze ring, glass beads, rock beads, and bronze ear-rings.

37th Quartermaster Infantry of Japanese Military Memorial : The Friend of Asian Alliance War Association built the memorial in 1992 to honour the 7,920 Thai soldiers who were recruited into the Japanese 37th Quartermaster Infantry that died in the war.

Namtok Sarika is the most famous waterfall of Nakhon Nayok : The waterfall cascades down in 9 levels, of which the top level is 200 metres up. Each level (of 9 levels) of the falls has a large basin, which could hold a large amount of water in the rainy season, but it is dried up in dry season. Nearby, there is “Sarika Cave” where the revered monk “Luang Pu Man” resided on his religious missions from 1917-1920.

Lan Rak Falls or Tat Hin Kong Falls : The attractive waterfall originates from a small stream passing through a large rocky formation at the end, then flowing strongly through the large rocky formation at the foot of a small hill.

Wang Takhrai is filled with huge, shady trees and has a small stream running through. There are also a variety of beautiful species of ornamental flowers and plants.

Nang Rong Falls or Namtok Nang Rong : The waterfall originates from a source on a high mountain in Khao Yai National Park. It cascades down several levels onto rock formations, flowing through verdant forests

Huai Prue Reservoir : This is a small reservoir by volume but has a large water surface. The reservoir is filled all year round and surrounded by an unpaved road.

Sai Thong Reservoir : This small reservoir offers a natural mountainous landscape. The small waterfall runs all throughout the year. OUT-OF CITY ATTRACTIONS Amphoe Ban Na

Namtok Ka-ang : The water cascades through gaps between large rocks. Nearby, there is an Agriculture Transplanting station of the Forestry Department. In the vicinity is a small hill that enshrines the Buddha image in an attitude of subduing Mara.

Namtok Wang Muang : The waterfall features cascades through lines upon lines of big boulders and falling to a basin.

Thudongkhasathan Thawon Nimit is a meditation centre of monks, novices, nuns, and the general public. There are hundreds of shelters for monks, nuns, and general public to practice the Buddhist perceptions.

Namtok Heo Narok : This is a 3-tiered large waterfall with its first tier at 60 metres high. During the rainy season, there is such a lot of water that the flow is frightening and will drop straight down at 90 degrees to a lower chasm.

Chao Pho Ongkharak Shrine : In front of the shrine in the middle of the Nakhon Nayok river, there is a sacred whirlpool, of which the water taken is used in royal ceremonies. When the present king, King Bhumibol Adulyadej ascended to the throne, water from this whirlpool was used during the ceremony.

Ornamental Plants and Floral Centre : On this road, especially at the intersection of khlong 15, there are various plant nurseries that grow a large variety of ornamental plants and flora which are sold to every corner of the country.

Activities

Canoeing in Nakhon Nayok River is fast becoming a popular sport that has made Nakhon Nayok famous. The best time of year for canoeing is during the months of June to October

Mountain Bikes is another activity as popular as canoeing. This activity can be taken up all year round.

Khao Yai-Nakhon Nayok Jungle Treks is usually held during December to June. The trekking aims to promote the study of nature and ecology, as well as creating good understanding in natural resources and environmental conservation.

Khao Yai National Park, the first national park of Thailand was declared a national park on September 18, 1962. It covers areas of four provinces: Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachin Buri, and Saraburi. The park occupies an area of 2,168 square kilometers and consists of virgin forest, tropical forest, streams, waterfalls, wildlife, and a variety of plants. The most suitable visiting time is during the Thai winter, from October to February when it is cold at night until the next morning. The highest point is Khao Rom Peak, which is 1,351 metres above sea level.

How to get there:

From Bangkok: Buses leave the Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) on Kamphaengphet Road (Tel: 02 936-3660 and 02 936-3666) every 30 minutes from 5.30 a.m. to 8.30 a.m. daily. Air-conditioned buses cost 70 bahts/single journey. Regular (non air-conditioned) buses cost 37 bahts.

There are two other routes operated by transport companies: Bangkok-Hin Kong-Nakhon Nayok and Bangkok-Rangsit-Ongkharak-Nakhon Nayok. For more information, contact Tel: 0 2537 8055 and 0 2936 2841. In addition, there are also second-class air-conditioned buses operating from Bangkok-Ongkharak-Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy (by-passing the Nakhon Nayok town).

By Car

From Bangkok: For the shorter route, take Highway No. 305 (along Rangsit canal) passing Ongkharak district. The total distance is 106 kilometers.

For the longer route, take Highway No. 1, turn right at Hin Kong and then drive towards Suwannason Road (Highway No. 33). The total distance is 137 kilometers.

Traveling from Nakhon Nayok to neighboring provinces

Buses to Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Saraburi, and Chanthaburi Provinces are available. For more information, contact the Transport Co. Ltd. Tel. 0 3731 1932.

9 LUCKY BANGKOK TEMPLES

2010-02-27T20:37:00.000-08:00

9 Lucky Bangkok Temples

Over the last few years, it has become increasingly more popular for people to try and visit nine sacred temples in Bangkok in order to bring themselves good luck for the new year. It doesn't really matter which order you do these in, however you should try to pay your respects at all nine temples in one day. Nine of course being an auspicious number in Thai culture because it sounds like the Thai word for "progress". If you don't have time to visit these temples now, then you can try later during mid April for the traditional Thai new year.

Here is the list of the temples together with what you can gain from each visit:

1. Wat Suthat - Good vision

2. Wat Chanasongkram - Victory over difficult obstacles

3. Wat Arum (Temple of Dawn) - A prosperous life

4. City Pillar Shrine - Discard bad luck and lengthen your life with good fortune

5. Wat Kanlayanmit - A safe trip

6. Wat Rakhang - To become more popular and likeable

7. Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of Emerald Buddha) - Wealth and rich rewards

8. Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) - A happier and more peaceful life

9. Chao Phor Seua Shrine - Offers more power and stature

It might be difficult to visit all of these temples by yourself. An alternative would be to join one of the organized tours that are very popular at this time of year.

Reference :

Richard Barrow., available on http://www.bangkokguidebook.com/bangkok-blogs/9-lucky-bangkok-temples.html

PATTAYA FLOATING MARKET

2010-02-25T21:56:00.000-08:00

Pattaya Floating Market is a major tourist attraction, conserving Thai Culture, and covers an area of 62 Rai, almost 100.000 sqm . 10 years ago this was farm land, and home to many aquatic animals, the land was fertile with verdant florae which grew amongst the fields. It was, and still is the largest swamp within the Eastern Seaboard of Thailand.

In 2005 Lake View Restaurant opened providing both Thai and international delicacies; the restaurant was built in front of the Swamp. The CEO later had the wisdom to foresee the potential of the area, whilst giving thought to water conservation, much the same way as to the Royal thinking of His Majesty the King. The CEO has given much thought to the life project to demonstrate the beautiful and simplicity of the Thai way of life, and to present this fascinating culture of the East to the rest of the World.

Activities

Souther part show

Northern part show

Central part show

By car

Pattaya can be reached in a 2.00-hour drive along Bangna-Trat Highway via Bang Pakong, Chon Buri and Si Racha. However, visitors can avoid Chon Buri by opting for Highway 36, the new route of Chon Buri - Pattaya - Rayong or motorway from Rama 9 Road.

By bus

Air-conditioned and non-aircon coaches regularly depart from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai), Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit) on Kamphaengphet Road and Southern Bus Terminal on Borommarat Chonnani Road throughout the day.

Departure times and fares may be obtained from:

The Eastern Bus Terminal, 0 2391 2504, 0 2391 8097

For taxi : Eastern Bus Terminal

The Northern Bus Terminal, 0 2936 2852 to 66, 0 2936 3666

For taxi : Northern Bus Terminal

The Southern Bus Terminal, 0 2894 6122

For taxi : Southern Bus Terminal

There are also air-con buses that go directly from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya. Buses run daily from 6.30 to 19.00 hrs. For information, contact the Public Transportation Centre at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, tel. 0 2134 4099, 0 2132 9171.

Besides, there are bus services to Pattaya available at most hotels in Bangkok. Contact the tour desk at your hotel for details.

By train

The State Railway of Thailand offers a train service departing Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station at 06.50 hours. (Mon-Fri). The journey takes about 3.30 hours.

For details, call the State Railway of Thailand, 1690, 0 2223 7010, 0 2220 4444 (RSVN), 0 2220 4334, 0
2621 8701.

For taxi : Hualamphong Station

References:

1. http://www.pattayafloatingmarket.com

2. http://images.google.co.th

HUA HIN

2010-02-25T21:35:00.000-08:00

Hua Hin is a famous beach resort town in Thailand, in the northern part of the Malay Peninsula, some 200 km south of Bangkok. It has a population of 84,883 in an area of 911 km², and is one of eight districts (Amphoe) of the Prachuap Khiri Khan province.

Hua Hin is closely associated with the Thai royalty. Merely 25 kilometers apart, Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan province enjoys a wealth of satellite attractions; prominent among them are national parks and historical cities.

Transportation

Roads Hua Hin is linked by highway to Petchburi and the rest of Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Both central Bangkok and Suvarmabhumi airport are just over 2 hours drive, dependent on traffic.

Rail systems Hua Hin is part of the southern rail route originating in Bangkok. Trains run through to the south of the country and link directly with Malaysia.

Bus There are buses from buses from Bangkok going directly to Hua Hin and others which pass through while on the way to other destinations further south.

Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicle) This kind of the transport is the most preferred mode of around the town and surrounding areas. Hua Hin also has an abundance of tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis.

Airport Hua Hin is served by its own domestic airport. At present these are no scheduled flights to or from the airport, which is used for private flights only.

Tourism

Thailand’s royal family and especially former kings were the first to set this location on the map as the original seashore destination in Thailand. The 5 km long beach itself is pretty and the sea is relatively clean. Besides just sunbathing snorkeling and swimming, it is the place supporting attractions and activities such as golf, spas, caves, peaks, waterfalls, shops, seafood and nearby national parks.

Attractions

Hat Hua Hin : Hua Hin Beach extends some five kilometers southwards from a rocky headland until Kao Takiap, a southern headland where a Buddhist temple clings to the cliffs.

Hua Hin Railway Station : This is Thailand's most beautiful train station. The wooden building used to be a royal pavilion in Sanamchan Palace, Nakhon Pathom province. It was rebuilt at Hua Hin in 1968.

Nightly Street Market : a popular shopping market allowing people the opportunity for shopping, native-style seafood cooked on the spot and to witness local people’s lifestyle.

Khao Takiap : This hill, 4 kilometers from Hua Hin town, supports Buddhist temples and offers a commanding view of the resort, particularly early in the morning.

Khao Hin Lek Fai : Situated 3 kilometers west of Hua Hin district, Khao Hin Lek Fai or Flint Mountain is 162 meters high. On the mountaintop, there is a public park and scenic spots from where the scenery of Hua Hin and its surrounding area is visible.

Khao Tao : 13 kilometers south of Hua Hin, there is a 1- kilometer branch road on the left which leads to the spot with two beaches called Hat Sai Noi and Hat Sai Yai. Khao Tao is a trditional fishing village that also boasts spectacular temples.

Namtok Pa La-u : This 11-tier scenic waterfall, some 60 kilometres west of Hua Hin, is located within a yearlong verdant forest where various kinds of birds and butterflies are found, especially in the morning.

The statue of Luang Pu Thuat at Wat Huay MongkolSpirit Houses of Brassiere Beach were, according to legend, built to appease the spirit of a fisherman’s daughter who was once torn to pieces and her breasts fell into the sea. She was killed because she was desired by too many men. Until this day, the locals still hang brassieres to the spirit houses, but now they just pray for good luck.

Wat Huay Mongkol was home to the immensely popular monk Luang Pu Thuat was famed for his ‘miracles’. Commissioned by the Queen of Thailand, Wat Huay Mongkol houses the largest statue of Luang Phor Thuat in Thailand in a park-like setting. 10. Suan Son Pradiphat Beach, 8 km south of Hua Hin, is a peaceful location which is owned by the Army Welfare Office.

Hua Hin Hills Vineyard is the only vineyard in the area is located 45 minutes from downtown. It offers spectacular views, a restaurant and wine tasting of the local Monsoon Valley Wines.

Activities

Popular activities in Hua Hin include:fishing, eco-cruising, kite-boarding, fitness, martial arts, elephant camping, Thai massage, spa, cooking courses, trekking, walking, cycling, diving, snorkeling, creative arts, water sports, pony-riding and golf.

Golf in particular is becoming especially popular, with Hua Hin increasingly being recognized as one of Thailand's premier golfing destinations. The town hosted its first Asian tour event in 2009 at the new Black Mountain course, while other first class courses in easy reach include Royal Hua Hin, Banyan, Palm Hills, Majestic Creek, Lake View and Springfield. There are several driving ranges.

Some foreign tourists go to Hua Hin and learn something like Thai cooking or Thai boxing.

Shopping

Hua Hin is a popular place for shopping including contemporary art handicrafts, hand-woven printed cotton, silk fabric silk weaving, embroidery, basket making, pottery, wood carving, gemstones and jewelry (including sapphires and rubies). There is also a large shopping mall called Market Village

Nightlife

Most foreign-oriented nightlife is centred on Soi Bintabaht and Soi Selakam, where many typical beer bars are found. There are also the usual discothèques, karaoke bars, live music venues, hotel bars and even a lady-boy cabaret, the Blue Angel. The pace of nightlife is much slower than in the larger western-oriented towns of Pattaya and Patong, while the proximity to the Royal Palace means that there are no go-go bars.

Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hua_Hin

PETCHABURI

2010-02-25T21:25:00.000-08:00

Phetchaburi is one of the central provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram and Prachuap Khiri Khan. In the west it borders Tanintharyi Division of Myanmar. Phetchaburi is an old royal city, dating back to the Mon of the 8th century. Later Khmer settled in the city, as can be seen by the prangs of Wat Kamphaeng Laeng. In 1860 King Mongkut built a palace near the city of Phetchaburi, commonly known as Khao Wang, but its official name is Phra Nakhon Khiri. Next to the palace the king built a tower for his astronomical observations. On the adjoining hill is the royal temple Wat Phra Kaeo.

Sights

Hat Cha-am : Appearing to have been frozen in time warp, midway between remaining a Thai-style resort, and modernising to meet international tastes and requirements, this extensive pine-fringed beach is considered to be one of the most popular beaches of Thailand.

Maruekhathaiyawan Palace : This beachside wooden palace was formerly used as a royal summer residence by King Rama VI during the 1920s. Facing the open sea, the palace is referred to as the palace of love and hope”.

Huai Sai Wildlife Breeding Centre : 14 kilometres south of Cha-am at km. 220, a 4-kilometre branch road leads to the Huai Sai Wildlife Breeding Centre where wild animals, both mammals and birds, are conserved in its shady area.

Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park : This covers a hilly area with an old palace and historical temples in the vicinity of the town. It consists of royal halls, temples and groups of buildings, constructed mostly in harmonious Thai, Western neoclassic and Chinese architectural styles.

Khao Bandai It : This hill is 121 metres high and just 2 kilometres south of Khao Wang. It is the site of an ancient temple of the Ayutthaya Period. There are several caves called Tham Prathun, Tham Phra Chao Suea, and Tham Phra Phuttha Saiyat.

Tham Khao Luang : This cave houses a Buddha image cast by the royal command of King Rama V as a dedication to King Rama III and King Rama IV. At the foot of the Khao Luang Hill, there is a large monastery called "Wat Tham Klaep" or Wat Bun-thawi which has a very large hall and a chapel with beautifully carved door panels.

Wat Mahathat Worawihan : There is a five-topped pagoda constructed in accordance with the Mahayana concept housing Lord Buddha’s relics. The stucco designs decorated on the viharn and the ubosot reflect the excellent skill of local craftsmen.

Wat Yai Suwannaram : The main shrine hall has no windows. It contains 300-year-old mural paintings of mythical angels. The hall also houses a preaching throne with intricate woodcarvings and gold gilt works of Bangkok design.

Wat Kamphaeng Laeng : This temple was originally a Khmer place of worship. It was later turned into a Buddhist temple and a shrine hall was constructed. However, the outlook of the place has not much changed due to the existence of sandstone walls and four Khmer style pagodas.

