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Travel Suphan Buri Thailand

2008-09-21T00:04:00.000+07:00

Just a hundred kilometres away from Bangkok, Suphan Buri is an ancient town rich in natural and historical heritage. The province was once an important border town involving battles and important wars during the period of the Ayutthaya kingdom. So, today, travelling around the province is like drifting through historical novels. Historical evidence leads you to travel to the past such as Don Chedi Monument, Wat Khao Khuen whose abbot played a significant role in Thai history, U Thong National Museum, etc. Furthermore, various natural wonders such as Phu Toei National Park, Bueng Chawak Aquarium, as well as the famous local-style cake Sali Suphan always impress visitors.

Suphan Buri occupies a total area of 5,358 square kilometres and is administratively divided into 10 districts (Amphoes); Muang Suphan Buri, Doem Bang Nang Buat, Bang Pla Ma, Si Prachan, Song Phi Nong, Sam Chuk, U Thong, Don Chedi, Dan Chang and Nong Ya Sai.

Travel Sukhothai in Thailand

2008-09-16T02:42:00.000+07:00

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Found in the 13th century, Sukhothai (literally means Dawn of Happiness) was the first truly independent Thai Kingdom, which enjoyed a golden age under King Ramkhamhaeng, credited with creating the Thai alphabet. The superb temples and monuments of this great city have been lovingly restored in Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travellers.

Sukhothai is located on the lower edge of the northern region, 427 kilometres north of Bangkok or some 298 kilometres south of Chiang Mai. The province covers some 6,596 square kilometres and is divided into 9 Amphoes: Muang Sukhothai, Ban Dan Lan Hoi, Khiri Mat, Kong Krailat, Sawankhalok, Si Nakhon, Si Samrong, Si Satchanalai and Thung Saliam.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Sukhothai was the first kingdom of the Thais in this peninsula. Two princes-Pho Khun Pha Muang and Pho Khun Bang Klang Hao combined their forces and fought the Khmers who commanded an extensive empire throughout this part of the world.

They drove the Khmers out of Sukhothai, a major frontier post of the Khmer Empire, and established it as their capital in 1238. Pho Khun Bang Klang Hao, urged by the people to be king, was enthroned with the royal title of Pho Khun Si Indrathit.

King Si Indrathit had two sons-Pho Khun Ban Mueang and Pho Khun Ramkhamhaeng. After his death, Pho Khun Ban Mueang succeeded him. His brother, Pho Khun Ramkhamhaeng, ascended the throne in 1278 and reigned for forty years. He was Thailand's first great king.

One of Thailand's finest warriors, King Ramkhamhaeng made Sukhothai a powerful and extensive kingdom which included many parts of what are today neighbouring countries. A number of ancient cities paid him tribute.
King Ramkhamhaeng opened direct political relations with China and made two trips to China - the first in 1282 to visit Emperor Kublai Khan and the second in 1300 after Kublai Khans death.

From the second visit, he brought back Chinese artisans who taught the Thais the art of pottery. Today, the old Sangkhalok Potteries are eagerly sought by collectors.

A major achievement of King Ramkhamhaeng was the revision of various forms of Khmer alphabets into a system suitable for the writing of Thai words. The alphabet that he invented in 1283 was essentially the same as that in use today.
During his reign, there was prosperity and happiness. There was water in the paddy-fields and fish in the water.

A stone inscription reads in part, This Muang Sukhothai is good. In the water there are fish; in the field there is rice. The ruler does not levy a tax on the people who travel along the road together, leading their oxen on the way to trade and riding their horses on the way to sell. Whoever wants to trade in elephants, so trades. Whoever wants to trade in horses, so trades. Whoever wants to trade in silver and gold, so trades.

King Ramkhamhaeng also promoted religion and culture, and through his efforts, Buddhism progressed among the people. Inspirational faith gave birth to classic forms of Thai religious arts. Images of the Lord Buddha sculptured during the Sukhothai Era are cultural treasures which impart a feeling of peace and serenity.

A total of eight kings ruled Sukhothai. The gradual decline of Sukhothai occurred during the reigns of the last two kings. The end of this first Thai kingdom occurred in 1365 when it became a vassal state of Ayutthaya, a young and rising power to the south. Ayutthaya became the capital of Thailand before Thon Buri and Bangkok.

The Website for Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai, and Kamphaeng Phet

Travel Satun Thailand

2008-09-14T23:35:00.001+07:00

Satun is a small province in the south of Thailand that borders Malaysia, facing the Andaman Sea. The province possesses renowned picturesque islands with verdant forests and mountainous land. The majority of the locals are Muslim. It is located 973 kilometres from Bangkok and occupies an area of 2,478 square kilometres with 80 kilometres of coastline.

Most tourists head out to the pristine islands of Tarutao National Park. Its landscape is full of underwater peaks, excellent beaches, calm and peaceful coves, jungle and mangrove swamps. Snorkelling can be found at Lipe island, while neighbour Adnag island is stunning with forest, hills and waterfalls.

Around Satun, there are plenty of interesting sights, including dove farms, forest parks and huge waterfall. Thale Ban National Park is famous for its abundant wildlife, with many waterfalls and caves worth visiting.

Travel in Nan Thailand

2008-09-11T23:38:00.001+07:00

A quiet and tranquil province, Nan nestles in a verdant valley in northern Thailand. About 668 kilometres from Bangkok, it covers an area of 11,472 square kilometres and is made up of the following districts: Mueang, Wiang Sa, Na Noi, Pua, Chiang Klang, Tha Wang Pha, Thung Chang, Mae Charim, Ban Luang, Na Mun, Santi Suk, Bo Kluea, Chaloem Phra Kiat, Song Khwae, and Phu Phiang.

The people of Nan descend from the Lan Changs (Laotians). Their forebears moved to settle around present-day Pua district which is rich in rock salt deposits, about 700 years ago at the time when Sukhothai was becoming the kingdom of the Thais. They subsequently moved south to the fertile Nan River basin which is much more extensive.

Nan's history is deeply involved with its neighbours, in particular Sukhothai which played an important role in both political and religious terms before Nan became a part of Lanna, Burma and Thailand in that order. Today Nan is still the home of numerous Thai Lue and other hilltribes who retain highly interesting customs and traditions.

Travel Krabi Thailand

2008-09-09T21:25:00.001+07:00

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Located approximately 814 kilometers from Bangkok is Krabi Province, one of most attractive destinations in southern Thailand. Encompassing an area of 4,708 square kilometers, the western border of Krabi is the Andaman Sea, the northern borders are Surat Thani and Phang-nga Provinces, the southern borders are Trang Province and the Andaman Sea and the eastern borders are Nakhon Si Thammarat and Trang Provinces. Krabi is an ideal getaway destination teeming with natural attractions including white sandy beaches, fascinating coral reefs, numerous large and small islands and verdant forests with caves and waterfalls.

Krabi's topography is mostly mountains and highlands separated by plains in some parts. Flowing through Krabi City to the Andaman Sea at Pak Nam Sub-district is Maenam Krabi which is 5 kilometers in length. In addition, there are several canals originating from the province's highest mountain range, Khao Phanom Bencha including Khlong Pakasai, Khlong Krabi Yai and Khlong Krabi Noi. Lush mangrove forests line the canals and the banks of Maenam Krabi particularly before it empties into the Andaman Sea. The provinces sandy soil conditions are suitable for growing various agricultural products, particularly rubber trees, palms, coconuts, cashew nuts and coffee.

Due to the influence of the tropical monsoon, there are only two seasons in Krabi; the hot season from January to April and the rainy season from May to December. Temperatures range between 17 C and 37 C.

Krabi is administratively divided into 8 Amphoes (Districts): Amphoe Mueang, Khao Phanom, Khlong Thom, Plai Phraya, Ko Lanta, Ao Luek, Lam Thap, and Nuea Khlong. The provinces jurisdiction covers not only in-land districts and sub-districts, but also extends to more than 130 large and small islands including the world famous Phi Phi Islands.

In addition, Krabi is the location of two world class beaches Ao Nang and Hat Rai Le which offer numerous diving trips, restaurants, shops etc. Additional attractions in the province are stunning limestone cliffs and rock formations which make it a heaven for rock climbers and a National Park located approximately 40 kilometers outside of town with lakes, caves and spectacular natural scenery.

History of Krabi

Some archeologists claim that Krabi City is one of the older settlements in the country as there is archaeological evidence indicating that this area had been home to homosapiens during the prehistoric times or between 25,000 - 35,000 B. C. The assumption has been strongly supported by the discovery of stone tools, ancient colored pictures, beads, pottery and skeletal remains in the provinces cliffs and caves.

In 1200 A.D., the area was known as Ban Thai Samo, one of 12 royal cities that had a monkey as the town symbol. During this period of time, Krabi was under the rule of the Kingdom of Ligor, a city better known today as Nakhon Si Thammarat.

During the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910), the community was known as Pakasai Sub-county and remained under the direct jurisdiction of Nakhon Si Thammarat province.

Around 1872, King Rama V elevated Pakasai Sub-county to Krabi Province with the provincial administration office situated at Krabi-yai Sub-county (currently, the office is located near the estuary at Pak Nam Sub-district) and in 1875, ordered the separation of Krabi Province from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.

During the present reign, the corps of civil servants, merchants, and the people of Krabi and nearby provinces have collectively organized the construction of a royal residence at Laem Hang Nak Cape which is thirty kilometers west of Krabi Town on the Andaman coast to be presented to His Majesty the King.

Origin of the name Krabi

There are two legends concerning the origin of the name "Krabi". The first is that villagers presented a large ancient sword (or krabi) that was discovered by chance to the governor. Later when a smaller, on discovering a smaller one, it was also presented to the governor. Regarded as sacred and auspicious, the governor decided to keep them in the province. As the process for the establishment of the province was still in progress, the swords were placed crossing each other in Khao Khanap Nam cave. Since then, the crossed swords have remained a part of the provincial seal.

