Phuket Beaches

Ao Sane Beach

Ao Sane beach is a small bay and is located up to the right side of Nai Harn beach. The way to go to this beach is through Le Meridiam Phuket Yacht Club. Ao Sane is a very small beach with rock and don’t have white powder sand. The beach is almost empty with only a restaurant and a few bungalows for tourists who found like to relax in a quiet and private beach.

Ao Yon Beach

Ao Yon is a small beach. There are two beaches. Ao Yon is located next to Koa Khad, in South Phuket Island, near Cape Panwa, 10 Km from Phuket town and only 10 minute from 360˚ Koa Khad View Point. Ao Yon is a quiet beach with emerald sea. There is a suitable for see sun set but is not popular beach for bathing or relaxing. The bay is full of boats and yachts. There are a few hotel and waiting room for service the tourist. This is a good spot to get away from the crowd.

Bang Tao Beach

Bang Tao Beach is the longest beach of Phuket Island. It is quiet here and located on foothill. Larch trees fringe the beach. Grain of sand is not fine but is very white. It has since been developed into five luxury resorts, therefore a popular beach for foreign tourist. The tide is out, it is not suitable for bathing in the sea because of strong wave. The north wind of the beach is some fine coral. This is a good location for scuba diving.

Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach is very quiet and located in the South of Surin Beach. Grain of sand is not fine. The beach is approximately 2 km longs. There is a tsunami monument that is a reminder of the tsunami and the terrible damage it inflicted. There are also hotels, bungalow, shops and restaurants around this area.

Karon Beach

Karon Beach is one of Phuket’s longest beaches and located near The North of Kata Beach. Karon Beach is split from Kata Beach by a small hill. Larch trees and sugar palm trees fringe the beach. There are strong wave and wind, therefore this is not a favorite tourist beach for bathing but suitable for sunbathing and strolling. There are many facility, shopping and restaurant at the right side of Karon Circle. There are also some other bars and clubs that you can visit for a taste of the nightlife.

Kata Beach

Kata Beach is between in Kata Noi and Karon Beaches. We travel pass 3 beach (Kata Noi, Kata and Karon Beach) in a few minute. Kata beach is a popular beach on Phuket Island. There are soft white sand and palm trees fringe the beach. There are including hotel, bungalow, tourist guide company, shopping and other entertainment for accommodate tourist.

Kata Noi Beach

Kata Noi Beach is next to Kata Beach, only 5 minutes from Kata beach. Kata beach is a small beach with soft white sand. This is a beautiful and popular beach.

Laem Ka Beach

Laem Ka Beach,The entrance of Laem Ka Beach is a small road. It seems that doesn’t have a small beach at here. In the beginning, it is a most popular traveling beach on Phuket Island. It is one of those quiet and beautiful little beaches with a lot of small and big rock. The sea is very calm clear water. This is a favorite beach for original Phuket citizen to relax at with their family but unflavored for foreign tourist. It is a limited time to entry-exit the beach because the entry of the beach is a private area.

Laem Singh Beach

Laem Singh Beach is a limited size (not so long beach). It is located in between Surin and Kamala Beaches. It is approximate 15 minute from Kamala Beach or 10 minute from Surin Beach. There are a couple of tracks down to the beach. The first one, there is a high way signpost. The second one, there are also rock and big trees that sign you the point of the entrance of Laem Singh Beach. From here of both of tracks, you have to walk down by stair and have a shortcut to pass forest to the beach. Leam Sing Beach is am absolutely beautiful beach with crystal clear water and fine white sand. There is a favorite beach of foreign tourist so we always see them enjoy your bathing and sunbathing.

Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn is located next to the North Leam Promtep. There is a big marsh near the beach it is called “Nong Harn” by local people. Nai Harn beach have a long stretch of sand when compare with Ao Sane that is in the same area. There is a favorite beach for sunbathing for foreign. Nai Harn beach don’t have white powder sand but the sand is very soft. Plenty of souvenirs shop around the beach. Be careful swimming in low season that is during May and October when there are strong wave.

Nai Thon Beach

Nai Thon Beach is the part of the North of Sirinath National Park. 6 km from the Sirinath National Park Office. The beach is a stunning strip of fine white sand. It is fringed by larch trees scattered covering the ground. Nai Thon is a quiet area far away from the crowds.

Nai Yang Beach

Nai Yang Beach is the part of Sirinath National Park and located in Northwest Phuket Island. The beach is very wide and long beach with Larch-Fringed. There is a beautiful and tranquil area and suitable for relaxing and bathing. There are bungalow’s Sirinath National Park and tent available for rent in the low price.

Patong Beach

Patong Beach is the most popular tourists place in Phuket Island. People from all over the world always to visit it in all season (whole year). It is a large town with many guesthouses, bungalows and hotel. There is a mass of tour guide company, shops, bars, restaurants, discos nightclub and night-entertainment. It is called Traveling Place open 24 hr. Patong beach is an absolutely perfect bathing beach with fine white sand. There also have lot’s water activity like Jet Ski, speed boat, parasailing, banana boat, windsurfing, wakeboard, etc.

Pan Wa Beach

Pan Wa Beach is approximate 15 km from Phuket town. The entrance is a hill that is on left-hand side. At the end of the beach is Phuket Aquarium. There have white sand, emerald green sea, Larch-Fringed. There is a suitable place for bathing, swimming, and sunbathing and including water-activity.

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach is a little beach, 5 minutes from Tri Trang Beach. To get there follow a small cement road up to the hill trough the jungle. It seems that there doesn’t have a beach. Paradise Beach is a nice small beach with white soft sand. There are rocks at both of beach sides. There are also an only restaurant and lots of sun beds to serving tourist.

Rawai Beach

Rawai Beach is the second largest beach in Phuket Island. (The first one is Patong Beach). There are a lot of restaurants. There is a favorite place to partake of meal beside beach for both of Thais and foreign tourists. Rawai Beach is great spot for a launching point for day boat excursions out to Phuket’s surrounding islands more than bathing and other activity.

Surin Beach

Surin Beach is located between Kamala and Bang Tao Beaches. It is one of beautiful beaches with fine white sand and emerald sea. It make us dote on gold sunlight reflect on sea surface. The beach is rather strong wind, therefore it is a suitable beach for windsurfing. A lot of popular resorts are around the beach.

Yanui Beach

Yanui Beach is a small bay, 10 minutes from the North Leam Phrom Thep. It is not a popular water activity beach but nice to relax to get away from crowd. The beach is not so long. The sand is beautifully soft but not very white. It is a favorite bathing and sunbathing location.