Phra Ram Ratchaniwet : This palace of European architectural style is originally called "Wang Ban Puen". King Rama V commanded it built as a rainy season palace in 1916. It was used to welcome and accommodate state visitors during the reign of King Rama VI.

Hat Chao Samran : Legend says that King Naresuan the Great and King Eka Thotsarot made several royal visits here and highly appreciated its beauty. The villagers thus rendered it a name "Hat Chao Samran", which means “Beach of Royal Leisure”.

Hat Puek Tian : This wide and long beach is popular among Thai tourists. The most prominent landmark is a huge statue of a female giant standing in the sea.

Wat Khao Takhrao : This temple houses a highly revered sitting Buddha image called "Luang Pho Khao Takhrao". The image was found at the mouth of the Mae Klong River in Samut Songkhram by the villagers of Ban Laem, who migrated from Ban Laem to Samut Songkhram during the fall of Ayutthaya.

Hat Laem Luang : Located 4 kilometres north of Hat Chao Samran, this beach stretchs for 2 kilometres and is full of white sand.

Kaeng Krachan Dam : It is 760 metres long and 58 metres high, overlooking beautiful scenery of the reservoir and its islands.

Kaeng Krachan National Park :This is the most extensive national park of Thailand and still largely unexplored. It was declared a national park on June 12, 1981, with clearly defined areas for a reservoir and year round green jungle in the Tanaosri Ranges, which are the origins of many rivers.

Tham Khao Yoi : It houses several Buddha images and was the place where King Mongkut practised meditation while he was in the monkhood.

Wat Kuti : This temple houses a Bot or rite hall made entirely from carved teak wood. Its outer surface of the walls was carved into scenes depicting Lord Buddha’s story and the door panels into openwork of intwined spray patterns, all with masterly craftsmanship.

Lao Song or Thai Song Dam Tribal Villages : These are found in many types of vicinity in Amphoe Khao Yoi, particularly at Ban Nong Prong and Ban Thap Khang. Their ancestors have migrated from Laos. In April, they organise their own social events with entertainment and folk plays.

Activities

Rafting along the Phetchaburi River is an exciting adventure through the Kaeng Krachan National Park. The trip from Phetchaburi to the starting point takes 3 hours by 4-wheel drive truck and the raft trip takes some 5 hours passing a verdant forest and a Karen hilltribe village.

Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phetchaburi_Province

Saraburi

2010-02-23T03:44:00.000-08:00

Saraburi is located on the east side of the Chao Phraya river valley. The east part of the province is covered by high plains and plateaus, while the western part is mostly low flat plains.

Two national parks are located in the province. Namtok Chet Sao Noi protects 28 km² around a scenic waterfall. Phra Phutthachai protects the Khao Sam Lan Forest, which consists of hilly landscape and is the source to several rivers and waterfalls. The highest elevation is the Khao Khrok, 329 m above sea level. The 44.57 km² were declared a national park in 1981.

The town, as a gateway to the northeastern region, is only 108 km from Bangkok. It occupies an area of 3,576.5 square kilometres.

Places

The most important Buddhist temple is Wat Phra Phutthabat, built under King Songtham in the 17th century, is located around a Buddha footprint. It is the most popular pilgrimage site within central Thailand.

Close to that temple, Wat Tham Krabok is famous for its drug detoxification. Additionally it was the last of the Hmong refugee camps in Thailand.

Sights

Wat Phra Phutthabat

Phra PhutthachaiWat Phra Phutthabat: This temple is located in Amphoe Phra Phutthabat, 28 km north of the town along Highway No.1. It is one of the most beautiful religious sites in Thailand. The temple houses the footprint of Lord Buddha found on a stone panel near Suwan Banpot Hill. The footprint was found in the reign of King Songtham of Ayutthaya. A spired square pavilion or mondop was built to cover the footprint.

Wat Phra Phutthachai: This temple is situated on a hillside. The main attraction is a picture of Lord Buddha appearing on a cliff wall. A Wihara has been built to cover it. The surroundings are very pleasant and shady.

Khao Sam Lan National Park: This is the nearest national park where tourists can take a short journey form Bangkok. It is 4 km beyond Wat Phra Phutthachai. The park offers many small waterfalls, some of which can be reached by short hiking trails. The best time to visit the falls is the late rainy season when water is plentiful.

Crocodile Farm and Zoo : Besides crocodiles, there are many other kinds of animals such as deer, monkeys, and various species of birds.

Phra Phuttha Nirarokhantarai Chaiwat Chaturathit : It is the Buddha image of the East and one of the four images made by the Territorial Defence Department to express loyalty to King Rama VI and King Rama IX. It resides in the cruciform pavilion of Wat Sala Daeng.

Phu Khae Botanical Garden : Established in 1941 as the first Royal Forest Department Botanical garden ever, it sprawls over an area of 300 ha of which 100 ha is natural vegetation and forest. It also features a literary garden, comprising 35 species of plants which are mentioned in Thai literature. It also contains a medicinal garden.

Tham Si Wilai : A cave in which resides the Phra Phutthanaowarat Buddha image from the Chiang Saen period. The cave also features stalagmites and stalactites.

Sao Ronghai : A gigantic post made from a hardwood tree known as Takhian, which is believed to possess a female spirit called "Takhian Thong". This post was submerged under water at this sub-district for more than 100 years until in 1958, the locals brought it out of the water and kept it in the shrine.

The Golden Buddha Image : A Buddha image in the meditation posture. The Fine Arts Department examined it and analysed that it is 70% gold. Therefore, the locals named it "Luangpho Thongkham", the "Golden Buddha image".

Wat Phayao : The golden Buddha image of Wat Phayao is considered as one of the major sculptures of Ayutthaya period. The believers built a viharn with a cruciform plan as a residence for the Buddha image to enhance its dignity and to bring honour to the people of Saraburi.

Wat Khao Kaeo Worawihan : When King Rama IV visited Sao Hai District, he ordered the renovation of this temple and promoted it as a royal temple. There has been a rumor that a bright crystal ball would appear over the viharn of Wat Khao Khaeo on some nights.

Ban Khao Kaeo : A traditional Thai wooden house of approximately 80-100 years old. It is the property of Achan Songchai Wannakun. The house was established as the "Thai Yuan Cultural Study Centre", collecting folk utensils, weapons, present day tools as well as ancient woven textiles of over 100 years old.

Bencha Sutthi Khongkha refers to the sacred water from one of the five important rivers that flow through Sao Hai District. It is used for the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony ever since the reign of King Rama IV until the present time.

Wat Samuha Pradittharam : Inside this temple one can find beautiful murals depicting the Khawi folk tale. The main Buddha image, in the posture of subduing Mara, was taken from Sukhothai’s Ancient City. It is cast in bronze and covered with gold leaf.

Wat Chanthaburi : The main attraction is the ubosoth, constructed in 1893 during the reign of King Rama III. Inside are beautiful murals of the same period as the ubosot. They are still in perfect condition and depict the gathering of angels and the story of the Lord Buddha.

Weaving Centre of Tambon Ban Ton Tan : This centre is an educational facility for the youth and general public. There are various kinds of woven fabric on display such as loincloth, plain coloured cloth, Pha Si Khao, and fabric in the Dok Phikun – bullet wood flower – pattern, which is a traditional Thai Yuan style.

Thanon Phrachao Songtham or Thanon Farang Song Klong : A road constructed during the reign of King Songtham who reigned from 1611 to 1628. At present, approximately 9 kilometres of the path can still be seen. It starts opposite Wat Sang Sok. It was changed into a laterite and concrete road with a width of 6-8 metres.

Thale Ban Mo : A deep and wide pond with a serene atmosphere, it is the habitat of various water creatures. From February until July, large flocks of migratory birds from Siberia can be found here.

Samnak Song Tham Krabok : A well-known rehabilitation centre for drug addicts. This monastic residence was established by a Buddhist nun, Mian Panchan, in 1957.

Bo Phran Lang Nuea : A small stone well near Wat Phra Phutthabat. At the mouth of the well are knee prints. There are stone slopes and a deep hole the size of a can of milk near the well. The water that flows from the hole is believed to be holy water.

Phra Tamnak Than Kasem : This palace was built in 1633 during the reign of King Prasat Thong as his residence on his royal visit to pay respect to Phra Phutthabat. The base of the palace still remains.

Tham Thep Nimit Than Thong Daeng : It is a prehistoric archaeological site. Artefacts of the late Neolithic period were discovered here.

Tham Narai or Tham Khao Wong : It is a cave containing stalagmites and stalactites as well as ancient Mon scripts at the entrance of the cave.

Tamnak Sa Yo : A royal residence constructed at the edge of Than Thong Daeng by Somdet Phrachao Prasat Thong’s command for his visit to pay respect to Phra Phutthabat.

Phra Tamnak Thai Phikun, the Ancient Palace : In the present, there are no remains left of the actual palace. Only the royal elephant mounting platform and the surrounding wall are left.

Tham Phrathat Charoen Tham or Tham Bo Pla : The cave is divided into 3 big rooms. In the cave resides Luangpho Yai, a stucco Buddha image with black lacquer applied and covered with gold leaf in the gesture of subduing Mara. It is from the Ayutthaya period.

Pha Sadet : It is the cliff where King Rama V and the Queen resided when the Bangkok – Nakhon Ratchasima railway was constructed in 1895. Both of them also inscribed their royal initials, Cho Pho Ro and So Pho at the cliff.

Tham Phra Phothisat : A bas-relief from the Dvaravati period can be found on the cave wall, depicting the preaching Buddha as well as Hindu gods. Outside the cave are many trees of various kinds as well as the royal initials, Cho Pho Ro, inscribed by King Rama V when he visited the waterfall. It consists of Tham Thammathat, Tham Lumphini, a stone garden and Tham Sa-ngat Chedi.

Khao Phra Phutthabat Noi features undulating steep limestone mountains comprising of many pointed summits. Inside lies a replica of the Buddha’s footprint, around 1 cubit wide and 3 cubits long imprinted deep into the ground.

Phra Bowon Ratchawang Si Tha : The compound of this residence was very large, covering an area of approximately more than 150 rai. There still remains the lotus base for a wooden house made of brick and cement. There is an area of around 4 rai left which the Kamnan - village headman, Mr. Suphat Ritthichampha, has reserved as a public area.

Ban Dong Nam Bo Archaeological Site : It is a cemetery where burial ceremonies were conducted and an archaeological site of the Pa Sak River culture. Also, iron and stone tools, jewellery, bangles and beads, aged approximately 2,000 years, were discovered.

Chet Khot - Pong Kon Sao Nature and Ecotourism Study Centre : The centre features a large biodiversity of both plants and animals. It comprises many kinds of forests such as dry evergreen forest, moist evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest and savanna. Animals living in this compound are wild elephants, gaurs, bears, deer, barking deer, lories, mouse deer, wild boar and approximately 158 kinds of birds.

Nature Study Routes :There are 3 overall. The first route is from the sightseeing spot located 12 kilometres from the centre. The second route is from Sap Pa Wan Reservoir to Hin Dat Waterfall. The third route is from Sap Pa Wan Reservoir to Namtok Chet Khot Nuea, Klang and Tai. Other waterfalls found in the area and nearby are equally splendid. Significant are the Namtok Khao Khaep, the Namtok Krok Fa Phanang and the Namtok Sap Pa Wan.

Sekeikyuseikyo Thai Headquarters lies the tropical Miroku Botanic Garden. There is also a pool, marble sculptures in various shapes, and a Japanese garden with a beautiful landscape. On the other side of the project lies an organic demonstration vegetable plot by using the Effective Microorganisms (EM) technology: a use of a micro-organism to reduce pollution in the environment.

Rafting along the Pa Sak River : The natural surroundings on both sides of the river is beautiful. The mountains line up along the rafting route. At some parts stones and cliffs can be seen with strange shapes, similar to animals.

Namtok Heo Noi : Proceeding further from this waterfall, there are high waterfalls in Khao Yai National Park. The best time to visit is from July to November.

Muak Lek Arboretum and Namtok Muak Lek : The lively stream originates from its tributaries in the Khao Yai National Park that flow into the Pa Sak River which forms the border between two provinces. The stream has rocky slopes that form small beautiful cascades.

Namtok Chet Sao Noi National Park : The waterfall has 7 levels. The height of each level is approximately 4 metres and offers a spacious shaded swimming area.

Namtok Sap Heo : This waterfall also features a large basin suitable for swimming. On the right side of the waterfall is a path to a small cave which houses stalagmites and stalactites. Trekking to the waterfall is quite difficult.

Tham Dao Khao Kaeo : The distinguishing points of this cave are its red, black and brown spots on the ceiling as well as the stalagmites and stalactites and its large population of bats.

The Dairy Farming Promotion Organisation of Thailand (องค์การส่งเสริมกิจการโคนมแห่งประเทศไทย (อ.ส.ค.)): The Danish government and the Danish Dairy Farming Association together offered a promotion project on the raising of dairy cows. They cooperated with the Thai government to establish the Thai-Danish Dairy Farm (TDDF) and a training centre in Muak Lek District, Saraburi.

Pa Sak Jolasid Dam : It was selected as one of the "Unseen Thailand Destinations". It is the longest earth filled dam in Thailand with a length of 4,860 metres along the crest.

Tree Tunnel is an arch formed by trees bent towards each other on both sides of the road, forming a 200-metre long beautifully shaded "tunnel".

Sunflower Fields are found between Lop Buri and Saraburi along the Phatthana Nikhom – Wang Muang route. From November to December, the yellow sunflower fields along the road attract many people.

Chedi Phrakhun Mae : The chedi is surrounded by Buddha images representing the seven days of the week. It was constructed to encourage children to remember the kindness of their mothers and to be good in return.

Phai Tam Sub-district Bird Garden : The garden covers an area of approximately 3 rai and is the residence of more than 17 species of birds. These birds always find their food early in the morning and fly back to their nest at dust.

Cliff Climbing – Abseiling : At Wat Phra Chai, Mueang District, is a large cliff with a height of 35 metres appropriate for the cliff climbing with a climb of less than 5 metres high without the use of a rope. However, cushions are provided on the ground below and a climbing partner will always take care and block from behind the climber. The spot is on a mountain which is surrounded with cliffs on every side. On the east of Wat Phra Phutthachai lie large round stones alternating with timber forests. On the other route is a climbing location with a rope or Top Rope with a length of 40 metres. Also, this is a sightseeing spot for the plain of the Pa Sak River as well as the scenery of Saraburi.

Tham Lumphini Suan Hin : A cave in Kaeng Khoi District with a length of 1,800 metres. It is the longest cave in perfect condition of Saraburi created naturally by underground water.

Chantaburi

2010-02-23T03:25:00.000-08:00

Chantaburi is 245 km from Bangkok and covers an area of 6,338 km2. It is a destination famous for tropical fruits & gems. It is rich with verdant forests with scenic waterfalls. The River, home of ancient communities. Chanthaburi is administratively divided into Muang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Khlung, Laem Sing, Pong Nam Ron, Makham, Soi Dao, Na Yai Am, Kang Maeo and Khao Khitchakut sub-district.

Quiet fishing villages & peaceful beaches are the suggested places to people who like to chill out, it is not far from the town center.

Otherwise known as Mueang Chan, is a fertile province with various factors contributing to successful cultivation of fruits, especially durian, rambutan, mangosteen, and other economic crops such as pepper and para rubber tree. The province also serves as a hub of gemstone trading, with diversified tourist attractions to offer ranging from mountains, forests, waterfalls, beaches, places and objects of antiquity to soft adventure and ecotourism activities such as trekking, mountain biking, rafting, etc.

Get in

Chantaburi is about 4 hours by bus from Bangkok. The Cambodian border at Ban Pakard is 1-2 hours away by minibus (~100 baht) or songthaew (~40 baht), from where Pailin is just 15km away.

