Basketry

Basketry in Chiang Mai
Using bamboo and other materials which are easily worked and readily available, people throughout Thailand have for centuries been making all manner of household objects such as baskets, hats, and traps.


In rural societies both men and women may still be seen splitting bamboo into thin pliable strips that can be woven into intricate patterns. In the north the most common woven objects are steamers and containers for sticky rice, mats and traps for catching fish in the paddy fields. However, the skill demonstrated in older pieces is hard to match these days, and youngsters are seldom interested in the traditional skills.


Where to see basketry:
Different villages tend to specialize in a certain type of woven product such as mats or containers, but there is no special place to see the weaving. Around KM.13 on H108 (The Chiang Mai - Hot Road), a number of shops sell woven bamboo products. Some may also be found in Wororot Market and the Night Bazaar.

Thawan Somtham
78 Moo 4, Tambon Pa Pong, Saraphi Chiang Mai 50140
Guided groups occasionally visit Thawan who leads a group of about 50 weavers dispersed around Pa Pong. Finding his workshop is difficult without a Thai speaker.
Tel: 053422899

All Handicrafts of Chiang Mai
Handicrafts
Antiques
Apparel & Garments
Basketry
Ceramics
Gems,Jewelry,Gold,Silver Hand-woven Fabrics
Lacquer-ware
Silverware
Thai-silk & Cotton
Woodcarving
Hill-tribe Artifacts Umbrellas and Sa Paper
Pottery & Terra-cotta
Interior Decoration
Tailoring
Toys & Dolls
Misc. Shopping

Tom Yum Goong

This is my mom's recipe and method of making tom yum goong and it is the best! This is definitely a recipe that you can only balance by taste -- tom yum goong should never be bland, but hot and sour.
2 Servings
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4 cups water

1 cup shrimp
5 mushrooms
1-2 limes
1 lemon grass
3 kaffir lime leaves
2 tablespoon fish sauce
5 sprigs cilantro
3 chili peppers
1 tablespoon nam prig pow Optional
Start boiling the water in a 2 quart pot. Peel and devein the shrimp and set them aside. Cut lemon grass into pieces, 5-6 inches long. Use the back of your knife to pound the lemon grass, just to bruise it to release the flavor. If you want, you can tie the lemon grass into a knot to make it easier to manage. Drop the lemon grass in water and let boil for 5 minutes.

Put the fish sauce and 1 lime's juice into the bottom of the bowls you will serve the soup in. Crush chili pepper and add to the bowl.

Remove the stems from the kaffir lime leaves and add the leafy part to the pot. Clean and halve the mushrooms and add them to the pot. Add the shrimp and turn off the heat. Shrimp gets too tough very quickly, and will cook even when it is just sitting in the warm broth. Scoop the shrimp and liquid into the serving bowls immediately. As soon as you add the liquid to the serving bowl, you will see that the broth becomes cloudy because of the lime juice. Add the nam prig pow. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.

Be very careful, the peppers can be hot. Take a small sip at a time. Add more fish sauce and/or lime juice if it tastes bland. It's right if it's good for your sinus.tablespoon nam prig pow Optional

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SONGKHLA

SONGKHLA

Songkhla, an eastern coastal province, is located 950 kms. from Bangkok. Hat Yai, a district of Songkhla, is better known than the provincial capital itself as the junction of communication and the gate-way welcoming Malaysian and Singaporean tourists to Thailand. The province occupies an area of 7,393 square kilometres, bordered by the States of Kedah (Sai Buri) and Perlis of Malaysia to the south and the Gulf of Thailand to the east.

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Songkhla is administratively divided into 15 districts and 1 subdistrict: Amphoe Muang Songkhla, Amphoe Bang Klam, Amphoe Chana, Amphoe Hat Yai, Amphoe Khuan Niang, Amphoe Krasae Sin, Amphoe Na Mom, Amphoe Na Thawi, Amphoe Ranot, Amphoe Rattaphum, Amphoe Saba Yoi, Amphoe Sadao, Amphoe Sathing Phra, Amphoe Singha Nakhon, Amphoe Thepha and King Amphoe Hoi Khong.

Hat Yai
Hat Yai, which is situated approximately 28 kilometers from the city of Songkhla, is an important gateway to Malaysia and Singapore. Strategically located only 60 kilometers from the port of entry at Sadao, Hat Yai has only recently been developed and has rapidly been transformed into the commercial, transportation, communication, educational, and tourism hub of the south.

Klonghae Floating Market


Located at Klonghae sub-district, Hat Yai, "Klonghae Floating Market" is the first Thai-culture floating market in Southern Thailand. There are several products presented such as local food, handicarft, and agriculture product.

Laem Samila


Located in the City Municipality, about 2.5 kilometers from the fresh market (Thalat Supsin or Thalat Sot Thetsaban), the peninsula is renowned for its powdery sandy beach, shady pine groves, and the statue of a mermaid Songkhla's most famous landmark. It is easily accessible via Hat Yai-Songkhla buses. From the city, visitors can take a minibus directly to the beach.

Khao Tang Kuan


Another charming attraction located at Laem Samila is Khao Tang Kuan. This is the location of the famous Sala Vihan Daeng, the royal pavilion built during the reign of King Rama V. An additional attraction is a hill-top Dvaravati chedi housing the Lord Buddha's relics that was built during the Nakhon Si Thammarat Empire.

Songkhla National Museum


Located on Chana Road, the Museum, constructed in the Chinese style, was originally built in 1878 as the mansion of Songkhla’s ruler. It later became the domicile of Songkhla’s upper administrative officers, the City Hall and in 1953, the building was converted into a museum to exhibit lower southern artifacts.

Khao Nam Khang National Park
This Park, covered with verdant forests, is where two magnificent waterfalls namely Ton Dat Fa and Ton Lat Fa are located. There are two routes to the park: from Amphoe Sadao the distance is 26 kilometers or from Amphoe Na Thawi on the Na Thawi-Ban Prakop Road with a distance of 31 kilometers. The admission is 100 baht for adults and 50 baht for children. For more information, please call Amphoe Na Thawi Office at 074 371010.

Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel


This Tunnel is situated in Khao Nam Khang, Mu 1, Tambon Khlong Kwang, approximately 4kilometers from the Park Office. Once known as the Piyamit Village 5, the tunnel was operated by Communist insurgents. After almost 40 years of fighting with the Thai Government, the Communist Party was dispersed and became part of Thai Development Participants in 1987.

Laem Son On
A peninsula situated to the northwest of Laem Samila that is naturally shaded with sea pines. At the end of the peninsula is the statue of Prince Chumphon Khet Udomsak, 28th son of King Rama V and founder of the Royal Thai Navy. The best view of Ko Nu and Songkhla Lake can be spotted from here.

Thalesap Songkhla
Khu Khut Waterfowl Park (Thale Sap Songkhla Wildlife Refuge) Established as a wildlife refuge on 19 April 1976, the park occupies an area of 227,916 rais (91,166 acres) in both Songkhla and Phatthalung Provinces. In fact this Park is part of Tha-le Sap Songkhla or Songkhla Lake. The survey taken by the Royal Forestry Department discovered 44 families, 137 genus, and 219 species of birds. The best times to view the birds are from December to March. Boats are provided by the park office at 150 baht an hour. This Park is situated at Mu 4, Tambon Khu Khut, about 55 kilometers from Songkhla, on Highway 4083 and three kilometers from the highway into the park. For more information please call the Park Office at Tel: 0-7439-7042.

Tinsulanond Bridge
The bridge, which is the longest concrete bridge in Thailand, spans Songkhla Lake and is part of Highway 408. The bridge has two parts with the first part connecting the coast of Amphoe Muang Songkhla at Ban Nam Krachai to the southern coast of Ko Yo for a total distance of 1,140 meters. The second part connects the northern shore of Ko Yo to the coast of Ban Khao Khiao for a total distance of 1,800 meters. It was opened to traffic on 25 September 1986.

Ko Nu and Ko Maeo
Perhaps the most well-known symbol of Songkhla province, both islands are located off the shore of Laem Samila. According to the legend, a dog, a cat, and a mouse, traveling on a Chinese sampan stole the merchant's magic crystal and tried unsuccessfully to swim ashore and drowned. The mouse and cat became the islands in the Songkhla Lake while the dog died on the shore and became the hill called Hin Khao Tang Kuan near the bay. Totally destroyed, the crystal then became the white sandy beach called Hat Sai Kaeo which literally means crystal sand beach.