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Kaeng Krung National Park (Surat Thani National Park)

Kang Krung National Park, in Thachana District, Chaiya District, Thachang District, and Wipawadi District, Surat Thani Province, consists of forest and complicated mountain range which is the source of rivers for people in Surat Thani Province and Chumpon province, and has many nice places suitable for recreation such as waterfalls, streams, hot-water pond and mountains. The area has beautiful sceneries, and is about 541 squares kilometers or 338,125 Rai. The Royal Forest Department has proclaimed it to be a national park on December 4, 1990.

Geographical Features

The area consists of two-complicated mountain ranges lying north and south. A valley between two mountain ranges is the source of Luangsuan River in the north, and Klongyan Canal in the south. The highest mountain is 849 meters above sea level. Most of the area is soil-mountain which has tin be an important and valuable mineral.

Weather Condition

Most of the area is rain forest so that causes rain all the year round and the temperature is quite cold.

Varieties of Plants and Wild Animals

There are economically valuable plants such as Lumpor (a kind of Leguminosae), champak and many kinds of Yang. The lower plants are, generally, fern and many kinds of climber which make the area is thick forest.
The animals found are wild elephant, tiger, bear, seladang, banteng, tapir, gibbon, monkey, langur, barking deer, deer, wild boar, stump-tailed monkey, banned langur, amphibian, and many kinds of bird such as bulbul, helmeted hornbill, crow-billed drongo, Asian fairy-bluebird.

Location and Journey

Kaeng Krung National Park
Mu 7, Takuk Nuar Sub-district,, King Amphoe Wiphawadi, Surat Thani, Thailand 84000
Tel. : 0 7791 8063 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0 7791 8063 end_of_the_skype_highlighting (VoIP), 0 7720 5677 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0 7720 5677 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Head's name : Surawut Suttamusik Position : Administrative Forest Officer 6

By Car

Going 700 kilometers from Bangkok to Surat Thani Province, and 120 kilometers from Surath Thani Province to Thachana District, then go on 35 kilometers on tarmac road and 9 kilometers on laterite road to Kang Krung National Park Office.

Accommodations

Booking can be arranged through in this website or telephone booking at +66 2562 0760 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +66 2562 0760 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. Reservation can be made 60 days in advance. Payment at Krung Thai Bank Public Company Limited, needs to be done within 2 days after the reservation is being made.
Foreign clients who perform online accommodation booking from outside Thailand must transfer the accommodation fee (except bank service charge) to Krung Thai Bank Public Company Limited, Thailand, account number 039-6-02816-0.

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Four Caves in the Philippines You Shouldn't Miss

Formed by the water and amassed by tectonic power from long ago, the mighty archipelago that is the Philippines is not only blessed with pristine beaches and heady breezes, but also with numerous naturally-forming caves. Traveling the Philippine Islands just for the sake of its natural caves is a fantastic destination trip for any cave explorers and spelunking enthusiasts.

But since there are so many, here are the four best cave travel destinations one should definitely see when they travel to the Philippines for nature and adventure. These caves are the pride of the land, and the country, together with its people, strive to preserve these natural treasures for everyone to enjoy.


The Callao Caves
When we talk about caves in the Philippines, cave enthusiasts and rapellers will ultimately mention Callao Caves. This massive, seven-chambered cave is the pride of Tuguegarao, in the town of Peñablanca. The seven chambers are called the Column, the Chapel, the Skeleton, the Elephant's Head, the Praying Angel, the Rocket, the Lion's Head and the Dog's Head.

The Chapel would easily be pointed as the most popular of these chambers, the cavernous formation striking awe to every one who sees it. It lives up to its name because the locals have actually turned it into a cathedral of sorts. A skylight majestically cuts through the darkness, as if the heavens are speaking, and making it really a sight to behold.

The Odessa-Tumbali Cave, also known as the Abbenditan Cave
This cave with five entrances is the third longest cave in the Philippine Islands and that is saying something. The province of Cagayan itself, where Odessa-Tumbali is located, has over 300 natural cave formations. A recent speleological expedition tried to map out the cave through its Abbenditan entrance, and they were surprised to find out that eventually, it connects to a cave in the village of Tumbali, hence the name.

Here, lake and stream formations are abundant and natural, making in a perfect spot for numerous wildlife. The same goes for being the perfect place for water adventures like swimming and diving. This cave photographs well too. That must be the reason why its so famous for wet cavers and explorers.

The Sumaging-Latipan-Lomyang Crystal Cave
Sumaging-Latipan-Lomyang Crystal Cave in Sagada, Mt.Province is the deepest cave in the land, if vector length is the basis. This is so deep in fact, that it used to be a hiding place of the Filipino soldiers and guerillas during World War 2. Add this to the fact that before that, this was also used as a burial ground for the indigenous locals of the Cordillera region and you are all set for the perfect horror setting.

So for the not-so-faint-of-heart, the Crystal Cave will promise natural streams, stone walls polished by water, as well as terrific stalactite and stalagmite formations.

The Palawan Subterranean River
The most famous river and cave in the Philippines has earned its fame with the right credentials. It is the longest navigable underground river in the world, making it a heritage site national attraction protected by law and by the locals. The boat tour will stretch out 1km from the mouth, and lots of wildlife can be seen at the entrance.
Further deep, impressive formations and ceilings full of sleeping bats will astound anyone. This is certainly a relaxing travel destination for die-hard spelunkers, but one that is not to be missed anyway.

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Amazing Ko Samui

Samui Island or Ko Samui is the largest of a group of nearly 100 tropical islands in the Gulf of Thailand along the east coast of Surat Thani Province. These islands are known as the Samui archipelago. The most phenomenally famous tourist destinations, attracting a wide range of visitors from all over the world, are the three largest islands: Samui, Phangan, and Tao. Long sandy beaches, green mountainous interiors, colorful coral reefs, a warm tropical climate and an easy-going people with a ready smile clearly define Samui's appeal.

Some 1,500 years ago Samui was probably first inhabited by fishermen using the island as a base to fish its rich waters. The island was first officially recorded on a Ming Dynasty map from China in approximately 1,500 AD. Many immigrants from Hunan have settled in the northern villages of Nathon and Maenam. Muslim fishermen settled in the South and East and Huan Thanon is still a strong Muslim enclave. During the 17th to 18th centuries the islands came under the rule of Nakhon Si Thammarat which at that time was the main power in southern Thailand. Eventually it came under the direct rule of the Siamese from Bangkok in the late 18th century, but Samui and other islands have always been essentially self-governing. By the end of the 19th century, the remote communities had been established and word of the beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand was already seeping through to the greater Thai country. After the Second World War, Thailand became more economically sophisticated and natural products such as timber, rubber and fruit became tradable commodities. These fertile islands were important for the plantations of coconuts which began to assume economic value to the country. Then the backpackers arrived and gradually tourism began to dominate the island economically and socially.

