Introduction

Welcome to Ko chang

In Trat province, 312 km. from Bangkok, the second-largest island in Thailand, 30 km. in length from the north to the southeast and 8 km. in width from Laem Ngob to the southwest side, was discovered, and then became one of the most famous sites among travelers.

It is called Koh Chang because its appearance is like a sleeping elephant. Koh Chang is covered with dense rain forest and with the relative savage nature, bisected by the steep wall of mountains. Most of the scenic beaches and bays are located on the western side, extending from the north to the south. They include Ao Khlong Son, Hat Sai Khao, Hat Khlong Phrao and Hat Kai Bae. A road cuts through the western shore almost all the way to Hat Kai Bae. From here, a nature trail through Ao Bai Lan and Ao Kruat meanders through wet forestland to Ban Bang Bao, a fishing community located at the foot of the hill in the south.

Considered as one of the most untouched island in Thailand, Koh Chang became an easy-found paradise for thousands of tourists from all over the world. Those who long for the pure, calm, peaceful, and magnificent island could feel like being in your own world here.

Map of Ko-Chang-map

On Koh Chang there is a multitude of beautiful beaches, most with accommodation, some of them still untouched and lonely.
The 4 main beaches of the island, White Sand Beach, Khlong Prao Beach, Kai Bae Beach and Lonely Beach, are all on the west coast. In addition, Wai Chek Beach in the southwest and Long Beach in the southeast of Koh Chang are worth a visit. There is still no accommodation on Wai Chek Beach and Long Beach, so those who make the effort to visit usually don’t have to share these magnificent spots. Its not only the charming beaches but all the many bays and unspoiled villages of the island that are worth a visit.

Its pristine white sand beaches are perfect for swimming, sun-bathing, or snorkelling in clear blue waters. Watching the beautiful sunset after a day filled with satisfying activities remains one of the favourite pastime. Land activities, from elephant trekking to hiking through the mountains and rainforest with several waterfalls, form a great complement to the beach activities.

Koh Chang hosts more than 400,000 visitors annually, a quarter of them from Sweden, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Germany, Britain and Hong Kong. Word has gotten out on Koh Chang’s charms and the number of visitors has increased dramatically over the years. The west coast, blessed with better beaches and clearer sea water, has most of the accommodation. The major beaches on the west side of the island include Klong Son, Hat Sai Khao (White Sand), Klong Prao, Kai Bae, Bai Lan, Tha Nam (Lonely Beach) and Bang Bao. The east coast remains as it once did years ago, while the west coast has developed rapidly.

Beaches

White Sand Beach

White Sand Beach the longest and most popular beach on Koh Chang. It is about 2.5 kilometres long and lined by rocks, over-hanging palms and broad-leaved trees.The southern 1.5 kilometre long area, located at the road, is during the season the busiest part of the entire island. The main road runs pass all the resorts, shops, restaurants, pubs and coconut groves. White Sand Beach it is the best place for those who enjoy the white wonderful sand and the association with other travelers: most visitors prefer coming to this beach that makes the beach so colorful.The beach slopes gently into the sea and is very wide during low tide attracting hordes of visitors, especially in the evening, when it transforms into a playground. Regular football and volleyball games are played as the sun sets right off its shore.

Relaxing on the White Sand Beach, Ko Chang

Deck chairs, although not many, are provided by hotels and resorts, and usually available only for guests. Some fee may apply if you wish to rent it. Restaurants and bars are plentiful along the beach. Don’t miss fresh-from-the-sea seafood dinner served amidst the sound of the waves gently lapping the shore. Feeling achy? Not to worry. Many beachside open huts offer massage services from 200 baht to 300 baht. Public toilets are located alongside beach and the road in most restaurants. If you’re not a customer, prepare to pay a fee of around 3-5 baht.

A very common sight, beach vendors can be seen treading the length of the beach offering all sorts of knick-knack from silk, clothing to costume jewelry.

Had Sai Khao

Had Sai Khao is famed for delicate white sand along a 6-kilometer beach. The beach is dotted with towering palms and coconut tress. The most popular beach in the island, it is not surprising to see a wide variety of resorts and bungalows lining behind the trees. At night Had Sai Khao is illuminated with lights from pubs and bars, restaurants that are located along its beachside road. There are plenty of grocery stores, car and motorbike rental shops and petrol stations.

Had Sai Khao Beach, Ko Chang

A long strip of powdery sand that slopes gently into the sea. Casuarinas and palm trees line the beach while forested hills lurk in the background. During low tide, the beachfront becomes much wider and consequently attracts lots of beachgoers. The northern end is sandy and quiet, while the southern end has plenty of stones.

The busiest area of Koh Chang, where a wide variety of accommodation ranges from the basic thatched-roof huts to the upmarket units with air conditioning, hot water and TV. The main road features numerous shops, bars, pubs and restaurants, tour operators, vehicle rentals, mini-marts and a police kiosk. Many of the commercial banks offer mobile currency exchanges, which are scattered around the island.
White Sand Beach is the hub of many activities, where people like to take a stroll while watching the sunset. Various sport activities, such as football, volleyball and Frisbee games, regularly take place along the beach.

Caution: Be cautious when swimming since the currents can be strong especially during the green season (May-Oct) as there is no lifeguard on duty.

Klong Son Beach or Had Klong Prao

This is another long sandy beach. They are situated south of White Sand Beach. Klong Prao Beach, growing rapidly into popularity after White Sand Beach. The area is covered with coconut grooves and wild vegetation. Klong Prao Beach starts where the gently-curved Laem Chaichet ends.

Klong Prao Beach, Ko Chang

Coconut trees line the beach and the northern end has a beautiful rocky landscape. Resort development has grown rapidly, although the beach itself does not get too crowded. Generally tourists get attracted by the blue marine waters and the beautiful backdrop of deep green mountainsThe beach itself doesn’t offer much in terms of facilities. Most facilities like public restrooms and internet cafés can be found on both sides of the main road not too far from the beach. Hotels and resorts are usually the ones who provide deck chairs. However, a beach towel is essentially all it takes to enjoy the sand and the sun. Those with tense muscles are also in luck, as there’s quite a few massage places where at around 200 to 300 baht you can have your body and feet pampered.

Although there are quite a few beach vendors selling all kinds of souvenirs and trinkets, not many food hawkers are seen on the beach. This is perhaps due to the fact that most hotels and resorts’ restaurants are conveniently located along beachfront, making it easy for beachgoers to enjoy food without having to go very far. Restaurants serving up local Thai dishes and popular Western fare can be found dotting both sides of the road. Northeastern specialties like spicy papaya salad, grilled chicken and minced pork in roasted rice and basil leaves are sold at many restaurants in this area, especially around the front of Klong Plu Waterfall. A variety of fresh crustaceans and fish are also a must.