Chedi Ong Dam
Chedi Ong Dam (The Black Chedi) was built by Chao Phraya Phra Khlang (Dit Bunnak) and Somdet Chao Phraya Borom Maha Phrayurawong to commemorate the victory over the Sai Buri Revolt in 1830. The Chedi is situated at the top Khao Daeng, Tambon Khao Daeng.

Ko Yo
A small island in the Songkhla Lake that has recently become an important tourist attraction in Songkhla. Covering an area of 9,275 rais (3,710 acres), the island is accessible via the Tinsulanond Bridge. Geographically, the islands coastal plain is suitable for agriculture such as a special kind of jackfruit called Jampada. Another famous island product is its hand-woven fabric.

Chedi Ong Khao
Chedi Ong Khao (The White Chedi) was built by Phraya Si Phiphat (That Bunnak) and Somdet Chao Phraya Maha Phichaiyat to commemorate the victory over Sai Buri, Pattani, Penang, and Malayan Revolts. After the victory, Phraya Si Phipat remained in Songkhla for two years and built this Chedi to accompany the first one, before he returned to Bangkok.

Laem Sai Estuary Fortress
The Fortress was constructed during the reign of King Rama III, when the city was established. Today, the Fortress, which is located behind the Songkhla Provincial Police Headquarters, stands as a timeless proof of Songkhla's rich heritage.

PHUKET

PHUKET

Phuket is Thailand's largest island with an area of 543 square kilometres and nestles against the Andaman Sea coast 862 kilometres south of Bangkok. Phuket traditionally derives its wealth from tin and rubber. The island is blessed with magnificent coves and bays, powdery palm-fringed white beaches, sparkling island-dotted seas, genuinely hospitable people, comfortable accommodation, super seafood, tropically vegetative mountains, lovely waterfalls and parks, and delightful turn-of-the-century Sino-Portuguese-influenced architecture, which creates an en-chanting ambiance perfectly suited to total relaxation.

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Krathu Cultural Conservation Center
Located approximately 7 kilometers from Amphoe Kratu town, the center is located in the compound of Ban Kratu School. This is where a collection of ore, mining equipment, utilities, etc. are put on display. The center opens from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Call 076 321035 for more details.

Hat Kata
Located approximately 17 kilometers from Phuket City are Kata Noi (Small Kata) and Kata Yai (Big Kata) Beaches. Both are renowned for snorkeling to see the coral, tropical fishes and the seas eco-system. Also worth visiting is Ko Pu, a small uninhabited island located off Laem Sai. Most visitors find snorkeling along the islands rich coral reef enjoyable. Diverse beach activities are available on both beaches. Accommodations on Hat Kata are set amidst tropical and cliff settings. Visitors can choose to stay in budget to top end accommodations according to their preference. Well known hotels located here are Club Med and the Boathouse.

Phuket City and Old Buildings
Besides its beautiful nature, Phuket has the distinguish style of buildings located in town. Most of the buildings were built nearly 100 years ago. The houses are long and all the doors and the windows are carved in a unique style.

Namtok Krathu
This relatively small waterfall with a simple view but unique atmosphere is located approximately 4 kilometers from Amphoe Krathu. The entrance to the waterfall is located next to the Log Palm Golf Club. Restaurants and basic tourist amenities are available.

Phuket Fantasea
Located on Kamala beach, Phuket Fantasea is dubbed as the ultimate nighttime cultural theme park of Phuket. It has won several awards from the TAT, among the distinctive ones are Best Attraction Thailand Tourism Award (for the years 2000 to 2003).

Islands
Phuket is well equipped to provide offshore trips making it a centre of tourism in the Andaman sea. Trips can be arranged to see forests and mountains, rocky formations,beaches, coral reefs and fishing. Most of Phuket's 39 satellite islands are located to the east. Islands of special interest include;-

Marine Biological Research Centre
Located on the southernmost tip of Laem Panwa, 7kms. south of the town, the centre houses an aquarium which displays hundreds of exotic, grotesque and flamboyantly colourful marine species found in Phuket's teeming waters. It is open daily between 8.30 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. for more information call (706) 391126, 391041.

This bay is some 11 kms. from the town and extends in a broad sweep. A few kilometres from the bay is Wat Chalong where statues of Luang Po Chaem and Luang Po Chuang, Phuket 's most revered monks, are enshrined.

Laem Ka Yai
This is another small beach, about 16 kms. from the town on Highway No. 4024, where boats can be rented to visit nearby isles.

Ko Kaeo
This is an offshore isle about 3kms. from Hat Rawai and can be reached in 30 minutes by boat. There are sandy beaches and underwater scenery, as well as a replica of the Holy Footprint on the island.

Hat Rawai
This palm-fringed beach about 17 kms. from the town is home to Phuket's sea gypsies. Several offshore island have gleaming white beaches and dazzling underwater scenery, which attracts fishing enthusiasts and scuba divers.

Laem Phromthep
The southernmost point of Phuket is the perfect place where picturesque sunsets are seen.

Hat Nai Han
This beach, nearly southernmost of the island, is about 18 kms. from the town. Beyond the beach is a large swamp called Nong Han. Although not so long, the beach has white, clean sand. Swimming is not recommended during May-October due to the monsoon season. A small bay next to Hat Nai Han past the Phuket Yacht Club is Ao Sen, which is peaceful and picturesque with white, clean sand. At the midpoint between Hat Nai Han and Hat Kata Noi, there is a viewpoint overlooking three adjacent beaches.

Hat Karon
Hat Karon and Hat Kata south of Hat Patong, both are long and peaceful beaches and eminently suitable for swimming and sunbathing.

Hat Kalim
Once in Patong, turn right to Hat Kalim, which is a small beach with large rocks and a coral reef. Accommodation is available.

Hat Patong
Phuket's most developed beach is 15 kms. west of the town. Cabin and bungalow complexes, hotels, bars, nightclubs, discotheques, shops, and restaurants front the crescent bay. Windsurfing, snorkeling, sailing, sunbathing, and swimming dominate the major activities.

Hat Kamala
Located 26 kms. from the town, turn left at the Heroines Statues past Hat Surin and Laem Sing, Hat Kamala is about 2 kms long, quiet and not crowded.

Leam Sing
1 kms. from Hat Surin, this scenic rocky cape is next to a small white sandy beach. To reach the beach, visitors can ask permission to cut through a private road, or take a detour along the hillside slanting to the beach.

Ao Bang Thao
This is a long stretch of sandy beach north of Hat Surin suitable for swimming and other water sports.

Hat Surin
The hillside beach with groves of large pine tree is about 24 kms. northwest of the town. Drive along Route No. 402, turn left at the Heroines Statues, and proceed on for 12 kms. There is a golf course to the right. Hat Surin is not recommended for swimming because of its steepness and winds during the monsoon season.

KRABI

KRABI

One of most attractive destinations in Southern Thailand is located 814 kms. from Bangkok. Krabi occupies an area of 4,708 square kilometres. To the west, it borders on the Andaman Sea where countless natural attractions abound, including white sandy beaches, fascinating coral reefs, numerous large and small islands, verdant forests with caves and waterfalls.

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Krabi is administratively divided into 8 districts: Amphoe Muang, Ao Luk, Khao Phanom, Khlong Thom, Ko Lanta, Plai Phraya, Lam Thap, and Nua Khlong.

Mu Ko Phi Phi
an archipelago of six islands located at an equal distance of 40 kms. from both Krabi and Phuket consists of Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Le as the major islands. The superb scenery of the islands includes high hills with jutting cliffs surrounded by marvelous beaches and emerald sea, hiding underneath a bank of coral reefs and colourful marine life which are unrivaled in this whole wide area.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park
This consists of many different sized islands, some of which are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs such as Ko Ha, Ko Rok and Ko Hai. Ko Lanta Yai, the main island in the park, is where the national park's office is situated and is also home to sea gypsies. Boat trips should be made during October-April because there is no monsoon during this period. Passenger boats are available at the Chao Fa Pier in Krabi town, the trip takes about 2-3 hours. The other departure point is at Bo Muang Village, Amphoe Khong Thom; the trip takes about 45 Minutes.

Mu Ko Hong
is a group of limestone islands with fine beaches and coral reefs in both deep and shallow water levels. It takes about 1 hour by boat from Ao Nang to the isalnd. A canoe trip to Ko Hong organised by some agents at ao Nang is a popular activity among tourists.

Mu Ko Poda
Situated south of Ao Nang, 8 kilometres offshore, Mu Ko Poda is fringed by clear waters, and offers white sandy beaches, as well as, pristine coral reefs. This is why it is a year-round attraction and an excellent place for fishing because it is not affected so much by the monsoon. Mu Ko Poda can be reached within 25 minutes by boat from Ao Nang. Many noteworthy islands like Ko Thap, Ko Mo, Ko Hua Khwan, and Ko Kai are situated nearby. A beautiful sandy beach, connecting these islands, is visible at low tide.