Ko Samui, the third largest island of Thailand and the largest in the southeast in the Gulf of Thailand, is surrounded with almost a hundred islands. The main islands, which are all near Samui Island and are inhabited, are Phangan, Tao and Tan Islands. Samui Island is 247 sq km It is full of tropical jungle and mountains up to 600 m high and is covered by almost 3 million coconut trees, some over 160 years old and 35 m tall.

The interesting spots on the island of paradise include:

Big Buddha Temple: The Big Buddha temple, locally called "Wat Phra Yai", is named after the 22 m golden Buddha enshrined at the very far end of the northeast coast. It is really a must for every visitor to Samui.

The temple is located on route 4171 not far from the airport. The Big Buddha sits magnificently upon the small island, Ko Fan. Usually plenty of tourists both local and international visit the huge statue. It is the island's most prominent landmark, which you can often see from the air before your aircraft even lands. There are a number of restaurants and souvenir stands around the temple to serve the visitors.

Kunaram Temple: The highly respected Kunaram Temple houses the mummified body of Samui's most famous monk, Loungpor Daeng. The body is on display here in a specially constructed building. Over 20 years ago, he died in the sitting position while he was performing meditation and his body shows few signs of any major decay. Wat Khunaram is on the 4169 ring road between the Na Muang waterfalls and Hua Thanon.

The Laem Sor Pagoda: The pagoda is located on the grounds of Laem Sor Temple. It sits magnificently at the rocks on the water's edge. It is covered in countless small yellow tiles, which appear golden when viewed from a short distance. At the far south of the island off the 4170 road between Ban Tale and Ban Page Ka, you can reach the temple by following the track with a sign that reads "Waikiki Bungalow."

Sumret Temple: This old temple is the guardian of the ancient White Marble Buddha, believed by the monks there to be many hundreds of years old. It also has within its grounds the "Secret Hall of Buddhas." This building houses a fine collection of revered and valuable Buddha images, some of which have recently been stolen resulting in the temple doors being locked most of the time. However, the monks will open them for a request, although a donation will be expected. Wat Sumret is 200 meters down the second concrete road on the left, West of Hua Thanon on the 4169 ring road.

Na Muang Waterfalls: Na Muang Waterfalls, a set of two waterfalls, are the finest natural scenery on the island. The waterfalls are located just 10 kms south of Nathon near Ban Thurian.

The first level of Na Muang Waterfalls is 18 m high and tourists can easily take a vehicle to reach there as it is at the end of the road. The second level of falls is about 80 m high and a 30 minute walk is the only way to reach them. The second level is less frequently visited even though they are arguably the prettiest falls on the island and worth the walk. If you prefer to experience the elephant ride into the forest, Na Muang Safari located at the cross roads and can take you for a wild ride.

Hin Lad Waterfalls: Hin Lad Waterfalls with a well-posted sign are a 2 km walk from the main road just south of Nathon. It is quite a tough trek so make sure you have decent footwear or else you may get hurt from the uneven uphill and downhill track. The falls are really nice as long as there is enough water, but during the dry season, it is probably not worth the trek. Within the waterfalls, there is a pool that you can swim in to cool off.

Hin Ta and Hin Yai: The famous Hin Ta and Hin Yai or Grandfather and Grandmother rocks are strange natural formations fashioned by the elements into massive sculptures of male and female genitals. The strange, scenic spot makes an interesting viewpoint where the tourists can take great photographs. A local story has been told generation to generation about an elderly couple. They sailed a ship and it was wrecked in the bay. Their bodies were washed ashore to create the rocks. The rocks are well signposted and can be reached from the 4169 ring road just south of Lamai.

Samui's Butterfly Park, Bee House and Insect Museum: For nature enthusiasts interested in tropical insects, Samui's Butterfly Park houses many brightly colored butterflies. They live in a peaceful garden setting within a huge net cage. It is probably worth visiting for a nature walk although the price is quite expensive.

At Samui's Butterfly Park there is also a Bee House. All bees are kept in an old traditional Thai-style house and visitors are allowed to observe the activities of bees. Rare insects from Thailand and other countries are on display in the Insect Musuem. The Butterfly Park is situated in Laem Set on the southeast coast of Samui off highway 4170.

Samui's Monkey Center: Samui's Monkey Center is located on highway 4169 near Bophut. There are funny and enjoyable elephant and monkey shows. There are daily elephant rides for an adventurous jungle trek. The Monkey Center is open daily from 9 am until 5 pm. Show times for the hilarious performances are 10.30 am, 2 pm and 4 pm.

Article Source: http://www.thailand.com/travel/beach/beach_surat_samui.htm

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Department Store in Bangkok

Department Stores around Bangkok

The department store is a modern-age shopping phenomenon that's all about convenience - and dedicated entirely towards helping you get a shopping overdose. Unlike malls, you don't even have to leave one store to go to another; it's an open-plan shopping environment with all kinds of merchandise offered in demarcated zones and on various floors. Often called 'super-stores', they are modern, gleaming retail 'monuments' where you can find just about anything under the sun - or should that be under one roof...

Department stores in Bangkok hold their own among the finest in the world, and offer visitors to the capital a supreme shopping experience. Some are high-end, catering to the well-to-do and glamorous, while others offer the kind of bargains that thrills are made of. We've lined them all up, so go ahead and choose one that has 'you' written all over it..

Central World


This centre comprises of the ZEN, Isetan and Duty Free shopping centres, with hundreds of additional small shops to go with it. It is opposite the Grand Hyatt Hotel and is the most central of all the shopping locations.









Siam Paragon
on Rama I Rd.
The Pride of Bangkok. This is the biggest upscale shopping complex in Thailand and South East Asia. It includes a variety of high-end stores, restaurants and entertainment complex, offering so many fantastic leisure activities. It is neighbored by Siam Center and Siam Skytrain Station.




MBK (Maboonkrong) Center


Short-named MBK, the multi-storey Mah Boon Krong is probably Bangkok's most legendary shopping mall, popular with both tourists and locals. Eight floors packed with 2,000 shops that sell everything from clothing, fashion accessories, handbags, leather products and luggage to furniture, mobile phones, electric appliances, cameras, stationery and DVD's (and then some).






