Travel in Ang Thong, Province

Ang Thong, originally known as Mueang Wiset Chai Chan, is located along the Noi River and the low-lying banks of the Chao Phraya River. Historically, Ang Thong was an essential frontier outpost of the Ayutthaya Kingdom in defense against the Burmese.


Ang Thong province is a center for the production of numerous handicrafts, including miniature dolls, firebricks, drums, and wickerwork. It is also the site of origin of Li Ke folk dancing and many native folk songs, as well as the hometown of Nai Dok and Nai Thongkaeo, heroes of the legendary Bang Rachan Battle against the Burmese. Ang Thong also features more than 200 magnificent and interesting temples.


Ang Thong is a small province through which the Chao Phraya and Noi Rivers flow.Ang Thong is mostly flat, containing neither mountains nor forests, and consists primarily of agricultural land. Ang Thong receives much rain during the rainy season and the two rivers and their subsidiary canals (klongs) provide enough water to the sandy soil to produces abundant rice crops. Ang Thong is only 108 kilometers from Bangkok and is an area of historical importance for its contributions to Thai art and mythology. There are a number of historical attractions in Ang Thong, including many fine temples, and there are opportunities to see unique handicrafts produced in several local villages.

WHERE TO TRAVEL

Wat Tonson Is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River opposite Ang Thong Technical College.  Wat Tonson is an ancient temple housing Somdet Phra Si Mueangthong, a very beautiful seated Buddha image in the posture of subduing Mara with the lap size of about 14 meters wide and 19 meters high molded in metal and gilded.  Wat Tonsons abbot, Phra Ratchasuwanmalee, started the construction in 1973.  Her Royal Highness, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn performed a ceremony to complete the construction on March 7, 1985.  This is regarded as the one of the largest metal molded Buddha images with beautiful posture.

Wat Chantharangsi  Is located in Ban Na, Mu 9, Tambon Huaphai from the Asian Highway intersection entering Amphoe Mueang approximately 1 kilometer.  When you see the sign of the road, take another 1 kilometer to reach this temple.  Areas of this temple cover both sides of the road.  On one side, there is a sacred Buddha image called Luangpho Yok.  On the other side, it locates wihan of Luangpho Sod which housing the metal image, the largest of its kind in the world, was constructed in 1996.  This golden Buddha image has a lap width of approximately 6 meters and 9 inches, and a height of 9.9 meters.

Wat Muang Is located at Mu 6, Tambon Huataphan, approximately 8 kilometers from downtown.  Go along Ang Thong Wiset Chai Chan route (Highway No. 3195) Km 29 for 1 kilometer, the temple will be on the left side.  There are several important attractions in the temple.  The ubosot of Wat Muang is surrounded by the biggest lotus petals in the world.  Ground floor of Wihan Kaeo is a museum (open only on Saturday and Sunday during 9 am.5 pm.) exhibiting sacred objects, antiques, and figures of renowned monks from all over the country.  The upper floor of the museum houses the first and largest silver holy Buddha image of the country, which was constructed in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of His Majesty the Kings throne ascendancy.  Within the temple compound, there are figures of heaven and hell, Thai god paradise, Chinese god paradise, and a huge statue of Kuan Im female goddess.  Besides, there are figures narrating the history of Thai-Burmese battle in Wiset Chai Chan.  At the back of the temple, there is a fish park where you can also buy some local products of Ang Thong province here.

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References

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Travel in Bangkok Province

As the political, economic, cultural, culinary, and spiritual capital of Thailand, Bangkok features both old-world charm and modern convenience, at times served up in an apparently chaotic manner, but always with a gracious smile.

Invariably, every Thailand holiday includes a visit to the kingdom’s capital city, Bangkok, or Krung Thep, “the city of angels” as it is known to its inhabitants. Many tourists who travel to Bangkok are immediately overwhelmed by the sheer size of the city and the vast number of attractions Bangkok has to offer. Indeed there are a wide variety of Bangkok sightseeing opportunities spanning more than two centuries of rapid development following the city’s founding in 1782 by King Rama I, the first king of the present Chakri dynasty; since that auspicious date, Bangkok has swelled to a cosmopolitan, 21st century city of more than ten million inhabitants.

While the immensity of the city and the chaos of its bustling streets can be intimidating at first, those who spend some time in Bangkok are quickly enamored by the variety of attractions Bangkok contains, from exotic temples, which epitomize Thailand’s strong Buddhist history, to modern shopping malls, which have make shopping an integral part of any Bangkok holiday. As the kingdom’s political, economic, cultural, culinary, and spiritual capital, Bangkok features attractions guaranteed to please visitors either simply passing through the city or spending their entire Thailand holiday in Bangkok.