Susan Hoi
Susan Hoi or Fossil Shell Beach is 17 kms. from town along the route to the Nopparat Thara Beach. A tremendous number of shells embedded near the seashore piled up a large amount of shells some 40 million years ago.

Tham Lot
To visit Tham Lot Nuea and Tham Lot Tai take the Ao Luk-Laem Sak route for approximately two kilometers and then take a right turn to the Bo Tho Pier. From the pier, hire a rental boat and travel along the Tha Prang Canal for approximately 15 minutes. After passing a mangrove swamp, you will see Tham Lot Tai a cave beneath a limestone hill with a stream flowing through narrow passages. The main attractions are beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Tham Lot Nuea is a large cavern with meandering passages longer than those of the Tham Lot Tai, which are navigable only during low tide.

Tham Chao Le
A beautiful cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites as well as prehistoric cave paintings depicting people, animals and various geometrical shapes. These paintings are assumed to have been painted after those of Tham Phi Hua To. The cave is located to the west of Laem Sak in a bay surrounded by mountains and picturesque islands. The cave can be reached by taking a 10 to 15-minute boat trip from Laem Sak.

Khao Khanap Nam
These mountains, walling the Krabi River in between, are somewhat a symbol of the town. It is accessible within 15 minutes by long tail-boat from Tha Chao Fa, the main pier in the town.

Tham Phi Hua To
Located just 500 meters from Tham Lot, the cave can only be visited by boat from Bo Tho Pier. The cave is in Phi Hua To Mountain which is surrounded by mangrove swamps. There are 2 different paths inside the cave. On the left lies the shortcut to the back of the cave where the sunlight can shine through, and on the right is a path to a natural hall believed to have been a shelter for prehistoric people. Prehistoric paintings of men, animals, human organs and numerous seashells can be seen in the cave. The discovery of big human skulls in the cave, resulted in the caves present name.

Tham Phet
Tham Phet or Diamond Cave is located in the area of Amphoe Ao Luk. The most beautiful appears when countless stalactite and stalagmite formations reflected with light show diamond sparkles all over.

Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
Covering a total area of 31,325 rai, including parts of Amphoe Mueang, Amphoe Ao Luek, and Amphoe Khao Phanom, Khao Phanom Bencha National Park is Krabi’s only on land National Park. It offers pristine, lush forest with mountain ranges running north to south. Khao Phanom Bencha, the highest elevation of Krabi, stands at 1,397 metres above sea level. Its marvellous scenery is enhanced by streams, waterfalls, caves, and wild animals such as Asian tapir, Sumatran serow, Asiatic black bear, and Fishing cat. In addition to this, it boasts more than 218 species of birds such as eagles, hornbills, and woodpeckers.

Namtok Huai To
Located approximately 500 meters from the Park's office, this waterfall flows over rocks into 11 huge pools, each with their own name, such as Wang Thewada, Wang Sok, and Wang Chan. Another 3-tiered waterfall originating from a high-altitude cliff called Namtok Huai Sa-de is located some 1.2 kilometers from the Parks office. Apart from visiting waterfalls, adventurous visitors can trek to the peak of the Phanom Bencha Mountain, which is 1,397 meters high. This challenging and memorable activity takes at least 3 days and passes streams, waterfalls, caves and view points on high cliffs.

Namtok Khlong Haeng
This 500-meter high waterfall, which springs from Khao Thep Bencha, Krabis tallest mountain, is 10 kilometers from Amphoe Khao Phanom. Accommodations are provided within the park but advance reservations are required. For more information please contact the Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, Tambon Thap Prik, Amphoe Mueang, Krabi 81000.

Tham Khao Phueng
This group of 5 caves, which is approximately 3 kilometers from the park's office, has sparkling white walls and countless stalagmites and stalactites of various shapes resembling mushrooms, pagodas and curtains.

Emerald Pool
This hot spring originates from a warm stream in the lowland forest of Khao Nor Juji which is supposedly Thailand's last piece of virgin and fertile forest. The intensity of the pools turquoise colored water varies according to the light and time of the day so visitors determined to see the real emerald color should plan to visit at dawn or early in the morning. The pool, which can be visited all year round, charges and entrance fee of 20 baht. To get there, take Highway No. 4 to Khlong Thom District, then turn left to Route No. 4038 to Lam Hap Sub-district. The Emerald pool is located along the way, with clear signs posted.

Wildlife Sanctuary
Khao Pra-Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Ban Bang Tiao, 18 kilometers from Amphoe Khlong Thom. Major attractions in this Sanctuary include a 2.7-kilometer nature trail through lowland forests, the Emerald Pool and a variety of natural habitats. The forest is home to rare birds like Gurney's Pitta, Rufus-colored Kingfisher, Black Hornbill, and various kinds of plants. Visitors are allowed to stay overnight but they have to bring their own tents.

Namtok Hin Phoeng
In order to see this 3-level waterfall, which drops from a height of 800 meters, visitors have to take a 400-meter walk along the mountainside after arriving at the lower basin. The waterfall is situated 25 kilometers from Khlong Thom District and can be reached by driving along Highway No. 4 (Krabi-Trang), turning left at Khlong Phon Market and proceeding for another 8 kilometers.

Namtok Ron Khlong Thom
The waterfall, located quite near to the Emerald pool, is in a shady forest area with numerous hot springs. The hot springs and cool streams converge on a slope to form lovely cascades of warm water with a temperature of 40-50 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit is from 7.00 a.m. to 8.00 a.m. and from 4.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. To reach the waterfall visitors should travel 45 kilometers from town to Amphoe Khlong Thom, then take Sukhaphiban 2 Road for another 12 kilometers. The admission fee is 10 baht per person.

Hin Daeng
Despite being a hazard to ships this submerged open water reef on the outer edge of the Andaman Sea is a superb diving spot featuring diverse colorful corals.

Ko Hai
This small island has a long sandy beach in the east and unspoiled shallow water coral reefs at the beachfront. The island is accessible by taking a ferry and a chartered boat from Pak Meng Pier, Trang province.

NAKHON RATCHASIMA

NAKHON RATCHASIMA

The city of various Khmer ruins and the famous statue of Khun Ying Mo named Nakhon Ratchasima or commonly known as "Khorat" is situated on a plateau, about 260 kilometres northeast of Bangkok. The city itself serves as the Gateway to the Northeastern Region.

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Monument of Thao Suranari


Monument of Thao Suranari or Khun Ying Mo is situated in front of the old gate of ''Pratu Chumpon'' on the west side of the city. This monument was erected in 1934 to commemorate the heroic deed of Khun Ying Mo, wife of the Deputy Governor of Khorat during the reign of King Rama III, who managed to save the city from the invasion of the Laotian army led by Prince Anuwong of Vinentianne. Every year from March 23 to April 3, there is a cerebration to honour this statue which draws thousands of people from town and neighbouring provinces.

Chumphon Gate
Pratu Chum Phon is behind the Monument of Thao Suranari. It is an old city gate built during the reign of King Narai the Great in 1656. The king commanded that a strong city wall be built. Engineers from France, then an ally of the country, designed the city plan. Nakhon Ratchasima at that time was an outpost in the shape of a rectangle of 1,000 x 1,700 metres. The western Chum Phon Gate is the only 1 of 4 city gates that still stands. The other three gates have been rebuilt. Chum Phon Gate is built of large stones and bricks and covered with plaster. The top is a watchtower made of wood with a tiled roof and decorated in the Thai style.

Prasat Phanom Wan
Prasat Phanom Wan is in Ban Makha, Tambon Pho, around 15 kilometres from the city on the Nakhon Ratchasima-Khon Kaen road. A sign on the right shows the way on a road 5 kilometres more. This is an interesting Khmer sanctuary. It is believed that it was built in the 15th Buddhist century. Later during the 18th-19th centuries, a stone building was built over it. From inscriptions found at the site, it is known that the sanctuary was used in the Hindu religion and later became a Buddhist site. Although most of it is in ruins, there is a clear form present, like the square main pagoda facing east and a tiered pagoda in front, as well as a path linking the two structures.

Chang Phuak Shrine
Chang Phuak Shrine is a small shrine on the northern part of the city moat at the corner of Manat and Phon Saen roads. It houses a Takhian Hin tree stump that was where the people of Phu Khiao tied elephants for inspectors to look at before presenting them to King Rama I for his transport.

Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo
About 30 kilometer from town along the Khorat-Pak Thong Chai route, covers a vast stretch of land comprising a reservoir and habitation areas for animals amidst the surrounding nearest to their natural environment. Open daily between 8.30-16.30 hrs.