The Emporium
Emporium is an absolutely amazing shopping centre and some would say the best in Bangkok, It has a cinema, and a lot of quality designer wear. They also have an excellent food court at ridiculously cheap prices, which offers diners a lovely view over the adjacent small park. (skytrain station Phrom Phong)




Siam Center
One of the oldest malls in Thailand, but also one of the most vital. Situated slap-bang in the centre of what is called 'the battleground of the malls' - and easily dwarfed by the bigger and flashier malls - few know that Siam Center was there before all the others. Constructed in 1976, this original looks good for her age, thanks to the panoply of bright and playful shops and the ever-younger and fresher clientele, expending their reeling energies and pocket money..




Siam Discovery
This trendy shopping complex is still a favourite among Bangkok's younger and fashionable crowds. Opposite Siam Square, this modern centre adjoins Siam Centre and showcases a good selection of shops, restaurants and designer fashion outlets.

Expect popular local fashion designers and global brand names as well as European established names, as well as a number of home decor and hip interior design stores. Guess? DKNY, Shiseido, Mac, Swarovski and many more. Asia Books and Habitat have branches here too. A huge cinema complex is located on the top floor, while the ground floor houses popular coffee hangouts including Starbucks and Au Bon Pain.

Gaysorn Plaza


Gaysorn is a luxurious, upmarket white marble and gleaming chrome complex housing exclusively high-end luxury goods and designer labels. Its contemporary design and an innovative retail concept create a very exclusive shopping experience. Expect to find a wide range of highly desirable international brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada and Hugo Boss, to name but a few, as well as a selection of Thailand's most innovative designers such as Fly Now, 'Senada Theory and Kloset Red Carpet.






Erawan Bangkok
The graceful mall with direct access to the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok right in the heart of the Ratchaprasong shopping district, has an air of exclusivity about it. A five-storey space covering about 13, 000 square meters, it's a boutique mall that offers a selection of only the most elegant lifestyle brands. And the shoppers who frequent the polished hallways and eateries here are equally suave...




Amarin Plaza

The stylish Amarin Plaza is linked to Erawan Bangkok via a skybridge. The five-storey shopping plaza has an almost festive aura to it, drawing in a mixed crowd - from affluent Thais to expats and business travellers - with highly desirable brand names such as Guy Laroche, Valentino and Crocodile, to name but a few.




Peninsula Plaza
On Ratchadamri Road is situated in the prime land between the Erawan Mall and Four Seasons Hotel. This exclusive centre, catering mainly towards expats, moneyed Thais and business class travelers, exudes an air of old-world charm. Various leisurely eateries and cafes are scattered throughout. You will find diamonds, Swarovsky crystal, sheer fabrics, antiques and silverware among the wares on display. There is also a grand gallery, an art shop exhibiting some striking contemporary Thai paintings, and the International Dance Academy on the fourth floor. Look out for the magnificent stained glass 'door' on your way out.

Pantip Plaza

On Petchburi road near the Amari Watergate Hotel. Everything under the sun and computer related can be found here. With seven floors of heaven for computer buffs. The multistory shopping centre offers a wide selection of stores, selling everything from computers and computer-related accessories, including; parts, printers, digital cameras, MP3 players, PDAs, and much more. Pantip Plaza is also (in)famous for its inexpensive counterfeit versions of software and DVDs. Although you might not be a techno-geek, it’s worth visiting when you're in the area for the pure fascination value.





Esplanade
This structure of organic contours and ample space was designed by the same Paris-based architects who conceived Bangkok's famous Emporium and Siam Paragon. Within is a music academy, a 12-theatre Cineplex, and ice skating rink. This new addition to the mall scene operates 100 000 square meters of retail space, and introduces the intriguing concept of 'artetainment'.

In addition, it features one of the most modern auditoriums in the city, and the Cineplex movie theatres have devised a nifty way to save paper; the 'now showing' screens are electronic instead of the traditional posters. Aside from all the usual eateries, cafes and fashionable lifestyle stores, there are also several health and wellness outlets, from post-natal slimming and shaping, to fitness, hair and nails. Project Zen Bodyworks has a spa menu to delight, and Chaho Matcha Teashop stocks Japanese green tea. And for some action, Blu-O Rhythm & Bowl combines karaoke and bowling for good clean fun.

Platinum Fashion Mall
A relatively new shopping center in the Petchburi area, Platinum Fashion Mall caters especially to wholesale clothing, selling a similar range of clothing to the Pratunam Market across the street, except in air-conditioned comfort. The mall has six floors which are filled with small outlets - most of them specialising in women's clothing and fashion accessories. Since this is a wholesale mall, you can get items at very reasonable prices - provided you buy larger quantities, usually three items and up.




All Seasons Place
Clothing boutiques, books, stationery and shops specialising in high-end sporting accessories can be found here. There is fine custom-tailoring, an art shop, gallery, an antiques shop and a wine cellar. The center also houses a health clinic and state of-the-art spa. Postal and various banking services are available too. The popular food court, adjoined to the supermarket on the second floor, offers unbelievably cheap fare in a casual atmosphere.

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Grand Temples of Thailand

As the majority of the country’s population are practicing Theravada Buddhists, one of the most prominent sights around Thailand from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are the tiered rooftops of grand temples (known as wats).

Thanks to its combination of such fascinating culture with a low cost of living, Thailand attracts thousands of backpackers each year, with numerous hostels in Thailand providing cheap accommodation for travelers exploring the country’s sights.

Bangkok

Often the first point of call for backpackers in Thailand, the hectic modern surface of the capital city, Bangkok, conceals a history that’s bound up with its numerous impressive temples.

Home to the country’s most famous attraction, the Grand Palace, Bangkok is at the heart of the Thai Kingdom and its cultural heritage. In the grounds of the Palace complex lies Wat Phra Kaeo, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha – Thailand’s most sacred site.

Whilst the Emerald Buddha is small in size, it’s often considered to be the most important image in Thailand. Moved to its current location in 1784, legend places its origins in India with years of Southeast Asia fighting around (and over) it in between.

In addition to this celebrated image, there are paintings and figures inside the wat which depict the mythology of Ramakien, the Thai version of the Hindu epic of the hero Rama.

The giant reclining Buddha at Wat Po is a must see

Just to the south of the Grand Palace, the dazzling Wat Pho is also a popular attraction in Bangkok. The oldest temple in the city, it dates back to the 17th century and is famous for its huge reclining Buddha.

With regards to a place to stay, there are a number of hostels in Bangkok offering both cheap private rooms and dorms to travelers exploring these stunning sights. Many of the best (and most affordable) hostels are situated in Banglamphu, a hub for travelers in the city and in easy reach of the Grand Palace.

However, these temples are just part of Bangkok’s rich history – other highlights include the Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, beautifully decorated with Chinese dragons, and the large Wat Arun, one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.