Nearly every Bangkok holiday includes a visit to Thailand’s Grand Palace, arguably the premier Bangkok sightseeing attraction. Situated in the heart of Bangkok’s Rattakosin district, the gleaming spires of the Grand Palace are conveniently located nearby Bangkok’s most spectacular temples, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Keaw), the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), and Wat Po, which features an enormous reclining Buddha and was home of the first Thai massage school in the kingdom. These iconic destinations are top attractions to all visitors who travel to Bangkok looking to appreciate Thailand’s unique cultural traditions.

In fact, there are more than 400 functioning Buddhist temples throughout the city and it’s not uncommon when you travel in Bangkok to spot saffron robed monks collecting morning alms or traveling throughout out the city, including along the Chao Phraya, the “River of Kings”, which passes alongside Rattakosin and the Temple of the Dawn.

The winding Chao Phraya is connected by numerous canals from which Bangkok has earned its nickname the “Venice of the East”; when you travel around Bangkok, a cruise on the Chao Phraya, a visit to a floating market, or an exploration of the cities “back alley” canals (klongs) are themselves unique Bangkok attractions.

Other historical and cultural Bangkok sightseeing ‘must sees’ include the National Museum, Vimanmek Mansion, and Suan Pakkad Palace, all of which either house fine art or are national treasures in their own right.

Beyond Bangkok’s historical district, there are plenty of other attractions that make a Bangkok holiday both enjoyable and memorable. While modern “downtown” districts along Silom and Sukhumvit Roads were once nightmares of oppressive heat and unbearable traffic, a modern and convenient electric rail system, including an elevated sky-train and underground subway have made travel in Bangkok both easy and enjoyable. Connecting hotels directly to modern shopping malls and traditional markets, such as the Suan Lum Night Bazaar and Chatuchak (JJ) weekend market, the MRT and BTS electric rail systems have literally elevated Bangkok shopping to world class status.

Of course, no Thailand holiday is complete without experiencing Thailand’s vibrant nightlife, during which time you may even witness the occasional elephant wandering the Bangkok streets!

Whether, the purpose of your Thailand holiday is to immerse yourself in Thailand’s unique culture or simply to splurge in Bangkok shopping malls, when you travel to Bangkok you are guaranteed a fascinating experience of both old world charm and modern convenience and luxury.

Over the last few decades, Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, has changed into a modern, exciting, and sophisticated city. Bangkok offers visitors not only the modern amenities they would expect from other cosmopolitan cities, but also a unique treasure trove of cultural attractions. Thailand, in the heart of Southeast Asia, was never colonized and thus kept its unique culture and heritage intact. Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience a fascinating glimpse of Thailand’s gentle culture amidst the bustle of a great and dynamic metropolis. Amazingly, this great city has had astounding success in combining the ancient and modern worlds.

For tourists, Bangkok has a feast of attractions to offer. The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temples of great beauty, magnificent palaces, classical dance performances, numerous shopping centers, and a still functioning traditional way of life, especially along the canals and the Chao Phraya River, the "River of Kings", which winds through the city; Bangkok truly is the "Venice of the East".


WHERE TO TRAVEL

The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaeo The splendid Grand Palace enclosure is home to many ornate temples and buildings with a variety of architectural styles. Gold leaf, reflective tiling and Buddha images are to be seen everywhere. The magnificent Wat Phra Kaeo, a treasure trove of Thai arts and home to the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered Buddha image, is at the heart of the complex, but there is much else of interest to be seen in the Grand Palace compound, such as the Royal Thai Decorations and Coin Pavilion, where a permanent exhibition of royal regalia, decorations, medals and coins dating back to the early 11th century is on display.The complex is open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. except on special days designated for royal ceremonies to be announced later. The admission fee is 200 baht which includes entry to Vimanmek Mansion and the Coin Pavilion. Visitors are advised that polite and modest dress is essential

Website: http://www.palaces.thai.net

Wat Pho Neighbouring the Grand Palace enclave, this temple is considered the largest in Bangkok. The famous Reclining Buddha, constructed in 1832, is enshrined in this temple. This 46-metre long and 15-metre high gold-plated Reclining Buddha, the eyes and feet inlaid with mother-of-pearl brings to mind the Lord Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. The sole also shows 108 auspicious characteristics of the true “Buddha”.Wat Pho was also the first centre of public education in the Kingdom. Nowadays, it is an important centre for the teaching and administering of traditional Thai massage. Wat Pho is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and the entry fee is 20 baht. Modest attire is required.
Website: http://www.watpho.com

Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)This famous Bangkok landmark is on the Thon Buri side of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite the Grand Palace complex and easily accessible by boat from the Bangkok side. The temple dates back to the Ayutthaya period. The temple was enlarged by King Rama II and King Rama III. Renovations were completed in the reign of King Rama IV. The Emerald Buddha was enshrined in this temple for a brief period before King Rama I built the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo on the Bangkok side.To visit the temple, shuttle boats from the Tha Tian Pier at the south-west side of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo area are provided regularly. The Chao Phraya Express Boat stops at the Tha Tian Pier and there are several Thon Buri canal tours, which include the temple. Enter the temple from 7.00 a.m. to 5.20 p.m. for 20 baht. 
Website:http://www.watarun.org

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References

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Travel in Chai Nat Province

Chai Nat was first established during the Ayutthaya period and was used as a successful base of operations for confronting the Burmese army. As the Burmese were defeated every time, the area earned the name Chai Nat, “place of victory”. 

An area of great beauty, Chai Nat features a diversity of natural, historical, and cultural attractions, including the Chao Phraya Dam; the Chai Nat Bird Sanctuary, which protects over 100 species of bird and is the setting for the Straw Bird Fair; and the Chai Nat Muni National Museum, which displays ancient artifacts discovered in the town, including Thai and Chinese ceramics, several Buddha images, and votive tablets. Wat Phra Borommathat, the largest Buddhist temple in Chai Nat, features a pagoda that houses Buddha relics, and Wat Mahathat is an ancient temple dating back to the Dvaravati period.

Chai Nat is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River. The community was moved from the old site at Sankhaburi during the reign of King Rama IV. Chai Nat was an important town used several times as a base to confront the Burmese army. Every time, the Burmese were defeated, earning Chai Nat its name, which mean “place of victory”. Chai Nat features a diversity of natural, historical, and cultural attractions, including the Chao Phraya Dam, the Chai Nat Bird Sanctuary, and the Chai Nat Muni National Museum. 

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References

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Travel in Kanchanaburi Province

Because of its magnificent landscape and charming beauty, Kanchanaburi has become a major tourist destination, with attractions including several well-known waterfalls, caves that were once inhabited by Neolithic man, pristine national parks, tranquil rivers, virgin forests, and several large reservoirs. Together, these attractions offer an intriguing experience for both first-time and repeat visitors. Whether it’s fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing, elephant and jungle trekking, or even living in a bamboo raft, Kanchanaburi takes pride in offering them all.

In north and west Kanchanaburi, the terrain is comprised mainly of mountains and high plains, with the Thanon Thongchai Range acts as a natural border between Thailand and Myanmar. The range is the source of Kanchanaburi’s two most important rivers Maenam Khwae Noi (Little Kwai River) and Maenam Khwae Yai (Big Kwai River), which form the famous Maenam Mae Klong. As a result of these major rivers and three of Thailand’s largest reservoirs, Kanchanaburi features several of Thailand’s largest Namtok (waterfalls) as well as a number of wildlife sanctuaries.

The most defining natural attractions in Kanchanaburi is arguably the Three Pagodas Pass, a break in the Thanon Thongchai Mountain Range that divides Thailand and Myanmar. Along an overland trade route from India, it is through this pass that Buddhism was thought to first to arrive in Thailand around the 3rd century. The province and its pass were later controlled by the Khmer of Angkor in the 13th century, who built a fort there ( a Khmer temple from the time has been restored as a tourist attraction). The kingdom of Ayutthaya also built a military garrison in the area, though it was through the pass that the Burmese frequently swept into Siam and eventually razed the capital of Ayutthaya. In World War II, the Japanese built a railway through the pass using forced labor, including western POWs. Later known as the Death Railway, the line included an infamous bridge crossing the Kwai River that was the subject of a historically inaccurate academy award winning film. The Three Pagodas Pass area is also home to numerous hill tribes and other minority groups who reside in the area as nation-less refugees without citizenship in either land. For visitors, it is possible to get temporary one-day visas to cross the border for a sneak peak at Myanmar and do some shopping for exotic souvenirs.

The city of Kanchanaburi is located at the point where the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers meet and form the Maenam Mae Klong. The notorious Death Railway passed through the town, near which stands the site of the Bridge on the River Kwai. Nearby the reconstructed bridge are monuments including an Allied War Cemetery and a war museum.