The second legend is that "Krabi" was derived from the name of a local tree known as "Lumphi". The Malay and Chinese merchants mispronunciation of the name to "Ka-lu-bi" or "Kho-lo-bi" finally resulted in "Krabi" (or sword).

Distances from Amphoe Mueang (Town) to Neighboring Districts

Ao Luek 43 kms.
Plai Phraya 66 kms.
Khao Phanom 39 kms.
Khlong Thom 42 kms.
Ko Lanta 103 kms.
Lam Thap 67 kms.
Nuea Khlong17 kms.

Travel Chon Buri Thailand

2008-09-08T22:58:00.000+07:00

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Chon Buri The Nearest Seaside Retreat

Chonburi, Bangkoks nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometers from Bangkok. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local colors, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. This is a popular resort among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly schedules as Chon Buri has something for everyone. In addition, Chon Buri is the center of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.

Pattaya A Travelers Paradise

Pattaya is nestled along a picturesque bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. From a fishing village in the 1960's, Pattaya has emerged as the favorite Southeast Asian vacation center. A fascinating escape where tourists, holiday makers and vacationers from around the world unfold an incomparable array of possibilities to unwind during an exotic holiday beach vacation.

Unlike other beach resorts, where natural surroundings are used as magnets to attract tourists, Pattaya makes an all-out attempt to provide the best of everything. Here, everything means everything a tourist can imagine while on holiday: recreation, entertainment, sports, sightseeing and fun. To put it simply, Pattaya is a paradise for everyone, as it has a variety of attractions suitable for all types of visitors. This is the place where you can fill your day, from dusk to dawn, with endless activities, or you may choose to do nothing at all and relax.

The Past

Pattaya's name was originated from the march of Phraya Tak (later known as King Taksin the Great) and his followers from Ayutthaya to Chanthaburi just before the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the Burmese invaders in 1767.

When Phraya Tak's army arrived in the vicinity of what is Pattaya today, he encountered the troops of Nai Klom who tried to intercept him. When the two leaders met face to face, Nai Klom was awed by Phraya Tak's dignified manner and his army's strict discipline, thereby surrendering without a fight. The place where the two armies confronted each other was later called Thap Phraya, which means the Army of the Phraya. This was later changed to Phatthaya, which happens to mean the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the beginning of the rainy season. Today the spelling of the name has been simplified to Pattaya.

For centuries, Pattaya was a small fishing village almost cut off from the outside world. But a big change occurred on 29 April 1961 when the first group of about 100 American servicemen who would join the Vietnam War arrived in Pattaya for relaxation. Soon, sleepy Pattaya became Thailand's premier and most successful beach resort, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of pleasure-seeking visitors. A full range of accommodations from super deluxe hotels to bungalows and mini-pocket guesthouses replaced fishermens huts along the beach. Fishing vessels were adapted to become tourist boats and swimmers and sunbathers from various parts of the world frequented the quiet powdery golden beaches. Places of nighttime entertainment have also sprung up and are popular among international tourists.

The Present

Pattaya currently integrates the delights of a 1st class beach resort, city-like dining, shopping and night entertainment facilities with more than 300 assorted hotels, thousands of shops, restaurants and bars. In addition, there are an array of sports and recreational activities including beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, go-kart, gyms for working out, weight lifting and Thai-boxing gear. Pattaya offers a broad range of things to do. During the day, one may enjoy riding elephants or driving humble automatic mini-bikes, monstrous motorcycles, or even monster multicolored convertible Jeeps. Others go for shooting firearms, scuba diving and surfing, deep-sea fishing, speed boats, scooters, water-skiing, parasailing, or aerial sports such as gliding ultra-lights and flying motor-propelled gliders. On the other hand, at night, there are restaurants, bars, theaters, cabaret shows, night clubs, bowling halls, billiard & snooker clubs, discos, sauna & massage parlors, not to cite its absolutely incredible shopping which is available non-stop both day-and-night.

Pattaya Facts

This exotic beach resort welcomes approximately 5 million visitors a year. The friendly and hospitable Thai nature boosts its promotion, frequently bringing back the repeat visitors and constantly increasing the number of newcomers.

Pattaya city is located on the eastern coast of the country at latitude 13 N and longitude 101 E in the area of Chon Buri province. It is 147 kilometers from Bangkok and lies parallel to Sukhumvit Road on its east and the coastline on its west. Pattaya occupies an area of 208.1 sq. km. that is divided into 53.44 sq. kilometers of land and 154.66 sq. kilometers of islands and sea. Its coastline is 15 kilometers long.

Pattaya has a plain on the coast with some high mountains to the south. The area on the east slopes down towards the sea on the west.

Administration

Pattaya City has been administered under a special autonomous system since 1978. It has a status comparable to that of a municipality and is administered separately by the mayor of Pattaya City, who is responsible for making policies, organizing public services, and supervising all employees of Pattaya City Administration.

Travel Susatthani Thailand

2008-09-08T04:44:00.001+07:00

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The largest province of the South located 685 kilometers from Bangkok is Surat Thani the province with a name that literally means "City of the Good People". A former capital of the Srivijaya Empire, the province covers an area of approximately 12,891 square kilometers. Surat Thani Province borders the Gulf of Thailand to the north and east, Chumphon Province to the north, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Krabi Provinces to the south, Phang-Nga and Ranong Provinces to the west and Nakhon Si Thammarat Province to the east.

High plateaus and forested mountains are located to the west of the province, while there are low basins in the center and along the eastern coast. This topography has created 14 river basins including Tapee, Pum Duang, Tha Thong, Tha Krajai, Chaiya, Tha Chang which are the most important basins. All rivers in Surat Thani flow east of the province to the Gulf of Thailand.

The numerous islands along the coast makes Surat Thani (often known as Surat in short) a perfect hideaway for vacationers from around the world. The ideal destination for many is the Penang-sized Ko Samui, Thailand's third largest island, and its neighbour Ko Pha-ngan a celebrated island that hosts the biggest beach full moon party. North of Ko Pha-ngan is Ko Tao, renowned for its excellent coral reefs. To top it all is the dazzling 250-square-kilometer Ang Thong Marine National Park, where a stunning archipelago awaits to greet visitors with their charming palm-fringed beaches, crystal clear water and colorful coral reefs. The best time to enjoy one of these islands to the fullest is from April to November.

History of Surat Thani

Surat Thani is a city with a long history. Archeologists believe that it was once a community of prehistoric tribes of indigenous people including the Saemang and original Malays who built their communities on the Tapee River Basin and Ao Ban Don. Later on, the Indians migrated into the area and gradually spread out their culture, as evidenced in the discovery of ruins of ancient communities in Tha Chana and Chaiya Sub-districts.

In the 13th century, the city became a part of and, as some historians might claim, a center of the glorious Srivijaya Empire the kingdom that dominated the whole Malay Peninsula and much of Java. It was during this period that Mahayana Buddhist reached its height of influence. The empires grandeur can still be admired in many areas of Chaiya District.

When the empire hit the bottom, it was divided into 3 main cities namely Chaiya, Tha Thong and Khiri Rat. They were all under the jurisdiction of Nakhon Si Thammarat until King Rama IV decided to move Tha Thong City to Ban Don and required that it report directly to Bangkoks administration. The name Ban Don was, at the time, changed to Kanchanadit. It was with the establishment of the Monthon, a former administrative unit, that all three cities were merged into one under the name Chaiya. In 1915, King Rama VI changed the name Chaiya to Surat Thani.

The seal of Surat Thani says a lot about its history. Featuring the pagoda of Phra Boromathat Chaiya, the seal is proof of the influence of Mahayana Buddhist on Surat Thani. Phra Boromathat Chaiya is the most revered and important historical place in the province. It is believed that the pagoda contains Buddha relics.

Today, Surat Thani is an important commercial and shipping hub for rubber and coconut trading.

Travel Rayong Thailand

2008-09-08T04:33:00.001+07:00

Located approximately 220 kilometers from Bangkok is another delightful resort on Thailand’s eastern coast – Rayong province. A late bloomer, the province is well known for its pristine beaches stretching along a 100-kilometer coastline and scenic waterfalls amidst exotic surroundings. Aside from this, Rayong is blessed with an abundance of seafood products such as shrimp paste, fish sauce and dried seafood, and tropical fruits of which rambutan, mangosteen and durian are the most famous.

Covering a total area of 3,552 square kilometers, Rayong borders Chonburi Province on the north and the west, the Gulf of Thailand on the south, and Chantaburi Province on the east. Most of the land is marked by a series of mountains interspersed by flat plains and large tracts of forest and fruit plantations. Administratively, the province is divided into Mueang Rayong, Klaeng, Ban Khai, Bang Chang, Pluak Daeng and Wang Chan districts and Khao Chamao and Nikhom Phatthana Sub-districts.

Boasting indispensable sea-life resources, Rayong is one of the country’s major agricultural and industrial provinces. On the other hand, the province has maintained its traditions and customs in the daily lifestyle of the locals. The best months to visit Rayong are from November to February.

The Past
During the late Ayutthaya period, when the former capital was being razed to the ground by the invading Burmese, Phaya Tak led a troop of patriots, broke through the cordon of besieging troops and marched to Rayong in order to build up his navy before proceeding on to Chanthaburi. Because of his courage and bravery, the soldiers and local population anointed him as "King" in Rayong. Once he had built up sufficient troop strength, Phaya Tak who later became King Taksin of the Kingdom of Thonburi returned to Ayutthaya, routed the Burmese and set up a new capital in Thonburi.

Distances from Rayong Town to Other Destinations :

Muang District:

Map Ta Phut 15 kms.
Sang Chan Beach 8 kms.
Hat Mae Ramphueng 11 kms.
Ban Kon Ao/Kao Laem Ya 22 kms.
The Sobha Botanical Gardens 17 kms.
Suan Son Park 23 kms.