Laem Chaiyachet

At the northernmost part of the beach is the rocky Laem Chaiyachet or Chaiyachet Cape which is an ideal site to watch the magnificent sunset or the sunrise above the southern hills of Bang Bao. Laem Chaiyachet is a favourite on-shore fishing ground. A fishing pier is erected near the cape which is also a great viewpoint for the whole of Klong Prao Bay. The road runs almost everywhere in suitable distance from the beach and accommodation. Two small islands, Koh Suwan and Koh Rom are located at the southern end of Khlong Prao Beach.

Sunset at Laem Chaiyachet

The beach sits between White Sand and Klong Prao beaches. The area has a small cape with a rocky curve that rounds into a secluded bay, thus very peaceful.

Another beautiful view of Laem Chaiyachet

The bay has a wide sandy beach. Only a handful of bungalows exist on this stretch of land, making the beach less crowded than other beachesAn ideal spot for onshore fishing and sunset watching. Villagers can be seen collecting tiny shrimps, which are the crucial ingredient for the famous Koh Chang shrimp paste.

Kai bae Beach or Haad Kai Bae

Kai Bae Beach (Haad Kai Bae) is situated south of Khlong Prao Beach. It is an almost 2.5 kilometre-long beautiful sand beach, which is partially lined by over-hanging palms and broad-leaved trees. Beaches on the southern coast are also guaranteed of its beauty and tranquility.

Kai bae Beach, Ko Chang

Like all beaches on the west coast Kai Bae Beach is flat, but nevertheless all the time suitable for bathing. In the dryer months, at low tide however, one must walk up to 100 metres to the deeper waters. Four islands, Koh Yuak, Koh Pli, Koh Man Nok and Koh Man Nai, are idyllically placed in the bay. At low-tide Koh Man Nai can be reached by foot. Compared to White Sand and Klong Prao beaches, Kai Bae Beach may be less appealing, but the fact that it’s a wonderful combination between the convenience and touristiness of the White Sand Beach and a peacefulness and independence of Lonely Beach, Kai Bae still attracts a fair share of the visitors. The beach is a short distance away from the main road. Much of the beach stretch is shrouded by shady overhanging palm trees, making it a great spot to chill out and perhaps have a little picnic.

Resorts and hotels along Kai Bae Beach, like most of other beaches on Koh Chang, provides beachgoers with basic facilities like restrooms, deck chairs, towels, hammocks, swings as well as some sport equipment like football, volleyball and Frisbee. While these things are usually free of charge, others are not, and require small fees. An abundance of beachside massage huts offering traditional Thai and foot massages can also be found here. If you’re hungry, there are many restaurants and cafés situated alongside the beach, where quick drinks and light meals are served all day long.

Koh Chang-customised souvenirs like T-shirts, keychains, and an assortment of trinkets like jewel accessories are the usual wares beach vendors are hoping to make some baht out of. Chances are you will also find the same sort of stuff on sale in shops along the main road. Be warned that these beach traders will mercilessly approach anyone in sight, if you’re not interested in buying their goods, simply and politely say ‘no, thank you’ – and with a smile! Unfortunately (or fortunately – depending on how hungry you are!) there is no food hawkers roaming the beach. Food and drinks can only be had from the seaside restaurants and café.

A wide range of activities from lying idly on the pristine sand, soaking up the tropical sun, getting lost in a good paperback to swaying gently in a hammock, having a picnic and getting in a variety of fun sports like football and volleyball. Alternatively, swimming in the sea, snorkeling, getting a massage or just walking along the beach (especially when the tide is low) are some of the great ways to spend your time here too.

Since there’s no food vendors around, restaurants and cafés along the beach seem to be the only source of food and drinks on Kai Bae Beach. Unless you particularly want to have street food, eating from nearby restaurants is probably your best option. However, a lot of roadside eateries and food stalls can be found flanking the main road. Not only do these eating places provide tasty food, they also generally very cheap. Simple sandwiches and snacks can easily be made by getting ingredients from the beach’s many supermarkets selling both local and imported foodstuff.

Kai Mook Beach

The Koh Chang Marine National Park is comprised of 52 islands, all of which are least exposed and best preserved in nature. Rich in rainforests, well-laden with colourful corals, abundantly stocked with healthy marine lives, encompassed by spectacular coastlines, gorgeous landscape, pristine beaches and crystal clear sea, a visit to these islands is a journey back to nature. Fresh, tranquil and laid-back, these islands are most worthy of a holiday.

Lonely Beach

Lonely Beach is an enclave of simple beach huts, sporadic generator electricity, and limited running water. The best day really depends on the person. You can bask in the sun while intermittently slipping into the beautiful ocean, spend a few hours sea kayaking along the rugged coast, embark on a day in the jungle, or get a taste of how Thai people truly live in one of the small fishing villages populating the area.
Only 1 km long, Tha Nam Beach is popularly nicknamed in many tourist brochures as the Lonely Beach. A small beach that features fine white sand on the northern end and stones on the southern end.

Lonely Beach, Ko Chang

The northern end is one of the best places to swim along the west coast, and is separated from Kai Bae by a forested hill.

Although surrounded by the rocky landscape, there is still a strip of decent sandy beach in this area where visitors can participate in all sorts of beach activities. Fringed by overhanging palm trees, the beach affords a stunning view of the jungle-clad mountains in the background. The beach is wide, clean and safe, making it perfect for family to relax or have a picnic. It’s possible to visit Lonely Beach at any time of the year, but it’s most beautiful (not to mention pleasant weather) towards the end of the year from October to around April/May.

In terms of facility, visitors can find a handful of Internet cafés, ATMs, bank outlets, grocery shops, travel agents and tailors located alongside the main road. The beach itself has the usual concentration of restaurants, cafés, deck chairs and beach towels, which are offered by beachside hotels and resorts. Restrooms are also available for a small fee, and usually free of charge if it’s in a hotel or a resort.

Among the most common stuff they’re selling are jewel accessories, hand-made bracelets and anklets, scarves, paintings, clothing items and customized Koh Chang souvenirs. Remember to bargain as these are often overpriced.

Many small huts along the beach usually offer massage services. The most common ones include the traditional Thai massage and foot massage. Prices range from 200 to 300 baht. Kayaking and canoeing are also available at a small fee.

The beach area of Lonely Beach is home to some restaurants and cafés, most of which belong to a hotel or resort. Since there seems to be no food vendors roaming the beach, these eating places come in handy when you’re feeling peckish while relaxing or sunbathing. Almost all restaurants have a selection of favourite Thai dishes as well as popular international dishes. A wide range of drinks – both alcoholic and non-alcoholic – is also on offer.