By car

The province is accessible by 5 routes:

Highway No. 3, start from Bang Na, Bangkok, via Chon Buri – Bang Saen – Si Racha – Pattaya – Sattahip – Ban Chang – Rayong – Chanthaburi, a total distance of 330 Kilometres

Highway No. 36, start from Kilometres 140 on Sukhumwit Road in Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, turn left at Krathing Lai T-junction via Pira Circuit to end at Tambon Choeng Noen in Amphoe Mueang, Rayong Province, a distance of 60 Kilometres, then turn into Highway No. 3 for 108 Kilometres to Chanthaburi, a total distance of 308 Kilometres

Highway No. 344, the Ban Bueng – Klaeng route, saving a distance of up to 70 Kilometres, start from Kilometres 98 on Sukhumwit Road in Amphoe Mueang, Chon Buri, via Amphoe Ban Bueng of Chon Buri Province, Amphoe Wang Chan and Amphoe Klaeng of Rayong Province, a distance of 110 Kilometres Then, continue on Highway No. 3 for 58 Kilometres to Chanthaburi, a total distance of 266 Kilometres

linking the Northeast and the East, start at Kilometres 200 on Highway No. 33 from Amphoe Kabin Buri of Prachin Buri Province, turn right at Kilometres 230 in Sa Kaeo Province into Highway No. 317, continue for 189 Kilometres via Amphoe Wang Nam Yen, Amphoe Soi Dao, Amphoe Pong Nam Ron, Amphoe Makham to Chanthaburi, a total distance of 219 Kilometres from Kabin Buri.

Motorway – Highway No. 7, start from Si Nakharin Road in Bangkok and end in Pattaya, Chon Buri, a distance of 90 Kilometres Then, continue on Highway No. 36 for 50 Kilometres and Highway No. 3 for another 108 Kilometres, a total distance of 248 Kilometres

By bus

From Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) on Sukhumwit Road Air-conditioned Bus Transport Co., Ltd., there are buses leaving daily, for more details, Tel. 0 2391 2504; Chanthaburi office, Tel. 0 3932 2197.

Private operators:

Cherdchai Tour Tel. 0 2391 2237; Chanthaburi office, Tel. 0 3935 0357.

Pornnipa Tour Tel. 0 2391 5179; Chanthaburi office, Tel. 0 3931 1476, 0 3931 1278.

Suparat Tour Tel. 0 2391 2331; Chanthaburi office, Tel. 0 3935 0223.

Non Air-conditioned Bus There are non-scheduled buses leaving the Eastern Bus Terminal, for more details: Tel. 0 2391 2504.

From Mo Chit 2 or Northern Bus Terminal (Chatuchak) on Kamphaeng Phet Road

Transport Co., Ltd., there are buses leaving daily, Tel. 0 2936 2852

Private operators:

Cherdchai Tour Tel. 0 2936 0199

Pornnipa Tour Tel. 0 2936 2256-7

Suparat Tour Tel. 0 2936 3888, 0 2936 3939

Buses are also available from Chanthaburi to other provinces including Nakhon Ratchasima, Trat, Rayong, Sa Kaeo, Saraburi, Buri Ram, Prachin Buri, and Tak. For more information, please contact the Chanthaburi Bus Terminal at Tel. 0 3932 2197.

See

The City Pillar & the Taksin Maharat Shrine, are located at Tha Luang Road in front of the Taksin Military Barracks. Opposite stands an old building (Former town hall) which was erected during the reign of King Rama VI.

Taksin Maharat Memorial, Liap Noen Road (near to park). The equestrian statue is guarded by statues of his four royal guards. The expression on the king's face clearly shows the resoluteness and determination to restore the national independence. The pond is stocked with a large variety of fish.

Si Chan Road is the commercial centre of the gem business. Even though actual gem-mining in the province is not extensive, Chanthaburi remains a major centre for gem dealings with stones from abroad being bought and sold. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings, it attracts a large crowd of gem dealers and visitors.

Across the Chanthaburi River (from Si Chan Road) and left turn 1 km from the bridge, is around 800m off the main road is Wat Phai Lom. The Ram lll-era Ubosot features wall murals on all four sides portraying the story of Lord Buddha with Chinese floral designs as well as illustrations of foreigners. There is also a ubosot of western architectural influence attesting to Chanthaburi's artistic and cultural contact with the western world.

The Catholic Church, Chanthanimit Road on the river bank is the largest Catholic edifice in Thailand. Built in 1909, it is of Gothic architectural style. The original tall roof was taken down during World War ll to make it less conspicuous as a possible target.

Wat Thong Thua, 4 km from town, Sukhumwit Highway, is the site of an ancient Bot which was built in Khmer-style temple. It has a large collection of ancient Khmer sculptures such as lintels, sandstone door columns carved in various designs & inscription stone. Nearby is the Muang Phaniat archaeological site with laterite base of Khmer religious sanctuary and moats marking the town limit to the south. The ancient town is believed to have been dated from the 12th-16th century(Buddhist Era).

On Chanthaburi-Tha Mai-Khung Wiman Route Wat Phlup at Tambon Bang Kacha, southwest of town, was the site of an old community during the late Ayutthaya period. Special features are two ancient pagodas of different styles and an old Thai wooden pavilion.

The ancient site of Khai Noen Wong, at Tambon Bang Kacha, was established in 1834 during the reign of King Rama lll. The town was moved from Ban Lum to this new location because of its high ground (which more suitable for defensive purposes against the invading Vietnamese). The laterite walls and bricks from the old town were also dismantled and moved to the new site. A severe drought during the reign of King Rama V forced its return to the original site at Ban Lum.

The old town at Khai Noen Wong was square-shaped with extensive laterite walls mounted with large cannons. Each side had its own ramparts and defensive moats. It was regarded as a powerful military camp of the time. The town's principal temple was Wat Yothanimit

National maritime museum, the Underwater Archaeological Office is located within Khai Noen Wong specialising in exhibits on Thailand's merchant marine and items discovered from underwater archaeological explorations from all over the country. There are also exhibits of ancient sailing routes and products. An exhibition chamber deals with the history and culture of Chanthaburi.

Khao Laem Sing Forest Park , Tha Mai-Bang Kachai route, 25 km from Tha Mai, passes through Wat Khao Laem Sing right up to the park HQ on a hill. Alternatively, visitors can charter a boat from Laem Sing beach to Ao Krathing Beach, just 400 metres away, and walk up to the park. Camping is allowed on application.

Khao Laem Sing is a small hill 172 metres above the sea. Located to the east of the mouth of the Chanthaburi River, it has a cape jutting into the sea which looks like a sprawling lion. There is an old fortification called Pom Phairi Phinat built during the reign of King Rama lll.

Hat Ao Yang is a small beach some 2km before the park. Cool and shady, it offers accommodation facilities for visitors.

Hat Khung Wiman, Hat Khung Kraben, Hat Laem Sadet and Hat Chao Lao are all peaceful beaches in Tha Mai district and clustered in an area about 30km from town. At Km. 310 of Highway No. 3 is a right turn into Highway No. 3399 which leads to the area. Or one can proceed from Tha Mai district on the route passing through Wang Tanot dam. There are accommodation facilities for tourists, particularly at Hat Chao Lao where there are several hotels and bungalows to choose from. About one kilometre off shore from Hat Chao Lao are ranges of shallow water coral reefs covering an area of 14 square kilometres. Glass-bottomed boats are available. Over at Ao Khung Kraben are nature trails to study mangrove area.

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Koh Si Chang - SriRacha Chonburi

2010-02-23T03:14:00.000-08:00

Koh Si Chang, or Sichang Island, has a special place in the history of the Chakri dynasty. Three former kings vacationed there. Its remaining link to royalty can be seen in the names around the island where almost everything is named after members of the royal family, and some high-ranking officers, of King Chulalongkorn, Rama V. Some of the roads, buildings, bridges, parks and temples are named after high-ranking officers who contributed to their construction. Other sites were named after precious stones.

King Mongkut, or Rama IV, admired the island for its fresh and clean air, which he believed contributed to the long lives of the people who lived there. But even though the King made periodic trips to the island in the mid-19th century, he slept on his ship and didn't build a permanent residence there.

The face of Sichang Island changed considerably during the reign of King Rama V as it became a busy port and one of the gateways to Siam. After Prince Vajiravudh (who would later take the throne as King Rama VI) stayed on the island for over eight months to recover from an illness, Sichang became the most popular place for convalescence for members of the royal family.

Chudadhuj Palace

Still, it was not until 1892 that the royal summer residences took on the formal status of a palace. When Prince Chudadhuj Daradilok was born to Queen Sri Bajarindra on July 5, 1892, at Chudadhuj Throne Hall on the island, and a traditional ceremony was held a month later to bless the new-born prince, and the Sichang summer palace was bestowed with the name Chudadhuj Palace.

The summer palace compound boasted four mansions, 14 halls and a pavilion surrounded by many ponds, brooks, cliffs and caves. The palace's architecture reflected the social and political climate of the time it was built. The Western influence is evident.

The pagoda-church of Assadang Nimit Temple for example. It's a true East-meets-West building with a traditional Thai pagoda built on top of the Western domed church. The floor was made of marble and the windows were decorated with stained glass, he added.

Regrettably, it was the rise of Western colonialism that forced the royal family to leave the island. The Franco-Siamese conflict regarding sovereignty over neighbouring Laos led to aggression by French gunships which blockaded the Chao Phraya River. The French also stationed their troops along the eastern coast of Siam, and Sichang Island was no longer considered safe for royal sojourns.

Though the Franco-Siamese treaty relinquishing land on the left bank of the Mekong River to the French was signed in 1893, the French did not pull out their troops until a decade later. The palace was left vacant and some mansions under construction in the compound were left unfinished.

In 1901, however, King Chulalongkorn realised that Munthat Rattanarot Mansion was still not finished, and he ordered the golden teakwood building to be dismantled and brought to Bangkok. By royal decree, the mansion was brought to Dusit Palace and rebuilt as the renowned Vimanmek Mansion.

The octagon stone base where the original mansion once stood can still be seen at the compound of the Chudhadhuj Palace on Sichang Island.

Wat Thamyaiprig

Wat Thamyaiprig started in 1970 a spartan, solitary abode at a limestone cave up the mountain on Si Chang Island. The temple grew as the abbot's fame as a meditation teacher attracted the religious-minded to enter a monastic life and learn meditation under his guidance. The temple now accommodates 23 monks and 22 nuns from various professional backgrounds.

"Some are experienced electricians, others are builders and carpenters," said Mae Chee Srisuda, who herself is a former teacher. "Our diverse skills have made it possible for our temple to be relatively self-sufficient."

Apart from a praying hall, meditation pavilions, and monks' living quarters, Wat Thamyaiprig also has large fruit and vegetable gardens to support its monks and nuns. It also boasts as many as 37 huge underground water tanks.

Si Chang is a rock island with no natural source of spring water. Therefore, they need huge water tanks to store the rain water for use all year round. Water tanks, for example, are built under every building in the temple. When it rains, the water will flow from the roof down the rain pipes to the tube which flows directly to the water tank underneath. When the top water tank is full, the water will flow over to a pipe which goes to the one below, until all water tanks are full. Then the excess water will be released to the sea.

The stored rain water is used for all water needs, from drinking to watering the vegetable gardens. But thanks to the temple's frugality, the temple is able to distribute excess water to villagers nearby.

The villagers need to pay about 90 to 100 Bahtfor one cubic metre of water in village stores, which is very expensive. However on water distribution days, the villagers bring their own containers to take the water from the temple for free, she said.

Water is not the only thing Wat Thamyaiprig offers the Si Chang inhabitants. The abundant vegetable gardens on the 19-rai temple generously yield all sorts of vegetables such as tomatoes, aubergines, lettuce, water mimosa, cow peas and pumpkins, among many things. The yield is more than the monks and nuns need, for they only have one meal a day. The surplus is given for free to the villagers.

Although monks and nuns at Wat Thamyaiprig must chip in their labour at the temple, the nun said they never consider it a life of hardship.

Getting There

Located off the coast of the fishing town of Sri Racha, Chonburi province, this island has many sites of historical value. Boats leave from the pier near Koh Loy, Sri Racha and take 45 minutes to reach the island.

Where to Stay

Accommodation on the island is limited, as is the water supply. There is no natural source of water on the island, so the inhabitants reply on rain water stored in large cisterns that were built when the island was developed about a century ago.

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Reference
http://www.amazing-thailand.com/KohSiChang.html

PHU HIN RONG KLA NATIONAL PARK

2009-12-23T07:57:00.000-08:00

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park has an area 307 km2 or 191,875 rai. It covers Dansai District of Loei Province and Nakon Thai District of Phisanuloke Province. It is blessed with natural beauty and historical significance. Unfortunately, fighting there during the communist years did untold damage to the forest.

Topography

The general topography of the park is steeply mountainous. The northern part of the park in Chaiburi Dstrict borders Laos. The Southern part of the park runs into Petchabun Province. The mountain range includes the peaks of Phu Pangma, Phu Lomloh, Phu Hin Rong Kla and Phu Mahn Yow, the tallest in the park at 1,800 meters above sea level. The second tallest is Phu Lomloh at 1,664 meters. The park is the headwaters of many streams, including Huai Muad Kon, and Huay Luang Yai.

Climate

Phu Hin Rong Kla’s climate is similar to that of Phu Kra Dung and Phu Luang. Because of its high altitude, the park is cool all year round, especially, of course, in the cool season, when temperature can occasionally drop to freezing point. Mist can cool and pleasant; the temperature does not rise much above 25 Celcius.

Flora and Fauna

The park has mixed deciduous, dry dipterocarp, dry evergreen, and hill evergreen forests. The mixed deciduous forest tends to be spacious and open. The soil quality and moisture is low. Tree species commonly found include Dipterocarpus obtusifolius, Shorea obtusa, Shorea siamensis and Dipterocarpus tuberculatus.

The dry evergreen forest has better and moister soil, particularly in higher elevations and along streams. Species include Dipterocarpus alatus, Hopea ferrea, Hopea oborata, Anisoptera cochinchinensis, Dalbergia oliveri, Chukrasia venlatina, bamboo, and Brahm among others.

Hill evergreen forest is occurs in cool higher elevations of 1,000 meters and up. Species tend to be soft woods. Important species include Dacrydium elatum, Betula alnoides, Eugenia cumini, Anneslea fragrans Podocarpus imbricatus and Pinus merksii P. kasiya.

The flat areas on ridge tops are sandy and support Sphagnum recuryum, algae and perennial plants such as Burmannia disticha and Osbeckia chinensis. In addition, may orchid species can be found in rocky areas, including Lycopodium phlegmaria and rhododendron. These flowers bloom between the rainy and cool seasons.

In the past, Phu Hin Rong Kla was evergreen forest and had big diversity of wildlife. But later, when the communists and government began fighting, the area turned into a battlefield. Much of the forest was damaged and much of the wildlife was killed or fled to safer areas. Remaining wildlife includes tigers, leopards, Asiatic Black Bears, wild boar, fox, monkeys, leopard cats, wild hare and many bird species, such as boves barbets, common Flameback, Asian Barred Owlet, Brown Hawk-Owl, jungle fowl, bulbuls, and swallows.

Hotel Recommended

NAM NAO NATIONAL PARK

2009-12-23T07:52:00.000-08:00

Nam Nao one of Thailand most beautiful Park covers an area within Amphur Mueang Lom Sak and Lom Kow in Phetchabun provice and Amphur Kornsan within Chaiyaphum province. The park Headquarters is in an unusual and fascinating landscape: deciduous forest dominated by tall pine trees.

The area is mountainous and its forests provide an important watershed for the surrounding districts. The Park covers in total an area of about 966 square Kilometres. The unusual and fascinating Park designated a National Park on the 4th May 1972

Topography

Nam Nao covers the border between northeastern and northern Thailand. Its particularly part of the Phetchabun mountainous range running through Chaiyaphum and Phetchabun provinces. Phu Phajit mountain is the tallest in the Park and topography comprises evergreen forests and streams. There are many rivers and streams within this important watershed area Pa Sak River is one of these, it eventually joins the Chao Praya River, others are Pong and Loei rivers and Khon Kaen and Nam Churn streams. All these flow into the Ubonrat Dam.

Climate

The mountains and forests create a cooler climate in the Park, particularly during the night and early morning. The daytime temperatures are very pleasant with an average annual temperature of 25 degree Celsius. Rainy season is between July and October. Cold season can be very cold, sometimes even with a frost and temperatures as low as 0 degree Celsius. The coldest month being November.

Flora and Fauna

The forest of Nam Nao contains many different forest types, including dipterocarp, deciduous, evergreen, hill evergreen and pine forest.

In the past the trees of this area such as have been important sources of money for the Thai economy. There are also many medicinal plants and orchids within the forest.

The forest structure within Nam Nao provides good shelter for animals including; tigers, leopard, asiatic black bear, malaysian sun bear, fox, porcupine, wildpig, guar, mouse deer and rabbits. These are distributed throughout the park. You will also notice signs (dung by the roadside) of the forest elephants and if lucky you may see one.