Wat Sala Thong
Wat Sala Thong is in Tambon Hua Thale, about 1 kilometre southeast of the city. This is temple of the Dhamayuti sect. The area around the temple was originally a dense forest where a large sitting stone Buddha image in the Pa Lelai posture was located out in the open. A convocation hall was later built to cover it. The temple has a large pagoda that was built over a smaller one that encased the holy relics of Lord Buddha that were taken from Myanmar’s Chiang Tung.

Northeastern Museum
Northeastern Museum of Petrified Wood and mineral resources is situated in Mu 7, Tambon Suranari.At present, this area has a collection of over 10,000 petrified wood pieces. Some are displayed in the garden. Within this compound, petrified wood was unearthed just beneath the surface to 8 metres underground. The wood discovered is of various sizes from pebbles to rocks with a diameter of over 50 centimetres, and some pieces are more than 1 metre long. The wood comes in many colours in the same stone and in different ones. They are aged from 1 to 70 million years old.

Wat Sala Loi


Wat Sala Loi is located on the bank of Lam Takhong River, about 400 meters off the Northeast of the town. The main chapel, which received many awards from various architectural associations as a modern leading design of religious monument, is constructed in the shape of a Chinese Junk.

City Pillar
City Pillar is at the corner of Chom Phon and Prachak roads. This Chinese-style shrine houses the city pillar that is worshipped by Thais and Chinese. Built in the reign of King Narai the Great during 1656-1688, the shrine and city pillar are made of wood. The inner eastern wall is covered with fired clay tiles with raised designs of the battle of Thao Suranari and the way of life of Thais in ancient times.

Wat Phra Narai Maharat
Located on Prajak Road, the monastery houses a Khmer sandstone statue of Vishnu, the Hindu god. This statue is highly revered by local residents and is considered the Provinces most sacred object.

Maha Wirawong National Museum
Maha Wirawong National Museum is in Wat Sutthachinda opposite the provincial hall. It displays items that Somdet Phra Maha Wirawong, the ex-abbot of Wat Sutthachinda, collected, as well as artefacts that the Fine Arts Department found in Nakhon Ratchasima and nearby provinces and donations. Most items are Buddha images, including stone images of the Khmer period, images from the Ayutthaya period, bronze images, earthenware, ancient utensils, and woodcarving. The museum is open during 9 a.m.-4 p.m. from Wednesday to Sunday. It is closed on public holidays. The entry fee is 10 baht. For information, call tel. 0 4424 2958.

Prasat Hin Phimai


Prasat Hin Phimai is the largest sandstone sanctuary in Thailand almost situated in the center of Phimai Ancient city which carries a rectangular shape of 665 meters wide and 1,030 meters long. The Sanctuary has been magnificently restored and renovated ruins and has been preserved as a National Historical Park.

Phimai National Museum
Also on the way to Phimai is the Phimai National Museum housing valuable historical objects and archaeological remains found in the region.

Other Khmer ruins within Nakhon Ratchasima include Prasat Hin Phanom Wan located about 20 kilometres from town, Prasat Hin Nang Ram some 80 kilometres northeast of Khorat in Amphoe Prathai, Prang Ban Ku and Prang Sida all of which are similar to Phimai ruins but somewhat smaller

Khao Yai National Park
The park, which covers an area of 2,168 square kilometers in the Phanom Dong Rak mountain range, stretches over 4 provinces including Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Nayok, Saraburi, and Prachin Buri. Khao Yai became Thailands first national park on 18th September 1962 and is also originally recognized as the National Park Heritage of Asian Group Countries.

Amphoe Pak Thong Chai


Amphoe Pak Thong Chai itself is also noted for its finest silk. The town is situated about 32 kilometres from Nakhon Ratchasima along Highway No. 304.

Farm Chokchai


Farm Chokchai is a fully integrated dairy farm perched on a vast stretch of plains amidst a scenic surrounding. An agro-tourism farm where visitors can learn about milking, making of fresh milk ice cream, animal feed plant, and several other activities. Superb tourist facilities provided.

Wat Thep Phithak Punnaram
Located at Khao Si Siat Aa, in Tambon Klang Dong, the temple houses a huge seated Buddha image that is 27 meters wide and 45 meters high. The image is enshrined on a mountaintop that can be reached via a 1,250 steps representing the number of monks that gathered spontaneously to hear the Lord Buddha's first sermon. (an occasion that is commemorated on Magha Puja Day)

Rai Suwan

Maize and Sorghum Research Centre (Rai Suwan) formerly called Thana Farm and belonging to Field Marshall Sarit Thanarat, the Farm was later transferred to Kasetsart University and became the Maize and Sorghum Research Center. The main purpose of the Center is to carry out research and publicize technology for the growing of maize and sorghum as well as other field crops. The Center also other provides support for research and training at both domestic and international levels, in addition, to producing seeds of maize, sorghum and other field crops. Basic tourist facilities provided are a touring route, toilets, field crop seeds for sale and food stalls. Advance contact is recommended.

Wat Na Phra That
Wat Na Phra That is located four kilometers from the Pak Thong Chai District office. The temple has an old chapel in which beautiful mural paintings of the Early Rattanakosin period can be seen on the walls. The door of "Ho Trai" or the hall for keeping the scripture is also elaborately carved.

Lam Phra Phloeng Dam
Lam Phra Phloeng Dam is situated in Amphoe Pak Thong Chai on a side road some 28 kilometres from the main highway. From the Dam, boats can also be be hired to go another 23 kilometres up the reservoir to Namtok Pak Thong Chai (waterfall) or Namtok Khlong Ki. Here is another spot for retreat and relaxation.

SUKHOTHAI

SUKHOTHAI

Sukhothai which literally means "Dawn of Happiness" with an area of 6,596 square kilometres, is about 427 kilometres north of Bangkok, and was founded in 1238. Sukhothai was the capital of Thailand for approximately 120 years.

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Administratively, Sukhothai is divided into the following districts: Muang Sukhothai, Sawan Khalok, Ban Dan Lan Hoi, Si Samrong, Thung Sariam, Kong Krailat, Khiri Mat, Si Satchanalai and Si Nakhon.

Si Satchanalai Historical Park


Si Satchanalai Historical Park is located on the bank of the Yom River. It is open daily between 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m. Admission is 40 baht. The ancient town, formerly called Muang Chaliang, was named Si Satchanalai during the reign of Phra Ruang when a new administrative centre was established to replace Chaliang. Ruins of 134 monuments have been discovered within the park:

Sukhothai Historical Park

Sukhothai Historical Park is located 12 kilometres from town on the Sukhothai-Tak Highway. It is open daily 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Ruins of the royal palaces, Buddhist temples, the city gates, walls, moats, dams, ditches, ponds, canals, and the water dyke control system, which was the magical and spiritual centre of the Kingdom, are now preserved and have been restored by the Fine Arts Department with the cooperation of UNESCO, not only with a view of fostering Thailand's national identity but of safeguarding a fine example of mankind's cultural heritage.

Wat Mahathat


A sanctuary lying to the west behind the Royal Palace compound is Wat Mahathat. It is Sukhothai's largest temple with a customary main Chedi in lotus-bud shape and a ruined Wihan. Its main Buddha image (8 metres high) was installed inside a separate building. On the South stands a pedestal of a large Chedi built up in steps, the lowest platform is adorned with beautiful stucco figures of demons, elephants and lions with angles riding on their backs. Mural painting adorn this Chedi.

Wat Chana - Songkhram


Situated to the north of Wat Mahathat is Wat Chana Songkhram. Its main sanctuary is a round Singhalese-style chedi. In front of the chedi exists the base of a viharn and behind the former stands an ubosot. Bases of twelve small chedis are also visible. Near Charot Withithong Road is a strange chedi having three bases, one on top of the other.

Wat Si-Chum


The mondop is 32 metres square and 15 metres high, and the walls are 3 metres thick. There is a passageway in the left inner wall itself which leads to the above crossbeam. On the ceiling of the passageway are more than fifty engraved slate slabs illustrating Jataka scenes.

Wat Phra-Phai-Luang


This temple lies about 500 metres north of San Luang Gate (northern gate). This sanctuary, formerly a Khmer-Hindu shrine but later converted into a Buddhist monastery, is surrounded by a moat. It is second in importance to Wat Mahathat. Inside, there are three prangs like Wat Si Sawai, but the southern and the central ones have crumbled leaving only the northern one decorated with stucco figures. In front of these prangs are a viharn and a crumbled chedi; the later has a pedestal decorated with stucco seated Buddha images. A mondop contains Buddha images in four postures; sitting, reclining, standing, and walking. They are now all in ruins. A Sivalinga (Phallic emblem of Hindu gods) was unearthed in the compound of this sanctuary.