Klaeng District :

Suan Wang Kaew 38 kms.
Hat Laem Mae Phim 38 kms.
Statue of Sunthorn Phu 48 kms.
Khao Chamao Waterfall 71 kms.
Khao Wong Cave 78 kms.
Ban Phe District 19 kms.
Ban Khai District 12 kms.
Pattaya 65 kms.
Chon Buri 98 kms.
Chanthaburi Province 110 kms.
Trat Province 180 kms.
U Taphao Airport 35 kms.
Ban Chang District 28 kms.

Travel Kamphaengphet Thailand

2008-09-08T00:06:00.001+07:00

Geographically located in the Lower North on the bank of the Ping River, Kamphaeng Phet is 358 kilometres from Bangkok. To its East are riverine flatlands while the western areas are made up of high mountains lush with fertile forests where a number of national parks have been established.

Areas along the river bank at present-day Mueang district used to host several ancient towns which had played a major role as strategic front-line frontiers since Sukhothai was the kingdom's capital down through the times of Ayutthaya and early Rattanakosin (Bangkok) eras. In fact, the name Kamphaeng Phet actually means as strong as walls or forts make of diamonds.

Kamphaeng Phet covers an area of 8,607 square kilometres. It is divided administratively into 9 districts, namely, Mueang Kampheang Phet, Phran Kratai, Khlong Khlung, Khanu Woralaksauri, Sai Ngam, Lan Krabue, Khlong Lan, Sai Thong Watthana and Pang Sila Thong and 2 sub-districts, Bueng Samakkhi and Kosamphi Nakhon.

The Website of Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai, and Kamphaeng Phet

Travel Chiang Rai Thailand

2008-09-06T22:36:00.002+07:00

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Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand is about 785 kilometers north of Bangkok. Situated on the Kok River basin, Chiang Rai covers an area of approximately 11,678 square meters with an average elevation of 580 meters above sea level. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China.

Chiang Rai, which was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai,
was the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom (Kingdom of a million rice fields), which was later conquered by Burma. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became a Thai territory and was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.

Today, Chiang Rai is a travelers paradise endowed with abundant natural tourist attractions and antiquities; the province itself is evidence of past civilization. Attractions range from magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages as the province is also home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating lifestyles. For those interested in the natural side of Chiang Rai, jungle trekking is recommended along various trails.

Chiang Rai which tends to be a little more 'laid back' now competes with Chiang Mai as a tourist attraction and is fast becoming a popular escape for tourists wanting to get away from the troubles they left behind.

Recommended 1 Day Tour Program in Chaingmai Thailand

2008-09-05T23:25:00.001+07:00

Recommended 1 Day Tour Program

1 day Safari
08.00 - 08.30 Pick up at the hotel by air conditioned van.
Elephant show 45 minutes.
Elephant Ridding and visit Hill tribe Village. (Takes about 40 minutes or more)
Ox Cart Ridding (takes about 30 minutes or more)
Buffet Lunch (included Tea or Coffee and Fruit)
Bamboo rafting (takes about 35 minutes or more)
Visit orchid farm and butterfly farm (takes about 30 minutes or more)
Transfer to hotel by air condition van.

1 day Trekking
08.00 - 08.30 Pick up at the hotel by air conditioned van.
Elephant Riding (Takes about 45 minutes or more)
Visit Meo & Karen Hilltribe Village and Waterfall. Lunch (Thai menu 1 set)
Bamboo rafting (Takes about 45 minutes or more depend the water’s level)
Transfer to hotel by air condition van.

1 day in Chiang Rai
07.00 - 07.30 Pick up at the hotel by air conditioned van.
Visit Mae ka jan Hot spring for a half an hour.
Visit Chiang Sean Old City for a half an hour.
Visit the Golden Triangle for a half an hour. Buffet Lunch (included Tea or Coffee and Fruit)
Enjoy shopping at Mae Sai for 45 min Visit Yao & Akha Village for 45 minutes.
Arrive Chiang Mai by air condition van.

1 day for Inthanon National Park
08.00- 08.30 Pick up at the hotel by air conditioned van.
Visit Wachiratarn waterfall for a half an hour.
Visit Karen Village for a half an hour.
Visit Inthanon Royal Project for 40 minutes.
Lunch (Thai menu 1 set)
Visit the Twin Pagodas “Pra Mahathat Napametaneedon and Pra Mahathat Noppapol Phumisiri” for 40 minutes.
The Peak of Doi Inthanon; Thailand’s highest peak for 20 minutes.
Visit Siritarn Waterfall for a half an hour.
Arrive Chiang Mai by air condition van.

Note: Please contact your licensed travel agent for above programs. To check the registered travel agents please call Registration Office Northern Provinces, Tourism Authority of Thailand at 0 5320 4602 or 0 5320 4485 (Mon.-Fri. from 08.30-16.30)

Travel in CHIANGMAI Thailand : General Information

2008-09-05T23:23:00.000+07:00

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Experiencing the merging of the past into the present in Chiang Mai where locals are proud of the city's 700-year history. Its rich traditional heritage and unique culture is a perfect foundation for the development of the city. Chiang Mai is one of the few places in Thailand where it is possible to find in the heart of the city centuries-old chedis and temples next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels. The original city layout still exists as a neat square surrounded by a moat with vestiges of the fortified wall and its four main gates offering prime access to the old town.

For years, tourists have mistaken Chiang Mai as the northern junction and the base from which they can explore other provinces. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around" was common. Today, tourists are surprised by the fact that there is always something new to discover Chiang Mai. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes coupled with breathtaking scenery makes Chiang Mai one of Asia's most attractive tourist destinations. Two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for serious travelers.

The old city of Chiang Mai with its fascinating indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. In addition, the presence of hill tribes and their wealth of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai's distinctive diversity.

Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains (dois), waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

The Past

Chiang Mai literally means new city and has retained the name despite having celebrated its 700th anniversary in 1996. King Meng Rai founded the city as the capital of the Lanna (A Million Rice Fields) Kingdom on Thursday, 12th April 1296 during the same period of time as the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. King Meng Rai the Great conferred with his friends, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai and King Ngam Muang of Phayao before choosing the site where the capital of the Lanna Kingdom was to be founded.

From then, Chiang Mai not only became the capital and cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom, it was also the centre of Buddhism in northern Thailand. King Meng Rai himself was very religious and founded many of the city's temples, which are still important today.

At the height of its power, the Lanna Kingdom extended its territory far into Burma and Laos, and southwards to Kamphaeng Phet a province above Sukhothai.

The Burmese conquered the Lanna Kingdom in 1556 ending the dynasty founded by King Meng Rai that lasted over 250 years. As Burma had occupied Chiang Mai for nearly 200 years, Burmese architectural influences are visible in many temples. At the end of the 18th century, King Taksin the Great regrouped the Thais in the south and finally drove the Burmese out with the help of King Kawila of Lampang thereby regaining Thai independence from Burma. Chiang Mai was then governed by a succession of princes who ruled the north as a Siamese protectorate under the Chakri dynasty. In the late 19th century, King Rama V appointed a high commissioner in Chiang Mai and it was only in 1939 that Chiang Mai finally came under the direct control of the central government in Bangkok the same time the country was renamed Thailand.

In the past, Chiang Mai was only accessible by river and elephants. More convenient access was achieved only when the railway line was completed in the late 1920's. Moreover, the first motor vehicle driven directly from Bangkok arrived in Chiang Mai in 1932. Such isolation was more favorable to Chiang Mai as it helped to nurture and preserve the unique Lanna culture.
When we look at Chiang Mai today, it is the economic, cultural and communications hub of northern Thailand complete with excellent infrastructure, good roads, by passes and road tunnels, and reliable communications infrastructure.

The Setting

Chiang Mai, with an altitude of approximately 310 meters above sea level, is situated approximately 700 kilometers from Bangkok on the Mae Ping River basin. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, the city covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometers and is the country's second largest province. Chiang Mai borders Myanmar on the north, Lamphun and Tak Provinces on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun Provinces on the east and Mae Hong Son Province on the west. The terrain is mainly comprised of jungles and mountains, which are home to the hill tribes. In addition, wildlife and exotic flora may be found in the national parks.

Most of Chiang Mai's mountains are oriented from north to south. Together they create a multitude of streams and tributaries including Mae Chaem, Mae Ngat and Mae Klang. One of Chiang Mai's distinctive features is Doi Inthanon, Thailands highest peak, which is 2,575 meters above sea level. In addition, the province boasts flat, fertile valleys, which spread along the banks of the largest and most important river in Chiang Mai Mae Nam Ping (Ping River) which originates from the Chiang Dao mountain range.

Introduction of Thailand Activities

2008-09-04T21:31:00.001+07:00

Introduction of Thailand Activities

Thailand has long been known for the rich diversity of its attractions, but the continuing development of the Kingdom’s tourism product means that there are still more waiting discovery.

A land of golden temples, tropical beaches and forested hills, Thailand is truly a veritable oasis in an increasingly hectic world. Secure in its devotion to the Buddhist faith and to its beloved King, it merges a centuries-old culture with way of life that preserves its identity and gracious natural hospitality.

For sightseeing and travel, Thailand has few equals. From dazzling temples and palaces to awe-inspiring World Heritage Sites; from timeless rural settlements to vibrant resort towns; from idyllic beaches to national parks where wild nature rules, the choice of where to go and what to see is limitless.

Soft adventure options blend with eco-tourism in mountainous jungle terrain, with trekking on foot or elephant back, 4-wheel drive safaris, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and meeting with remote highland communities. Away from the upland forests, the blue watersof Thailand’s extensive coastline beckon, offering the relaxing joys of beach life as well as diving, sailing, windsurfing, and sea canoeing, all with expert tuition provided.