Old Sukhothai

North of Bangkok, the ruins of the walled city of Sukhothai lie on Thailand’s central plains. Easily accessible by bus via the modern settlement nearby, there are also some convenient hostels in the vicinity.

The temple ruins at Sukhothai are 600 years old

Dating back to the 13th century, the city originally housed around 40 separate temples. Today, the most important site is the large Wat Mahathat, surrounded by a moat and filled with the remains of many of Sukhothai’s ancient monuments.

Chiang Mai

Heading further north, public transport whisks backpackers on to Chiang Mai. This laidback and old-fashioned city is an intriguing sight in itself, although it’s mainly a center for hilltribe trekking in the mountains which surround it.

The beautiful Wat Phra Singh is the city’s must-see temple with its exemplary 19th century Lanna architecture, interior murals and gilded roof pediment. To the east sit the ruins of Wat Chedi Luang, once home to the Emerald Buddha, but destroyed by an earthquake in 1545.

Wat Phu Tok

Thailand’s least visited region, the northeastern province of Issan is home to Wat Phu Tok, a stunning retreat perched on the rocky outcrops of the red hills to the east of Nong Khai.

Built by meditation master Phra Ajaan Juen, it winds itself into the cliffs with wooden walkways that represent the seven levels of Buddhist enlightenment. The top level, on the flat of the hill, is in the midst of an overgrown forest.

Although it’s best reached by car, Wat Phu Tok is also accessible by bus from Bung Kan or the nearest town, Ban Siwilai, where there are also a handful of budget hotels providing beds for backpackers exploring the region.

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Hat Noppharat Thara(Krabi National Park)

Hat Noppharat Thara -Mu Ko Phi phi National Park(Krabi National Park)

Historical

Wai King Cave In the northeastern part of Phi Phi Le Island, is the location of the Waiking cave where the King Phumiphol Adulyadej had been here and gave the new name as "Phaya Nak Cave" because there is one stone looked like the head of naga which local people who collect the nests of swallow birds pay their respects. In this cave, eastern side and southern side, you would find the historical paints of elephant and many kinds of boats pictures.

Beautiful Nature

Shell Cemetery (Susan Hoi)
This is the miracle of nature which took place on the ancient age, 75 million years ago when many kinds of freshwater shell had been starved as a huge fossil, so called the cemetery of shell or "susan hoi" in Thai language. After carefully measurement and analysis by a new technology, we found that this shell cemetery is actually 40-20 million years of age.

Noppharat Thara Beach Formerly, it's so called " Khlong Hang" because after the water from the northern mountain is gone, it would leave only a long sand beach which end at Ko Khao Pak Khlong. This area is the world biggest house of a "hoi-chak-tin" or "feet-pulling shell"

Nang Bay There is a colorful view diferent from other beach because one side of the beach is a mountain which has a stalactite cave, so called Tham Phra Nang. It's very quiet here, so many tourists love to visit and stay here.

Poda Island Located at the southern part of Phra Nang Bay. From the shore, you can see the white sand beach and many kinds of coral because the sea in this area is very clear. This's very attractive for tourists which they can visit here for almost year long.

Mai Phai Island Located in the northern part of Phi Phi Don island, not far away from Yung island. Northern side and eastern side has a beautiful beach and coral reef which most of them are the staghorn coral, laid along to the southern part of island.

Yung Island Located in the nothern part of Phi Phi Don island, you can find the rock beach on the eastern side here and also a small sand beach located in the alley of mountain. In addition, you would find the varieties of beautiful fertile coral reef here.

Phi Phi Le Island Phi Phi Le covers area about 6.6 sq.km. It is the island of limestone mountains consisting of a steep high cliff vertically with the sea surface. Around this island has a sea area with depth about 20 meters. There are many beautiful gulf areas such as Pi Le Bay, Maya Bay, and Lo Sa Ma Bay.

Phi Phi Don Island Phi Phi Don is located about 28 sq.km. Laem Tong Cape is situated at the north of the island where 15-20 families of the sea gypsies dwell. These sea gypsy migrated from Li Pe Island in Satun Province. The cape is suitable for scuba diving and snorkelling. Lam Hua Ra Ket Cape, Had Yao Beach, and Hin Pae are also very beautiful. Ton sai Bay is the most beautiful scenery of the twin bays. Accomadation can be found at Loa Adam. This beautiful picture was been taken 10 years ago where settlement was absent.

Nature Education

Ngon Nak Mountain Nature Trail

Facilities

Accommodation Bungalows are also available.

Camping site There are the camping area with a parking lot, bathrooms and restrooms for serving tourists at the area of Ko Mai Phai Ranger Station.

Food services Restaurant is available in the Park.

Souvenir shop 5 souvenir shops : Ao Phra Nang area, Ao Railey, Hat Nopphrarat Thara, Susan Hoi and Phi-Phi Don.

Docking , Boat Tie-up , Wharf It has 7 ports for parking boats : Ao Phra Nang port, Ao Railey port, Ko Kwang port, Khlong Yingsuea port, Khlong Son port, Hat Khlong Muang port and Ao Nammao port.

Visitor center The office of National Park can serve you with a multimedia tools. You may see the exhibition at the Susan Hoi Ranger Station, Ko Mai Phai Ranger Station and the Railey Information Service Center. This gives you both natural touch and knowledge.

The Royal forest department had surveyed and established the 75 million-year shell cemetery (Susan Hoi), Hat Noppharat Thara - Mu Ko Phi Phi and near-by islands in Nong Thale sub-district, Ao Nang sub-district, SaiThai sub-district and Pak Nam sub-district of Amphoe Mueang Krabi, 389.96 sq.km, as the 47th National Park of Thailand so called "Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park". There after, it had been expanded to cover the shell cemetery and near-by islands, 0.02 sq.km. After that the area of Nong Thale sub-district, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Krabi province which is the area of the Royal Thai Navy and the Royal Palace area has been excluded from this national park and left only 387.90 sq.km.

Geographical Features

Consists of the land area on the coast of the island such as Ao Nammao mountain area, Ao Nang-Hang Nak forest and other islands. The geological form of this area is the high mountain laid along the northwest-southeast direction. Coast area is the high mountain while the western side has deeper slope than the eastern side. Geological form of sea coast area and islands in Andaman sea would be affected by the line of earth layer movement so called "Indosenia Teotonic Movement". At the area of mangrove forest of Hang Nak mountain you would find the Klom mountain canal on the coast rim which get the drained water from a big pond, so called "Nong Thale" (Sea Pond) and originates the mangrove forest and low plain area of the Samed forest in the area of national park office namely "Khlong Haeng" (Noppharat Thara Beach).