There are over 200 species of birds in the park. When out walking the trails you are likely to see birds such as parrots, hornbills, warblers, babblers and siamese firebacks. You will also encounter some of the 340 or so butterfly species that live in the park.

KHAO KOR

2009-12-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

Khao kor mountain is one of all popular places in Thailand. It located at Phechabun province, Northern part of Thailand, 346 kms. from Bangkok. Visitor shoud travel between November to Febuary for very cold weather. Thailand tourist like to travel Khao kor because it so beautiful nature place and also quiet. Khao kor mountainous area was the battle field of the Thai communist party and the Royal Thai Army in 1965-1984.

Khao Kor Palace

Khao Kor Palace for the purpose of presentation to His Majesty the King who will reside here while observation His Majesty the King's project.

Khao Kho Phetchaboon, Weapon Museum

The Weapon Museum or Than It-Thi was named after Colonel It-Thi Simarak, a military officer who played an important role in seizing Khao Kor back from the communist terreists. Its localtion on the top of khao ko mountain offers a high-angled view of beautiful nature place.

Sri Dit waterfall (Namtok Sri Dit)

Sri Dit waterfall is a beautiful waterfall and tourist attraction in Thailand. This waterfall is situated on the Wang Thong River. There is a rice mortar using power generated from the waterfall, built by the Communist Party of Thailand

Wat Mahathat

This monastery is an ancient temple, It is a place that comprises Buddha's relics, Orrahan's ashes, and small images of Buddha in several style. Two buddha images of the beginning U-Thong period Maravichai whose laps are 36 inches wide. One was installed to be the biggest Buddha in the church and another was installed in vihara of Wat Mahathat.

KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK

2009-12-23T07:41:00.000-08:00

Khao Yai is Thailand's oldest National Park

September 1962. In 1982 it was enlisted as an ASEAN heritage site due to its variety of flora and fauna, and is now world - famous. Khao Yai has also been nominated as a World Heritage Site. It is Thailand’s third largest Nation Park, covering an area of 2,165.55 sq.km. and its highest peak, Khao Rom, reaches an elevation of 1,351 m. above sea level. Khao Yai is part of the Dongrak Range, which forms a mountainous wall fencing the northeast plateau form the central plain of Thailand. Park headquarters are situated roughly 200 km northeast of Bangkok.

The park extends across four provinces: Saraburi, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Ratchasima and Prachinburi.

Flora and Fauna

Khao Yai National Park consists of complicated mountains such as Khao Rom, the highest about 1,351 meters, Khao Lam about 1,326 meters,Khao Kampang about 875 meters, Khao Samor Poon about 805 meters and Khao Kaew about 802 meters above sea level. Moreover, the area has vastly grassy field alternating with productive forest. The north and the east part are smoothly sloping down, while the south and the west part are rising up. The area is the source of five main rivers as follows.

1) Prachin Buri River

2) Nakhon Nayok River situated in the south part and important for local agriculture and economy, meet each other in Chachoengsao District to become Bangpakong River go to the Gulf of Thailand.

3) Lam Ta Kong River

4) Praplerng River, in the north part, go to maintain the agriculture of Korat Plateau and meet Moon River, the main river of Southern Isan that goes to Khong River.

5) Muag Lek Stream, located in the northwest part and going to Pasak River in Muag Lek District, is valuable for local agriculture and cattle, and has water all the year round.

Climate

Khao Yai has three main seasons, with an annual mean temperature of 23 ? C, though this varies greatly with the seasons.

Rainy Season: May-October. During this season, it rains most days, resulting in stunning waterfalls. The atmosphere is humid, with average daytime temperatures of 27? C, In the humidity, flora and fauna flourish, whilst after the rain there is clean air and clear visibility (great for photograph!).

Cold season: November- February. This is the most popular time to visit Khao Yai, as clear, sunny and cool weather are ideal for hiking and nice sunsets are common. The days average around 22? C, while the nights can drop to 10? C.

Hot Season: March-April Even in the hot season, Khao Yai does not experience of heat felt elsewhere in the country. Daytime temperatures reach between a high 20? C, to a low 30? C, During this season it is dry and often windy. Waterfalls can be dry by April.

Flora and Fauna

Tropical moist evergreen forest covers the central area of Khao Yai National Park. The rich diversity of plants (about 2,000 species) astound the new-comer. Towering trees draped in mosses, climbers and epiphytes, tangled trunks of the strangling figs, drooping lianas and spiny rattan palms, delicate ferns, multicoloured lichens and an ever-changing array of fungi. There is aways something new to discover in the forest. The park has a diverse plant community, comprised of five main vegetation types:

Dry Evergreen Forests: These forests cover the lower slopes of Khao Yai. There are a number of important plant species found within this type of forest, including Dipterocarps and Hopia. Bamboo is also often found in drier forests.

Dry Deciduous Forests: These forests also cover the lower slopes of Khao Yai. The most important plant species found within Deciduous Forests include Afzelia, Xylia and Lagerstroemia.

Tropical Moist Evergreen Forest: Tropical Moist Evergreen Forest covers around 70% of the park, including its central area. Dipterocarps are an important species found within these forests.

Hill Evergreen Forests: This forest type grows above 1,000 m. In Hill Evergreen Forests, the trees are smaller and ferns, mosses and epiphytes abound. Lithocarps and Catanopsis are amongst the most important species found here.

Grasslands: These areas are a unique habitat, and provide a grazing area year – round for some of the parks animals. Grassland provides a welcome relief to all the forest . The park mange (burn annually) the grassland to prevent trees from invading and to provide year round grazing for deer, elephants and guar. Wildlife is plentiful (70 mammal species, at least 74 species of herptile and thousands of invertebrates) but often hard to see. Sambar (large, gray-brown, often in groups) and barking deer (smaller, red-brown, usually in pairs or alone) are frequently seen in the grasslands or on spotlighting tours.

Khao Yai’s forests are teeming with wildlife and birds. Look up and down and form side, tread softly, and listen carefully to discover the real movers and shakers in the forest. Gibbons provide an excellent morning wake-up call with their mournful hoots. Quiet, patient walkers may catch a glimpse of these tree-living apes. Macaques are often seen on the roadsides. Elephants are sometimes spotted at salt-licks or on the road in the evenings and lucky (?) tourists may spot a tiger in the grasslands during the evenings. Civets, squirrels, porcupines, and wild pigs add a bit of variety.

Snakes and lizards usually make their presence known by a rustle in the undergrowth as you are walking.f you see a snake, treat it as dangerous unless you know otherwise!! Geckos are frequently seen catching insects on building walls and ceilings.

Cicadas never stop their scratchy hum. Look up and down and from side to side to spot the real movers and shakers in the forest - the insects and invertebrates.

Birds: We've got lots - over 320 species have been recorded. To the non-expert, birds are often just mysterious whistles, trills and calls, or a flutter of wings and a glimpse of colour. Patience is needed,good binoculars and a bird guide help. Roadsides, the old golf course, grasslands and the watching towers are good places to start . Hornbills are quite easy to spot, and hear the "gak gak gak" laugh of the Indian Pied (often seen in big flocks near Nong Pak Chi Tower in the evenings), or the deep resonant "gok…gok" of the Great Hornbill (usually seen in pairs or alone, the biggest of Khao Yai's hornbills)

Bats: Nearly 1 million insecteating bats live in a cave on the edge of the Park. Drive about 3 km to the north of the Park Chong entrance gate and take a small track on the left-hand side just past a temple. A few hundred metres up here take a right-hand turn and follow the track to the end. You can climb the hill to the cave. Please do not enter the cave - you will disturb the bats. Allow them to come out for about 3 minutes before taking any flash photography.

Hotel Recommended

Attractions in Krabi

2009-12-19T08:50:00.000-08:00

Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park covering the areas of Tambon Nong Thale, Tambon Sai Thai, Tambon Ao Nang and Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe Mueang, Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park has an area of 242,437 rai in which 200,849 rai is water. There are 3 distinctive kinds of forest here: moist evergreen forests, mangrove forests and peat swamp forests.

Mu Ko Phi Phi is located 42 kilometres from the provincial town of Krabi, Mu Ko Phi Phi (Phi Phi Islands) are an archipelago, formerly called Pulao Piah Pi. The surrounding sea is home to a variety of underwater anemones, coral reefs, and colourful marine life. The area is also a popular destination for snorkelling. Attractions of Mu Ko Phi Phi:

Ko Phi Phi Don covers an area of 28 square km. Popular attractions are the twin bays with curving beaches of Ao Ton Sai and Ao Lo Da Lam.

Ko Phi Phi Le covering an area of only 6.6 square kilometres, Phi Phi Le Island is surrounded by limestone mountains and sheer cliffs plunging hundreds of metres to the sea. The sea is 20 meters deep and the deepest point in the south of the island is around 34 meters. Ko Phi Phi Le has bays such as Ao Pi Le, Ao Maya, and Ao Lo Sa Ma. In the north-east of the island is a large cave called Tham Viking.

Hat Noppharat Thara situated 17 km from the provincial town of Krabi, Hat Noppharat Thara (Noppharat Thara Beach) is a 3-km long sandy beach lined with dense casuarinas. The beach, paved with tiny seashells, was formerly called Hat Khlong Haeng. The area is a long beach and stretches all the way to the island of Ko Khao Pak Khlong.

Su-san Hoi (Shell Cemetery) once a large freshwater swamp, the habitat of diverse mollusks of about 2 cm in size, Su-san Hoi features a slab formed from a huge number of embedded various types of mollusks which can be dated to approximately 40 million years ago. With changes on the surface of the earth, seawater flooded the freshwater swamp and the limestone elements in the seawater enveloped the submerged mollusks resulting in a homogenous layer of fossilized mollusk shells forty centimetres thick known as Shelley Limestone. With geographical upheavals, the limestone layer is now distributed in great broken sheets of impressive magnitude on the seashore.

Ao Nang or Ao Nang Beach, is Krabi's most developed beach. Fringed by palms, the long beach is backed by a wide range of accommodation including resorts, bungalows and guesthouses. There are more than 83 offshore islands, which some of them are shaped like a boot, junk, or parrot’s head. Ko Poda, Ko Mo and Ko Thap are popular destinations among tourists for their beaches and coral reefs. They are popular islands for diving and snorkelling.

Hat Rai Le (Rai Le Beach East/West) Hat Rai Le is surrounded from both sides by breathtaking towering limestone cliffs, thus making the area isolated from the mainland – only accessible by boat. Rai Le or Railay West has a world class white sand beach and is the longest of the beaches in this area. It goes without saying this is also the beach that most tourists flock to. Railey East is popular ‘hippy’ hang-out and offers cheaper accommodation than the West side. Unlike Railey West, Railey East beach is severely affected by the tides and has mangroves. R.East has its own beauty but the mainstream tourist would choose Railey West for beach quality.

Pra Nang Beach (Princess Cave Beach) next door to Railay, has a much comparable if not better beach to Railay West and is the home to the 5 star Rayavadee Resort and Spa. Krabi's beaches are all public domain so the guests at Rayavadee have to share the beach with the day-trippers from Railay and Ao-Nang. This is not so bad but this also attracts a multitude of T-shirt, trinket and food sellers.

Hat Ton Sai (TonSai Beach) Neighboring Rai Le (Railay) :West but vastly different in terms of beach and tourist scene. The hard core backpackers all hang out here as it is one of the best areas for climbing and the accommodation can be around a tenth of the price of Railay. This beach also has one of the best nightlife scenes of the whole Krabi area! As of late this beach seems to be attracting more of the "flash packer" crowd who don't necessarily want the cheapest accommodation but just want the "Ton Sai experience".

Thale Waek or Separated Sea: during the lowest tide of the day, the sea is gradually separated by the white sand and limestone beach that will appear to connect two islands. From being the site of a meditation centre, it is also a place of archaeological interest, dating from the prehistoric into proto-historic times. Stone tools, potsherds, and unbaked clay votive tablets have been found.

Than Bokkhorani National Park: the park covers an area of 121 square km. The landscape is dominated by a series of limestone mountains, evergreen forests, mangrove forests, and numerous islands. The main flora is evergreen forest, peat swamp forest, strand forest, and mangrove forest, as well as, various types of marine flora. Other attractions include: Than Bokkhorani which is home to various flowing streams and numerous pools of different cascades among a shady forested area and two caves Tham Lot and Tham Phi Hua To

Namtok Ron Khlong Thom: This area is full of hot springs in a shady forest. The temperature is not too hot at 40-50 degrees Celsius. The hot springs and cool streams converge on a slope to form lovely cascades with warm water.

Khao Pra - Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary: This is located at Tambon Khlong Thom Nuea. Comprising lowland forest, this area features the Emerald Pool or Sa Morakot, which are 3 hot springs with a temperature of 30 - 50 degrees Celsius. The forest is home to numerous flora and rare birds like Gurney's Pitta, Rufous-collared Kingfisher, and Black Hornbill. There is also a 2.7-km nature trail known as the Tina Jollife (Thung Tiao) Trail, named after an English activist wanting to conserve this batch of rainforest.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park: covering a total area of 152 square kilometres, Mu Ko Lanta National Park is located in Amphoe Ko Lanta and consists of many islands. Some major islands are Ko Lanta Yai, Ko Lanta Noi, Ko Taleng Beng, as well as, other surrounding islands like Mu Ko Ha, Mu Ko Rok, and Ko Ngai.

Pa Phru Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam Pa Phru or peat swamp forest of the canal of Tha Pom features a number of water sources, which originate from the Chong Phra Kaeo pool. Tha Pom is called Khlong Song Nam by the locals, which in Thai literally means "two water canal", because of its special feature location where crystal clear freshwater, which the pool’s floor and the roots of Lumphi palm (Eleiodoxa conferta) are virtually visible, meets seawater from the mangrove forest. Tha Pom features a natural trail made of lath.

KRABI

2009-12-19T08:44:00.000-08:00

Krabi is one of the southern provinces (changwat) of Thailand, at the shore of the Andaman Sea.

Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Phang Nga, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Trang. The Phuket province to the west is also neighboring, but without any land boundary. The capital of the region is the city of Krabi.

The province is located at the shore to the Andaman Sea and is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Most notable are the solitary limestone hills, both on the land and in the sea as islands. Rock climbers from all over the world travel to Ton Sai Beach and Railay Beach to climb. These beaches form part of Krabi's Phra Nang Peninsula. Of about 154 islands belonging to the province, Ko Phi Phi Leh is perhaps the most famous, as it was the set of the movie The Beach. The coast of the province was badly damaged by the tsunami on December 26 2004.

Other islands include: Ko Phi Phi Don, part of the Phi Phi Islands, and Ko Lanta, a larger island to the south.

The limestone hills contain many caves, most having beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Tham Chao Le and Tham Phi Hua To, both in Ao Luek district, contain prehistoric rock-painting depicting humans, animals as well as geometrical shapes. In Lang Rong Rien cave in 1986 archaeologists found 40,000 year old human artifacts - stone tools, pottery as well as bones. It is one of the oldest traces of human occupation in all South-East Asia. The caves of Krabi are also one of the main sources of nests of the Edible-nest Swiftlet, used to create bird's nest soup.

Krabi town is very close to the river mouth that opens to the great Andaman Sea. Krabi river flows about 5 km through the town and opens into the Andaman sea at Tambon Pak Nam. Quite a few other rivulets originating from the mountain ranges in the province , Kao Panom Benja ; the Klong Pakasai, Klong Krabi Yai and Klong Krabi Noy, also joins the sea at this area.

Attractions in Pang Nga

2009-12-19T08:39:00.000-08:00

Phang-Nga Bay is situated on the Andaman Sea, Phang-nga province is famed for the natural beauty of its water, beaches, islands, mountains and forests.

Phang-nga Bay or Ao Phang-nga National Park was declared a national park in 1981. It has scenic views and features mass limestone formations scattered around in the sea near the shore. The same factors contribute to the density of caves in the area. The park is fertile with mangroves and there are a number of islands in the vicinity.

Mu Ko Similan National Park was declared a national park in 1982. Similan is a small group of islands comprising nine islands stretching from north to south and is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, both onshore and underwater.