Klong Son Beach

Klong Son Beach and Khor Khao Bay Situated northwest of Koh Chang, this is the first beach as you disembark and head west of the island.

Beautiful beach of Klong Son

It is approximately 1.5 kilometres wide, at the southern part scarcely 2 kilometres long and at the northern section easily 3 kilometres. On the northern end of the island, Klong Son Beach is the first beach that greets you after disembarking at the ferry pier.

Another view of Klong Son Beach

It has a scenic cape with a stretch of sand and plenty of coconut trees. The sea-water is calm. The main road has numerous shops that are vital to the everyday life of local people. The beach is home to the island’s first 5-star hotel with in-house spa facility. Located behind a lush tropical forest, the beach’s charm is in the seclusion and silence that it provides.

Village Road of Klong Son

Had Klong Son

Had Klong Son is a wide beach with plenty of coconut trees. Two small islands are located at each end of Khlong Son Bay – Koh Chang Noi in the northwest and Koh Mapring in the southwest. This is popular with the fishermen as a port, since it is quite well protected against the violent winds during monsoon. The Premwadi Resort has a pier suitable for fishing and a powdery beach safe for swimming.

Pearl Beach

In recent years the island has become more popular with travelers and Thai people alike. There are only a few beach resorts. The standards of beach huts vary quite a bit. Some are open only the dry seasons. Most better beaches (and better accommodation) you can find on the west coast. Besides hanging around at the beach you can do some nice walking on Koh Chang.

Pearl Beach Hat Kai Mook

Also known among the locals as Hat Kai Mook, Pearl Beach is a relatively small beach, compared to other areas on Koh Chang. The beach can be a little difficult to swim, walk and do activities on since it’s full of small stones and pebbles – not an ideal place for those looking for a massive expanse of great sandy beach. However, the beach still features some appealing features available as it offers a great .spot for snorkeling, kayaking and canoeing, and a few small boutique resorts.

Salakphet

It is situated on the south of island around Ao Salak Petch (Salak Petch Bay) which is the largest bay on Koh Chang. Salak Phet measures 3 kilometres in length and is between 1.5 and 2.5 kilometres wide. The villagers are mostly fishermen.

A fishing village on the southern tip. Distance wise, Salakphet is close to Bang Bao but the stretch of 3-km ring road linking the west and east coasts has yet to be completed.

Sail boats at Salakphet

Ao Salak Petch is an ideal shelter for fishing boats. There are many piers that serve fishing boats as well as boats to neighbouring islands and Laem Ngob. Beautifully, the islands Koh Mapring, Koh Phrao Nai and Koh Phrao Nok are situated in the mountain-surrounded bay. 3 villages, Baan Rong Than, Baan Salak Phet and Baan Chek Bae, find protection in the bay. They are built mostly on stakes into the sea and are inhabited by fishermen, rubber- and coconut-farmers.

A monastery known as Atulaporn Banpot and the Salakphet Temple are religious rendezvous for locals. At the south end of the bay is a small beach with a memorial commemorating the sea battle of 1941 between the Thai and French navies. Two kilometres northeast is the 12-storey Kiriphet waterfall, with a great view of the bay. The area is open round the clock but the best time to visit is from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A marker on the waters near Salakphet indicates the location where the French and Thai navies fought.

Sitting on the southwest of the island, Salakphet features a laid-back atmosphere of a fishing village, where peaceful and undisturbed local life can still be seen and experienced. The village of the same name once used to be Koh Chang’s thriving commercial centre, but now it’s pretty much quiet and doesn’t see many tourists. The bay has a few small bungalows and lovely home stays.

Baan Jek Bae

The Koh Chang Marine National Park is comprised of 52 islands, all of which are least exposed and best preserved in nature. Rich in rainforests, well-laden with colourful corals, abundantly stocked with healthy marine lives, encompassed by spectacular coastlines, gorgeous landscape, pristine beaches and crystal clear sea, a visit to these islands is a journey back to nature. Fresh, tranquil and laid-back, these islands are most worthy of a holiday.

Baan Jek Bae or Jek Bae Village is a small community in the east of Aow Salak Petch.Most of the villagers earn their living by doing the traditional fishery, rubber plantation and coconut plantation. Although the coastal area of Jek Bae Village is the stony beach and mangrove forest, its coastal scenery is placid and beautiful. It also has a number of the resorts of which the style is in harmony with the nature. Almost every resort offers the touring service of the fish rearing in floating baskets which are located in Salak Petch Cove including the activity of going out for fish and squid fishing, fish netting, sea kayaking or coral view snorkeling like other villages which are situated in the coastal range of Aow Salak Petch. Jek Bae Village is, therefore, suitable for the tourists who prefer tranguility and simpleness.

Baan Dan Kao

Baan Dan Kao or Dan Kao Village is a small village, not far from Tha Daan Kao. The tourists can notice the sign “Fish Rearing in Floating Baskets Group” on the left side of the road. If roaming along the orchard ditches, the tourists will see the indigenous folks of Koh Chang Noi who rear the fish in floating baskets especially “Yamsawat Fish” or Blue Spotted Sea Bass which are popular among the consumers who prefer to eat live fish.

Bang Bao Beach

Located on the southwest end of Koh Chang, Bang Bao Bay (Ao Bang Bao) is a small fishing village built entirely on stilts stretching out into the bay. The narrow Bang Bao pier is lined with houses, shops, restaurants, souvenir shops and guesthouses. Corals here are very much intact, making Bang Bao one of the most ideal parts of the island to do some diving. If you’re bored with the beach, come to Bang Bao Bay to experience a bit of a local flavour and see how fishermen live.

Bang Bao Bay is a well protected bay at the southwest end of Koh Chang. The quaint fishing village Baan Bang Bao is built on stakes far out into the bay and has become quite a popular attraction. Many seafood restaurants offer a rich selection of fresh seafood and small shops sell souvenirs or refreshments.

Bang Bao Bay has lately become a resort and recreation area with bungalows built on selected scenic sites. The beach at Bang Bao has clear waters with rocks and corals off its shores. A good place to fish, snorkel and swim.

Bo Rai

Bo Rai used to be the source of Siam ruby or red ruby. Today a few gem markets can be seen. The markets are open in the early morning until 10 a.m.

Bo Rai Gems Market

Namtok Salatdai

Namtok Salatdai is situated 7km from Km. 25 of Highway No. 3157 (Saen Tung-Bo Rai). The area rich with natural environment is proper for taking a real rest.

Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park

Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park has an area of approximately 65,525 rai (104,840 square kilometres).