Wat Traphang-Thong


Situated to the east of Wat Mahathat is Wat Traphang Thong. The monastery is located on an island in the middle of a large pond. A ruined laterite Singhalese-style chedi is on the island. In front of it, a new mondop contains the Lord Buddha’s Footprint slab that was created by King Lithai in 1390 on Samanakut or Phra Bat Yai Hill. This footprint was removed to the new mondop some years ago. An annual fair to worship this sacred Lord Buddha’s Footprint takes place at the same time as the Loi Krathong Festival.

Wat Traphang-Ngoen


Situated to the west of Wat Mahathat is Wat Traphang-Ngoen with its square pedestal, main sanctuary, and stucco standing Buddha image in four niches. There is a Wihan in front, and in the east of the pond, there is an island with an Ubosot. This edifice has already crumbled and only its pedestal and laterite columns still remain.

Wat Si-Sawai


Situated among magnificent scenery southwest of Wat Mahathat is Wat Si-Sawai. Three Prangs (pagodas) of Lop Buri or Hindu-style and two Wihans are surrounded by a laterite wall. The ruin was once a Hindu shrine, but was later converted into a Buddhist monastery.

Wat Chang Lom


Wat Chang Lom is an important monument within the old town of Si Satchanalai. A huge bell-shaped Chedi supported by 39 elephants, with 4 of them at 4 cardinal points elaborately decorated, marks the centre of the temple. Above the Chedi's base, there are niches enshrining images of the Buddha subduing Mara.

Wat Saphan Hin


This is situated on a hill 200 metres high. A pathway of slate slabs leads to the sanctuary yard.

Wat Sa-Si

Situated near Wat Chana Songkhram is Wat Sa Si. Around a Singhalese-style chedi is the main sanctuary on an island in the middle of Traphang Trakuan Pond. A large viharn contains a stucco Buddha image. To the south stands nine chedis of different sizes.

Wat Chang-Rop
Wat Chang-Rop is situated in the Aranyik area. A Chedi is decorated with an elephant emerging from the base. A Wihan base and laterite columns are in front of the Chedi.

Wat Chetuphon


A mondop enshrines four Buddha images in different postures: sitting, standing, walking, and reclining. The outer walls of the mondop still retains a section in the form of a slate pillar-balustraded window. There is an entrance to the mondop to the north. Just behind the mondop is a small sanctuary which contains a Buddha image known locally as Phra Si Ariya Maitreya, the Lord Buddha of the Future.

King Ramkhamhaeng Monument


Situated to the north of Wat Mahathat is the King Ramkhamhaeng Monument. The bronze statue of King Ramkhamhaeng sits on a throne with a base relief recording his life.

Wat Mai
Situated to the north of Wat Mahathat is Wat Mai. The temple, having a brick Wihan as the main sanctuary, is in Ayutthaya style. The columns of the Wihan are made of laterite.

Noen Prasat
Noen Prasat is where traces of the royal palace are found. It lies in the centre of the town and is surrounded by a moat.

Sangkhalok Museum
Sangkhalok is the name of ceramic wares produced in the old city of Sukhothai. The museum displays the collection of Sangkhalok and ceramic wares produced some 700 years ago in the Lanna Kingdom (now the northern region of Thailand). The museum is just one kilometre from town on the road to Phitsanulok. It is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is 100 baht for adults and 20 baht for children.

Si Satchanalai National Park
Si Satchanalai National Park has a total area of 213 square kilometres. It covers areas in Amphoe Si Satchanalai and Amphoe Thung Saliam of Sukhothai Province. It was proclaimed a National park on 8 May, 1981.
The Park's geography is mainly high, undulating mountains by a tropical jungle. Interesting tourist sport in the park include Tat Dao and Tat Duan Waterfalls, about 3 kilometres and 500 metres from the park headquarters, respectively. The park also has a hot spring, Khangkhao Cave, and Thara Wasan Cave.

Si Satchanalai National Park can be reached by car. From Amphoe Si Satchanalai, take the Si Satchanalai-Ban Kaeng-Huai Yuak route for 41 kilometres. Then 5 kilometres before the intersection to Ban Yuak, there is a right-hand road which you take for another 2 kilometres to the park headquarters.

Celadon Kiln Site Study and Conservation Center
Celadon Kiln Site Study and Conservation Center is located at Ban Ko Noi, some 4 kilometres to the north of Si Satchanalai. More than 500 kilns have been excavated up to now. Numerous celadon wares in perfect condition as well as potsherds have been discovered. The kiln is oval in shape with a curved roof and is 7-8 metres wide.
The centre consists of 2 buildings situated on the kiln site area with 2 kilns Nos. 42 and 61 exhibited on site. There are also exhibitions on artifacts and on the evolution of ancient ceramic wares.

Sawankhaworanayok National Museum
Sawankhaworanayok National Museum is 38 kilometres from Sukhothai and 2 kilometres further on a road on the left. The museum features sculptural art from various periods; the most interesting being Sukhothai era and Sangkhalok items retrieved form sunken vessels in the Gulf of Thailand. lt is open daily except Monday, Tuesdays and public holidays, from 8.30 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Entry fee is 30 baht per person. For more information Tel; (055) 641571


The Ramkhamhaeng National Park (Khao Luang, Sukhothai)
This exquisite national park with a combined natural and historical background covers an area of 314 square kilometers, and was declared to be a national park on 27 October, 1980.
High hills and steep cliffs some over 1,200 meters above sea level, together with fascinating falls, different species to plants and wildlife are some of the major attractions available in this park offered to nature loving tourists or visitors. Furthermore, the archaeological and historical sites with ancient remains and relics make the park even more attractive, especially for critics and theologians.

To reach the park by road, take Highway no. 1 from Bangkok, then at km. 414 (20 kilometres to Sukhothai) take the lest turn along the laterite road for another 16 kilometres till arriving at the park's office.

Wat Chedi-Sung
Wat Chedi-Sung is situated near Wat Traphang Thong Lang. The upper part of the Chedi is round. The base is constructed in three tiered stages. This interesting Sukhothai type of Chedi is of Sivijaya and Singhalese-styles. In front of the Chedi stands a small Wihan.

Wat Traphang-Thong-Lang
Wat Traphang-Thong-Lang houses a square Mondop which is beautifully decorated by stucco figures in niches. The southern side portrays the Lord Buddha flanked by angels. To the west portrays the Lord Buddha preaching to his father and relatives. The northern side depicts the episode when the Lord Buddha returned to preach to his wife. These stucco figures, especially those on the south side, are masterpieces of Sukhothai art.

The Ramkhamhaeng National Museum
inside the park, displays gifts from the ex-abbot of Wat Ratchathani and art objects unearthed in Sukhothai and nearby provinces. It is open daily from 9.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Admission fee 30 baht. Tel. (055) 612167

Thuriang Kiln
Thuriang Kiln is a site where Sukhothai celadons were made. Kilns exist in an area measuring 100 by 700 metres. Each kiln is divided into three sections, the fire area, the pottery baking oven, and the flue. The pottery found here is usually decorated by three different painted designs on their bottom: a disc, a fish, and a flower. Forty-nine kilns and small edifices are visible. To the north, a pond has been dug into the stone.

Phra Mae Ya Shirne
Phra Mae Ya Shirne is situated in front of the City Hall and is highly respected by Sukhothai residents. It houses an idol of Phra Mae Ya, a stone figure with a white face and long hair, and dressed as an ancient queen. The idol is about 1 metre high and is supposed to have been built during King Ramkhamhaeng's reign as a dedication to his late mother Nang Suang

Phrae

Phrae
An old and important community of Northern Thailand, Phrae was founded after Chiang Mai had been established as the capital of the Lanna Thai kingdom. With one of the largest reserves of teak forests in the country, it is located on the banks of the Yom River, some 550 kilometres from Bangkok.
Phrae covers an area about 6,538 square kilometres and surrounded on all sides by mountains with level plains in the middle.

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Phrae is administratively divided into the following districts: Muang, Sung Men, Den Chai, Long, Wang Chin, Song, Rong Kwang and Nong Muang Khai.

Wat Luang


Wat Luang on Kham Lue Road in town is an ancient and principal temple built at the same time Phrae was established. Several restoration works have taken place. Some of its major features include the Vihan and Chiang Saen-style Chedi enshrining a Holy Relic brought over from Myanmar. Others are the museum housing various antiquities including several 500-year-old Buddha statues and an ancient Lanna-style wooden structure.