Weather Condition

"Hat Noppharat Thara - Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park is influenced by tropical monsoon wind. During November-October would has the southeastern-monsoon wind drives through and induces to have two seasons of weather here; the first is raining season starts from May till December and the hot season starts from January till April. Average temperature here is about 17 - 37 degrees celsius. Average rainfall per year is about 2,231 milimeters which would be highest in July and lowest in February.

Varieties of Plants and Wild Animals

Vegetations in the national park area could be classified into 3 groups as follows :
Primary rainforest could be found in the high steep mountain. According to these are the limestone mountains which have a thin layer of soil and are frequently impacted with strong wind, lets the rainforests in this area are not naturally fertile. Most of plants are iron wood, rubber and shorea, and the low level trees such as chanpha, rattans, banyans and many kinds of vines.
Mangrove forest could be found in dry canal and Yan Saba canal. Found plants are red mangroves, samae, peninsular, withe beans, black beans, etc.
Phru forest is the society of dominant plants which found the dense samet trees in the Nhoparatanatara beach. Other found plants are shorea, jambolan plum, cogon grass, etc.
Wildlife
Animals int the Nhoparatanataral-Phi Phi Islands National Park can be classified as follows : mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fishes and other aquatic animals which no spine, such as sea slug. The important one in this group is coral such as a thorn coral, cub surface coral, leaf coral, tree coral, ect.

Location and Journey

Hat Noppharat Thara - Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park
79, Mu 5, Ao Nang , Muang , Krabi 81000, Muang Krabi, Krabi, Thailand 81000
Tel. : 0 7566 1145 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0 7566 1145 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, 0 7563 7200 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0 7563 7200 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, 0 7563 7436 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0 7563 7436 end_of_the_skype_highlighting Fax : 0 7566 1145
Head's name : Tanapong Apaiso Position : Technical Forest Officer 7

By Car

You can drive from bangkok on the road no. 4th, through Phetchaburi province, Prachuap khirikhan, Chumphon, Ranong, Phang Nga and Krabi which is about 946 kilometers long. The other way, you may drive on road no. 4 to Chumphon province and then change to the road no. 41 through Amphoe Langsuan, Amphoe Chaiya, Amphoe Wiangsa of Surat Thani province, then change to drive on the road no. 4035, through Amphoe Ao Luek and turn to use the road no. 4 again and drive to Krabi province which is about 814 kilometers.

By Airplane

Go by airline, from the Bangkok Airport directly fly to the airport of Krabi province.

By Train

Take a train from Bangkok to the train station of Trang province or the Phun Phin's train station of Surat Thani province or the Thungsong's train station of Nakhon Si Thammarat. After that please take a bus to Krabi province.

By Bus

Take a bus by buying a ticket at the Southern Bus Terminal. There are two bus companies, the first one is the "Transportaion Co., Ltd." and "Lignite Tour Co., Ltd.

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Rachaburi

Introduction

Ratchaburi, a glorious town during the Dvaravati period, is located on the bank of the Mae Klong River. The provincial area abounds in natural attractions and historical sites. It is located 80 kilometres west of Bangkok and borders on Myanmar to the west having the Tanaosi Range as a borderline.

This province in Western Thailand has a varied topography; from the fertile level ground around the basin of the Mae Klong River where the economy relies on all kinds of crop, vegetable and plant cultivation, to the high mountain ranges of the Tanawsri Mountain in the west, along the Thai-Myanmar border. The neighboring province to the north is Kanchanaburi, in the east are Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon and Samut Song Kram, While in the south is Phetchaburi Province.

From historical sources, antiques and other archaeological finds that have been uncovered, it appears that Ratchaburi, in addition to bordering Myanmar, was also formerly a commercial port where many traders would meet.

So you can see that Ratchaburi is a land of rich and varied culture and origin, much of which has been preserved and can still be seen today. Amongst the things of interest are the history, the way of life, the culture, beautiful handicrafts, and the natural beauty including caves, streams, forests and mountains. Something to interest visitors from every comer of the world. We challenge you to come and not be impressed.

Boundary

□ North-Connects with Kanchanaburi Provinces.
□ South-Connects with Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram and Nakhon Pathom Provinces.
□ East-Connects with Suphan Buri Provinces.
□ West-Connects with Myanmar.

Ratchaburi Province is divided in to 8 Amphoes. The distances from Amphoe Muang to other Amphoes are as follow :

□ Amphoe Muang - Amphoe Wat Phleng 15 kms.
□ Amphoe Muang - Amphoe Pak Tho 22 kms.
□ Amphoe Muang - Amphoe Ban Pha 22 kms.
□ Amphoe Muang - Amphoe Photharam 26 kms.
□ Amphoe Muang - Amphoe Jombung 30 kms.
□ Amphoe Muang - Amphoe Banpong 42 kms.
□ Amphoe Muang - Amphoe Damnoen Saduak 50 kms.
□ Amphoe Muang - Amphoe Suan Phung 60 kms.

History

The Lineage of Thais in Ratchaburi Provices
"Phahuchartiphun" society, or the various cultures, is one of the most interesting aspects of like in Ratchaburi. Although their cultural lifestyles have been changed by time and generations, many groups still preserve their own ways of like that can be used as a model for the new generations to study.

These many races, despite their different beliefs and lifestyles, are able to live together in peace and harmony, making Ratchaburi a colorful place to live and visit

Thai Song Dam or Lao Sorng

The original Thai Song Dam lived in Dien Bien Foo, but the group which moved to Thailand come from Lao during the Napburi period.

At first, they could be found mostly in Khao Yoi, Phetchaburi, but during the reign of King Rama 4 they began to move on to Ban Don Klang in Ratchaburi too.

The Lao Sorng have kept their traditions, rites and ceremonies intact. Even their food and clothing has managed to stand the test of time. As their name "Dam" or "black" indicates, the tribe like to dress in mostly black attire. The men wearing "Suang Kom", while the ladies prefer patterned brocades, with their hair usually swept up and pinned on top of their heads.

The various Lao Sorng ceremonies are certainly worth watching if you have the opportunity. Nowadays, most Ratchaburi Lao Sorng can be found around Ban Don Klang, Amphoe Damnoen Saduak , Don Khq , Amphoe Ban Phae, Amphoe Chom Bung and Amphoe Pak Tho.

Thai Tanawasri or Karen

This is a hill tribe of mixed race, originating from Tibet and Myanmar. They now live near the Thai/Myanmar border and are the biggest hill tribe in Thailand.