Mu Ko Surin National Park is an archipelago of 5 islands: Ko Surin Nuea, Ko Surin Tai, Ko Ri, Ko Khai, and Ko Klang. It was declared a national park on July 9, 1981. The archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea, near the Thai-Burmese oceanic border, to the west of Thailand. There are coral reefs and the area is suitable for snorkeling.

Ko Phra Thong , located in Tambon Phra Thong. It is a large island northwest of Phang-nga. The island has many beaches. There is a large fresh water reservoir on the island.

Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park was declared a national park in August 1991. The park occupies a vast area of 150 square kilometers and covers Amphoe Thai Mueang, Amphoe Kapong, Amphoe Takua Pa, and Amphoe Mueang. The interesting attractions are: Khao Lak , which has the Chao Pho Khao Lak Shrine, Laem Pakarang which has groves of pine, making it good for camping and relaxation and Namtok Ton Chong Fa or Ton Chong Fa Waterfall.

Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park The park occupies an area of 18,000 acres (Template:Convert/rais). It was declared a national park on April 14, 1988. Interesting attractions in the park include: Namtok Lampi is a 6-tiered waterfall that runs all year round, Namtok Ton Phrai is a huge waterfall that runs all year round and Hat Thai Mueang being a long beach where the Sea Turtle Festival is held annually.

Wat Suwannakhuha , located in Tambon Krasom, is a temple in Phang-nga. It is of historical and archaeological importance. Within the boundary of the temple is a mountain with numerous caves out of which one is also used as a temple and houses various manners of Buddha images. There are also Royal Monograms inscriptions on the walls of the cave.

Ko Yao covers an area of 137 square kilometres (34,000 acres). The majority of the population are Muslim. The island is made up of 2 large islands: Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai.

Hat Khao Lak , located 32 kilometres (20 mi) from Takua Pa, is a long scenic beach along the Andaman Sea set beneath the green mountain of Khao Lak-Lamru National Park, parallel to the coast. The accommodation of Takua Pa along Khao Lak and Bang Sak Beach is built in the original southern architecture style.

Wat Rat Uppatham or Wat Bang Riang , located in Tambon Bang Riang, the temple, situated on Khao Lan hill, contains several structures including an elaborate bell-shaped pagoda called Chedi Phutthathambanlue. The hilltop pagoda overlooks surrounding undulating mountains and hills as well as a huge Buddha image and a Guan-yin Chinese Goddess statue.

PHANG NGA

2009-12-19T08:33:00.000-08:00

Phang Nga is one of the southern provinces (changwat) of Thailand, on the shore to the Andaman Sea. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Ranong, Surat Thani and Krabi. To the south is the Phuket province, but without land boundary to Phang Nga.

The province is located on the west side of the Malay Peninsula, and includes many islands of the Phang Nga Bay. The most famous one is the so-called James Bond Island, a needle formed limestone rock in the sea, which featured in the 1974 movie The Man with the Golden Gun. The Ao Phang-Nga (Phang-Nga Bay) National Park was established in 1981 to protect the many fascinating islands. The Similan Islands, one of Thailand's main diving destinations, are also part of Phang Nga province. It is located 788 kilometres from Bangkok and covers an area of 4,170 square kilometres.

Transportation

Roads

Highway No. 4 is the main route that connects all districts in Phang-Nga (except Kapong and Koh Yao).

Highway No. 401 connects Phang-Nga to Surat Thani.

Highway No. 402 connects Phang-Nga to Phuket Province.

Highway No. 4090 connects Muang to Kapong district.

Rail systems There is no rail system in Phang-Nga Province. The nearest railway station is at Phunphin district, Nakhorn Sithammarat.

Bus There are both non air-conditioned and air-conditioned buses to Bangkok and other provinces. There are also non air-condition inter-provincial buses.

Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicle) The public passenger pick-up vehicle is the most popular mode of public transportation in Phang-nga.

Motorbike-taxi These are found mainly in the town areas and are used mainly for very short distances. The charges differ according to the distance travelled through the Motorbike-taxi.

Airport There is no airport in Phang-Nga Province. The nearest airport is Phuket International Airport.

KO SAMUI ATTRACTIONS

2009-12-16T00:51:00.000-08:00

Mu Ko Ang Thong is a marine national park in the Gulf of Thailand, at the shore of the Surat Thani Province. It covers 42 islands in a total area of 102 km², of which only 18 km² are land. The park was established on November 12, 1980.

The name Ang Thong means bowl of gold, while Mu Ko simply means group of islands.

Since 2002 the park is also registered as Ramsar site number 1184.

Ko Pha Ngan is an island in the Gulf of Thailand in South East Thailand. It is famous for its full moon party at Haad Rin Beach and as a backpackers destination. Ko Pha Ngan has two sister islands: the larger Ko Samui to the south and the smaller Ko Tao to the north.

• Area: about 168 km²

• Estimated perimeter: 50 km EST. (10hrs average walking time)

• Province: Surat Thani

• From mainland: about 55 km

• From Ko Samui: about 15 km

• From Ko Tao: about 35 km

• Population: 11,846 (2004)

• Main town: Thong Sala

• Highest Point: Khao Ra, 630m asl.

Ko Tao (also often Koh Tao, "Turtle Island") is an island in Thailand located near the eastern shore of the Gulf of Thailand. It covers an area of about 21 km². Administratively it forms a tambon within the district (Amphoe) Ko Pha Ngan of Surat Thani Province. As of 2006 its official population number is 1382. The main settlement is Ban Mae Hat.

The economy of the island is almost exclusively centered around tourism, especially scuba diving.

Ko Tao was named by its first settlers for the island's turtle-like geographic shape. Coincidentally, the island is an important breeding ground for Hawksbill turtles and Green turtles. Development of tourism has negatively impacted the health of these grounds but a breeding program organised in 2004 by the Royal Thai Navy and KT-DOC, a coalition of local scuba diving centres has reintroduced hundreds of juvenile turtles to the island's ecosystem.

Koh Samui island

2009-12-14T20:38:00.000-08:00

Ko Samui island of Surat Thani Province (or Koh Samui), or often, simply Samui as it is referred to by locals, is an island off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus in Thailand, close to the mainland Surat Thani town. It is Thailand's third largest island, with an area of 228.7 km2 and a population of over 50,000 (2008). It is rich with natural resources, white sandy beaches, coral reefs and coconut trees.

Ko Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 35 km northeast of Surat Thani town (9°N, 100°E). The island measures some 21 kilometres at its widest point, and 25 km at its longest. It is surrounded by about sixty other islands, which compose the Ang Thong Marine National Park (Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park) and include other tourist destinations (Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao and Ko Nang Yuan).

The island is roughly circular in shape, and is about 15 km across. The central part of the island is an almost uninhabitable mountain jungle, Khao Pom, peaking at 635 m. The various lowland areas are connected together by a single 51 km road, running mostly along the coast to encircle the bulk of the island.

The old capital is Nathon, on the southwest coast of the island. It remains the major port for fishing and inter-island transportation. Nathon is the seat of the regional government, and the true commercial hub of the Samui locals. It has a charming pace, and is almost small enough to walk everywhere. The old Chinese shop houses along the middle street whisper of an exotic history.

Each of Samui's primary beaches is now also nominally considered as a small town, due to the number of hotels, restaurants and nightlife that have sprung up in recent years.

Events and festivals

Buffalo Fighting Festival: One of the best-known festivals on Ko Samui is its Buffalo Fighting Festival, which is held on special occasions such as New Years Day and Songkran. Unlike Spanish bull-fighting, the fighting on Ko Samui is fairly harmless. The fighting season varies according to some ancient customs and ceremonies. The buffalo are beautifully decorated with ribbons and gold-painted leaves. Before the contest which lasts just two rounds, monks spray them with holy water. The winning owner typically takes home millions of baht in prize money.

Ten Stars Samui Art Party: A recurring cultural event bringing together art lovers, local Thai and international artists and their new, original artworks. These bi-monthly events, hosted at various high-end resorts and other 5-star venues on the island, focus on building the art community on Ko Samui with presentations by featured artists.

Bowling Championship: This is an annual bowling event held in May every year.

Avis Samui Tennis Open: The annual amateur tennis tournament held in July.

The Fisherman's Village Festival: This five-day festival is celebrated with fun, music and food. The music is usually played by well-known artists and food tents sell inexpensive cuisine provided by local hotels.

Triathlon Event The International Triathlon: Union organizes this event every year. This event in Ko Samui draws more than five hundred participants from around the world. The event attracts competitors and visitors as well as locals. This event actually has never taken place and was promoted via a website only.

Samui Regatta: The Samui Regatta is a sailing tournament, held every year. The tournament is internationally known and competitors come from as far away as Australia, Singapore, Japan and China. This event, for boats of all sizes and shapes, began in 2002.

Full Moon Party (Ko Phangan): Had Rin Beach on nearby Ko Phang-ngan was once a secret haven for a few backpackers who could only get to the beach by boat. Now, it is packed with bungalows, bars, pizza joints and even a 7-11 and every month on full-moon, a huge all-night event is held with rave music played by international DJs to thousands of party-goers.

Koh Kood Island

2009-12-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

Koh Kood Island, Trat, Thailand - The island is rather flat compared to Ko Chang with the highest mountain on the island, Khao Phaenth, measuring 315 metres. It has a good number of wonderful beaches with crystal clear water (Ta Pho Beach, Khlong Chao Beach, Thakian Beach, Phrao Beach etc.). Inland, the island is very wild with a lot of coconut and rubber tree plantations located in the plains.Most of the island inhabitants live off of the cultivation of coconut, rubber production or fishing. But meanwhile the expanding tourism industry gives more and more work to the less than 2,000 residents.

The best time for a visit to Koh Kood is between beginning of November and the end of February. At this time it is relatively cool, dry and mostly sunny. But until the end of May, when it is hotter than the cool season, a visit is still convenient. Even during monsoon season, Koh Kood is worth visiting for it doesnt rain every day and all day long. Activities on Koh Kood - Besides lazing on the beach, snorkeling at the beautiful coral reefs or just watching stars at night; visitors can also visit nearby islands for snorkeling and other activities.

Hotel Recommended (With Promotion)

Chiang Rai

2009-12-05T08:12:00.000-08:00

Chiang Rai is rich in tourism resources in terms of natural attractions and antiquities, evidence of its past civilisation. It is also home to various hilltribes who follow fascinating ways of life. Chiang Rai is also a tourism gateway into Myanmar and Laos.

Attractions

Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park (Rai Mae Fah Luang) is located at Pa Ngiw Village, about 5 kilometers from the city center. It was founded by the late Princess Mother, who bought a 140 rai plot to set up a center for developing the youths from rural areas under the supervision of the Mae Fah Luang Foundation. The garden is a park cum museum preserving Lanna cultural objects.

Doi Tung is a revered mountain which includes the Doi Tung Palace and the Mae Fa Luang Flower Garden. The Wat Phra That Doi Tung Holy Relic, an old religious site on top of the mountain, is about 2,000 metres above sea level.

Wat Rong Khun : This temple was designed and built by artist Chaloemchai Khositphiphat. A white ordination hall – Phra Ubosot - is decorated with silver glittering pieces of mirrors. There are large mural paintings of the Lord Buddha in different gestures.

The Golden Triangle , locally called "Sop Ruak", is where the Mekhong meets the Ruak River and also where the borders of three countries, Laos, Burma and Thailand, meet together. There are remains of many ancient places and structures attesting to the area having been settled by people in the past.

Doi Mae Salong is home to a community settled by remnants of the 93rd Division of the Republic of China Army, who moved out of Yunnan province, China, in to Burma and after to Thai territory at the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Today the town is a tourist attraction renowned for its tea and its small-town ambience on high hills.

Wat Phra Kaeo once housed Thailand’s most revered Buddha image, the Emerald Buddha. It was discovered in 1444. The statue had been moved by various state rulers to be placed in their respective capitals as a symbol of dominance, including Lampang, Chiang Rai and Vientiane before finally enshrined in Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaeo during the reign of King Rama I of the Rattanakosin period.

Kok River flows through the town of Chiang Rai and is 130 kilometres long. Long-tailed boats and cruises can be made from town to travel. Hilltribe villages in the area are popular with travelers.

Amphoe Mae Sai: Mae Sai, borders on Burma’s Tachileik marked by the Mae Sai River with a bridge spanning both sides. The area has a market selling lots of different goods.

Doi Nang Non , "sleeping woman mountain", is unusual land feature located in Mae Chan district on the western side of the highway between Chiang Rai and Mae Sai.[2] The silhouette of the mountain range takes the shape of a reclining woman when seen from certain angles. There is a viewpoint at Mae Chan, from where this land feature can be observed best.[3]

The Hall of Opium, Golden Triangle Park exhibits the history of opium in the Golden Triangle, its origin, opium war when people lived on opium planting and smoking, as well as the recovery of the people who lived here.

Chiang Saen : an ancient town which once served as the main town before King Mengrai established Chiang Rai as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in 1262. Traces of old double city walls and many other antiquities still remain in and outside the district town. The attractions include Chiang Saen National Museum , Wat Phra That Chedi Luang and Wat Pa Sak .

Panoramic view of Phu Chi Fa point showing the "sea of clouds"Phu Chi Fa: There is a trail which leads from a parking lot up to the viewing point on the top of this mountain, a distance of 1.8 kilometres. From the sheer cliff of Phu Chi Fa, views, especially the sea of clouds at sunrise, can be seen. The cool climate produces flowering shrubs of various species.

Hotel Recommended (With Promotion)

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden

2009-12-05T07:57:00.000-08:00

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden (QSBG), or formerly known as Mae Sa, Botanic Garden, is the first botanical garden of the country at international standards for there are scientific basis and purposes for the collections, and the provision of botanical education and research. In 1994, the BGO received the honor from HM the Queen to grant a royal permission to name this northern botanic garden after Her Majesty ‘s name as “Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden”.

The main objectives of the Garden are to serve as a center of Thai flora for botanical study and research, to render services concerning biodiversity and environmental conservation, as well as to provide an aesthetic place for the general public.

Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is located 27 km NW of Chiang Mai Province, at the edge of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. It has an area of about 1,000 ha. With its wide collection of plant species, 12 exhibition greenhouses, garden and nature trails, educational and research activities, there is so much to learn and enjoy while you are here. Please come and visit us.

Open daily from 8:30 – 16:30 h.

Visitor Center

Designed in the northern Thai architecture, the Visitor Center is located near the main entrance, less than 100 meters from the ticket booth. Services provided here include:

Public Relations Office, volunteer Guides, meeting rooms for rent, VDO/multi-media introduction (11 minutes), free pamphlets and QSBG brochure, first aid, drinking water, public phone, toilets.

Contact: Public Relations Office 298 –171 ext. 1234 or 1009

Souvenir shop

Located at the Visitor Center. Open from 8:30 to 16:00. The souvenir shop carries a variety of gift items, e.g., postcards, natural products, handicrafts, and publications.

Hotel and Restaurant

Located on the mountainside opposite the garden entrance, the Botanic Residence serves as a facility for holding seminars and workshops. Also provides accommodation, restaurant and swimming pool. For more information contact: 053-290029

Hotel Recommended (With Promotion)

Chiang Mai Night Safari (CnS)

2009-12-05T07:26:00.000-08:00

Chiang Mai Night Safari (CnS) is a goverment nature theme park which is built to promote Chiang Mai tourism regarding to the government's policy apart from arts, cultures, traditions, and the beauty of nature which are the main fascinating tourist attractions. The government also works for the promotion of Chiang Mai Airport in order to make it an international airport which will allow Chiang Mai to be the tourist center in Indo-China and Southeast Asia. Therefore, if you are looking for a place to visit, a place to hang out at night amidst the real natural environment where you can relax and learn ecosystem, wildlife and natural resources not only in terms of quantity but also quality, Chiang Mai Night Safari is the best answer for you.

Chiang Mai Night Safari is located at Doi Suthep-Pui National Park which covers Tambon Nhong Kway, Hang Dong District, and Tambon Mae Hia, Muang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province. It’s about 324 acres consisted of Mixed Deciduous Forest and Dry Dipterocarp forest. Chiang Mai Night Safari is 12 km away from downtown Chiang Mai. By car, it takes only 15-20 minutes from the Chiang Mai Airport, the train station or the bus terminal to Chiang Mai Night Safari. Therefore, Chiang Mai Night Safari is the only nearest natural forest from downtown where the environment still perfectly stays in beauty and in peace of nature.