Golfers love Thailand and the feeling is mutual. The Kingdom has more than 100 golf courses, most to international standard and located close to major tourism destinations with first-class facilities and friendly fees.

The Thai secret of relaxation is a secret that can be shared by learning and practicing meditation in Buddhist retreats or training centres. The revitalising Thai massage is an ancient tradition that is another part of the secret visitors like to share, while at the many luxury spas, they can experience the most modern, sensual techniques at the firm but caressing hands of a trained therapist.

Thailand’s cuisine is recognised as one of the world’s healthiest. A profusion of fresh produce, fresh-caught fish and seafood with a balanced complement of aromatic herbs and spices, wok-fried or grilled for a dish that is light, nutritious and bursting with flavour.

Dishes from all of Thailand’s regions can be found in Bangkok, as well as fine dining at sophisticated restaurants of world-class quality. The city is one of Asia’s great shopping experiences, too, with gleaming modern malls and department stores with top international brand and specifically Thai names along with smart boutiques and busy street stalls.

Giant markets like Chatuchak and Suan Lum Night Bazaar also sell international brand names, but their fame rests on their diversity. From local fashions and handicrafts at giveaway prices, the range of discoveries to be made there is quite astounding.

Everywhere in Thailand traditional products are hand made by local artisans: weavers of cotton and silk, wood carvers, potters working in the local clay, silversmiths, basket makers, and cooks making local gourmet specialities.

Even in the remotest villages, these cottage industries are being supported by the government’s One Tambon One Product (OTOP) project, and OTOP products from communities all over the Kingdom are now sold in many stores. At the same time, OTOP villages are being developed so that visitors can go to the source and stay overnight in the artisan villages.

From this profusion of location and activity, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is identifying new attractions and promoting niche markets, special programmes with appeal to special interests and needs: to younger travellers, to families, to honeymoon couples, to cultural travellers, to voyagers seeking health and wellbeing holidays.

And the best part of it is Thailand offers this wealth of diversity with the legendary Thai smile — which is not a legend at all, but one of the genuinev delights of discovering Thailand.

Travel in Uthai Thani Thailand

2008-09-04T21:24:00.000+07:00

Click for brochure

Uthai Thani is a province abundant in natural resources, such as forests and wildlife. “Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Reserve” here was proclaimed a Nautral World Heritage Site on 13 December 1991. The reserve has jungles, forests, plains, many streams, and most importantly, a number of rare and endangered animals.
Due to the verdant nature of the area, Uthai Thani is a province with unspoiled natural tourist destinations that are of interest to tourist everywhere.

Furthermore, visitors can see the different lifestyles of locals, such as the life of raft residents on Sakae Krang River, a waterway that aided the birth of the province and which has been a lifeline for its people since ancient times. It is also where provincial trading has flourished. Life revolving around the river eventually grew from a community into the major province that it is today.

The most striking indication of the bond between the people and the river since the old days is that in 1906, when King Rama V visited northern provinces and stayed in Sakae Krang village, the monk Phra Khru Uthai Tham Nithet (Chan) built 2 twin rafts to receive the king. This clearly showed the importance of the river and the lifestyle of the people living off it in that period.
In addition, at the end of the Buddhist Lent, Buddhists from all directions congregate in the province for a major merit-making tradition called Tak Bat Thewo at the foot of Khao Sakae Krang at Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri. This festival has been held in Uthai Thani since ancient times.

Uthai Thani is located in the lower part of northern Thailand. Most of the province consists of forests and high mountains. It has a total area of 6,730 square kilometres. It is divided in to 8 Amphoe (districts), as follows:

Amphoe Muang Uthai Thani
Amphoe Lan Sak 58 kms. from the city
Amphoe Nong Kha Yang 11 kms. from the city
Amphoe Nong Chang 21 kms. from the city
Amphoe Thap Than 16 kms. from the city
Amphoe Ban Rai 79 kms. from the city
Amphoe Sawang Arom 30 kms. from the city
Amphoe Huai Khot 51 kms. from the city

Boundary

North borders Amphoe Phayuha Khiri, Amphoe Krok Phra and Amphoe Lat Yao of Nakhon Sawan.

South borders Amphoe Wat Sing and Amphoe Han Kha of Chai Nat and Amphoe Doem Bang Nang Buat of Suphan Buri.

East borders Amphoe Phayuha Khiri of Nakhon Sawan and Amphoe Manorom of Chai Nat. The Chao Phraya River divides the provinces.

West borders Amphoe Um Phang of Tak and Amphoe Sangkhla Buri and Amphoe Si Sawat of Kanchanaburi.

Distances from Amphoe Muang to nearby provinces

Chai Nat 42 kms.
Nakhon Sawan 50 kms.
Lop Buri 111 kms.

Artistic Work Event Program on the theme of "Visit Lanna" (The Colorful Lanna…. of Rajapreuk Flower)

2008-08-23T19:59:00.000+07:00

Artistic Work Event Program on the theme of "Visit Lanna" (The Colorful Lanna…. of Rajapreuk Flower)

Date : 14- 24 August 2008 at 16.00 - 21.00 hrs
Venue : Royal Chiang Mai Agricultural Research Center
(World Horticultural Plants) in Mae Hia Sub-district, Muang
Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province.

Opening Ceremony
On 14 August 2008 at 18.00 -19.00 hrs
Chaired by H.E. Minister of Tourism and Sports

Activites
On Rajapreuk Square. Activities start at 16.00 hrs

Kaad Mua Khrua Hom :
It is a presentation of local traditional market of Lanna people. Local dialect love to say "Tiu sa Aeo Kaad Mua Kaad Muang."

Stage for Major Shows :
There are displays featuring local traditions and culture of Lanna people; the presentation of 4-region cultural shows and contemporary plays, e.g., Jumping Bird Show, King-ka-ra Bird Dance, Khru Ka-wai Sword Dance

Works f Art Road (Chiang Mai Pedestrian Road) :
Activities on the art road assemble all works of art for presentation and for sale and display to spectators to watch, e. g., local Lanna music performance, real-life paintings, works of art by students, artistic inventions from skilled artists and craftsmen.

Main Auditorium starts 12.00 noon
- Exhibition of Artistic Handicrafs on the theme of " Phum Phaya Sala Muang" meaning the local wisdom of Lanna craftsmen who are to present artistic handicrafts at the Event. The craftsmanship includes a variety of paintings, carvings, decorative works, woodworks, steelwork, fabric works and a host of other handicrafts.

- Sale of OTOP Products and Tourism Booths

- Small Stage Shows : A variety of Thai cultural shows, presentations including tourism promotional activities.

- Tourism Information Booths for 8 northern Lanna provinces

- HM the King Commemorative Garden Booth and Bangkok Bank Booth

CHIANGMAI : General Information

2008-08-21T01:30:00.000+07:00

Click for Chiang Mai brochure

For other brochures please click here

2008-05-04T23:35:00.001+07:00

A Trip on the Maeklong River

By Richard Barrow

Sat Feb 11, 2006 at 23:50:34| Words: 934 words | Category: Road Trips, Samut Songkram | 2 feedbacks »

I was telling you the other day about our trip to Amphawa Floating Market. Unlike other markets, this one took place in the afternoon. When we first arrived, we explored both banks of the canal on foot. I told you about this before. By the time we got back to the pedestrian bridge it was nearly half past four and the crowds had started to build up. We could see quite a few people climbing into boats that they had rented. We went to take a closer look and we were then soon approached by a man who asked if we wanted to rent a boat. I asked how much and he said 400 baht per boat (about $10). Looking down I could see a flat bottomed boat with no seats which reminded me of my uncomfortable ride on the lake in Sangkhlaburi. But he saw my look of dismay and quickly said “No, no, your boat is the big one over there!” And it was certainly big. In fact, big enough for 16 people! He then said he had two Thai people already and it would therefore only cost us 100 baht each. We agreed. Why not? It sounded like fun. And it was.

Our boatman took us out of the canal and onto the mighty Maeklong River. He then took us in a northerly direction with the fast setting sun slightly ahead and to the left. We passed the King Rama II Park and many traditional style houses on both banks. This area isn’t really built up much and there were plenty of palm trees. It was coming towards the end of the day and a number people were already climbing down the steps from their houses to the river. Some were fishing but many were taking a bath and washing their hair. Although the light was good for taking pictures, I couldn’t really take anything on the West bank because of the low sun. It might have been better to have gone on this boat trip a little earlier. However, the sun would have been hot. The Thai way of dealing with this is using an umbrella or improvising with a folded newspaper.

Our first stop on this pleasant journey was Wat Bang Kung. This is a historically important location because of a battle between King Taksin’s forces and the invading Burmese. It is also famous for being featured in the “Unseen Thailand” guidebooks. In the temple grounds there is a small chapel that is completely enclosed within the roots of a banyan tree. It is almost like the tree itself is the pillars of the temple and that without the roots the chapel would fall down. I took the above photograph from one of the windows near the back. You can also go inside to pay respect to the Buddha image. In the grounds of the temple is also a statue for King Taksin (no he is not related to Prime Minister Thaksin – their names are not even pronounced the same). There are also life-size models of Muay Thai fighters in different poses.

Our boatman/guide then took us back to our boat. Before getting in, we fed some of the massive fishes in the river. For some reason, Thai people like doing this kind of thing. I have already made a mental note that when I get around to creating a tourist attraction, I will make sure that there is a pond so that Thai people can pay to feed my fish! Back on the boat, we turned around and headed back, though this time along the West bank. A short distance away we stopped at another temple. This one was called Wat Bangkae Noi. This one was very crowded as there was a big event going on. In the main chapel we found quite a breathtaking view. The walls and ceiling had some amazing teakwood carvings. These depicted the life and teachings of the Lord Buddha.