In economic terms, Kanchanaburi has been prospering for a number of years. Important industries include sugar, agricultural products, and jewelry. Tourism is also a main source of income for the locals, though most are engaged in agricultural activities. The province’s population is made up of Thai, Mon, and Karen peoples, most of whom are rural dwellers who enjoy living simply and respecting nature. Moreover, folk music and dances dating back at least 500 years are still performed to this day.

Only two hours from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is accessible by road or rail, the latter of which includes sightseeing day trips that run on weekends and public holidays; these weekend special trains are reasonably priced and make hassle free and enjoyable adventures. Even the climate of Kanchanaburi, cooled by the altitude, forests, and rivers, is a welcome respite from the heat and congestion of the nearby capital city.
Kanchanaburi city, the capital of Kanchanaburi Province, is a popular resort town; picturesque and worthy of a visit in its own right, it is frequently visited as base of operations for exploring the many cultural, natural, and historical attractions in the surrounding countryside. Located at the confluence of the Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai Rivers, Kanchanaburi lies at the source of the Mae Klong River, and these majestic bodies of water are defining characteristics of the town.

The original town of Kanchanaburi was established by King Rama I as a first line of defense against the Burmese, whom he believed might use the old invasion route through the Three Pagodas Pass at the Siam-Myanmar border. According to most historians, the old town of Kanchanaburi was located near Ban Lat Ya, a small village situated approximately 16 kilometers north of the present town. The present provincial capital is a relatively newer town built by King Rama III in 1833.

The town itself is a place to relax, watching the water from the banks of the river, inside a raft house, or from a riverside restaurant. Many visitors like to rest along the river with a cold drink and a good book. Many of them come here just for a couple days but stay for weeks in order to explore all of the attractions in the surrounding countryside. Along with visiting spectacular waterfalls, lush forests, and three of Thailand’s largest reservoirs, white water rafting, elephant trekking, and golfing are popular activities for visitors. Kanchanaburi is an excellent tourist destination for nature lovers. 

WHERE TO TRAVEL

The Bridge over the River Kwai The Bridge over the River Kwai Internationally famous, thanks to several motion pictures and books, the black iron bridge was brought from Java by the Japanese Army and reassembled under Japanese supervision by Allied prisoners of war labour as part of the 'Death Railway' linking Thailand with Myanmar. Still in use today, the bridge was the target of frequent Allied bombing raids during 1945, and was rebuilt after the war ended. The curved spans of the bridge are the original sections. 

War Museum This museum, located near the River Kwai Bridge, displays the collection of weapons, tools and utensils of the Allied prisoners of war and Japanese soldiers during the Second World War. 




















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References

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Travel in Lop Buri Province

Lop Buri province is situated on the western end of the Khorat Plateau and is one of several provinces in central Thailand where many significant historical artifacts and prehistoric settlements have been discovered.

Formerly known as La-Wo or Lavo, Lop Buri is believed to have been an important seat of power in Southeast Asia between the 7th and 14th centuries. Excavations in Lop Buri have revealed that the city was clearly a site of strategic significance, with evidence that the city has been inhabited for over 1,200 years. In fact, relics from as early as the Bronze Age chronicle a history that has seen Lop Buri develop into intriguing city with a blend of both eastern & western influences featuring both ancient and modern attractions.

Lop Buri was first developed into a major town during the era of the Dvaravati Kingdom (6th-11th centuries) when Indian culture was influential to the region. However, most historians believed the first settlers of the town were the Lawa (an ethnic group related to the Mons), which may be the reason for naming the town La-Wo. Around the 10th century the town came under the sovereignty of the Khmers and it became one of their outlying provincial capitals, although some have argued that La-Wo was the capital of an empire that ruled for many centuries until relocating its seat of power to Ayutthaya in the late 11th century. Regardless, Khmer Mahayana Buddhism was a major influence on the town’s architecture, a style that has since been commonly referred to as Lop Buri Style. Remains of Khmer-Hindu architectural motifs found in the city include the Shiva’s Shrine (Prang Khaek), San Phra Kan, Phra Prang Sam Yot, and Wat Phra Si Maha Tat.

In the late 13th century the Thais, who migrated from the North, fought against the Khmers and declared their independence. Since then, Lop Buri has been ruled by Thai Kings. In 1664, King Narai, a King of Ayutthaya, made Lop Buri the second capital with the help of French architects. Therefore, the architectural style of Lop Buri during the reign of King Narai was half Thai and half western and is best appreciated at his Royal Palace and the Royal Reception House.