Rapids at Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park

Interesting places to visit are as follows: Namtok Khlong Kaeo, a 7-leveled waterfall where visitors can see the beautiful sight of Bo Rai, especially on the 4th level. Most travellers visit only the 4 lower tiers of the waterfalls because it takes almost all day to climb up to every level. Besides, visitors should also visit Namtok Salat Dai, Namtok Khlong Chai and Pha Lan Hin.
Accommodation: No shelter is available at the park, but tourists can bring their own tents. For more information, please contact the Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park, Mu 2, Tambon Bo Phloi, Amphoe Bo Rai, Trat 23140.

How to get there: from Bangkok, take Sukhumvit Road, Highway 3, to Saen Tung Market, Amphoe Khao Saming. Turn left and go along Highway 3157, on the route Saen Tung – Bo Rai for about 33 km. Turn left and pass the Border Patrol Police Company 116 for another 8 km. to get to Namtok Khlong Kaeo.

Laem Ngop

Laem Ngop lies 17km from the inner city of Trat along Highway No. 3184. Tourist can get ferry service to many islands such as Ko Chang, Ko Mak, Ko Kham, Ko Wai and Ko Kut.

A view of Laem Ngop Pier

Souvenirs shops and restaurants are available near Laem Ngop Pier.

Ban Nam Chiao is about 8km from town on the Trat-Laem Ngop route. It is noted for Ngop Nam Chiao, a native hat to ward off the sun. The hat is woven with local palm leafs from plants grown in mangrove area. It is still widely used today as it is light and comfortable. In addition to the traditional shape, it has been adapted into other more fashionable shapes as souvenir.

Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial

Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial at Laem Ngop, commemorates the Franco-Thai naval engagement on January 17-21, 1941. There are also the Statue of Prince Chumphon, father of the Thai navy, and a warship-shaped museum displaying old equipment and armament of the fleet with exhibits on the Ko Chang naval battle.

Ko Pui

Ko Pui an islet not too far from the shore that makes an ideal attraction for relaxation in shady surroundings. It is conveniently accessible in all seasons and home to coconut groves, herbs and Dinso Phong (white clay body-powder) mentioned at the time of King Rama V’s visit to Trat. Beaches on Ko Pui are slimy sands not suitable for swimming but ideal for relaxation in a serene atmosphere.

How to get there: Charter a boat from Laem Ngop or drive to board a boat at Laem Uan by taking the Trat–Laem Ngop route for 15 km., turn right at the PTT gas station into a laterite road for some 5 km. and turn right at the direction sign for 500 metres to Laem Uan. A car park service and rental boat to Ko Pui which is 10 minutes away is available. A return trip by a chartered boat between Laem Uan – Ko Pui costs Bt 400– 500.

Ao Tan Khu

Ao Tan Khu is a bay with fine sandy beach popular with local people during holidays. It is 12km from Laem Ngop or 4km off Highway No. 3156 (Laem Ngop-Ban Saen Tung). Bungalows and restaurants are available.

A Beach of Ao Tan Khu

Ko Chang

Map of Ko Chang Island

Mu Ko Chang

Mu Ko Chang located in the middle of the sea and, thus, having an averagely pleasant climate ideal for vacation. Ko Chang is influenced by monsoons from both the northeast and southwest winds, which bar boat access to the island during May–October. November–May is the most convenient period to travel to Ko Chang and its surrounding islands

Mu Ko Chang National Park

Mu Ko Chang National Park , with an area of 650 square kilometres, covers more than 52 islands from the territory of Amphoe Laem Ngop, Amphoe Mueang to Amphoe Khlong Yai.

Mu Ko Chang National Park

The most famous is Ko Chang. In addition, there are other islands with remaining wonderful nature such as Ko Khlum, Ko Lao Ya Nai, Ko Ngam, Ko Mai Si Yai, Ko Wai, Ko Rang, etc. The park office is in the east of Ko Chang, near Khlong Than Mayom, with a large harbour in its front. There are also 3 National Park Protection Units at Ao Khlong Son, Namtok Khlong Phlu’s entrance and Ban Salak Phet, all of which are on Ko Chang.

Ko Chang

Ko Chang previously an unsettled island, is now important as a harbour for ships to escape from the monsoon, and dietary or fresh water resources, especially at Ao Salak Phet or Ao Salat which is well known to pirates, Hai Lam Chinese and Vietnamese. At present, there are 8 villages on the island.

Ko Chang Beach

Ko Chang is the second largest island of the country after Phuket, with an area of approximately 429 square kilometres. The topography contains high mountains and complex stone cliffs. The highest mount is Khao Salak Phet which is 744 metres high, rich in fertile evergreen forest which is the main water source. Therefore, there are many waterfalls, beaches and splendid reefs in the west of the island.

Places of Interest in Ko Chang

Ko Chang Naval Battle Site located in the southern part of Ko Chang. The Trat waters near Ao Salak Phet and Ao Salak Khok also added another page in the Thai history of fighting for the country’s sovereignty. On 17 January 1941, the Royal Thai Navy managed to evict the invaders although we lost a certain number of squadrons and soldiers. 17 January has become a memorial day for the heroic fighting, of which a service is held annually at Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial in Amphoe Laem Ngop.

Ko Ngam was the first point of confrontation in the Franco–Siamese War in which the French army sent aircraft on a reconnaissance and bombing of the island, whereas Ko Wai is the point where French patrol aircraft crashed after being fired by HTMS Songkhla and HTMS Chon Buri.
A squadron of 7 French warships led by the Lamotte Piquet Cruiser, 2 sloops and 4 gunboats invaded in 3 divisions. The Lamotte Piquet alone made Division 1 blocking the south of Ko Wai and Ko Bai Tang. Division 2 comprising 1 sloop and 1 gunboat blocked the channel between Ko Khlum and Ko Wai whereas Division 3 comprising 1 sloop and 3 gunboats blocked the channel between Ko Khlum and Laem Bang Bao.

Ko Mai Si is a small private island located not far from Ko Kut where there is beautiful nature, sandy beaches and clear water –home to diversified marine life and ideal for diving.

Ko Mai Si

Various plant species grow wild on the island, which used to be a confrontation site between the Lamotte Piquet and HTMS Thon Buri that was in commission at Ko Lim. In assisting HTMS Songkhla and HTMS Chon Buri which were heavily fired and eventually sank near Ao Salak Phet and Ao Salak Khok, the HTMS Thon Buri was also hardly attacked, ran aground and sank near Laem Ngop.

Semi-homestay accommodation is available for a group visit of 15–30 persons. A 3-day/2-night package sells at Bt 4,500-5,000, 2-day/1-night at Bt 4,000-4,500. For more details, please contact Tel. 0 2750 6873, 0 9980 5757.