Chiang Mai Night Safari is constructed to be a world class nature theme park consisted of many projects to be done. Today, the first project including wildlife area, musical fountain and water screen, has already been completed. To accomplish the whole objectives, other projects will be gradually established.Chiang Mai Night Safari was established after Singapore Night Safari and China Night Safari Guangzhou. Chiang Mai Night Safari is 2 times larger than Singapore Night Safari and it is considered to be the most beautiful night safari in the world.

Chiang Mai Night Safari is aimed to support outdoor activities for family members as well as to promote Chiang Mai’s tourism since we have found out that most visitors like to come with their family. Therefore we provide opportunities for them to get together and enjoy the activities.

Chiang Mai Night Safari was unofficially open in November 18, 2005 and it was officially open in February 6, 2006. Until today, there have been approximately 2.5 million visitors which are a lot more than what we expected at 1.3 million per year As a result, we can say that Chiang Mai Night Safari has been perfectly accomplished according to the originally financial analysis plan.

Resource: http://www.chiangmainightsafari.com/

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Pai: Romantic City in Thailand

2009-12-03T06:58:00.000-08:00

Pai, a tiny town halfway between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son

What to see, what to do and where to go in Pai

Halfway between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son, the mountain road makes a winding descent into a large green valley carpeted with rice paddies and fruit groves. Mountains rise on all sides and butterflies flit along the streets. Here you'll find a tiny town called Pai, named after the river that runs through the valley.

Pai, a speck of a place with main roads (all four of them) offers you a rich bohemian atmosphere where you can collect your thoughts and commune with nature.

In Pai, every day is a lazy Sunday. And if you're ready for it, Pai offers you a wide palet of activities. Never a dull moment.

Outdoor Activities in Pai

The Pai River itself is one of the main attractions here. Outfitters organize rafting adventures on some pretty raucous rapids from July to January. Trekking is also popular, with 2- and 3-day treks to Karen, Lahu, and Lisu villages. See also Wikipedia for more info about nature, culture, hilltribes etc. around Pai. The adventurous can find a local map for self-guided hikes to nearby waterfalls and caves, but quite a few wayfarers just lounge in town living simply and enjoying the nightlife.

Many local business owners are foreigners or bohemian Thais who come here for a better life than in busy Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

Resource: http://www.paithailand.info/index2.php

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Special Promotion Montis Resort

2009-12-03T06:21:00.000-08:00

Return to nature and succumb to the authentic northern Thai experience at the Montis Resort. The ultimate retreat where accommodation takes advantage of the breataking panoramic mountain range built in harmony withthe unspoiled forested backdrop. With a selection of 28 rutic luxury villas overlooking a private lake and gardens with authentic Thai-International gournet cuisine and genuine local hospitality, give yourself the chance to completely unwind and relax.

Special Promotion!

Special rate : 1 Apr 2010-31 Oct 2010

Click to See!

Ko Samet

2009-11-29T05:20:00.000-08:00

Ko Samet – paradise on Earth Ko Samet’s natural beauty has allured many tourists. From clear blue sky with the bright sunlight reflecting off the clear blue ocean making its rippled way to white sandy beaches, you have found yourself in a true paradise on earth. Ko Samet is registered as one of Thailand’s National Parks situated in Rayong Province about 200 kilometers east of Bangkok. The island is only seven kilometers from main land. There are seven piers operating ferry lines from Ban Pae mainland to various beaches on Ko Samet. The main pier is Nadan, north of the island where National Park Fee of 200 Baht will be collected. From there visitors can take a 10 minute walk to Hat Sai Kaew Beach, Northeast of the island where there’s a dirt road that runs all the way to the south of the island. Remote beaches can be reached by renting out a songthaw (Pick-up truck taxi), prices may vary. The famous beaches on Ko Samet are Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Phai, Ao Vong Duern, Ao Wai and Ao Kui Na Nok on the East coast and Ao Prao on the West coast. The beaches are connected with a small unpaved road. Accommodations available on the island are ranked from budget to five stars to suit each visitor’s needs.

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Party tricks courtesy of Lopburi’s monkeys

2009-11-29T05:11:00.000-08:00

The 21st Monkey Party, 29 November, at Phra Prang Sam Yod, Mueang district, Lopburi province.

This is perhaps the most comical event you could witness on holiday, a claim that can be attested by the video clips that have found a place to park even on You Tube. A local businessman started this bizarre grand bash in the small historical town of Lopburi that stands on the northern rail line, about 150 km from Bangkok.

He was concerned about the welfare of the town’s monkey population residing in one of town’s historical pagodas. But he was also wondering why this town that played a prominent role in the country’s history in the 17th century is largely ignored by international tourists.

So he set about organising a grand party for the monkeys that roam freely around the town’s historical centre near the railway station. Of course, the monkeys take the buffet spread in their stride feasting with great relish on the finest Chinese cuisine the town can provide, all under the spotlight of TV channel crews, who run in circles trying to gain the best angle possible.

They have to be quick. Monkeys are not well known for table etiquette and despite the fact that this annual party is now in its 10th year, they haven’t learned any manners at all.

It is all part of the local’s community scheme to get some attention for a “living museum” town centre, where visitors can visit former palaces and buildings that were once used by one of the country’s revered monarchs during the golden Ayutthaya period.

Although the city dates back 1,000 years or more, to when it was simply called Lavo, it is best known as Thailand’s second capital. In 1666, King Narai, the Great, built a summer palace and resided in the town for around eight months of the year. It was here that the King granted an audience to the French Ambassador as well as other foreign dignitaries who travelled by boat up the Lop Buri River from Ayutthaya, the formal seat of government. Including temples and government administration buildings, the palace was used until the King passed away in 1688. In the early 60s the complex and gardens was renovated and turned into an interesting museum.

Today, very few foreign tourists spare an overnight to explore the town’s historical assets. They usually visit on day trips, many of them arriving on the early morning train from Bangkok. They tour the sights and catch the train in the evening on an overnight trip that takes them to Chiang Mai.

Lopburi, from a historic perspective is worth more than an afternoon peep and that is apparently why the monkeys are treated to a party to give this largely forgotten destination a plug in the media.

At least that way we get to see what we have missed both in historical attractions and the Chinese delicacies that are served by the town’s best kitchens.

The event is hosted by Lopburi Inn Group. Call Lopburi Inn Hotel at 036 412 300 or Email: monkey@lopburiinnresort.com and monkeypartys@yahoo.com.

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Attractions in Kanchanaburi

2009-11-29T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Bridge on the River Khwae (The Death Railway Bridge)

The Bridge on the River Khwae has become notoriously famous and attracted both Thais and foreigners to the site. It spans across Maenam Khwae Yai which is a branch of Maenam Mae Klong. During the Japanese occupation of Thailand in World War II, the Japanese Imperial Army brought the iron bridge from Java. It was then resembled by Allied Prisoners of War (POW) under Japanese supervision. The bridge was part of a strategic railway route to Myanmar in which the Japanese aimed to secure supplies with which to conquer other western Asian countries. It was 415 kilometers long (about 303 kilometers in Thailand and about 112 kilometers in Burma) and passed through the Three Pagoda Pass in Sangkhlaburi District, the northern most part of Kanchanaburi province.

Construction started on September 16, 1942 at Nong Pladuk, and was completed on 25 December 1943. It is estimated that over 16,000 POWs from England, Australia, Holland and America died while building the bridge which was a target of bombing raids in 1945. In addition to this, approximate 90,000 laborers from Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia and Indonesia died during its construction.

Rebuilt after WWII, the bridge is still in use today with the curved portions of the bridge being that of the original. An attraction of note is the annual light and sound event at the bridge to commemorate the Allied attack in 1945.

The railway currently ends at Ban Tha Sao or Namtok Station, a distance of some 77 km. from Kanchanaburi Station. A special train running from Bangkok to Namtok Station is available on weekends and national holidays. For further details, please contact the State Railway of Thailand, Tel. 0 1690, 0 2220 4334 or www.railway.co.th. Hotels are available.

War Museum and Art Gallery

Located not far away from the Bridge on the River Khwae is a private museum which features the World Wide II story and art objects such as war weapons, army uniforms, photographs, jewelry, etc. The museum is open daily from 7.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Admission fee is 40 baht/person. For further information contact Tel. 0 3451 2596

The Jeath War Museum

The name JEATH is derived from countries which engaged in the WWII death railway construction from 1942 to 1945, which included Japan, England, America, Australia, Thailand and Holland. Located in the area of Wat Chai Chumphon, the museum is a reconstruction of the POWs thatched detention hut with cramped, elevated bamboo bunks. On the wall of the huts, photographs and illustrations of the POWs living conditions are on display. POWs who survived from the camp have donated items to enhance the museums atmosphere and authenticity. The museum opens daily from 8.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission fee is 30 baht.

Kanchanburi City Gate

An interesting site to see in the remains of Kanchanaburi town is the Gate which was built in 1831 during the reign of King Rama III. It is located on Lak Mueang Road near the meeting point of the Khwae Yai and Khwae Noi Rivers.

Ban Kao National Museum

A small Tambon (sub-district) located on the bank of the Kwai Noi River approximately 35 kilometers from the city is a site where some ancient Stone Age tools were found. In addition, a Neolithic burial site was discovered by the Dutch Allied POW, Dr. Van Hickderen who was forced to build the Death Railway. The consequences of findings revealed that tambon Ban Kao was once a dwelling of prehistoric men. Some critical discoveries included skeletons of prehistoric men, tools made from gravel stone and axes. The Ban Kao Museum houses skeletal remains, pots, axe heads, jewelry made from animal bones, and other artifacts dating from that period.

The museum is open from Wednesday through Friday with the exception of public holidays from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Admission is 30 baht. Call 0 3465 4058 for more information.

Kanchanaburi Cultural Centre

The centre is located in the Rajabhat Institute of Kanchanaburi, 14 kilometers out of town on the route to Sai Yok. Within the centre is a collection of displays on human lifestyles from the past until the present. Open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak)

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak), located on Saeng Chu To Road (Highway 323) before reaching the provincial town. The immaculately maintained cemetery contains the remains of 6,982 Allied POWs who perished during the construction of the ‘Death Railway’. Its tranquility reminds the visitors of the war and its after-effects. It is open daily from 8.30 a.m.-6 p.m. For more information, call Tel. 0 3451 1500.

Thailand - Burma Railway Centre

It is located near the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak), it puts on an exhibition of history of the Thailand – Burma railway from the invasion of the Imperial Japanese Army, planning and construction of the railway, its geography, living condition in POW camps, medical aspects, summary of deaths, operation, bombing and end of the railway, as well as aftermath of the war. Open daily during 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. Admission is Bt80 for adults and Bt40 for children under 14. For further details, please call Tel. 0 3451 0067, 0 3451 2721 or www.tbrconline.com or E- mail: admin@tbrconline.com.

Ancient Town of Kanchanaburi

Located in Tambon Lat Ya between Km. 2 – 3 on Highway 3199 off Highway 323. It used to be a border outpost confronting Burmese armies arriving through the Three Pagodas Pass since the Ayutthaya through Rattanakosin Periods (ca. 1548 – 1784). Mounds of the rectangular earthen wall measuring 167 x 355 sq.m. and four corner fortresses still remain to be seen. Ancient monuments within its vicinity include:

Wat Pa Lelai

known locally as Wat Pha Ok and built in the Ayutthaya Period. The Mondop – a square building – once enshrined a seated Buddha image in the gesture of subduing Mara, which was drilled through the chest – ‘Pha Ok’ in Thai. An image of the Buddha receiving offerings from a monkey and an elephant known as ‘Palilayaka’ - Pa Lelai - was later constructed to replace the former one. Remains of architecture within the temple include Mondop, Wihan and round brick Chedi with clay mortar and cement coating.

Wat Khun Phaen

from the side entrance of Wat Pa Lelai toward the training camp of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, this is an abandoned temple built in the Ayutthaya Period. The complex included Phra Prang, which was the principal building of the temple, remains of which are still to be seen, Phra Ubosot, directional and satellite Chedis, and Wihan.

Wat Mae Mai

built in the Ayutthaya Period and located some 300 metres to the east of Wat Khun Phaen. There are 2 groups of architectural remains. The remains in the north include a large round Chedi situated on a plinth and rectangular west-facing Wihan. The remains in the south include a medium-scale east-facing Wihan, satellite Chedis and rectangular boundary wall, with a so-called ‘Sa Lang Kraduk’ or ‘bone-washing’ pond in between.

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Amazing Shopping Paradise

2009-11-28T08:52:00.000-08:00

Amazing Shopping Paradise is a project that promotes short trip traveling from The Tourism Authority of Thailand, together with Central Group (Central Retail Corporation, Central Pattana, and Centara hotels and resorts). The main target group is tourists from nearby country such as China, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Korea, and Japan; those who want to visit Thailand for a short period and focus on shopping, which is one of Thailand's appeal that attracts tourists from everywhere.

Amazing Shopping Paradise contains contents related to traveling and shopping. There will be different highlights and themes for each month in our Monthly Campaign, offering many games and prizes such as 3 days-2 night accommodation, shopping vouchers, gold necklace, and many mores, sponsored by Central Retail Corporation.

Moreover, there will be hot promotions from various department stores in Central Group for you to choose. There will also be extra privileges for Amazing Shopping Paradise members such as the right to download e-coupon which can be used at the participating retailers. As for those who love traveling, we have many tour packages for you to choose from. You can also find travel info in our Info Update section and What's New feature which will keep you posted on new promotions from Central Group, right at your monitor in just a few clicks.

Hotels in Thailand : Click Here

Hotel Recommended

More Information: http://www.amazingshoppingparadise.com/home.php
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathevi , Bangkok 10400, THAILAND

Tel: 662 250 5500
TAT Call Center: 1672

Resource : http://www.tourismthailand.org/

Upcoming Events in Thailand (December)

2009-11-28T08:36:00.000-08:00

Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2009

Date : Sunday, 6 December 2009

Venue : The upscale Laguna Phuket Resort occupies 600 acres of tropical beachfront parkland on the northwest coast of Phuket island in Southern Thailand.

The competition among the "iron men" from Thailand and international countries includes swimming, cycling and marathon racing. Also, there are activities to encourage the participants to experience the adventure routes along Phuket’s tourist attractions.

COURSES

1.8k Swim

The swim course comprises two bodies of water. Starting on the beach between the Dusit Laguna Resort and Laguna Beach Resort near the LBR Marine Centre, competitors swim 1,180 metres in the sea before sprinting 100 metres across the beach to swim the last 620 metres in a lagoon finishing at the Laguna Beach Resort Y-junction. Wetsuits are not allowed.

55k Bike

The bike course takes competitors out of Laguna Phuket onto narrow, winding roads. The course will be the same as in 2007, with some steep hilly sections on the road to Naithon Beach north of Laguna Phuket. Drafting is illegal. Suggested equipment includes a minimum of two water bottle cages. Athletes should consider a 24-28 tooth rear cassettes to ease the difficulty of hill climbs. Some of the road surfaces may be rough and athletes should use durable tires. The bike course will have 2 aid stations.

12k Run

The run course will be similar to the 2007 course. It is flat and leads runners north through the Laguna Phuket resort complex and onto the award-winning Laguna Phuket Golf Course, before looping back past the Wedding Chapel through Canal Shopping Village and finishing at the Laguna Beach Resort Y-junction. The course will have three aid stations approximately 2km apart that runners pass twice.

Booking Hotels in Phuket: Click Here

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Privacy Contact Information

If you have any questions, concerns, or comments about our privacy policy you may contact us using the information below:

By e-mail: webmaster@lagunaphukettriathlon.com

By Phone: +66 76 362 300

Website : http://www.lagunaphukettriathlon.com/

Resource: http://www.tourismthailand.org/

Upcoming Events in Thailand

2009-11-28T08:11:00.000-08:00

River Kwai Bridge Week

Date : 27 November - 8 December 2009

Venue : River Kwai Bridge, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi

Each year in late November to early December, the world famous River Kwai Bridge built by Allied prisoners-of-war during World War II, becomes the focal point of celebrations.

Event highlights include historical and archaeological exhibits, a carnival, folk and cultural performances, rides on World War II vintage trains, and a spectacular light and sound presentation re-enacting the bridge’s World War II legacy.