The fascinating city of Lop Buri is a unique blend of East and West, ancient and modern, royal splendor and majestic ruins, all of which offer tantalizing glimpses into the city’s alluring history.

Located 155 kilometers north of Bangkok, Lop Buri is unlike many historical cities. Modern day Lop Buri has grown up and, for the most part, enveloped the remains of the old city, which had been a settled by various groups over the centuries. In recent years, Lop Buri was discovered by tourists who were interested in history and culture, and the city now offers a refreshing insight into Thailand's history.

Visitors arriving by road might be somewhat surprised to be greeted by a giant pink wedding cake ‘kratong’ that sits brashly in the middle of a pond at the town’s main roundabout. However, those arriving by rail are given a sneak preview of the history awaiting them in the shape of Wat Phra Sri Ratana Maha Tat, the 12th century ruins of a Khmer temple complex that lies close to the rustic, little railway station. The temple has several important prangs, parts of which date back to the 10th and 11th centuries and attest to the influence of the Angkorian Khmers in the region.

The town is also overrun with monkeys, most of which take up residence around the ruins where they are honored each year with an enormous feast. 

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References

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Travel in Nakhon Nayok Province

Nakhon Nayok is a destination that has arguably been taken for granted by many tourists. Located just 106 kilometers from Bangkok, Nakhon Nayok has many attractions that may be visited on day trips. Consequently, Nakhon Nayok is typically visited by day trippers or those making a brief stop over on the way to other destinations. However, Nakhon Nayok features refreshing natural beauty, including waterfalls and parks, renowned historical sites, a number of soft adventure activities, and a variety of delectable fruits.

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. In contrast, the central part of the province is a rather flat river plain formed by the Maenam Nakhon Nayok, a river popular with white water rafting enthusiasts.

The provincial seal says a lot about Nakhon Nayok. It features a circle indicating the unity of the people of Nakhon Nayok, an elephant raising an ear of rice that represents the fertile forests where numerous elephants dwell and the ear of rice referring to the fruitful farming in the region, and a pile of straw, a stand of trees, and billowy clouds in the background depicting the natural beauty of the province that includes portions of Khao Yai National Park and contains the Nakhon Nayok River, a popular destination for rafting. 

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References

http://www.tourismthailand.org

Travel in Nakhon Pathom Province

Nakhon Pathom is a small province located just 56 km west of Bangkok. The province features an ancient religious structure called Phra Pathom Chedi, the first religious landmark that signified the introduction of Buddhism into Thailand. Nakhon Pathom is also renowned for its abundant fruit varieties and famous regional cuisine.

Formerly situated by the sea, the city prospered during the Dvaravati civilization, which existed between the 6th and 11th centuries C.E. According to archaeological findings, Nakhon Pathom was the first city to be exposed to the influence of Buddhism. From the Phra Pathom Chedi and other remains discovered in the city area, it is believed that the city was a center of civilization in that era and that people of different races settled in Nakhon Pathom. However, a change in the course of the river caused a draught that forced the people to migrate, leaving Nakhon Pathom deserted for hundreds of years until the reign of King Rama IV. While His Majesty was in monk-hood, he traveled to Nakhon Pathom and discovered the Phra Pathom Chedi. When King Rama IV ascended to the throne, he commanded that a bell shaped Chedi be built to cover the old Chedi. The surrounding area was also renovated and improved.

During the reign of King Rama V, the construction of railways to the south began; King Rama V also commanded that the town be relocated from Tambon Thana, Amphoe Nakhon Chaisi, to the Phra Pathom Chedi area as it used to be. Nakhon Pathom has been there ever since.

An area of great historical importance that features both archaeological and religious treasures, not least of which is Phra Pathom Chedi, the first religious landmark that signified the introduction of Buddhism to Thailand, Nakhon Pathom has a number of attractions that make it a fine day trip or stopping point on the way to or from Kanchanaburi.

Most of Nakhon Pathom consists of plains with no mountainous land, though a plateau rises up in the west. The plains along the Tha Cheen River (Nakhon Chaisi River) are the location of Amphoe Nakhon Chaisi, Amphoe Sam Phran, and Amphoe Bang Len. These fertile lands provide agricultural opportunities for the people, thus most of the residents earn their living from agriculture, plantations and farms growing food crops as well as fruit orchards. In fact, Nakhon Pathom is well known for pomelo, a fruit much like a grapefruit, and some Thais call Nakhon Pathom the sweet pomelo town. 

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References

http://www.tourismthailand.org