Ao Khlong Son is a bay in the northernmost west of the island where Ban Khlong Son Community is located, with a beautiful coral reef. Accommodation is available.

Namtok Khlong Nonsi is a small waterfall to the northeast of the island accessible by a 3-km. pathway from Ban Dan Mai or about 4 km. from the national park’s headquarters.

Namtok Than Mayom is a medium 4-tiered waterfall located some 500 metres through a garden behind the national park’s headquarters, with the 3rd tier being the most beautiful. King Rama V, King Rama VII and Queen Rambhai Barni used to visit this waterfall as evident from the royal initials on the rock.

Namtok Khlong Phlu_waterfall

Namtok Khlong Phlu is a large and most breathtaking waterfall on Ko Chang with water cascading down 3 tiers of the cliff to a basin, with an entrance located 3 km. from Ao Khlong Phrao plus another 20-minute walk.

Hat Sai Yao located near Ao Salak Phet to the south of the island with a long stretch of sandy beach where swimming is available. Trekking to the naval battle site, as well as a trip to admire nearby islands such as Ko Lao Ya, Ao Salak Phet, Ko Wai, etc. is provided. Accommodation is available.

Monkey Training Centre located at Mu 4 Hat Sai Khao, Tambon Ko Chang, the centre provides training as well as shows of monkey’s abilities, especially in collecting coconuts. There are 3 shows daily at 10.00 a.m., 02.00 p.m. and 04.00 p.m. Admission is Bt 200. For more details, please call Tel. 0 1982 8661, 0 6531 3398.

Ban Salak Phet is a large and the oldest community on Ko Chang located in the southern part. The villagers’ main occupation is coastal fishery in an advantageous area sheltered from winds and storms by islands and mountains. There is an old temple in front of the village known as Wat Salak Phet built in the reign of King Rama V on his royal visit to the island. Ao Salak Phet is the largest bay on the island.

Namtok Khiri Phet is a single-storeyed waterfall located 3 km. from Ban Salak Phet Community through a rubber plantation.

Namtok Khlong Nueng is a small waterfall near Namtok Khiri Phet – Ban Rong Than, located some 2 km. deeper inside the island from the Salak Phet Community with another 480-metre walk. The waterfall cascades down from a narrow gorge for 120 metres. Swimming is available.

Bang Bao Fishery Village is a village of houses on stilts built into the sea with bridges connecting them together. Most of the villagers are descendants of the Salak Phet villagers, living a simple way of life and earning their living from coastal fishery, with abundant soft cuttlefish and corals.

Bang Bao Fishing Village

There is a pier, fish dock, and manufacturing of shrimp paste, fish sauce, dried shrimp and salted fish. The area is an ideal berthing area for fishing boats, with mountains and islands providing a good shelter from wind and storms in the monsoon season.

Ban Rong Than a small community located near Salak Phet in the southern part of the island. It is a scenic viewpoint where the mist-covered peak of Khao Salak Phet in the north and Ko Maphrao Nai and mountains near Laem Yai in the east are visible. A panoramic view of the whole area of Ao Salak Phet is also available from Samnak Song Atulaphon Banphot on the hill.

Ao Bai Lan located next to Hat Kai Bae and accessible by a pathway across the mountain which takes about 1 hour, with a scenic view of mountains along the way. Ao Bai Lan has a long stretch of serene beach ideal for swimming and relaxing.

Hat Kai Bae a sloping and long stretch of beach connecting with Hat Khlong Phrao where swimming is available.

Hat Kai Bae Beach

There are several bungalows for rent at economy prices, some with mountain bikes available.

Hat Khlong Phrao- Laem Chaiyachet a long stretch of sloping beach connecting with Hat Kai Bae where swimming is available. There are several bungalows for rent with standard rooms and necessary facilities.

Beach of Hat Khlong Phrao

The northernmost end of Ao Khlong Phrao connects with Laem Chaiyachet with a scenic rocky cape but swimming is not available.

Accommodation, the national park offers accommodation as follows: Khlong Son Office–9 rooms for 2–6 persons at Bt 800–2,500. For more information, Tel. 0 3955 5086 or contact National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkok, Tel. 0 2562 0760-2.
Transportation on the island: from the pier, there is a Song Thaeo minibus to Hat Sai Khao, Hat Khlong Phrao, Hat Kai Bae at Bt 30. A chartered fare has to be agreed for a journey to other beaches.

Ko Chang Noi and Laem Chang Noi is located in the north of Ko Chang and housing coral reefs between Laem Chang Noi and Ko Chang Noi.

Corals at Ko Chang Noi

Ko Man Nok–Ko Man Nai is a small island opposite Hat Kai Bae with surrounding beaches at low tides and golden seaweeds in the nearby shallows.

Ko Man Nok Beach

Ko Khlum is an island ideal for fishing with a peculiar scenery of rocky areas.

Ko Lao Ya is a group of islands located to the south of Ko Chang comprising Ko Lao Ya Nai, Ko Lao Ya Klang and Ko Lao Ya Nok, approximately 2–3 hours from Laem Ngop. There are long beaches, clear sea water and beautiful corals, with accommodation available.

Ko Wai is located to the south of Ko Chang near Ko Lao Ya, approximately 2.30 hours from Laem Ngop. It has scenic beaches, as well as large and complete coral reefs ideal for fishing.

Ko Wai Beach

The bay to the north of the island houses coral reefs in a perfect condition whereas the western area of Ao Yai provides home to mostly hard corals and scaly giant clams. Accommodation is available.

How to get there: there are boats leaving Laem Ngop Pier or Memorial Pier to Ko Wai at 03.00 and 05.00 p.m., and on the return trip leaving Ko Wai Pakarang Pier at 8.00 a.m. The journey takes some 3 hours and the fare is Bt 250 each. For more information, Ko Wai Pakarang Resort Tel. 08 1945 4383, 08 1983 2098.

Ko Phrao Nok or Ko Sai Khao located to the south facing Ao Salak Phet, approximately 2 hours from Laem Ngop Pier.

Cool Ko Sai Khao

The island has white sandy beaches and shady coconut grove. Accommodation is available.

Ko Ngam a twin island connected by a large sand bar located to the southeast of Ko Chang, with an inlet surrounded by the hilly topography where the sea is calm and scenic.To get there: a journey from Laem Ngop takes about 2 hours. Accommodation is available.