Watch the light-and-sound show in remembrance of the bridge and the construction of the "Death Railway" during World War II (There are 4 sets of headphones available in English, Japanese, Chinese and German). A wealth of entertainment and Exhibitions are on display.

Hotels in Kanchanaburi : Click here

Hotel Recommended

Contact :

- TAT Kanchanaburi Office, Te l : 66 (0) 3451 1200, 66 (0) 3451 2500

Fax : 66 (0) 3451 1200, E-mai l: tatkan@tat.or.th

- Kanchanaburi Provincial Administration Office, Tel. : 66 (0) 3451 1778

website : www.tourismthailand.org , www.Kanchanaburi.go.th

Resource: http://www.tourismthailand.org/

Introducing Chiang Mai

2009-11-28T03:08:00.000-08:00

One of the many questions Thais may ask a foreigner visiting Thailand is ‘Have you been to Chiang Mai yet?’, underscoring the feeling that Chiang Mai is a keystone of any journey to Thailand. Along with Sukhothai further south, it was the first Southeast Asian state to make the historic transition from domination by Mon and Khmer cultures to a new era ruled by Thais.

Located more than 700km northwest of Bangkok, Chiang Mai has in excess of 300 temples (121 within the thêtsàbaan or municipal limits) – almost as many as are in Bangkok – a circumstance that makes the old city centre visually striking. Thais idealise their beloved northern capital as a quaint, moated and walled city surrounded by mountains with legendary, mystical attributes. In reality, Chiang Mai is a dynamic and modern city, which has successfully managed to combine its rich history and traditions with its increasingly modern side. However, a result of this rapid development has been the rise in traffic and pollution. Environmentalists are also voicing concerns about development of the verdant and auspicious Doi Suthep mountain (1676m), located to the west of the city, and sometimes referred to as Chiang Mai’s lungs.

Chiang Mai has always had many feathers to its bow with its cultural riches, relative peacefulness, fantastic handicraft shopping, delicious food and proximity to many natural treasures. Changes are afoot however, with the city becoming somewhere to watch in the style stakes. Chic, Thai-style boutique hotels are popping up everywhere, and one look at the trendsetters setting up shop (and bars and restaurants), particularly in the Th Nimmanhaemin area, shows that the city’s identity is changing. Yet, the northern capital still manages to retain the relaxed, temple-sprinkled, cultural capital atmosphere of yore, alongside these new hip happenings. With its many and varied attractions, the days of Chiang Mai just being a quick stop off point before heading to the hills are long gone.

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Credit: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thailand/chiang-mai-province/chiang-mai

Shopping Areas and Markets

2009-11-27T09:51:00.000-08:00

Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two major streets. There are many areas throughout Bangkok affording ample choices and easy access. The following is just a selection of some of the principal shopping areas.

Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong

Top department stores and luxury shopping malls are concentrated in the area, namely Central, Gaysorn Plaza, Isetan, Zen, Erawan Bangkok, Peninsula Plaza, all of which together make the largest shopping promenade in Bangkok. Furthermore, Central World Plaza and Narayana Phand Pavilion, host the official handicraft centre selling items from all parts of the country. Ratchaprasong intersection is the gateway to several shopping areas such as Phloenchit-Sukhumvit, Siam Square-Mahboonkrong, Silom and Pratunam-Phetchaburi.

Silom-Surawong-Patpong

Silom Road is the main artery of Bangkok’s commercial heart and is paralleled by Surawong Road, while Patpong Road runs crosswise between the two. In addition to housing dozens of specialist shops and boutiques representing all the major buys, this area also boasts many branches of well-known retailers , Tailors and several shopping plazas.Montien Plaza being the most famous and Excelsior tailors. Street stalls also abound, most notably at Patpong’s famous night market.

Silom-Mahesak-Charoenkrung Road

Silom leads into Charoen Krung Road which parallels the Chao Phraya River, and notable shopping opportunities include gems and jewellery stores (Mahesak Road is a gem trading centre), Oriental Plaza and River City shopping complex.

Sukhumvit

Like Silom, Sukhumvit is one of Bangkok’s main thoroughfares, and the long road is lined with shops, boutiques and modern shopping plazas ranging from Soi 3 (Nana Nua) up to Soi 63 (Ekkamai). Most shops and restaurants are concentrated between Soi 3 and Soi 21 (Asok) and along shortcuts between Asok and Ekkamai. Sombat Permpoon Gallery at Sukhumvit Soi 1 sells both paintings and sculptures by established artists and those of the new generation.

Pratunam-Phetchaburi

A highlight in the district is Pratunam market, one of Bangkok’s biggest centres for ready-to-wear clothing.

Baiyoke Tower

Located next to Bangkok’s tallest hotel building, Baiyoke tower is one of the city’s renowned garment centres.

Nai Lert Plaza

Situated close to Pratunam Market, Nai Lert Market is one of many shopping areas in Bangkok where you can buy just about everything from clothing to handicrafts.

Bang Lamphu

Situated close to the Grand Palace, Bang Lamphu has a lively market where clothing is a popular buy.

Chinatown

In the center of Yaowarat Road and Sampheng Lane, Bangkok’s Chinatown offers a profusion of gold shops as well as several nearby traditional shopping places such as Ban Mo Jewellery Street, Phahurat Cloth Market and the Old Siam Plaza.

Bo-be Market

Situated close to Bangkok Railway Station, Bo-be is one of the city’s most renowned ready-to-wear clothing centres, both wholesale and retail.

Jatujak or Chatuchak Weekend Market

Located adjacent to Chatuchak Park, the weekend market, open on Saturday and Sunday, is a Bangkok landmark where shoppers can buy just about everything from clothing to potted plants and everything in between - - a paradise for browsers and bargain-hunters alike. The market also offers items of furniture and home decor. It is also where professional and amateur art-lovers and artists meet.

Pak Khlong Talat

This is a wholesale market for all kinds of cut flowers and vegetables. It is on Maharat Road near the Memorial Bridge. The market is crowded in the early morning and in the evening.

Saphan Phut

A night market beneath Phra Phuttayotfa Bridge, known locally as Saphan Phut, selling second-hand items such as clothes, shoes and many other items.

Lang Krasuang

The name literally means “behind the Ministry” and refers to an area behind the Ministry of Defence on Atsadang Road, which runs along Khlong Lot. On sale are military items such as uniforms, territorial defence student uniforms, shoes as well as travelling accessories like tents, sleeping bags and camping pots. There are shops selling musical instruments nearby.

Khlong San Pier

Located in a soi off Charoen Nakhon Road, the area offers items like ready-to-wear clothes for teenagers and shoes at relatively low prices.

Woeng Nakhon Kasem

A quarter of Thai and Chinese antiquities and art objects such as blue-and-white porcelain, brass ware and furniture decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay. It is located near Charoen Krung and Yaowarat Roads.

Thewet

This is a pot plants market along the bank of Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem off Samsen Road.

Handicrafted products are available at the Chitralada Shop, which offers items from the SUPPORT Foundation, or at Narayana Phand Pavilion on Ratchadamri Road, open daily during 10PM – 8PM Tel. 0 2252 4670-9 and 0 2255 4328-9.

Taling Chan Floating Market

The floating market is in front of Taling Chan District Office and renders a blend of a rural market and canal side way of life. On weekends during 7PM-5PM, vendors who are in fact local farmers take their produce including plants, vegetables, fruits, fish and various kinds of food to this market for sale. The produce varies seasonally. There are also floating food shops and a private-run canal tour service for visitors to enjoy the district’s canal side way of life as well as farming. Open: Sat-Sun Admission: free Tel: For more details, please contact Khun Noppadol, Head of the Floating Markets Community at Tel. 08 1374 7616 or Taling Chan District Office, Tel. 0 2424 1742 and 0 2424 5448.

Wat Sai Floating Market

Situated in Chom Thong district on the Thonburi side of Bangkok, this floating market used to be a popular touristic site for visitors to admire a canal side way of life. Construction of new roads within the area left the floating market abandoned before it was recently revived to resume its charm. A canal tour along this historic waterway to enjoy the floating market crowded with boats of farm produce for sale as well as life along the banks of Khlong Sanam Chai, especially on weekends, is available. Stop to visit Tamnak Thong and the old Ho Klong - a drum tower - of Ayutthayan architecture at Wat Sai, a Chinese style royal residence of King Rama III and Chinese sculpture at Wat Ratcha-orot, pay respect to the bejewelled Buddha image and appreciate mural paintings depicting the Chinese tale of Sam Kok or ‘The Romance of the Three Kingdoms’ at Wat Nang Nong, pay respect to Luangpu Thao at Wat Nang and view a snake-catching show at a snake farm on the bank of Khlong Dan.

To get there, drive along Ekachai Road that runs by Wat Sai or take bus No. 43 or 120 from Wongwian Yai. A boat for rent is also available from Tha Chang or Chang Pier along the Chao Phraya River and into canals to Wat Sai. Open: Daily Admission: Free

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Click to see Hotel in Bangkok (Very Cheap!)

Resource: http://www.wikipedia.com/

Bangkok Events

2009-11-27T09:41:00.000-08:00

All of Thailand's major festivals are celebrated in Bangkok, see Thailand Holidays for the full scoop.

Chinese New Year Festival. The place to go is naturally Bangkok's Chinatown, Yaowarat, where the main road is closed to cars and many stores and food stands crowd the road, with grandiose and colourful Chinese lion and dragon processions.

Bangkok Songkran Festival. The traditional Thai New Year is an occasion for merriment all over the city, but most notably at Sanam Luang, near the Grand Palace, where the revered Phra Phuttha Sihing image is displayed and bathed by devotees. In the Wisutkasat area, a Miss Songkran beauty contest is held and accompanied by merry-making and entertainment. Khao San Road degenerates into a war zone as farangs and locals duke it out with super soakers.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony, May An ancient Brahman ritual, conducted at Sanam Luang, is what farmers believe is able to forecast the abundance of the next rice crop. The event is a result of a series of ceremonies that are conducted by Phraya Raek Na, portrayed by a high-ranking official who wears colourful traditional costumes. This ceremony was re-introduced in 1960 by H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej and is considered the official commencement of the rice-growing season, as well as the rainy season. Nowadays, the ceremony is conducted by the Crown Prince.

Trooping of the Colours, December. Their majesties the King and Queen preside over this impressive annual event, held in the Royal Plaza near the equestrian statue of King Chulalongkorn. Dressed in colourful uniforms, amid much pomp and ceremony, members of the elite Royal Guards swear allegiance to the King and march past members of the Royal Family.

HM The King’s Birthday Celebrations December 5. Ratchadamri Road and the Grand Palace are elaborately decorated and illuminated, and in the evening hundreds of thousands line the route from Sanam Luang to Chitlada Palace to get a glimpse of the King when he is slowly chauffeur-driven past.

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Bangkok's sights

2009-11-27T09:24:00.000-08:00

Most of Bangkok's sights are concentrated in the Old City on Rattanakosin Island. Out of Bangkok's hundreds of temples, the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun usually make up the top 3. The Grand Palace has an immense size and expect to spend at least a full morning or afternoon there. Within the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. Unlike other temples, it is not one building, nor are there are living spaces for monks. Instead, it is a collection of highly decorated holy buildings and monuments.

Nearby is Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), home to the world's largest reclining Buddha image and a famed massage school. Cross the Chao Phraya river for the outstanding Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). The main structure is about 70 meters high and it is surrounded by four smaller prangs. It is one of Thailand's most picturesque temples, and it is engraved on the inner part of all ten baht coins. If you climb it, and look closely, you will see that it is actually beautifully decorated with colorful Chinese porcelain pieces. Other major temples include the Golden Mount, Wat Suthat and Wat Rajnadda.

Bangkok is a good place to see traditional Thai-style residences. Most people take a tour through Jim Thompson's House, the CIA-operative's mansion assembled by combining six traditional Thai-style houses. Ban Kamthieng, M.R. Kukrit's Heritage Home and the Suan Pakkad Palace could also make for a nice experience. Another interesting museum is the Dusit Palace, situated in a leafy, European-style area built by king Chulalongkorn to escape the heat of the Grand Palace. It's main structure is the Vimanmek Mansion, the largest golden teakwood house in the world, but you could spend your whole day in the museums here. Other museums include the National Museum about Thai history and archaeology, as well as the Museum of Siam and the King Prajadhipok Museum. Bangkok has a small, but vocal, art community, and you might want to visit the National Gallery, The Queen's Gallery, or one of it's numerous smaller galleries.

Lumpini Park is the largest park in central Bangkok, and a nice way to escape the fumes. Backpackers around Khao San Road tend to head for Santichaiprakarn Park, a small, but worthy, park along the Chao Phraya river. It has a breezy atmosphere, a fort and a nice view on the modern Rama VII bridge. Zoos and animal farms are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok, but before visiting, please be aware that animal welfare in Thailand is not strictly regulated. The poor living conditions of the Dusit Zoo and Safari World as well as the inadequate veterinary care at these locations are examples of the sad mistreatment of the animal population. You can't go wrong at the Queen Saovabha Snake Farm, as the staff takes good care of their snakes and they have a job of informing the public about their risks. Siam Ocean World also makes for a nice family attraction. It is the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia.

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Festivals and events

2009-11-27T09:16:00.000-08:00

Songkran Festival

Bangkok Songkran Festival 13–15 April The traditional Thai New Year is an occasion for merriment all over the city, but most notably at Sanam Luang, near the Grand Palace, where the revered Phra Phuttha Sihing image is displayed and bathed by devotees. In the Wisutkasat area, a Miss Songkran beauty contest is held and accompanied by merit-making and entertainment. Khao San Road, Bang Lamphu area is also one of the high-spots in the city where locals and tourists play water by the water-throwing activities.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony May

An ancient Brahman ritual, conducted at Sanam Luang, in which farmers believe, is able to forecast the abundance of the next rice crop. The event is a result of a series of ceremonies that are conducted by Phraya Raek Na, portrayed by a high-ranking official from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives who wears colourful traditional costumes. This ceremony was re-introduced in 1960 by H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej and is considered the official commencement of the rice-growing season.

H.M. The Queen’s Birthday Celebration 12 August

To display their loyalty and to honour Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on the occasion of her royal birthday, the Thai people decorate their houses and public buildings. Around Bangkok, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, the area around the Grand Palace and other well-known locations are bedecked with coloured lights and magnificent adornments.

Trooping of the Colours December

Their majesties the King and Queen preside over this impressive annual event, held in the Royal Plaza near the equestrian statue of King Chulalongkorn. Dressed in colourful uniforms, amid much pomp and ceremony, members of the elite Royal Guards swear allegiance to the king and march past members of the royal family.

H.M. The King’s Birthday Celebrations 5 December

H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world’s longest reigning monarch is well beloved and deeply respected by all Thais old and young. The occasion of his royal birthday provides his loyal subjects the opportunity to express their reverence for him. All over the country, buildings and homes are elaborated and the area around the Grand Palace is spectacularly illuminated.

Resource: http://www.wikipedia.com/

Pattaya Beach and Islands

2009-11-27T09:06:00.000-08:00

The main sweep of the bay area is divided into two principal beachfronts. Pattaya Beach is parallel to city centre, and is the main destination for bathers and loungers with the section from Central Road (Pattaya Klang) south to the harbor forming part of the core of the town's restaurants, motorcycle hire, and night attractions.

Jomtien Beach in the southern part of the bay area is divided from Pattaya beach by the promontry of Pratumnak Hill, just south of the city, and is mainly a residential area with luxury developments, beachside hotels, bungalow complexes, condominiums and restaurants. It offers of watersport activities such as jet skis, parasailing and small sail boat hire. A proposed 91-floor Ocean One Tower ("O1") with an overall height of 367 meters, would be the tallest building in Thailand and one of the tallest residential buildings in the world.[3][4]. The Jomtien district is the location of one of the largest resorts in Asia, the 4000+ room Ambassador City Jomtien.

Offshore islands include Mu Ko Larn , the "Near Islands", Ko Larn (main island), Ko Sak and Ko Krok located 7.5 km from the western shores of Pattaya Ko Larn, or "Coral Island", Mu Ko Phai , the "Far Islands", Ko Phai (main island), Ko Man Wichai, Ko Hu Chang and Ko Klung Badan, located offshore further west of the "Near Islands", and Ko Rin, located offshore to the southwest, south of Mu Ko Phai. Most of the islands in the group are accessible by speedboat in less than 15 minutes and by ferry taking about 45 minutes. The names "Near Islands", "Far Islands" and "Coral Island" are used for touristic purposes only and do not correspond to any naming conventions of the island groups and are not shown on maritime charts published by the Hydrographic Service of the Royal Thai Navy. Many of the islands have tourist beaches and offer scuba diving activities.