After this we headed back to our starting point at the Amphawan Floating Market. By this time our boatman was rushing us a bit as he was keen to get back. In the early evening they do another boat tour to view the fireflys which apparently is very beautiful. For this he can get more money as they charge 600 baht per boat. So, we could understand his rush. But, it was OK. The boat ride lasted about 90 minutes which was about perfect. We wouldn’t want to be on the boat any longer than that. As we arrived back at the floating market we were really shocked about the number of people. The pedestrian bridge and both sides of the canal were jam packed with Thai tourists. I am glad we had done our exploring earlier in the day.

I will certainly come here again and I strongly recommend for you to visit too. I think next time I will come earlier so that I can do more exploring. There certainly seems to be a lot to see in this small province of Samut Songkram. Certainly there are hundreds of canals to explore and also to visit the local farming communities. There are also other floating markets here to be discovered.

Make sure you bookmark thai-blogs.com as we have many “Unseen Thailand” locations to write about over the coming months. You will not only learn about the culture of the country here but also places to visit which you won’t find in any Western guidebooks.

More : http://www.thai-blogs.com

Good Travel Blog

Samut Songkhram Province

2008-05-03T23:33:00.000+07:00

: This famous tourist attraction of Samut Songkhram is a bar on the mouth of the Mae Klong River. It was formed by the sedimentation of sandy soil called by villagers here as ‘Sai Khi Pet.’ The bar of 3 km wide and 5 km long covers two zones: Don Nok is on the mouth of Ao Mae Klong, and Don Nai is located on the beach of the Chuchi village in Tambon Bang Chakreng and on the beach of the Bang Bo village in Tambon Bang Kaeo. In the area of the bar, there are many shellfish, such as Hoi Lot (razor clam), Hoi Lai (undulated surf clam), Hoi Puk (Ridged Venus clam), Hoi Pak Pet (tongue shell), Hoi Khraeng (cockle), etc. Hoi Lot is mostly found here and it has become a landmark of this place. Hoi Lot is a species of bivalve mollusks, having muddy white meat in a straw-shaped shell and living in mud. Hoi Lot will be caught during low tide. A small stick previously dipped in lime will be put in a hole where the shellfish live. Because of the lime, they will be stimulated to appear and are caught easily. The lime should not be directly spread on the bar since it will kill all other shellfish in the area.

Wat Satthatham or Wat Mon is located at Mu 5, Tambon Bang Chakreng. A landmark is the Ubosot (ordination hall) built by Phrakhru Samutwisutthiwong (former abbot) in 1992. The ordination hall is made of golden teak with mother-of-pearl-inlaid walls both inside and outside. The designs are exquisite, depicting the Lord Buddha’s history and Ramayana episodes. Housed inside the ordination hall are Buddha images: Luangpho Ban Laem, Luangpu Thuat Yiap Nam Thale Chuet, and Luangpho Phuttha Sothon, which are worshipped by the people of Samut Songkhram and nearby provinces. On the temple grounds, Kalamae-Raman or coconut toffee is sold. It is a famous dessert of the temple for its sticky, sweet and creamy taste. The sweet is uniquely wrapped in Kap Mak (leaf sheath of a betel nut tree).

Wat Khao Yi San is located in Ban Khao Yi San, Tambon Khao Yi San. Presumably, this ancient temple was built in the late Ayutthaya period. Here, there are many interesting spots. The Wihan on the hilltop is a boat-shaped hall where the four Buddha’s footprints are enshrined. The Mondop (square building) and wood-carved door panels from the late Ayutthaya period are fine craftsmanship of the master art. The renovated Ubosot possesses the art of stucco by craftsmen from Mueang Phet or Phetchaburi. Inside, there are original paintings, and figures from the Chinese chronicles seen on the window panels. The Phra Non Cave has a reclining Buddha image with nine toes. At the lower part lies the sacred shrine of Luangpho Pu Si Racha which is respected by the villagers. A fair to pay homage to the revered image is held in the first lunar month of every year.

Ban Khao Yi San Museum is situated on the temple grounds, using Sala Kan Parian (preaching hall) as its building. It was established in 1996 with full cooperation from the villagers of the Yi San Community who have been aware of their local history. Yi San is an ancient community of the same age as the Ayutthaya Kingdom, with people living in it continuously. The museum presents the stories of the community which are important and worth a study. On the ground floor, there are displays of folk wisdom, life and culture, tools for making herbal medicine, and household utensils.

Wat Ban Laem or Wat Phet Samut Worawihan is located in town on Phet Samut Road. This is an important temple of the province. Initially, it was called Wat Si Champa. According to the Chronicles of the royal records, the Burmese led an army to attack the city of Phetchaburi in 1764. At that time, a Thai army from the capital came in time to help protect the city. Villagers of Ban Laem in Phetchaburi fled from the Burmese to resettle in Tambon Mae Klong to the north of Wat Si Champa, and called their village ‘Ban Laem,’ the same name as their former village in Phetchaburi. Later, the villagers helped restore the temple and renamed it ‘Wat Ban Laem.’ Most of the villagers of Ban Laem are fishermen. Once they went fishing in Ao Mae Klong and found two Buddha images in their trawl net. One was a seated image and the other was a standing figure. The seated image was brought to Wat Khao Takhrao in Amphoe Ban Laem, Phetchaburi, while the other was enshrined here in Wat Ban Laem and commonly called ‘Luangpho Ban Laem.’ The standing Buddha image holding an alms bowl is around 167 cm high. (The original alms bowl was lost in the sea. Somdet Chaofa Krom Phraya Phanuphantwongworadet offered a new one of blue glass instead.) Because of its sacredness, the image has gained respect from the villagers. Wat Ban Laem was developed to be a large temple since faithful people continued to make merit and pay homage to the image. Later, it was promoted as a royal temple of the third class and given a new name as ‘Wat Phet Samut Worawihan. Inside the temple compound, there is a Sangha museum with displays of Buddha images, amulets of different periods, ancient artefacts, blue-and-white porcelain, and a pulpit of the Ayutthaya period. Admission is allowed only through contact in advance to the abbot.

Chang-Eng Siamese Twins Memorial and Boat Museum are located in Tambon Lat Yai on Ekkachai Road, around 4 km from City Hall. The statues were built in memory of Chang-Eng, the Siamese twins who made Thailand famous around the world. They stand in the middle of a broad ground decorated with trees and flowering plants. There is a large pond in the foreground. Furthermore, the biography of Chang-Eng, the Siamese twins, is on display in a hall. Chang-Eng, the Siamese twins were born on 11 May 1811, in Samut Songkhram. During 1828-1829, Captain Coffin and Hunter came to Mae Klong to conduct trade and they encountered the Siamese twins. They were allowed to take the Siam twins back with them to America and the United Kingdom for shows in public places where the life stories of Chang-Eng who were joined to each other at the chest were repeated again and again. Both of them lived a normal life to the age of 63. The name of ‘Siamese twins’ made Thailand famous worldwide.

Amphoe Amphawa

This district has an important record in Thai history during the late Ayutthaya to the early Rattanakosin periods. Initially, it was a small community called ‘Khwaeng Bang Chang’ which flourished in agriculture and trade. According to evidence, in the reign of King Prasat Thong, Khwaeng Bang Chang had a marketplace called ‘Talat Bang Chang.’ The market mistress ‘Noi,’ held a title of Thao Kaeophaluek and she was in a wealthy family of Bang Chang which later became a royal lineage of ‘Na Bang Chang.’ In 1760, King Ekkathat of Ayutthaya appointed Nai Thongduang (King Rama I) as Luang Yokkrabat to rule Ratchaburi, the fourth level city of Ayutthaya. Luang Yokkrabat later married Khun Nak, a daughter of the wealthy family in Bang Chang, and moved to live behind Wat Chulamani. When his house was burnt by a fire, he resettled behind Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram. In 1767 when the Ayutthaya Kingdom was destroyed by the Burmese, Luang Yokkrabat decided to evacuate his family into the deep forest. During the time, Than Kaeo (Somdet Krommaphra Si Sudarak), an elder sister of Luang Yokkrabat, gave birth to a daughter named ‘Bunrot’ who later became Somdet Phra Si Suriyenthramat Borommarachini, the queen of King Rama II. During the Thon Buri period, Phraya Wachiraprakan gathered enough forces to successfully dispel the Burmese out of the kingdom, and established himself as Phrachao Taksin (King Taksin). Luang Yokkrabat moved his family back to town and then his wife, Khun Nak, gave birth to the fourth son named ‘Chim’ (King Rama II). Luang Yokkrabat returned to work with King Taksin the Great and was given the title of Phra Ratchawarin Chao Krom Phra Tamruat Nok Khwa. He was later promoted as Somdet Chao Phraya Maha Kasatsuek and was crowned as King Rama I, the founder of the Royal House of Chakri and the Rattanakosin Kingdom. His wife, Khun Nak, was appointed as queen named Somdet Phra Ammarinthramat and her mother, Khun San, was given the title of Somdet Phra Rupsirisophak Mahanaknari. Since Queen Ammarinthramat was a native of Bang Chang, she had immediate relatives who did farming there. As the queen was a member of the royal lineage of Bang Chang, they, therefore, became members of the royal lineage by their relation to the queen. The queen usually went to visit them. Until the reign of King Rama IV, the district of Bang Chang had been referred to as ‘Suan Nok’ (outside garden) while ‘Suan Nai’ (inside garden) was the royal palace in Bangkok. Hence, Amphoe Amphawa has had a place in Thai history for a long time.

Talat Nam Tha Kha is located in Tambon Tha Kha. This floating market still remains the villagers’ way of life in nature. The villagers here do farming and grow various plants. They usually paddle a boat to bring their produce to sell to each other. The vegetables and fruits from their orchards include chili, shallot, garlic, coconut sugar, guava, coconut, rose apple, pomelo, etc.