Ko Kut

Ko Kut Beach

Ko Kut is Thailand’s easternmost island in Trat waters, the province’s second largest island next to Ko Chang and the country’s fourth largest island. Located 80 km. from Trat, it covers a total area of 105 sq. km. or approximately 65,625 rai, measuring 25 km. long and 12 km. wide. The topography is generally still in its natural condition, with mountains and ridges forming the headwater of many streams from which originate various waterfalls. The most renowned waterfall on Ko Kut is Namtok Wang Chao, a 3-tiered waterfall with water all year round running in a stream from the upper tier and cascading down in a large fall into the lower tier ideal for swimming. King Rama VI visited this waterfall in 1911 and named it ‘Namtok Anam Kok’ in memory of Ong Chiang Sue, an Annamese king who took refuge in the area in the reign of King Rama I.
On the western part of the island, the attractions range from Ao Ta Tin, Hat Khlong Yai Ki, Laem Hin Dam, Hat Khlong Chao, Hat Ngam Kho, Laem Bang Bao, Hat Ao Phrao, as far as Laem Thian.

Sunset at Laem Bang Bao

Laem Hin Dam

Rocky Beach of Liam Thian

Interesting attractions on the eastern part include Ao Sapparot, Laem Sala, Ao Yai Koet, Ao Khlong Hin, Ao Chak which are all sandy beaches with crystal clear water and serene atmosphere amid a shady coconut grove. The island as well as the nearby Ko Raet and Ko Mai are also home to an intact mangrove forest, beautiful coral reefs and schools of colourful fish.
The native people of Ko Kut are mostly Thai and Khmer immigrants from Ko Kong since the time of French occupation of Patchantakhirikhet in 1904. Ban Khlong Mat is the oldest village on the island whose residents continue to earn their living from agriculture such as rubber plantation, coconut groves and some fruit orchards, as well as coastal fishery. Accommodation is available.

How to get there: there is no regular passenger ferry to Ko Kut but a private-operated boat by Ko Kut Seatrans Co., Ltd. is available. Tel. 0 3959 7646, 08 1444 9259. The fare for a round-trip is Bt 900 each. The journey takes approximately 2½ hours and is available from Laem Ngop Pier (the Lighthouse Pier) on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 09.00 a.m. and arriving in Ko Kut at 11.30 a.m. On the return trip, the boat leaves Ko Kut on Fridays at 12.30 p.m. and Sundays at 11.00 a.m.

Ko Mak is a large island located in between Ko Chang and Ko Kut, approximately 38 km. from the mainland. It covers a total area of approximately 9,000 rai with the shape of a 4-pointed star. The topography is mostly coastal plain with a thicket of coconut groves and rubber plantations. Scenic bays and sandy beaches embracing crystal clear water are all around the island such as Ao Ta Nit, Ao Prong, Ao Phat and Ao Daeng. Around the shore and the nearby islands, there are beautiful coral reefs. October – May is the ideal period for Visiting. Accommodation is available on the island.

How to get there: a passenger ferry to Ko Mak leaves the Prince of Chumphon Pier at 03.00 p.m. to arrive at Ao Nit Pier at 07.00 p.m. On the return trip, the boat leaves Ao Nit at 08.00 a.m. and arrives at Laem Ngop Pier at 11.30 a.m. The fare is Bt 300 each. For more information, Tel. 0 3953 8122, 08 9605 7807. A ferry operated by Ko Kut Seatrans Co., Ltd. leaves Laem Ngop Pier (the Lighthouse Pier) to Ko Mak at 09.00 a.m. and arrives at Ao Nit at 10.30 a.m. On the return trip, the boat from Ko Kut takes 1 hour to arrive at Ao Nit and leaves for Laem Ngop Pier. The fare is Bt 550 each. For further details, please call Tel. 0 3959 7646, 08 1444 9259. An air-conditioned passenger boat operated by Ko Mak Express Co., Ltd. leaves the Prince of Chumphon Pier on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 09.00 a.m. and arrives in Ko Mak at 10.30 a.m. (berthing at Ko Mak Resort). On the return trip, the boat leaves at 1.30 p.m. and arrives at the Prince of Chumphon Pier at 03.00 p.m. The fare is Bt 400 each.

For further information, please call Tel. 0 3959 7296, 08 4166 2419.

Ko Kradat is located to the northeast of Ko Mak and covering a total area of approximately 1,200 rai. It has a flat paper-like topography with Alocasia plants–‘Kradat’ in Thai–growing wild in abundance. Ko Kradat is Thailand’s single island with a land title deed issued since the reign of King Rama V when countries in Southeast Asia were being colonised and there were attempts to occupy some areas in Thai territory including Ko Kradat.

White Sands Ko Kradat

The island has a long and white sandy beach with beautiful coral reefs. Ko Kradat has been designated among the Unseen Thailand attractions. October–May is an appropriate period for Visiting. Accommodation is available.

How to get there: There is no regular passenger boat to Ko Kradat. Visitors will have to purchase a package tour offered by Ko Kradat Resort. For more information, Tel. 08 1432 8027, 08 1823 5471, 08 9099 7917. It is approximately 2–3 hours from Laem Ngop.

Ko Kham is a small island near Ko Mak located approximately 3 hours from Laem Ngop. What attract visitors to Ko Kham are its scenic natural surroundings, shady and serene atmosphere, sandy beach and crystal clear water.

Ko Kham Beach

There are corals on the east of the island which is ideal for diving. Accommodation is available.

How to get there: there is a regular boat from Laem Ngop Pier to Ko Kham leaving at 03.00 p.m. and arriving in Ko Kham at 06.00 p.m. On the return trip, the boat leaves Ko Kham at 8.00 a.m. and arrives at Laem Ngop Pier at 11.00 a.m. The fare is Bt 300 each. For further information, Tel. 08 1303 1229, 08 1916 6536.

Mu Ko Rayang is a group of islands comprising Ko Rayang Nai and Ko Rayang Nok. Ko Rayang Nok is peaceful with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. Accommodation is available on Ko Rayang Nok.

Mu Ko Kra is a group of islets to the west of Ko Mak, a swallow bird’s nest concession area and a diving spot with beautiful corals.

Mu Ko Rang is a group of islets located approximately 6 km. to the west of Ko Mak. There is not sufficient plains area for human habitation on Ko Rang, which is surrounded by islands of various sizes such as Ko Rang Yai, Ko Rang Lek, Ko Kra, Ko Thian, Ko Thong Luang, Ko Yak, Ko Sam Phi Nong, Ko Mapring, Ko Tun, Ko Kampan, etc. Diving to admire the beautiful corals among schools of fish is available.

How to get there: There is no regular boat to Mu Ko Rang and Mu Ko Kra. Visitors will have to charter a boat from Laem Ngop at Bt 5,000–8,000/day depending on the size of the boat.