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Resource: http://www.wikipedia.com/

Pattaya Tourist Attractions (2)

2009-11-27T09:01:00.000-08:00

Mini Siam

Mini Siam had been started to research the project in 1985, and had been constructed in 1986 with more 29 Rais which separated to be Mini Siam, and Mini Europe. For the rest area, there are the Booking Halls, the Souvenir Shops for lease, and the Parking Lots. The Democracy Monument in Bangkok was the first model to build.

Siam is the old historic country according to the Buddhism, Arts & Cultures, Customs & Traditions have been prosperous were been recorded. They have been displayed via the architecture, and the ruins of the ancient sites that have indicated Thai monopoly, and also have presented Thai civilization from :

• Before the occupation of Thais

• Dvaravati 1.2 Srivijaya 1.3 Lop Buri

• After the occupation of Thais

• Lanna ( Shiang Saen ) 2.2 Sukhothai 2.3 U-Thong

• Ayutthaya 2.5 Thonburi 2.6 Rattanakosin

Pattaya Water Park

Not only enjoy dipping in the sea, but here you would also challenge the thrill of entertainment on our giant Water slides, swim around the whirlpool or tanning your skin on our private beach, here the only Water Park of Pattaya. The water park includes Splash through the water, slides and relax in the whirlpool by-the-beach.

Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum in Pattaya in Thailand is a major tourist’s attraction in the country. It is one of the most popular places of sightseeing in Thailand. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum is situated in the Royal Garden Plaza on Beach Road. The auditorium has a hefty assortment of stories of oddities from every corner of the globe. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum, the world's most unusual museum has the Motion Master Theatre with flight simulator technology or the Laser Trek. This mechanism helps you to battle against fellow space creations in a futuristic arena. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum is an authorized body which deals in bizarre events and items so strange and unusual that readers might question the claims.

The complete collection of Ripley's comprises of 20,000 photographs, 20,000 artifacts and more than 130,000 cartoon panels. This organization has 50-plus attractions. The Orlando-based Ripley Entertainment Inc. is a division of the Jim Pattison Group. It is a global company with an annual attendance of more than 12 million guests. Ripley Entertainment's publishing and broadcast divisions supervise various projects, including the syndicated TV series, the newspaper cartoon panel, books, posters, games and mobile phone contents.

Underwater World Pattaya

Underwater World Pattaya is a leisure attraction showcasing the rich variety of marine life found around the region. Situated at Pattaya, it complements the many other educational and recreational activities available at this beautiful seaside resort.

At Underwater World Pattaya, visitors are taken on a ‘voyage to the bottom of the sea' , which begins at the sandy beaches and shallow rock pools at the water’s edge. From here, they start their descent, passing brightly colored corals and all kinds of exotic ocean-dwellers along the way. Finally they come to a spectacular 100 meter-long tunnel with acrylic windows, home to great shoals of fish, prowling predators and a host of other creatures that inhabit the ocean depths.

Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden & Resort is well known to those who want to take in an impressive Thai Cultural Show and find the biggest and most beautiful botanical garden in Southeast Asia. More than 2,000 visitors from around the world visit our garden daily for their enjoyment. At Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, we're always developing and improving the beautification process in order for the garden to look as it does today. Nong Nooch garden is also dedicated to education, preservation, research as well as the conservation of its vast palm collection and other tropical plants.

Since its debut as a tourist attraction, fascinating Thai Culture and traditional dances are presented daily in the theater within the garden compound. Besides the traditional shows, visitors will have an opportunity to see other performances such as religious ceremonies, martial arts, and The Elephant Show – one of the most popular attractions here. The shows are presented 3 or 4 rounds daily featuring elephants with special skills in playing football, dancing, and even interacting with tourists!!! Come ride on elephants, sightsee the garden via mini bus or relax in our lake on a pedal boat. Savor the taste of Thailand and other “Western” style food and beverages at any of our two restaurants Plubplung and Wivat kitchen. A mini bus service is available to those who want to rush back to Pattaya. To make your visit at the Nong Nooch Garden a memorable one, overnight accommodation is also available. Enjoy the “ Paradise ” by day and gaze the “ Starry ” sky by night – it's an experience you'll never forget.

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Pattaya: Tourist Attractions (1)

2009-11-27T01:42:00.000-08:00

Tourist Attractions

The most charming Tourist Attractions in Pattaya are as follows:

Sanctuary of Truth (Prasat Sut Ja-Tum)

This structure (in progress) was the brainchild of an eccentric billionaire and is meant to illustrate the four major philosophical and artistic influences that can be seen in Thailand. Each of the cruciform-plan building's four wings reflects a different one of the four styles. The Sanctuary of Truth (in Thai Prasat Sut Ja-Tum) is dramatically set on a rocky point of the coast just north of Pattaya, in the small town of Naklua. It's near the end of Naklua Soi 12. You could easily get a songtaew (a small pickup truck turned into a sort of taxi-bus) from Pattaya, as Pattaya 2 Road becomes the "main" street of Naklua.

Pattaya Park Tower

The first and highest seaside tower with a revolving restaurant. Located on The East Coast of Thailand; 240 metres high, you can stand and gaze at the beauty of the coastline and Pattaya City. You can enjoy Water Park with Splash through the water slides and relax in the whirlpool by-the-beach Water Park. Also, there is an Amusement Park which is other options for exciting experience at Funny Lnad with the first Tower Shot in Thailand, Swing Vikings Ship, Samba Tower, Slalom Roller Caster, Family Swinger, Demolition Derby, Musical Carousel and the Monorail to speed you around the resort.

Pattaya Elephant Village

See the majestic animals up close at the Elephant Village. Delight in a wide range of shows and demonstrations like elephant training techniques, bathing, traditional roundup methods and the highlight, the 'Glong Sabad Chai' (drums ceremony) with a war elephant. At the end of the show, visitors are welcome to take a short ride on the back of an elephant. The show time is from 13:30 - 17:15 every day.

The price starts from THB 850 which includes air conditioned vehicle with English-speaking guide, admission fee as mentioned on this program, and transfer from/to hotel in Pattaya.

Million Years Stone Park & Pattaya Crocodile Farm

Located on an over-70-acre piece of land just 15 minutes' drive from Pattaya, this Park & Farm is a new striking tourist attraction created with more than 20 years' efforts, for all nature lovers. It contains much more than what its name suggests. It is not only a living museum of curious and beautiful things of all the three kingdoms-animal, vegetable and mineral, but it also offers you several kinds of amusing and exciting shows.

Jomtien Beach, Pattaya

The Jomtien Beach is located about 2 kilometers from south Pattaya. This beach and the area has become more and more popular for swimming, water sports and activities because it has a long straight coastline and there are less boat anchored in the area.

There are many good hotels, bungalos, guest houses and many restaurants. A lot of tourists come to this area and enjoy the scenery and the beach. Chairs are available to sit and to have food and drink, or to go swimming. Water sports such as wind surf, water scooter, para sail, speed boat riding, even water skiing are possible.

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Pattaya

2009-11-27T01:33:00.000-08:00

Pattaya

Pattaya is a city in Thailand, located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 165 km southeast of Bangkok located within but not part of Amphoe Bang Lamung (Banglamung) in the province of Chonburi.

The city of Pattaya is a self governing municipal area which covers the whole tambon Nong Prue (Nongprue) and Na Kluea (Naklua) and parts of Huai Yai and Nong Pla Lai. It is located in the heavily industrial Eastern Seaboard zone, along with Si Racha (Sri Racha), Laem Chabang, and Chon Buri (Chonburi).

Pattaya is also the center of the Pattaya-Chonburi Metropolitan Area, the conurbation in Chonburi Province.

Coastal Side

Pattaya's coastal side is divided longitudinally into five contiguous sub-districts (or six, if also including Jomtien). Each one is named after the section of beach or headland at its seaboard.

In the middle are the three Pattaya Bay sub-districts, which share the main Baht Bus route (so most places are within 5 minutes / 10 baht of most other places, at any hour) and have much else in common, and hence in combination make up the main quasi-downtown zone:

North Pattaya (Pattaya Nua) - not the northern-most part of Pattaya (as Naklua lies further north), but the section of Pattaya adjacent to the northern end of Pattaya Beach and extending inland to both the north and south of North Pattaya Road. Does not include Naklua.

South Pattaya (Pattaya Tai) - not the southern-most part of Pattaya (as the Buddha Hill headland, and then Jomtien, lie further south), but the section of Pattaya adjacent to the southern end of Pattaya Beach and extending inland to both the north and south of South Pattaya Road. Includes Pattayaland and Walking Street. Does not include Buddha Hill or Jomtien.

Central Pattaya (Pattaya Klang) - not the dead center of Pattaya, but the section of Pattaya adjacent to the middle of Pattaya Beach and extending inland to both the north and south of Central Pattaya Road. Some maps/guides disregard the Central Pattaya convention, and instead extend North Pattaya and South Pattaya to meet each other along Central Pattaya Road; sometimes, Beach Road is described with a similar division, and the respective halves given "North Beach Road" and "South Beach Road" monikers.

Flanking the Pattaya Beach sub-districts are:

Naklua - immediately north of North Pattaya, and with quick, frequent, and inexpensive transport to and from the rest of Pattaya; Naklua is popular with visitors whose native language is German. In terms of tourism-related locations, it's the smallest and least significant sub-district, the main attractions being the beaches (which are quieter than Pattaya Beach) and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Buddha Hill - named after the Buddha Hill landmark and sandwiched between South Pattaya (to the north) and Jomtien (to the south); to the east, South Pattaya and Jomtien meet directly.

Transportation

Road :

By the Bangkok-Chonburi-Pattaya Motorway (Highway No.7) The motorway is linked with Bangkok’s Outer Ring Road., (Highway No. 9) and there is also another entrance at Si Nakharin and Rama IX Junction.

By Bang Na-Trat Highway (Highway No. 34) From Bang Na, Bang Phli, across the Bang Pakong River to Chonburi there is a Chonburi’s bypass that meets Sukhumvit Road., (Highway No. 3, passing Bang Saen Beach, Bang Phra to Pattaya.

City roads :

Pattaya 1 Road ("Beach Road"): this street runs parallel to the beach

Pattaya 2 Road: this street runs approximately 400 meters parallel to Pattaya 1 Road.

Pattaya 3 Road: this is Pattaya’s outer-ring road which connects North, South and Central Pattaya.

Tappraya Road: this street connects Pattaya 2 to Jomtien Road.

Thepprasit Road: this street connects Tappraya Road to Sukhumvit Road.

Rail :

A daily service operates between Pattaya and Hualumphong Station in Bangkok.

Bus :

Intercity transport is usually through one of two bus stations, one for Bangkok and one for other destinations. Pattaya is served by frequent bus services from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Morchit) and the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekhamai). Busses from Pattaya serve nearby provincial towns and direct long distance routes serve many provincial capitals.

City and suburban services are mainly provided by Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicle), popularly nick-named "baht-buses" or "taxis". A public bus service began in 2006.

Taxis :

A metered taxi service began in late 2007, and new U.S.-style air-conditioned pick-up trucks operate for private hire from many hotel car-parks. Motorcycle taxis generally operate in the town and suburbs, and are mainly used by locals for short distances.

Air :

Pattaya is about 1½ hours, or 120 km by road from Suvarnabhumi Airport, the Bangkok international hub. By road, it is accessed from Sukhumvit Road and Motorway 7 from Bangkok. Pattaya is also served through U-Tapao International Airport which is 45 minutes drive from the city.

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Resource: http://www.wikipedia.com/

Bangkok Travel

2009-11-23T17:22:00.000-08:00

Bangkok is a huge city with several district articles containing sightseeing, restaurant, nightlife and accommodation listings — consider printing them all.

Grand Palace, BangkokBangkok is the capital of Thailand and by far its largest city with an estimated population of over 11 million.

Bangkok is one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities. Created as the Thai capital in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty, Bangkok is a national treasure house and Thailand’s spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre.

Taking a bicycle tour of Bangkok is highly recommended. There are a handful of specialist operators that offer daily or regular departures to the Bangkok Jungle, an area across the river from downtown Bangkok where there are few cars or buildings, or through the backstreets of China Town. It sounds strange but a cycle tour in Bangkok really is the best way to discover the city up close. Sightseeing Along the Chao Phraya River is another great way to see the city, There are special boat trips designed for foreign tourists along the Chao Phraya River to take in sites such as the Grand Palace. They are quite pointless though, as the public passenger ferry does exactly the same trip. In fact, they are even better as they go all the way up to Nonthaburi Town. For a good trip take a public passenger ferry from near the Saphan Taksin BTS skytrain station and go up to Nonthaburi Town, enjoy the afternoon in this pleasant laid back traditional urban town and take the boat back.

Thai Boxing

Thai Boxing or Muay Thai is both a sport and means of self defence. Contestants are allowed to use almost any part of their body: feet, elbows, legs, knees, and shoulders, are all weapons. The playing of traditional music during bouts makes for even greater excitement. There are two venues in Bangkok for this type of sport.

Ratchadamnoen Stadium , Ratchadamnoen Nok Road, ☎ 0 2281 4205. M,W,Th 6.30PM-10.30PM, Su 5PM-8PM & 8.30PM-midnight. edit

Lumphini Stadium , Rama IV Road, ☎ 0 2251 4303. Tu,F 6.30PM,Sa 5PM & 8.30PM. edit

Elephant riding

Elephants are a large part of Thailand’s tourist trade, and the smuggling and mistreatment of elephants for tourist attractions is quite a widespread practice. Be aware that elephants are often separated from their mothers at a young age to be cruelly trained under captivity for the rest of their lives. Organizations such as The Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai are an ethical alternative for elephant tourism.

Cultural performances

Puppet Theatre, Theatrical perfomances, Thai Dance etc., Listings have been lifted to the Do section of districts, this section could use a write up if you a familiar enough with the subject to provide a general overview.

Wellness

Spas, traditionally, were towns where public baths, hospitals or hotels were built on top of mineral springs so that people could come and make use of the healing properties found in the water and its mud for medical purposes. These days, a spa doesn’t have to be a town built on natural thermal springs. It can be a place anywhere that anyone can go to, to relax in tranquil surroundings with a variety of treatment administered to recontour and rejuvenate the body and mind. All self-respecting hotels in Bangkok will have a spa operating on premises offering at least traditional massage services. These tend to charge a premium but also offer some the best treatments in town. Particularly well-regarded spas include Deverana [31] at the Dusit Thani and the eponymous operations at Banyan Tree [32] and the legendary Oriental [33] — the last of these being probably the most expensive in town, offering (among other things) a 6-hour Oriental Romance package for two costing a whopping US$535. Independent spas offer much the same experience but are a little more competitive due to the lack of a captive customer base. Figure on 1000 baht and up per hour for most treatments.

The ubiquitous little massage shops found on every street corner in town, offer the best value for money but the smallest range of services, with offerings usually limited to massage only. It is fairly easy to distinguish legitimate massage shops from more dubious places: the real deal will charge 250-400 baht for a typical two-hour massage and will often have a row of beefy farmers' daughters in white coats working on customers' feet in public view, while the other kind has wispy things in evening dresses and too much makeup yelling "Hello handsome" at every passing male.

Entertainment

Horse Races are held on Sunday from 12.30PM-6.00PM at two alternate turf clubs, The Royal Turf Club of Thailand, on Phitsanulok Road or the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, on Henri Dunant Road.

Bangkok is a great place to go to the movies. If you are coming from the West, the cost of a cinema ticket is a complete bargain, around B120. Most of the cinemas are of the highest world-class standards and show all the latest releases. Major Cineplex and SFX are some of the largest chain cinemas. They are also up to par with technological innovations in the movie industry - expect to wear 3D glasses for some of the Hollywood releases, or visit an an IMAX Theater on Rangsit Roador the IMAX theater at Siam Paragon. Just like the capital’s cinemas, bowling centers are of a superb standard with some of them resembling the inside of a discotheque. Dance while you play style. Top class private karaoke lounges can be found at some of the bowling centers and major hotels.

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Resource: http://www.wikipedia.com/