Wat Chula Mani This ancient temple sits on the bank where the Amphawa Canal connects with the Phi Lok Canal. The temple was built in the Ayutthaya period during the late reign of King Prasatthong. It was presumed that Thao Kaeophaluek (Noi), Mistress of the Bang Chang Market and a forebear of the royal lineage of Bang Chang, built the temple. The back of the temple was initially the residence of Khun Nak (Queen Ammarinthramat of King Rama I) and Khun Bunrot (Queen Si Suriyenthramat of King Rama II).

Wat Bang Kaphom This ancient temple was built in the late Ayutthaya period. The old Wihan (image hall) is very interesting. On the upper part of the walls, there are unusual mural paintings in the form of stucco reliefs depicting the Lord Buddha’s history. On the lower part of the walls, there are niches with Buddha images inside. In the centre of the hall, a large replica of four superimposing Buddha’s footprints in different sizes is enshrined. It was presumed that the footprints were built in the Thon Buri period. Initially, they were covered by silver sheets which were later stolen during a war. The footprint at the deepest level which is made from mother-of-pearl-inlaid wood still retains its beautiful design. On the temple grounds, a small coffee shop offers traditional tasty tea and coffee.

Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram is next to the King Rama II Memorial Park. It is a temple associated with the royal lineage of Bang Chang. Presumably, it was built during the reign of King Rama I. The back of this temple was once a residence of Luang Yokkrabat (King Rama I) and Khun Nak (Queen Ammarinthramat of King Rama I). It was believed that the area where the Prang (pagoda) is standing was the birthplace of Khun Nak’s son or Khun Chim who later became King Rama II.

Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram was renovated several times by Kings Rama III, IV, and V. At present, it is a royal temple of the second class. The Ubosot (ordination hall) and permanent structures within the temple are mostly formed in the early Rattanakosin style of art and architecture.

King Rama II Memorial Park is the project to honour King Rama II by the King Rama II Memorial Foundation under Royal Patronage, for the royal graciousness of bestowing exquisite art and culture as a national treasure, which qualified King Rama II to be praised as a Person of the World by UNESCO. The construction site of the Memorial Park, which was given by Phra Ratchasamutmethi, an abbot of Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram, covers an area of around 11 rai. The area is important since it was a birthplace of King Rama II. Within the King Rama II Memorial Park, there are many interesting spots: King Rama II Museum is comprised of four Thai-styled buildings separated into sections. The Central Hall houses the statue of King Rama II and displays artefacts from the early Rattanakosin era, such as Bencharong pentachrome porcelain, pottery, Khon masks, etc. The Male Room presents the living quarters of heroic Thai men, with a Buddha image and a bed which is believed to have belonged to King Rama II. The Female Room displays living quarters of Thai women in the past, with a dresser, a mirror, etc. The Veranda imitates that of a traditional Thai house, decorated with pots of dwarfed trees and decorative plants. The Kitchen and Restroom display a Thai kitchen with kitchenware and crockery, and a restroom of the middle class.

Ban Phaya So: So’ or a fiddle is a local musical instrument of the Central Region. Ban Phaya So is a house of the alto fiddle (So U) maker who combines the art of traditional Thai music with carving. A coconut that is used for making a fiddle will be carved with different designs, such as character figures, changeable rose flowers, name initials, names of the twelve astrological years, etc. Nowadays, this art is rarely seen.

Wat Phummarin Kudi Thong is by the Mae Klong River, at the mouth of the Pracha Chom Chuen Canal on the west bank, in Tambon Suan Luang. There are many interesting items within the temple. Kudi Thong or a golden- teak monk’s cell has an unusual story that the father of Khun Nak (Queen Ammarinthramat) had her fortune examined by the abbot of Wat Bang Li. The abbot foretold that the daughter would become a queen. The millionaire father, therefore, promised to build a Kudi Thong for the temple if the abbot’s words proved true. Wat Bang Li was later named Wat Bang Li Kudi Thong. When the temple soil was eroded and destroyed by water, the Kudi Thong was moved to be restructured at Wat Phummarin. Hence, Wat Phummarin was renamed ‘Wat Phummarin Kudi Thong.’ Furthermore, there is a Wat Phummarin Museum and an Educational Park, where valuable artefacts worth a study and conservation have been collected, such as Buddha images, traditional Thai books, blue-and-white porcelain and brassware. A Buddha image here, which is over three hundred years old, is a gilded stucco image in the posture of Subduing Mara, called ‘Phra Phuttha Rattana Mongkhon or Luangpho To.’ There is also a monument of King Rama II.

Ban Dontri or House of Music is located in the temple compound of Wat Kudi Thong. A school building is used for instructing traditional Thai music. The Samut Songkhram Primary School Office has envisioned that the cultural value of folk wisdom should be preserved and inherited to the next generation for their pride in the future. A voluntary group of traditional Thai musicians in the past has been formed to give music lessons for a new generation, so that the spirit of the music city would be passed down. The House of Music has operated since 1 July, 1999.

Wat Bang Khae Yai is located on the bank of the Mae Klong River, at the mouth of the Bang Khae Canal in Tambon Khwae Om. It was built in 1814. Inside the temple, there are ancient monuments and artefacts. The large Ubosot (ordination hall) is more than 150 years old. At the front, the square Chedi (pagoda) with twelve indented corners is the art of the Ayutthaya period. The laterite principal Buddha image in the ordination hall is in the posture of Subduing Mara. There are seven Dharma Chedis built in 1872 with a boundary wall. On a separating wall in a monk’s cell, a tempera mural painting from the late reign of King Rama II depicts a battle between the Siamese and the Burmese, probably the one that King Rama II sent troops to obstruct the enemy at Ratchaburi in 1821.

Ban Maeo Thai Boran is a house where species of genuine Siamese cats have been conserved. It is located at 2/1 Mu 7, Tambon Khwae Om. The house of traditional Siamese cats was created by lovers of Siamese cats to promote and support the conservation of Siamese cats to be a treasure of the nation. It also gives information on genuine features of Siamese cats, supports research, exchanges knowledge and views between members, and exchanges research experiences and breeding with relevant bodies. Khun Pricha Phukkhabut, the co-founder and caretaker of the traditional Siamese cat house, told that “my mother raised Siamese cats of the Wichian Mat species when I was young. At that time, I did not pay much attention to them. When I grew up, I was to feed them. There were not many cats in my house. My family continued to keep Wichian Mat cats and I had developed a bond with them. Later, some friends who were cat lovers talked about the conservation of the cat since it was clever, graceful, attractive, and had pleasing habits.” Apart from the species of Wichian Mat, Siamese cats also include Si Sawat, Supphalak, and Koncha. Inside the house, there is a breeding section divided into cages of various types of Siamese cats.

Wat Bang Khae Noi is located in Tambon Khwae Om by the Mae Klong River. This temple was built by Khunying Chui (Noi) Wongsarot in 1868. Initially, the Ubosot (ordination hall) was built on the bamboo raft tied to a Bodhi tree on the river bank. At present, the temple is well restored. The most interesting thing is the ordination hall’s inside walls which are woodcarvings depicting the Lord Buddha’s history, birth, enlightenment, and nirvana, as well as stories of the Lord Buddha’s Ten Incarnations or Jatakas.

Wat Intharam is located in Tambon Mueang Mai. This ancient temple was built in 1757 during the Ayutthaya period. It was renovated during the reign of King Rama III. There are many interesting points within the temple compound. Luangpho To, the Buddha image here is over 300 years old. The Ubosot (ordination hall), which was built from marble, has teak doors and window panels carved with proverbs.

Church of the Virgin Mary or Atsana Wihan Maephra Bangkoet is situated at Mu 7, Tambon Bang Nok Khwaek. This is a sacred place of worship of the Christians living in the area. It was built in 1890 by Father Paolo Salmone, a French missionary with supporting funds from his relatives in France, the overseas mission of Paris and Rome, and philanthropists in Bangkok. It took up to six years to complete the construction. The official opening ceremony was held on 11 February, 1896. It is a building of the French Gothic architectural style and coated with pounded lime. The interior is decorated with coloured stained glass. There are statues, a pulpit, a holy water basin, various kinds of candelabra, and carvings depicting historical stories in the Bible. The church is not far from the river bank.

Wat Charoen Sukharam Worawihan is located in Tambon Bang Nok Khwaek, around 5 km from town. Within the temple, there is the Ubosot (ordination hall) built in a unique style with its ceiling curved like a boat’s roof. The hall houses Luangpho To, a Buddha image of the Sukhothai period. This laterite image has a lap width of 178 cm and a height of 208 cm from the seating base to the halo. In front of the temple, a pond teems with fishes, especially Pla Taphian Ngoen and Pla Taphian Thong.

Bang Kung Camp Following the second defeat of the Ayutthaya kingdom in 1767, King Taksin the Great moved the naval force to set up camp in the district of Bang Kung since Mueang Mae Klong (the city of Mae Klong) was in the way used by the Burmese army. A wall was built to make Wat Bang Kung be in the middle of the camp as a spirit centre for soldiers. King Taksin the Great later commanded the Chinese from Rayong, Chon Buri, Ratchaburi, and Kanchanaburi to form a guard unit for the camp. The camp was, therefore, called the ‘Bang Kung Chinese Camp.’ The king named the guards ‘Thahan Phakdi Asa’ or the ‘voluntary loyal soldiers.’ In 1768, the Burmese king of Angwa led an army via Kanchanaburi to surround the camp. King Taksin the Great and Phra Maha Montri (Bunma) jointly fought and defeated the Burmese. It was the first battle against the Burmese after the Kingdom of Thon Buri had been established by King Taksin the Great. The victory was hailed as moral support to the Thai people while it created a sense of fear among the Burmese army. The camp site was left deserted for almost 200 years. In 1967, the Ministry of Education established a Boy Scout camp on the site to celebrate King Taksin the Great, and also built a shrine as a memorial to the king. The ceremony to raise the shrine was held on 20 June 1968. Within the camp compound, there is the Ubosot (ordination hall) commonly called as ‘Bot Luangpho Dam,’ which was built in the Ayutthaya period. The hall is wholly covered by four species of ficus plants: Pho (Bodhi), Sai, Krai, and Krang. Therefore, it is also called ‘Bot Prok Pho’ (ordination hall covered by Bodhi trees). The monument of King Taksin the Great is in the nearby area.