When they first arrived in this country, Thai Tanawasri lived in Nong Krarien, Tambon Rangbua and Amphoe Suwan Pueng, but after experiencing drought conditions in this area they moved onto the banks of the Pha Chi tributarie

Thai Tanawasri have continued their unusual annual tradition of making and eating rice wrapped in leaves. This festival can be observed every year during the 9th lunar month , which usually falls in August, and is known as the "Suwan Pueng Thai Tanasri."

The hilltribe have a special costume which is worn only on important ceremonial occasions.

Thai Tae Ban Phohak

It is often said that the Thai Tae Ban Phohok are really Thais. They have a distinctive abrupt style of speech and vocabulary , Often using old colloquialisms. One of the tribes interesting traditions is called "Khanara" which is a tradition about love. They also popularly like to build clusters of Thai-style houses in the beautiful green and fertile fields and meadows along the banks of the Phohak. This was the area that inspired, and was chosen for, the classic Thai film "Plae Kao", which was produced by Churd Songsri and starred two of the great Thai actors and actresses ; Kwan as the hero and Riem as the heroine.

The Lineage of Thai Mon (or Peguan)

The forefathers of the Mon tribe moved to Ratchaburi during the first Rattanakosin period and lived beside the Mae Klong River in Amphoe Ban Pong and Amphoe Photharam. Even now ,they continue to follow their old tradition of paying respect to the household spirits, and the spirits of their ancestors. They are also very serious about their Buddhist religion, believing that they were the first race to bring Buddhism from India.

The Mon's most important ceremony is called "Songkran Cho Mon" or "Mon New Year", and is usually held about one week after Thai Songkran. They have many interesting games, most notably "Mon Saba" which is a pitch-and-toss game. "Song Phikala" nad "Phrikadong"

On the final day of Buddhist Lent, the Thai Mon always go to the various temples situated on the banks of the Mae Klong River , where they listen to sermons on the story of the last great incarnation of the Lord Buddha, a story which consists of many episodes.

The Lineage of Thai Laowieng or laoti

The reason for calling this tribe "Laoti" is because of their custom of saying "ti" at the end of most words. They first came from Vientianne and settled in Ratchaburi more than 200 years ago. They reside on the banks of the Mae Klong River atSroi Fa Temple and Papai Temple. They can also be found within the boundaries of Amphoe Chom Bung, and in Ban Nasamor and Ban Sungnem. Many of their unique customs have disappeared now , even the merit-making ceremonies such as the "Sart Lao" festival , the "Khao Pradap Din" festival of the tenth lunar month, the "Khao Ji" festival of the third lunar month and the "Prawet" festival of the eleventh lunar month are no longer observed.

Thai Yuan

This is the name that the people used to call themselves during the Lanna period. Documented evidence shows that the Yuan were moved to Ratchaburi during the reign of King Rama I, when the King gave the order to attack Muang Chiang Saen to protect the selves from Myanmar. Most Yuan can be found in Koo Bua, Ang Thong, Don Rae and Chedihak. They are skilled cart makers and skirt weavers.

Unfortunately, very few of their traditions have withstood the test of time, except for an annual ceremony held before the start of Buddhist Lent. For this ceremony, the older generation, who have stong Buddhist beliefs, don traditional clothing to pay respect to and feed the spirits of their ancestors.

The Lineage of Thai Khmen Lao Drem

Thai Khmen Lao Derm, or Thai Cambodian Laos, settled here during the Thonburi period of Thai history. Originally, they lived in Laos but were forced to move to Cambodia, before being brought to Ratchaburi by the Thai army. They live along the banks of the Mae Klong River at Ban Pong Sawai and Ban Kung Nam Wan. Just one of the Thai Khmen Lao Derm's traditions remains, which is the order generation's belief that they must go and inform the spirits in native Cambodian language of any upcoming auspicious occasions

The Lineage of Thaijin

Thai Jin, of Thai Chinese, were the biggest minority group to come to Thailand during the reign of King Rama V. Many can still be found living in Amphoe Ban Pong and around the canals of Damnoen Saduak and Ban Nok Kwak.

The Thai Chinese who follow Buddhism, annually have a tradition of taking Buddhist images out in boats for a trip along the rivers around Prasart Sit Temple. Unfortunately, it is difficult to be precise about the exact dates of this important and spectacular ceremony. The other group of Thai Chinese who follow Christianity have built many beautiful churches all over Ratchaburi.

How to get there

By Bus
Both air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal daily. It takes 2 hour for the trip. Contact Transport Co. Ltd. Tel: 0 2435 1199-200

By Car

a) From Bangkok, take Highway No. 4 (Phahonyothin Road) to Ratchaburi via Bang Khae, Om Noi, Om Yai, Nakhon Chai Si, Nakhon Pathom.

b) From Bangkok, take Highway No. 338 to Nakhon Chai Si via Buddhamonthon and turn into Highway No. 4, then proceed to Ratchaburi.

By Train

Regular trains depart from both Hua Lamphong Railway Station and Bangkok Noi Railway Station daily. Travelling time is 2 hours. Call 1690 for more information.

Festivals & Events

Ratchaburi Tourism Fair

is held every year during February–March on the ground of the City Hall. Activities include demonstrations of famous handicrafts, such as jar making and "Sin Tin Chok" cloth weaving, the selling of OTOP products and agricultural produce, and folk art and cultural performances by local tribal groups.

Sweet Grape and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Week Fair

is held around March–April of every year to introduce agricultural produce to the market, especially grapes which most people grow in Amphoe Damnoen Saduak. Damnoen Saduak Grape is famous for its sweetness and good taste. This fair features the beauty contest of Thida A-ngun Wan and the competition of quality agricultural products.

Khao Ho or Ang Mi Thong Festival

is a Su Khwan ceremony or the blessing ceremony for happiness and longevity in life, held around the ninth lunar month. Karens believe that the ninth lunar month is a bad time when ghosts and evil hunt and eat "Khwan" -spirit -of people, so those people may get sick or die. Normally, this ceremony is often held on the full moon day of the ninth lunar month, but if some families are not convenient, they can change to any day in the ninth month. In the ceremony, people boil "Khao Ho" which is sticky rice molded and wrapped in a cone shape; then they will boil it like Khanom Chang.

In the past, they ate Khao Ho by dipping it in honey but at present they often dip it in sliced coconut. On the day they boil Khao Ho, the Su Khwan Ceremony will be held, too. It starts with poking a wooden plate and blowing a Khaen for entertainment; then the elders in each family will tie red threads on the children’s wrists and give a blessing for good luck.


Attractions

Historic Building

Mae Klong River

Location : Amphoe Muang
The city of Ratchaburi, located in the west of Thailand, on the banks of the Mae Klong River, the major western river which is the lifeblood of the many generations of life that reside beside it. It has been the link from past to present civilization.