Getting to the Islands

There are piers in Laem Ngop where boats are available to travel to Ko Chang and various islands, as follows:

In Laem Ngop Pier, passenger boats adapted from fishing boats travel to Ban Dan Kao of Ko Chang. The fare is Bt 50 and the trip takes about 45 minutes. The boat leaves every hour from 08.00 a.m.–05.00 p.m. A return trip from Ko Chang is available during 07.00 a.m.–04.00 p.m. A boat trip to Ko Mak leaves the Laem Ngop Pier at 03.00 p.m. and arrives in Ao Nit around 06.00 p.m. On the return trip, the boat leaves Ao Nit at 08.00 a.m. and arrives in Laem Ngop at 11.30 a.m. The fare is Bt 300. A boat trip to Ko Wai leaves at 03.00 p.m. and arrives at 05.30 p.m. The fare is Bt 250. For more information, please call Tel. 0 3953 8122.

There are also reservation agents from various resorts near the pier. Tourists may charter a boat (adapted from small fishing boats to accommodate about 10 passengers) to Ko Chang or other islands at approximately Bt 2,000–3,500 per day or contact Saeng Chan Restaurant at 99/3 Mu 1 Laem Ngop Beach, Amphoe Laem Ngop, Trat Province, Tel. 0 3959 7198, 0 3959 7299.

In Ko Chang International Co. Ltd. Pier, a ferry to Ko Chang leaves Ao Thammachat during 07.00 a.m.–07.00 p.m. On the return trip, it leaves Ao Sapparot every half an hour during 08.00 a.m.–07.00 p.m., taking about 45 minutes. The return fare is Bt 150 for tourist and Bt 150 for car with driver. For more information, please call Tel. 0 3952 8288–9, 0 3959 7143.

A van to Pattaya at Bt 400, Ko Samet Pier at Bt 250 and Khao San Road at Bt 220 is available at the pier.

At Centrepoint Pier, a ferry to Ko Chang leaves to Laem Ngop during 06.00 a.m.–06.00 p.m. On the return trip, it leaves Dan Kao Cabana Pier during 06.00 a.m.–07.00 p.m.

Centrepoint Pier

The return fare for tourists and drivers is Bt 140 each and free of charge for 4-wheeled vehicles. The journey takes 45 minutes. Please call Tel. 0 3953 8196 for further details.

A boat for rent is also available daily at several fishery piers in Amphoe Khlong Yai to nearby islands such as Ko Kut, Ko Kradat and Ko Mak.

Events and festivals

The Ko Chang Naval Battle Day is organised in late January at the Ko Chang Naval Battle Monument (Anuson Yutthanawi) at Laem Ngop. The event is to commemorate the bravery of the Royal Thai Navy’s action against the French on January 17-21, 1941. Merit-making and tribute rites are performed and there is exhibition by the Royal Thai Navy.

Trat Independence Day, on March 23-27, marks the day the province returned to Thai sovereignty after the French occupation. The celebrations are held at the provincial town hall.

Trat Fruit Fair, opens usually in late May or early June, features exhibitions and gricultural produce. Trat has the ideal condition for the propagation of almost all of tropical fruits. Among its famous fruits are durian, rambutan, mangosteen, salak and pineapple. Activities include merit making, historical and agricultural exhibition, fruits contest and various entertainments.

Activities

Diving

Eco-Divers Ko Chang: Banpu Hotel, Hat Sai Khao, (Tel: 08 1863 7314, 08 1935 6953)

Ko Chang Resort: 184 Mu 1, Bang Kradan Road, (Tel: 0 3953 8055, 0 3953 8059 Fax: 0 3953 8059)

Ko Mak Resort: 1 Mu 2, Tambon Ko Mak, (Tel: 0 3959 7296, 08 1239 0679, 08 1862 9385 Fax: 0 3959 7269)

Krop Krueang Rueang: Thiao 101/56 Mu 1, Tambon Laem Ngop, Amphoe Laem Ngop, (Tel: 0 3959 7172)

Sea View Resort: 98/1 Mu 1, Tambon Laem Ngop, Amphoe Laem Ngop, (Tel: 0 3959 7143)

Important Phone Numbers

Trat Provincial Office Tel: 0 3951 1282
Bus Terminal Tel: 0 3951 1986
Police Station, Amphoe Mueang Tel: 0 3951 1239
Police Station, Amphoe Khlong Yai Tel: 0 3958 1115
Police Station, Amphoe Laem Ngop Tel: 0 3959 7033
Police Station, Ko Chang Tel: 0 3958 6191, 0 3958 6250
Tourist Police Tel: 1155, 0 3865 1669
Highway Police Tel: 1193, 0 3861 1203
Trat Hospital Tel: 0 3951 1040-1
Khlong Yai Hospital Tel: 0 3958 1044
Laem Ngop Hospital Tel: 0 3959 7040
Bangkok-Trat Hospital Tel: 03953 2735
Ko Chang Hospital Tel: 0 3958 6130
Ko Chang International Clinic Tel: 0 3955 1151-2
Laem Ngop Immigration Checkpoint Tel: 0 3959 7261
Khlong Yai Immigration Checkpoint Tel: 0 3958 8108
Ban Hat Lek Immigration Checkpoint Tel: 0 3958 8084
Meteorological Trat Station Tel: 0 3958 1276

Introductions

Introductions

The East Paradise A Siamse Ruby ( Tup Tim Siam) was discovered in Ampeur Bor Rai in 1971, This led to may visitors from across the country heading to the area in search of gems and the town, along with Trat municipality, experiencing rapid growth. However by 1997 the gem trade had had slowed own due to decreased supply in the area. Now, the only remnants of the prosperous times are buildings.

Trat Province is a first-level administrative subdivision in Eastern Thailand, most popular for the beaches and islands in the Ko Chang Archipelago, especially Ko Chang. It’s capital city is Trat, which is the main gateway to the islands. It is located in the east of Thailand, and has borders with Chanthaburi Province to the northwest, Cambodia to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the south.

The city of Trat is a starting point for Koh Chang island group or forays into outlying gem and Cambodian markets.

History

It was surmised that the title “Trat” was a corruption of “Krat” which is the name of tree plenty in Trat Province and used in broom production. In Ayutthaya period during the reign of King Naresuan, the town was called “Ban Bang Phra”.

The history of Trat can be traced back to the reign of King Prasat Thong of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Formerly known as Mueang Thung Yai, Trat has played an important role in the development of country’s stability and economy due to its strategic location. The town of Trat has later become a community of Chinese Merchants.

Trat served as a checkpoint and buffer city in 1767 and was responsible for providing provisions to King Taksin the Great before he moved his navy from Chanthaburi to Ayutthaya, where he expelled the Burmese and liberated the Kingdom from Burmese rule.