Wat Bang Kung is located in the same area as the Bang Kung Camp, on the opposite side and separated by a road. Within the temple, there is an old ordination hall which houses a large sculptured Buddha image commonly called by villagers as Luangpho Bot Noi. Mural paintings from the late Ayutthaya period depict Lord Buddha while he was sitting in the niche and preaching, flanked by the disciples in paying respect to him.

Cruise the Mae Klong River:. Among the houses are rarely-seen traditional ones called Ruean Panya or hip-roof houses. Furthermore, there are riverside temples, such as Wat Amphawan, Wat Bang Khae Yai, Wat Bang Khae Noi, Wat Phummarin Kudi Thong, etc.

Sino Phattra Boat House is situated at 24 Mu 6 on the Samut Songkhram – Bang Nok Khwaek Road, Tambon Bang Khonthi, Amphoe Bang Khonthi. The boat which was once used for carrying rice will cruise the Mae Klong River, past the Bang Kung Camp, the King Rama II Memorial Park, and Wat Bang Khae Yai.

Fair in Honour of King Rama II: To be held in early February at the King Rama II Memorial Park in Amphoe Amphawa. There are performances, a demonstration of traditional Thai desserts, folk plays, outdoor classical Thai masked dance.

Lychee Fair: To be held from around the end of March to the early of April in Amphoe Amphawa (subject to the produce of each year).

Luangpho Ban Laem Fair: To be held between 13-19 April every year at Wat Phetsamut Worawihan in Amphoe Mueang Samut Songkhram.

Sunset at Don Hoi Lot Fair and Board Sliding Competition: To be held in May at Don Hoi Lot in Chuchi village, Mu 4, Tambon Bang Chakreng, Amphoe Mueang Samut Songkhram.

Khao Yai Pomelo Fair: To be held at the end of August every year.

Annual Long Boat Race: To be held on Loi Krathong Day at Wat Rat Peng in Amphoe Mueang Samut Songkhram.

Mackerel Eating and Mae Klong Famous Products Festival: To be held in front of City Hall in December.

2008-05-02T23:27:00.001+07:00

Amphawa Floating Market

By Richard Barrow

Wed Feb 8, 2006 at 22:05:50| Words: 685 words | Category: Road Trips, Samut Songkram | 11 feedbacks »

At the weekend, I drove down to Samut Songkhram to visit the King Rama II Memorial Park Fair. But, I also wanted to take this opportunity to visit the nearby Amphawa Floating Market. Unlike the famous one at Damnoen Saduak, this one doesn’t start to get going until the late afternoon. Very good news for late risers. It also means you can visit the nearby park first before finishing your day with a meal at the floating market. I am not going to pretend that Amphawan Floating Market is more photogenic than Damnoen Saduak. That isn’t true. You won’t see as many boat vendors here which means you will get a different kind of photograph. So, by all means, still go to Damnoen Saduak for your photo opportunity. But, if you have the time, also come to this floating market for the atmosphere which is so much better. It is also more authentic as you won’t find the rows and rows of stalls selling the same tacky souvenirs. The best thing about Amphawa Floating Market is that it is still relatively unknown among Western tourists as it isn’t featured in Lonely Planet yet. There must have been a thousand people there, but I didn’t spot one European face. This is where the Thai tourists come to experience a floating market.

We arrived at the canal at about 3.30 p.m. We weren’t really expecting to see much as we had heard that the market wouldn’t start until late afternoon. However, as we walked towards the canal, we could see that a number of vendors had already set up their foodstalls along the Soi and more were wheeling their carts into position. There weren’t that many tourists yet so we decided to wander up the canal in a northerly direction. (This is beyond the pedestrian bridge you can see in the above photograph.) Although many of the houses lining the canal in this area were doubling as shops and restaurants it wasn’t long before we started walking by private residences. The front was open for most of these houses, and we could see people inside lying down watching tv or sleeping. A bit voyeuristic so we tried not to stare. We carried on walking for a while until we reached another pedestrian bridge where we crossed and started walking back.

It was actually quite quiet and peaceful. I was starting to think we should have come earlier. Though of course it would have been much hotter. We then came across a couple of houses that were advertising homestay. This sounded like a great idea. We made a mental note to come back here again to do that. It would certainly be interesting to explore the area more while there were no tourists around. I had earlier seen pictures of monks rowing up and down this canal collecting food during their alms round. To see this you would have to be here early in the morning.

A bit further up we spotted a lady in a small boat paddling along the canal. Judging by the ingredients laid out in front of her it looked like she could cook pad thai for us. I was feeling a bit hungry so I called out to her and she came paddling over. I was right. We sat on the side of the canal bank while she cooked us some very delicious pad thai. I actually shot a video of her doing this and you can download it by clicking here. In the picture above, the bank is much further up, so the people cooking in the boats had a pully system hooked up. They put the meal in a basket and you then pulled it up! Very ingenious.

I will tell you about our boat ride to see some “Unseen Thailand” attractions tomorrow.

This was fast turning in to be my favourite floating market destination. So much to see and do.

Thank : http://www.thai-blogs.com/index.php/2006/02/08/amphawan_floating_market?blog=5

Koh Phangan Information

2008-02-27T21:50:00.001+07:00

Koh Phangan Information

Koh Phangan is an island paradise in the Gulf of Thailand located about 100 km from the coast of Southern Thailand Surat Thani Province and about 15 km from the famous resort island of Koh Samui

Koh Phangan is the largest of Samui's neighboring islands with an area of 168 square km. Over 70% of its total area is mountains and tropical forest the lowlands is mountains and coconut fields.

About 8,000 people live on Koh Phangan. Some are Chinese, whose ancestors migrated from China more than hundred years ago and the main population lives in Thong Sala Town. More than 95% of the population are Buddhist but there are a few Muslims in Ban Tai Village.

Standard Thai is used as the official language but the southern dialect is more widely spoken among the local people. English is understood in business circles and tourist areas.
Koh Phangan is a district (Amphoe) of the Surat Thani Province in the Southern Region of Thailand.
The Most important produce of Koh Phangan is coconuts. Each month Koh Samui and Koh Phangan produce more than 1 million coconut exports to Bangkok. Others prominent island product is fishing and of course there is the growing tourism business.
Koh Phangan is famous for it's monthly full moon parties which attracts thousands of people dancing through the night. Full Moon Party Schedule Full Moon Party Packages Tour Half Moon Festival

Climate and Weather

Surat Thani, Koh Samui , Koh Phangan
Located at about 9.11ฐN 99.30ฐE. Height about 10m / 32 feet above sea level.

Koh Chang Thailand

2008-02-22T03:37:00.000+07:00

Koh Chang

Introducing Koh Chang

Thailand's Hidden Secret

Koh Chang has always been a favourite get-away for Thai people. Lush and mountainous, this quiet island, full of natural treasures is a jewel just waiting to be discovered.

Only 360 kilometres from Bangkok, Koh Chang is an island paradise with pristine forests and rich marine life. The largest of 47 islands off the coast of Trat province, its seeming inaccessibility means that the island has been largely overlooked by visitors, making it a true island get- away. However, an excellent road from Bangkok and a new flight to Trat airport, have meant that the destination is now starting to get the attention that it deserves.

Mountainous Koh Chang has an undisturbed interior of dense tropical rain forest, home to many species including macaque monkeys, barking deer and wild pig. Trekkers can also expect to see more than 70 species of bird. Koh Chang and the islands in this chain were awarded Marine National Park status in 1982 to ensure that this pristine environment is preserved.

Whilst exploring the jungle is a possibility, the less energetic who simply want to relax on the beach won't be disappointed! The whole of the western side of the island has white sand beaches, which stretch as far as the eye can see.

Charmingly Simple

Largely untouched, Koh Chang is an unsophisticated island which remains unaffected by the modern world. The original inhabitants of Koh Chang (Khon Kard) still live traditionally, surviving mainly from an income of fishing, supplemented by growing fruit and rubber. There are still fishing communities on the island where rain or shine the fisherman take the boats out. At night you can see the lights on the horizon from the fishing boats catching squid.

Chao Po Koh Chang

(the Godfather of Koh Chang)

This Chinese style shrine in the north of the island, with two huge elephants guarding the entrance, has been a saviour to the Khon Kard for generations. Throughout the history of the island, when the fishermen found themselves facing a strong monsoon or a poor harvest, they would seek guidance from the Chao Po Koh Chang. Island folklore records amazing stories of answered prayers when people have asked for help at the shrine.

Local History and Traditions

An important part of the island's history took place at the Naval Battle Ground (Boriwaen Yutthanavee). It was here that the French and Thai navy clashed during the height of the French colonization of Indochina. This culminated in a battle on 17th January 1921, when the Royal Thai Navy's ship, "Thonburi" was sunk.

A museum has been built on Laem Ngnob Beach, on the mainland, with an exhibition of Koh Chang's naval history on display. On top of the building is a statue of Krom Luang Chumpon Khet Udomsak, a key figure in the battle, with his face turned to look at Koh Chang. Every year, the people of Trat province hold memorial services from the 17th to 21st of January, floating garlands in the sea, to honour those who perished. The actual battle was near Ao Salak Petch and the wreck is now a popular dive site.

http://thai.amari.com/tta/desguide_kohchang.asp

Koh Phi Phi Krabi Thailand

2008-02-20T22:43:00.003+07:00

Introduction

Krabi is a southern province on Thailand's Andaman seaboard with perhaps the country's oldest history of continued settlement. After dating stone tools, ancient colored pictures, beads, pottery and skeletal remains found in the province's many cliffs and caves, it is thought that Krabi has been home to homo sapiens since the period 25,000 - 35,000 B.C. In recorded times it was called the 'Ban Thai Samor', and was one of twelve towns that used, before people were widely literate, the monkey for their standard. At that time, c. 1200 A.D., Krabi was tributary to the Kingdom of Ligor, a city on the Kra Peninsula's east coast better known today as Nakhon Si Thammarat.