If you want to visit Ratchaburi, it is from here that you must begin "The ancient town of Koo Bua", the source of many archaeological remains which relate that this used to be a prosperous port during the Dvaravati period of Thai history. Located on the Taow-u-thong Road in Tambon Koo Bua, about 4 kilometers from Ratchaburi. People who are interested in seeing other ancient relics many also like to pay a visit to "Wat Khlong Suwankhiri", which is opened free of charge to those who inform the temple of their visit in advance.

Apart from Wat Klong Suwankhiri, other evidence of art from the Dvaravati period can be found at Tham Ruesi Khao Ngu in "Tambon Ko Phlub Phla", which is located about 6 kilometers from the town. In this cave, you will find a pictures of the Lord Buddha sitting with his back against a wall feet raised in the attitude of giving his first sermon. This picture is known as "Phra Phuttachai Tham Ruesi Khao Ngu", and is another example of the unusual art that could be found during the Dvaravati period.

It is believed that after the decline of Koo Bua, the center of society moved to the banks of the Mae Klong River. It was around this time that the Cambodian influence began to spread itself to Ratchaburi and Petchburi, which can be seen in the pagodas and bas relief's in the walls of the temples around "Wat Mahatat Rachaworawiham", where examples of the distinctive Characteristics of Cambodian Bayon style art can be found. The temple is located on Khao Ngu Road in Muang Ratchaburi. But if you really want to know about Ratchaburi, we suggest you don't miss visiting the "Ratchaburi National Museum". Near the clock tower on the river's edge.

It is open daily from 9.00 am - 4.00 pm except Mondays, Tuesdays and Public Holidays and located inside the old Town Hall which almost 80 years old. The museum highlights all aspects of Ratchaburi's history, including the two most outstanding and widely-recognized features, the dazzling blade of the Ratchasatra sword, and the "Phra Awalogitaesuwan bodhisattva" image which is a fine example of Bayon-style Cambodian art. This image is the best-preserved example of the five that have been unearthed in Thailand. Whichever way you come to Ratchaburi, if you arrive feeling hungry, take the chance to head down to the market on the edge of the river. Here you can satisfy your pangs of hunger with a bowl of the excellent rice porridge and "foi thong" sweetmeat ice cream.

Ruesi Khao Ngu Cave

This famous attraction of Ratchaburi is 8 kilometres from the town along the road to Amphoe Chom Bueng (Route No. 3078). The cave houses a bas-relief Buddha image, considered the oldest archaeological evidence of the Dvaravati period found in Ratchaburi. The figure is 2.5 metres high in the attitude of giving the first sermon.

Religious site

Wat Pa Phrathat Khao Noi
Location : Amphoe Ban Kha

In Muu 1 , Tambon Ban Kha, about 11/2 kilometers from the Amphur Subdistrict, there is a pagoda which houses the remains of "Luang Pu Thet" and is deeply respected by followers of Buddhism. On the mountain is a spot where you get the closest view of the Tanawsri Mountains.

Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat

Location: Amphoe Muang

This ancient temple, locally called Wat Na Phra That, is located on the west bank of the Mae Klong River in the town. Its elegant prang or pagoda remains in good condition and was probably copied from Cambodia's Angkor Wat. The prang made of bricks and stones stands on a rectangular base with pathways around the cloisters. The outer stucco designs were made in the reign of King Borommakot of Ayutthaya. Buddha images of Dvaravati, Lop Buri and Ayutthaya periods are placed around the pagoda. 2 kilometres west of Wat Na Phra That on the route to Khao Ngu is Wat Aranyik with a prang identical to that of Wat Na Phra That but smaller in size.

Wat Khongkharam

Location: Amphoe Photharm

This 100 year old ethnic Mon temple is at Tambon Khlong Ta Khot, Amphoe Photharam, some 22 kilometres from Ratchaburi. The fine mural paintings about Lord Buddha's life in the main shrine hall are full of detail making them seem real. Completed in the early Bangkok period, they are very rare and worth studying. The temple also houses a Thai style building entirely made of
teak with intricate carving designs.

Wat Khanon

Location: Amphoe Photharm

More than 300 Nang Yai puppets are well preserved at this temple, some 10 kilometres from Amphoe Photharam. Nang Yai is an old form of entertainment which gathers many kinds of arts; for example, Thai sculpture and classical performances. The intricate carved puppets are portrayed on the screen by skilled male performers, and it can dance according to the music. The performance is usually demonstrated on Saturday from 10.00-11.00 a.m.

Museum

Wat Muang Local Museum
Location : Amphoe Banpong

This is a Mon temple situated in Tambon Ban Muang, west of Amphoe Ban Pong along Route No. 3089 and a left turn after crossing the Mae Klong River. Besides a Mon style pagoda, a well-managed folk museum has been established as a research centre of history, way of life, and culture of this Mon community.

Ratchaburi National Museum

Location: Amphoe Muang

This is located on Woradet Road near the river. The edifice was formerly the town hall, built in 1922. Established as a museum in 1988, it displays art and ancient items of different periods found in the local area, and exhibits the history of Ratchaburi, as well as its folk art and geology.

The museum is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. exept Mondays and Tuesdays.

Phawothai Local Museum

Location: Amphoe Suan Phueng

This is located 2 kilometres from Suan Phueng district. Two Thai style houses in a pleasant garden displays a collection of ancient artifacts. The museum is open only on Saturdays , Sundays and Public Holidays. Accommodataion is also available for any visitors to stay overnight .

Market

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Location : Amphoe Damnoen Saduak
In the past, daily commerce in Thailand was conducted mostly along rivers and canals (or khlongs in Thai). Bangkok’s water network was busy and served as the principal means of communication causing Bangkok to be called as the “Venice of the East” by early European visitors.

Today Bangkok’s floating markets may not be quite so vibrant. The best known floating market is at Damnoen Saduak, some 109 kilometres southwest of Bangkok or approximately two hours drive. It is a ‘must-see’ destination and probably visited by nine out of every ten tourists who visit Thailand. Every morning, hundreds of boats crowd the market area. Most of them are paddled by women with picturesque straw hats. Visitors can find everything from vegetables and fruits to freshly-cooked noodle and souvenirs at this lively market.

Family Entertainment

Conserving The Nearly Extinct Wild Animals And Rare Plants
Location : Amphoe Jombung

This Amphur is always referred to as the gateway to "Suan Phung" or the "Bee Garden". In the past, the area was just forest and limestone mountains which formed the many beautiful caves in the area. Nowadays, it is a conversation area for the protection of hunted animals and many rare species of plants. The town has many attractions to visit and is one of the most suitable places in Ratchaburi for young people and families.

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