Wat Phra That Cho Hae


This temple is about 8 kilometres to the east of town on Highway No. 1022. A major religious site of the province, it was built since the time of Sukhothai. The 33 metre-tall Chiang Saen-style Chedi houses a Holy Relic. It was built of bricks and covered with bright brass sheets. The name of the temple refers to fine silk woven in Sip Song Panna (in southern China) which was first used to wrap around the Chedi when the temple was first constructed. There is a fair celebrating the Chedi in March every year.

Wat Phra Non


To the west of Wat Luang is Wat Phra Non near the site of the old city walls. Some of the architectural works include the Chiang Saen-style Ubosot with narrow openings to let in light instead of normal windows. The lintel is made of wood with graceful designs. The eaves over the Wihan are all fretted, a symbol of northern architecture. lnside is a 9 metre-long plaster Reclining Buddha.

Phra That Phra Lo
is a 400-year-old Chedi believed to contain the remain of a king named Phra Lo, ruler of Nakhon Maen Suang once located in the vicinity. It is said he died together with his two lovers, Phra Phuan and Phra Phaeng, which gave rise to the legend of a folklore. The Chedi itself is at Tambon Ban Klang, Song District on Highway No. 103 some 45 kilometres north or the provincial town.

The Mae Yom National Park
is in Song district 48 kilometres from town. The terrain is mountainous with deciduous and rich teak forests, probably the densest in the country. Along the Yom River in front of the camping area of the park are the Kaeng Sua Ten rapids, a two-kilometre-long stretch of rock formations and best visited during November-February when the weather is cool and scenery at its loveliest. Visitors may camp along the river banks.

Tham Pha Nang Khoi
Another interesting cave is Tham Pha Nang Khoi which is about 40 kilometres north of town on Highway No. 101 at Km. 59 within Rong Kwang district. A 50 metre-long rail leads to the cave mouth. Along the winding tunnels are strangely-shaped stalactites and stalagmites. At the end of the cave is a stalagmite shaped like a woman holding a small child. In front of the Nang Koi (waiting woman) stone is a heart-shaped stalactite. They are the source of the legend of the love of a woman who waited for her lover until she turned into stone. Amid cool forested area is the Huai Rong Waterfall. It can be reached by taking Highway No. 101 (Phrae-Rong Kwang) and go on for 60 kilometres northward. Turn left at Km. 78 and proceed on for a further 4 kilometres.

Tham Cham Pu
Locates in Tambon Nam Rat of Nong Muang Khai district in Tham Cham Pu, some 17 kilometres from town and with a further distance of 8 kilometres after a left turn. Within the cave is a large hall-like chamber with smaller rooms connected by tunnels. It is beautiful adorned with glittering stalactites and stalagmites.

The Wiang Kosai National Park
is about 70 kilometres from the provincial town in Wang Chin district. It can be reached by taking Highway No. 11 (Prae-Lampang). Then take a left turn toward Wang Chin district and continue for a further 13 kilometres to reach the turn to the park headquarters. A further 1.5 kilometres on are two waterfalls, the Mae Koeng Luang, 1 kilometres from the headquarters, and the Mae Koeng Noi, 2 kilometres on foot further on. Streams from the falls flow into The Yom River.

Wat Phra That Si Don Kham
There is a huge gold Chedi housing a Holy Relic at Wat Phra That Si Don Kham. Legend has it that it was built as early as 535 A.D. when the land was under the dominance of the Hariphunchai kingdom.

Long District
some 45 kilometres from the provincial town on Highway No. 1023, is the site of a centuries old community since the time of Hariphunchai Period. The local people are skilled in the craft of weaving, both silk and cotton. The art of making the Teen Jok fabric in particular has been handed down from generation to generation. Its design has also been developed to meet with new and different preferences, although the original method has been retained. A fair celebrating the Teen Jok is held annually in Long district around November.

Kaeng Luang
A leading attraction, Kaeng Luang is located in Tambon Ban Pin, Long district. To get there, go on the Phrae-Lampang road for about 50 kilometres, then take a right turn at Km.69 and continue on for another 7 kilometres. The scenery is lovely and amid the Yom river are rocky formations which create fast-flowing rapids. On the other side of the river, which can be crossed by ferry, and with a 100-metre walk uphill, will be found the Erawan Cave adorned with elephant-and-female-shaped hanging and protruding crops of rock.

Wat Phra That Suthon Mongkhon Khiri
3 kilometres from Den Chai district, or some 2 kilometres from the provincial town, is Wat Phra That Suthon Mongkhon Khiri. Although a comparatively modern temple, it boasts highly eye-catching structures. The Ubosot in particular is noted for its delicate sculptures with fine designs. There is also the golden teak structure in the Lanna-style which houses valuable relics of the North, including Buddha statues, lacquer ware, Lanna musical instruments, ancient weapons and pictures depicting past events.

Wat Phra Luang
Some 700 metres off Highway No. 101 at Ban Hua Dong is Wat Phra Luang. It features a Sukhothai-style Chedi and is referred to by the local people as "That Neong", meaning the leaning Chedi.

Hua Dong Market
About 9 kilometres to the south of town on Highway No. 101 in Sung Men district is the Hua Dong Market. It is the centre of products made from wood and rattan, mostly household furnitures and decorative items.

The Folklore Museum
in the same compound as the Ban Fai garden restaurant three kilometres from town on the Phrae-Sung Men road, is made up of several buildings and wooden structures displaying exhibits on the local way of life. The different types of wooden houses demonstrate the different statuses of the local people. There are also market and shop houses of the past.

The Phraya Chaiyabun Memorial
is about 4 kilometres from the Phrae town hall on Highway No. 101. Governor of the town during 1897-1902, he was slain by rebelling Shan tribemen when he refused to cede the town to them. After the rebellion was put down by government troops, King Rama V ordered a memorial erected in his honour.

Wat Phra That Chom Chaeng
Three kilometres from Phra that Cho Hae is Wat Phra That Chom Chaeng, some 10 kilometres from town. Built in the year 788, the name of the builder was unknown. The golden Chedi is 19 metres tall and enshrines a Holy Relic. There is also a Museum of rare ancient relics.

Tok Mae Khaem
A small, 2-level waterfall, Nam Tok Mae Khaem is located at Tambon Suan Khuan. To reach it, go on the Pa Daeng-Thung Hong road for 4 kilometres. Then turn left and continue for another 12 kilometres. There is another fall, larger and with three levels, in the vicinity. It is Nam Tok Tat Mok, which is about 22 kilometres from town.

Phae Muang Phi
About 12 kilometres out of town, and with a further 6 kilometres after a right turn, is the Phae Muang Phi a wide area with no large trees. Because of subsidence and erosion of the soil, the harder elements remain and are formed into the shapes of exotic-looking mushrooms.

Ban Pong Si
at Tambon Thin of Muang district is a village which collects and exchanges second-hand household utensils for daily use. It also sells silver products.

Ban Rong Fong
specialises in making metal agricultural tools using traditional production method. The village can be reached by taking Highway No. 101 (Phrae-Nan) with a turn into Highway No. 1101 leading to Rong Fong.

Ban Thung Hong
About 4 kilometres away on Highway No. 101 (Phrae-Nan) is Ban Thung Hong a village noted for the making of product made from Mo Hom material. It is a local cotton fabric dyed in blue which is used in making native and modern wears.

Wat Chom Sawan
Just one kilometre from the town hall on Yantrakit Koson Road is Wat Chom Sawan a Burmese architectural style temple. The building which combines the hall for conducting religious rituals and monk's living quarters is beautifully decorated both in its interiors and exteriors. The over-lapping roofs are adorned with fine fret works. Antiquities found here include marble Buddha statues, statues made of woven bamboos coated with lacquer, and Buddha statues made from ivory, as well as ivory scripture slabs with Burmese scripts.

Wat Sa Bo Kaeo
Located on Nam Khu Road next to the city moats is Wat Sa Bo Kaeo a temple with several exotic Burmese artistic-styled structures and Buddha statues. It is also where Burmese monks who travel to Thailand to study the Buddhist scripture stay.

The City Pillar Shrine of Phrae
situated on Khum Doem Road in town centre, features an inscription stone with ancient Thai scripts of the Sukhothai period describing the construction of a temple in the town.

Wat Phra Bat Ming Muang
Iocated on Charoen Nakhon Road near the town hall was built in 1995 by combining two ancient temples. There is an old Chedi containing a replica of the Holy Footprint inside.

Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok
A major tourist destination in the Lower North, Phitsanulok is situated on the banks of the Nan River some 377 kilometres from Bangkok. Most of the terrains are flatland, with mountain ranges running on the east where waterfalls and national parks offer opportunities for nature treks.
Historically, Phitsanulok has been a major community since the time of the Khmers and enjoyed great prosperity during the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods. During 1463-1487 it was practically another royal capital as King Borom Trailokanat of Ayutthaya resided permanently in the province.

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Phitsanulok is administratively divided into the following districts: Muang, Wang Thong, Phrom Phiram, Bang Krathum, Bang Rakam, Wat Bot, Nakhon Thai, Chat Trakan and Noen Maprang.

Wat Phra Si Mahathat


Locally dubbed as "Wat Yai", the complex is considered the most important temple in Phitsanulok. Housing Thailand's famous Phra Phutthachinnarat, Wat Yai is located at the foot of Naresuan Bridge on the city side of the river. The temple was built during the reign of Phra Maha Thamma Racha I (Phraya Lithai) in 1357.

The King Naresuan the Great Shrine
Located on the other side of Maenam Nan, opposite the main town, the Shrine of King Naresuan the Great is in the compound of Phitsanulok Phittayakom School. The Shrine was built in 1961 at the site of the Chan Palace where King Naresuan the Great was born and raised. The Shrine represents the Thais utmost respect to their beloved King who liberated the nation from Burmese power.

Wat Ratburana
South of Wat Phra Si Mahathat is Wat Ratburana, another main attraction worth visiting. The temple was built at the command of King Borom Trailokanat of Ayutthaya who played a major role in fostering Buddhism in the Kingdom. The temple features a three-headed Naga (mythical serpent in Buddhism) over its eaves.

Wat Chula Mani
Located approximately 5 kilometers from town on the east bank of Nan river, Wat Chula Mani is the oldest temple in town. It was built prior to the Sukhothai era and was once the spot where the original town was located. Wat Chula Mani is a temple with long history. King Borom Trailokanat of Ayutthaya and 2,000 of his followers were ordained as monks at this temple in 1416. The Khmer-style pagoda attracts students and archaeologists to explore the beautiful, intricate swan design. Moreover, the Mondop contains a Holy Footprint and an inscription stone built by King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya.

Nan Riverside Park
The park, which was built by Phitsanulok Municipality in 2002, is situated in the middle of the town, on the eastern bank of Nan river. Inside the park, is a Boathouse Museum showcasing the daily life of people living in boathouses.
*Admission is free.

City tour by tricycle
Usually taken at night, visitors can see the city from a different perspective when on the tricycle. The trip will pass the commercial part of town, markets and ancient places. Chauffeur services are available. Reservations can be made at local hotels.

The City Pillar Shrine
The city pillar is located in the shrine on the western bank of the Nan River, opposite the Mueang Phitsanulok District Administration Office. Designed by the Fine Arts Department, the Prang-shaped building houses the city pillar which is made of different kinds of sacred wood in its various parts and has gone through a religious ceremony at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok.

Tham Duean Tham Dao
Situated in the western territory of Thung Salaeng Luang National Park, the cave has a subterranean river running through it. Visitors have to climb over rocks at the cave’s entrance to get in, just to find a large chamber and subterranean river. At the length of 1.4 kilometres, the cave is beautified with stalagmites and stalactites. It can be visited during the dry season and a personal torch is required. High water during rainy season makes it dangerous to visit. To get there: The cave is 85 kilometres from downtown Phitsanulok. Motorists can use Highway 12, then use Highway 11 and 1115 to Amphoe Noen Maprang. The cave is 6 kilometres away.

The Folklore Museum
This is definitely the place for those wishing to learn more about the Thai lifestyle. Step inside a group of Thai pavilions and explore a private collection of antique items representing Thai rural life. They include indigenous arts, pottery, farming and trapping equipment and household items. Old photographs revealing Phitsanulok's good old days are also on display.

The City Walls of Phitsanulok
The city walls of Phitsanulok were made of clay similar to those of the Sukhothai era. The walls were built at the command of King Borom Trailokanat of Ayutthaya to prevent attacks from both the Lanna and Burmese Kingdoms. It was not until King Rama I of the Rattanakosin era that the walls were destroyed. The demolition was undertaken to prevent enemies using the city walls as shelter for their troops.

Whitewater rafting
An exciting activity, visitors are provided with a truly unique experience while whitewater rafting especially with the refreshing natural scenery along Maenam Kek in Wang Thong District. The entire trip takes only 2.5 hours to complete. The best time to go downstream is between June and October. Reservations can be made at your hotel or at any resorts located along Highway No. 12 .

Namtok Kaeng Song
Located at Km. 45 along the Highway, the waterfall, which is slightly bigger than Namtok Wang Nok An, is set against a mountainous backdrop.

Namtok Kaeng Sopha
This waterfall, Phitsanulok's largest, is located 2 kilometers off of Km. 70 marker along Highway No. 12. It is possible to walk around and explore the rocky surroundings especially during the dry season. This 2-tiered waterfall cascades down the steep cliffs to the rocks below providing a different ambience for every season.

Namtok Poi

Namtok Poi and Khao Krayang Forest Plantation are situated between Kilometre 59-60 on Highway 12, turn right and proceed for another 2 kilometers. The surrounding area is suitable for recreation and relaxation activities. The Forest Industry Organisation’s forest plantation houses a beautiful waterfall that allows visitors to enjoy nature. Nature trails and accommodation are available.

Namtok Wang Nok Aen
Situated in the arboretum only one kilometre off of the main highway 12 (Phitsanulok – Lom Sak Road) Kilometre 33, the small fall is surrounded with different kinds of plants. On the west is a royal pavilion that once welcomed Their Majesties the King and Queen during their royal visit to the North, with another pavilion by the water in the east. Nearby is Sai Rapids, where visitors can enjoy the scenery. Within the park is Namtok Wang Nok Aen, a 10-meter high waterfall, that cascades down the rock with strong currents that have gradually shaped the stones into the most unique formations.

Chan Palace
The birthplace and a resident of King Naresuan the Great, Chan Palace is located in the compound of Phitsanulok Phittayakom School. At present, the site is being excavated and the entire palace will be restored as a future historical attraction.

Kaeng Chet Khwae National Park
Located in Amphoe Wang Thong, Nakorn Thai District, the park covers an area of 136,250 rai of land. The terrain is mainly covered by lush forests with mountain ranges raising 100 to 645 meters above sea level. Attractions include Namtok Kaeng Bua Kam: a 5-tiered waterfall, Namtok Phu Daeng Ron, Namtok Huay Plu, Larn Mapha Dua view point, and Ban Nong Hin view point.

Art & Culture Gallery
Art & Culture Gallery, Naresuan University (Sanambin Campus), the Gallery is established with an aim to promote and preserve Thai arts and culture. Located at the resource centre on Sanam Bin Rd., the Gallery is divided into 3 sections including;

Wat Chedi Yot Thong
Located on Phaya Suea Road, outside Phitsanulok walls, Wat Chedi Yot Thong is the only temple in the province that has a lotus bud-shaped Chedi in the original Sukhothai style.

Wat Aranyik
This is a Sukhothai-era temple located in the same vicinity which is surrounded by moats.

Wat Nang Phaya
Situated near Wat Ratburana is Wat Nang Phaya which believed to have been built during the same period. The temple is famous for extensive collection of the highly coveted Nang Phaya (small Buddha images used as amulets) which was found underneath.

Thai Bird Garden
Located opposite to the folk museum, it is a bird conservation centre that displays endangered as well as extinct birds of Thailand such as jambu fruit-dove, helmeted hornbill, and birds mentioned in Thai literature; namely, oriole, barbet, common koel, green magpie, blue magpie, etc. The park entertains visitors with some birds that can imitate human’s voice greeting both in Thai and English such as parrot as well as those singing beautifully like black-throated laughing thrush, white-crested laughing thrush, and white rumped shama. The garden is open daily from 8.30 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Admission is 50 baht for adults and 20 baht for children. For more information, call Tel: 0 5521 254

Textile Museum
Textile Museum and Life Museum are located on the second floor of the multi-purpose building of Naresuan University, the Textile Museum displays textiles and garments from different sources domestically and internationally. The museum houses documents and research studies regarding textiles and royal suits of Their Majesties the King and Queen that were conferred to the university. Nearby is a Life Museum that displays the Thai way of cotton weaving, from cotton growing to high-class techniques in weaving.