At the start of the Rattanakosin period, about 200 years ago, when the capital was finally settled at Bangkok, an elephant kraal was established in Krabi by order of Chao Phraya Nakorn (Noi), the governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat, which was by then a part of the Thai Kingdom. He sent his vizier, the Phra Palad, to oversee this task, which was to ensure a regular supply of elephants for the larger town. So followers many emigrated in the steps of the Phra Palad that soon Krabi had a large community in three different boroughs : Pakasai, Khlong Pon, and Pak Lao. In 1872, King Chulalongkorn graciously elevated these to town status, called Krabi, a word that preserves in its meaning the monkey symbolism of the old standard. The town's first governor was Luang Thep Sena, though it continued a while as a dependency of Nakhon Si Thammarat. This was changed in 1875, when Krabi was raised to a fourth-level town in the old system of Thai government. Administrators then reported directly to the central government in Bangkok, and Krabi's history as a unique entity separated from the other provinces, had begun.

During the present reign, the corps of civil servants, the merchants, and the population generally of Krabi and nearby provinces have together organized construction of a royal residence at Laem Hang Nak Cape for presentation to His Majesty the King. This lies thirty kilometers to the west of Krabi Town on the Andaman coast.

Administration
Krabi is divided into eight districts : Amphoe Muang (Krabi Town), Khao Panom, Khlong Thom, Plai Phraya, Ko Lanta, Ao Luk, and Lam Thap and, Nhua Khlong.

Size, Location and Boundaries
Krabi is on the Andaman Sea coast of south-west Thailand,
between 7' 30" and 8' 30" north latitude, and 98' 30" and 99' 30" west longitude.
Total area is 4,709 square kilometers bounded thus :

North - Connects with Phang-nga and Sura Thani Provinces.
South - Connects with Trang Provinces and the Andaman Sea.
East - Connects with Trang and Nakhon Si Thammarat Provinces.
West - Connects with Phang-nga Provinces and the Andaman Sea.

Distances from Krabi to

nearby provinces (km)		its districts (km)
Phang Nga	86	Ao Luk	43
Phuket	176	Plai Phraya	66
Trang	131	Khao Panom	39
Phattalung	193	Khlong Thom	42
Surat Thani	211	Ko Lanta	45
Nakhon Si Thammarat	233	Lam Thap	67
Satun	276	Nua Khlong	17

Population
Krabi's estimated population, as of September 1999, is 344,610

Geography

Krabi's mountainous physical geography is broken by highlands and plains on the mainland. The provincial administration also covers more than 130 islands in the Andaman Sea. Natural forest cover is chiefly mangrove and Cassia trees. Krabi's sandy clay soil conditions are perfect for a variety of agricultural products, including rubber trees, palms, mangos, coconuts, and coffee. The Krabi River flows 5 kilometers through the city and falls into the Andaman at Tambon Pak Nam. There are other streams as well : the Khlong Pakasai, the Khlong Krabi Yai and the Khlong Krabi Noi in the province's highest range of mountains, the Khao Phanom Bencha.

Climate
Weather in Krabi is typically that of the tropical monsoon, providing the province with just two seasons, the hot season from January to April, and the rainy season from May to December. Monsoon winds, which change according to season, blow from the southeast, the southwest, and the northeast. Temperatures range between 16.9 and 37.3 degrees Celsius and the yearly rainfall averages 2,568.5 millimeters.

Festivals & Events

Andaman Sea Festival
This Festival takes place in November and celebrates the opening of the tourist season in Krabi. Water sport competitions, cultural shows, and good-natured fun are the schedule.

The Setting Adrift of the Chao Le Boats
Takes place on Ko Lanta during the full moon night of the sixth and eleventh lunar months. This is a religious rite performed by Sea Gypsies or "Chao Le" who gather on the beach near Ban Saladan Village. They dance their famous "rong ngeng" round the boats to be set adrift. Ceremonies feature singing and dancing. The reason for the fest is to bring prosperity and happiness to the participants.

http://krabi.sawadee.com/

Erawan Waterfall Thailand

2008-02-15T23:19:00.002+07:00


View from the top of Erawan Waterfall. There are 7 waterfalls here. Not many people came up this high because it's very high. I think we took about 40 minutes to walk to the top.


Lots of people are on the first waterfall, not many go to the top. We saw lots of good views when we went up there and those two girls are playing in the waterfall by sitting on the rocks. The water there was very cold. Cold enough to make me ill! But it was very beautiful.

Koh Phangan

2008-02-14T22:02:00.002+07:00

Koh Phangan is located in the province of Surat Thani (which its capital is also named “Surat Thani”) in the Southern Gulf of Thailand, and belongs to a group of about forty islands known as Samui Archipelago. The name of the island comes from the Thai word “Ngan”, which means, “sand bars”. Offshore and surrounding the island one can see plenty of sand bars; which, according to the local guide, protect the island from monsoon damages.

During the last 20 years, Koh Phangan attracted an enormous amount of visitors; some of them religiously find their way back to the island. Who are those Koh Phangan enthusiasts? Actually, there is lot of reasons why one should visit Koh Phangan. Even though it is quite small in geographical terms – many types of travelers can find their own niche on the island. In my opinion, you should definitely consider visiting Koh Phangan, if you are among one of the following:

1. A firm backpacker, whose aim is to see more for less. If this is your case, then Koh Phangan can offer you the best value for your money, compared to other islands in South Thailand. By best value I mean basic but reasonable accommodation, great food (remember this: the less you’re spending on food in Koh Phangan – the better it is), overwhelming surrounding and lots of opportunities to meet people just like you – young, curious and romantic.

2. A cool partygoer, who never misses a good party. If this is so, then you must visit this island if only for the widely known Full Moon Party. The full moon party takes place every month, on one of the beaches in the south east of the island attracting thousands of clubbers and holidaymakers. Try telling anybody in Thailand or outside of Thailand that you have visited Koh Phangan, and the common response will be a wink followed by “The Full Moon Party, he”. If you’ll try to deny your participation - the response will probably be two winks followed by “So that’s the Full Moon Party, he” - and you can be sure that you’ve just earned the reputation of the best partygoer.

3. If you’re the spoiled tourist kind, one who likes to enjoy his trips without scarifying the comfort of western civilization hospitality, then Koh Phangan, although a place with solid reputation of a backpacker island – has quite a few local hoteliers who are not yet ready to give up on you! During the last several years more and more excellent air-conditioned spacious rooms and bungalows, overlooking at spectacular beaches have been developed especially for your kind. In almost every corner of Koh Phangan you will have the ability to choose between Thai to Western cuisine and enjoy delicious food – no matter what your choice is. There are also lots of massage and spa centers, which can fulfill the needs of the last of hedonists. Of course, you can find all of this in any other Thai island – but in Koh Phangan you can have it in the less commercialized and touristy surrounding.

4. If you’re traveling with your children – Koh Phangan is just right for you. Beside of air-conditioned and spacious accommodations, there are huge varieties of activities in which your children will be more than happy to take part of. Among them are: boat trips, safari trips, elephant treking and many more.

5. Those who believe, that they’ve worked enough during the last year to pay for their vacation, and now is the timing for rest. If this is your case, let me to tell you that in Koh Phangan one can have a best choice of hammocks and sand beaches.

6. So to whom will I not recommend Koh Phangan as a place to visit? If you obviously not a big fan of true nature surroundings, if noisy crickets can destroy your sleep and consequently your vacation, if you think of sand as something too dirty and of sea as something too wet, if a ride on unpaved rode terrifies you, if you must and even enjoyed eating the same breakfast for the past 20 years and if you are a firm believer that communication in the age of globalization lets us get a comprehensible understanding of everything on Earth – then I suggest you skip the idea! But if you even remotely resemble any of the other characters above, then I warmly recommended you to visit Koh Phangan – there will be no regrets - guaranteed.

http://kohphangan.eternaltravel.net/

Attraction Points--Koh samui

2008-02-13T23:28:00.002+07:00

The Big Buddha
Samui's most popular attraction, The Big Buddha sitting 15 meters tall was built in 1972 by the local society to give visitors a place to pay respect to The Lord Buddha. This monumental landmark is placed on the island's Northern shore.

Hin Ta - Hin Ya
Strangely shaped rocks at south Lamai.
A local story tells of an old couple whose ship was wrecked in the bay. Their body's were washed ashore to create the rocks

Hin Lad Waterfall
Hin Lad Waterfall is located 2 km south of Nathon Town.He can be reached by a 3-4 kilometer walk down a country foot walk. In evergreen, rain forest setting with palms and creepers, the waterfall have several levels with a cool pool for a fresh water swim.

Ancient House
A house made of teakwood without any nails at Ban Thale is the oldest house on the island. It was built approximately 150 years ago, is constructed of teak planks and shows off many beautiful woodcarvings.

Snake Farm
A definite must see for all those visiting the island. Shows featuring snakes indigenous to Samui as well as Centipede, Scorpion and Cock Fighting shows. Informative and entertaining. Great for the entire family and worth looking for. Follow the signs seen throughout the island. Show times are 11.00 and 14.00 everyday.


Paradise Park Farm Samui's lates and biggest attraction! Set on 20 acres of land, Paradise Park Farm is a spectacle. Spend a day, or two, in the cool air of Samui's highest mountain covered by tropical rainforest. Surround yourself by water falls, small rivers, canyons and exotic birds and wildlife.