Wat Ratchakhiri Hiranyaram
Located on Khao Samo Khlaeng, Ban Samo Khlaeng, approximately 14 kilometres from Phitsanulok on Highway 12 and 3 kilometres before reaching Amphoe Wang Thong. The hilltop temple houses two Buddha’s footprints, one is a replica and the other is on the face of a western cliff. A celebration is held annually in February. The temple also houses a thousand-handed Guan Yin statue, three tons in weight, from Hangzhou, China, which was carved out of white jade and sent here in 1992. On the mountain, there is a pond that never runs dry since ancient time. Uphill from the Guan Yin statue, there is a shrine of Heng Jia, the monkey hero, which is frequented by Thai Chinese visitors. The topmost viewpoint of the mountain is the location of Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Bowon Chinarat where the Buddha’s forehead bone relic is enshrined. The Chedi has a lotus-shaped spire, with a walking Buddha image on each side of its square base.

The Bank Kaeo Dog Farm
specialises in raising the Bang Kaeo breed of dogs. The Bang Keao is a mixed breed of wild and domesticated canines. Characteristically, their mouths and tails look similar to those of jackals. They are noted for their devotion to their owners. Bang Kaeo dogs do not come cheap.

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park
Phu Hin Rong Kla is a distinctive national park with a unique mixture of scenic attractions and historical sites. It was once the stage of armed conflicts between two extreme political ideologies. The Park covers a total area of 191,875 rai of land (76,750 acres) and is approximately 130 kilometers from Phitsanulok city. It can be reached by taking Highway No. 12 and turning left at Km.68 marker into Highway No. 2013, a road leading to Nakhon Thai District.

Buranathai Buddha Casting Foundry
Located opposite the Sgt. Maj. Dr. Thavis Museum is a small bronze Buddha image casting foundry, which is the only of its kind in the province. The foundry allows visitors with the opportunity to witness skilled craftspersons working on the reproduction of Phra Buddha Chinnarat images. It is possible to actually walk along the production line to see the whole bronze-casting process. In addition, huge Buddha images are also cast here. The foundry is open on Wednesday through Sunday from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Phu Soi Dao National Park
Phu Soi Dao National Park is located in both Chat Trakan district of Phitsanulok Province and Nam Pard District of Uttaradit Province. Occupying a total area of 48,962.5 rai of land (equivalent to 58,750 acres), the park stretches along the Thai-Laos border with the highest peak measured at 2,102 meters above sea level. The climate park is cool throughout the year and visitors are able to see several species of wild flowers.

Nam Tok Chat Trakan National Park
Located in Khao Ya Puk, approximately 145 kilometers from the city, Namtok Chat Trakan National Park occupies a total area of 146,875 rai of land (equivalent to 58,750 acres). This is the location of the famous 7-tiered waterfall which cascades down high mountain cliffs which have traces of carvings of pre-historic symbol. In addition, there is a beach and a pond suitable for swimming situated just in front of the waterfalls lowest tier.

Kaeng Wang Nam Yen
About 5 kilometres from Nong Mae Na is a 50 metres x 100 metres wide rapids, Kaeng Wang Nam Yen, affording a delightful scenery.

There are also a couple of caves with beautiful hanging and protruding groups of rocks. However, the access is not too convenient. For those who want to stay overnight in the park should contact the park authorities in advance and make their own arrangements for camping gear and provisions as there aren't as yet any facilities available

Lamphun

Lamphun
Legend handed down for more than 1,400 years refer to this ancient town as Hariphunchai. Its first ruler was Queen Chamthewi who was of Mon extraction. In late 12th century, King Mengrai overran the town and subsequently integrated it into the Lanna Kingdom.
Today, Lamphun still retain its enchanting ambience of a small but old community. It is some 670 kilometres from Bangkok and only 26 kilometres from Chiang Mai. Located on the bank of the Kuang River, its attractions include ancient sites and relics as well as forests and mountains and delightful lakes. Lamphun is the most famous producer of longans.

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Wat Phra That Hariphunchai


Sited in mid-town, Wat Phra That Hariphunchai was built during the reign of King Arthitayarat, a descendant of Queen Chamthewi some 800 years ago. A principal landmark is the 46-metre tall golden Chedi whose present appearance was the result of the restoration work in 1443 by a king of Chiang Mai. It has long been regarded as a major place of worship. Other architectural works include the ancient-style brick arch adorned with fine designs and the pair of sculptured lions at the door. There are also a square-shaped Chedi and a Khmer-style Buddha statue.

Wat Chamthewi



Wat Chamthewi, commonly referred to a “Ku Kut”, is located on the Lamphun-San Pa Tong Road and built in 1298 B.E. in the Lawo (Lopburi) style. The Chedi is a square structure similar to Buddhagaya in India. Around the Chedi are levels of arches holding a total of 60 Buddha statues. Ashes of the queen are enshrined within the Chedi.

Hariphunchai National Museum
Located on Inthayongyot Road almost opposite Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is the Hariphunchai National Museum. Displays and exhibits include historical development and archaeological items found in Lamphun. These include prehistorical human skeletons and art objects from the Dvaravati, Hariphunchi, Lanna and Rattanakosin periods. A chamber is devoted to a collection of inscription stones in Mon and Lanna scripts. Another displays ancient utensils, Lanna indigenous arts and carvings.The museum is open Wednesdays-Sundays from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

Chedi Ha Duang
About 2 kilometres from Li is a group of five old pagoda known as the Chedi Ha Duang. The site is believed to have been an ancient town.

Wat Phra Bat Huai Tom
is the largest temple in the district, boasting a large Lanna-style Chedi and an extensive place of worship built in laterite by Karens living in the vicinity who were admirers of the highly revered Phra Kru Ba Chaiwongsa. The temple is about 5 kilometres off Highway No.106 at Km.47.

Mae Ping National Park
Covering an area of over 1,000 square kilometres is the Mae Ping National Park. Its main feature is the Ping River, which floes through the forests in the park. On both sides are fertile forest-lands with sheer cliffs providing beautiful natural scenery. Certain parts of the waterway spread out to form reservoir-like bodies of water with numerous small islands and rapids. Another attraction is the 7-level Ko Luang Waterfall which is fed from lime streams. It is just 20 kilometres from the park headquarters and accessible by road. Fascinating stalactites and stalagmites are to be found inside nearby lime caves.

Tourists wishing to stay overnight are recommended to contact park headquarters; which is located some 20 kilometres off Highway No. 106 at Km. 47.

Ban Hong
is the site of a 1400-year-old community dating back to the Hariphunchai Kingdom. Located some 40 Kilometres to the south of Lamphun, it offers a scenic and delightful vista of green fields and mountains. It also has several old temples built in admirable indigenous style, e.g., Wat Phra Chao Ton Luang with its 600-year-old Buddha statue, Wat Pa Puai and Wat Dong Rusi. The latter two temples both maintain 100-year-old Ho Trai (scripture halls) built with wood in delicate patterns. Some of the natural attractions in the district include Tham Luang Pha Wiang, a cave some 15 kilometres south of the district town. Inside the cavern are oddly-shaped stalactites. There are accommodation facilities for tourists in the district town.

Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha
About 7 kilometres away on the route to Li district is Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha. Legend has it that the Lord Buddha once stayed here, leaving a trace of likeness of monk's saffron robe and his footprint on stone ground.

Pa Sang District
is a handicraft centre and famous for its handmade cotton materials which are produced mainly in Ban Nong Nguak. Also at this village is an ancient temple noted for its beautiful arches in indigenous Burmese-influenced style.

The Ban Nong Chang Khun
is the most famous longan growing area in the country. The orchards are located some 8 kilometres before Lamphun and with a further 7 kilometres after a right turn. On both sides of the road are numerous longan orchards. The fruits are in season during July-August. Longans were introduced to the area during the reign of King Rama V and have since spread into neighbouring provinces. There are several species today which are popular among consumers.

Wat Phra Yun
Another ancient site related to the old history of the town is Wat Phra Yun. The Ku Chang-Ku Mah Chedi at the temple is surrounded in four directions by standing statues. The Chedi itself is cylinder-shaped and commemorates Queen Chamthewi's war elephant and her son's steed.

Wat Mahawan
On the road parallel to the old city wall to the west of town is Wat Mahawan, an old temple built since the times of Queen Chamthewi. Enshrined here is a Nak Prok statue (statue with mythical serpents overhead) which was brought to the temple by the Queen. Commonly known as Phra Rot Lamph, it serves as the model for the famous votive tablet.

Suthewa Rusi Statue
In front of the Town Hall is the Suthewa Rusi Statue. Legend has it that the Rusi, or ascetic, was the actual founder of Hariphunchai. As an ascetic refraining from worldly affairs, he invited Phra Nang Chamthevi, a daughter of the king of Lopburi, to ascend the throne and helped her to firmly establish Buddhism in the land.

The Phra Nang Chamthewi Statue
is located in the Nong Dok public park in town commemorating the first ruler of Hariphunchai