While King Rama V was on the throne, Thai government inevitably made a treaty with France granting the area of current Trat Province to the western country in order that France would withdraw its force from Chanthaburi Province. Later, on March 23, 1906, the King had to grant areas, namely Pratabong, Siem Reap and Sri Sophon to France in exchange with Trat, islands and towns on the right bank of Mekong River. Thus, Trat residents regard March 23 as “Trat Independence Day”. They also built up King Rama V Monument at the city hall to commemorate the King’s attempt to keep Trat with Thailand.

Koh Chang Naval Memorial

On January 17, 1941, during Indochina War, French Squadron transgressed Thailand’s territorial waters. Thai flotilla came to protect the land. Thus, the war which was later known as “Ko Chang Naval Battle” began. Thai troop won and managed to drive out French Squadron. However, Thai side lost three warships, namely Songkhla, Chon Buri and Thon Buri as well as some naval officers. Therefore, on the date of every year, Thai Naval Army holds the annual merit making day to dedicate to those who sacrificed their lives and in their effort to protect the country.

Map

Click to download the trat tourist map

Click to download the trat citymap

Administrative Divisions

The province is subdivided in 7 districts. These are further subdivided into 38 subdistricts and 254 villages.

1. Mueang Trat
2. Khlong Yai
3. Khao Saming
4. Bo Rai
5. Laem Ngop
6. Ko Kut
7. Ko Chang

Trat Aministrative Divisions

Geographical Locations

A small province at the eastern-most frontier bordering on Cambodia with the Khao Banthat mountain range forming a natural demarcation, Trat is a resort town with over fifty large and small off-shore islands, long white sandy beaches and unspoiled coral ranges. It is also a major fruit-growing and fishing area.

About 315km from Bangkok and covering an area of 2,819 square kilometres, the province is administratively divided into the districts of Mueang Trat, Khao Saming, Laem Ngop, Khlong Yai and Bo Rai, and the sub-districts of Ko Chang and Ko Kut.

The Cardamom mountain range forms the boundary to Cambodia in the east of the province, where Trat has borders with three Cambodian provinces: Battambang, Pursat and Koh Kong.

The second biggest island of Thailand is Ko Chang, belonging to the province.
The island, together with more than 40 surrounding smaller islands, forms the Mu Ko Chang Marine National Park.

Other islands of the province include: Ko Kham, Ko Mak, Ko Phi.

Weather

The weather in and around Trat is very comfortable with warm temperatures throughout the year. The region is influenced by the northeastern and southwestern winds, which sometimes limit sea transport to a group of islands particularly from May to October when the southwest monsoon blows. During this period the western coast can be wet and stormy and occasionally unsafe for ferries and smaller boats to lift anchor. However, visitors can still visit the islands via the normally more popular routes, most of which are to the northeast of Koh Chang.

Communications

By car
From Bangkok, take one of these three routes:

1. Bang Na – Trat (Highway 3) passing Chon Buri – Rayong –Chanthaburi – Trat, a total distance of approximately 385 km.

2. Bang Na – Chon Buri – Klaeng – Chanthaburi – Trat (Highway 344), a distance of approximately 318 km.

3. Motorway: Start at Km 0 at the Sri Nagarind – Ramkhamhaeng Intersection and drive onto the route Ban Bueng – Klaeng – Chanthaburi – Trat.

By Plane

Welcome To Trat Airport

View of the runway at Trat Airport

Bangkok Airways has flights from Bangkok to Trat (Amphoe Khao Saming) on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. For further details, please contact Tel. 0 2265 5555, 0 2265 5678, or Trat office at Tel. 0 3952 5767-8, 0 3952 5299 or www.bangkokair.com. (A transfer service is available from the airport to the ferry pier where tourists can take a ferry to Ko Chang.)

By Bus

Both non air-conditioned buses and air-conditioned buses are available at the Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) Sukhumvit Road.

Air-conditioned buses: A first-class air-conditioned bus takes 5 hours to get to Trat. Tourists can also contact other private transportation companies for further information such as Cherdchai Tour at Tel. 0 2391 2237, or 0 2391 4164, or its Trat office at Tel. 0 3951 1062; Chokanukun Tour at Tel. 0 2392 7680, or its Trat office at Tel. 0 3951 1587; and Suppharat Tour, which provides VIP buses, at Tel. 0 2391 2331 or its Trat office at Tel. 0 3951 1481.

Non air-conditioned buses: For more information, please contact the Public Relations Section, Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) at Tel. 0 2391 2504, or 0 2391 4164.

In addition, it is possible to take a first-class air-conditioned bus leaving Bangkok Bus Terminal (Mochit 2) to Trat everyday along the Motorway. For more information, please call Tel. 0 2537 8055, 0 2936 2852-6.

Buses of other private transportation companies such as Suppharat Tour at Tel. 0 2936 3388 or its Trat office at Tel. 0 3951 1481; Cherdchai Tour at Tel. 0 2936 0199 or its Trat office at Tel. 0 3951 1062 also go to Trat.

Getting To Nearby Provinces

Trat – Chanthaburi, from the market in Trat provincial town, there are regular buses to Chanthaburi leaving Trat daily every half an hour during 08.00 a.m. – 03.30 p.m. The journey takes 1½ hours and the fare is approximately Bt 40.

A taxi is also available between Chanthaburi – Trat, leaving Wongwian Nam Phu (Fountain Circle) in Chanthaburi and beside the Mueang Trat Hotel in Trat during 06.00 a.m.–05.00 p.m. daily. The journey takes nearly 1½ hours and the fare is Bt 60 each (5–6 persons/taxi).

Bo Rai –Chanthaburi, leaving every half an hour during 08.00 a.m.–05.00 p.m. The journey takes 1½ hours and the fare is Bt 50.

Bo Rai –Mae Sot, Tak Province, leaving twice daily at 07.30 a.m. and 08.30 a.m. The journey takes 15 hours and the fare is Bt 200.

Local Transport

Generally, transportation to various districts starts from the provincial town. The Song Thaeo minibuses leave the Municipal Market and Bank of Ayudhya daily. After 7.00 p.m. travellers will have to charter one at an agreed price.

Trat – Khlong Yai (Song Thaeo minibus), a distance of 75 km., leaving behind the Municipal Market during 06.00 a.m.–06.00 p.m. The fare is Bt 80 (a connection from Khlong Yai to Ban Hat Lek is available at Bt 20).

Trat – Ban Hat Lek (Van), a distance of 90 km., leaving the Si Trat Rama Theatre during 06.00 a.m.–06.00 p.m. The fare is Bt 110.

Trat – Laem Ngop (Song Thaeo minibus), a distance of 30 km., leaving the Trat Municipal Market from 06.00 a.m. onward. The fare is Bt 20.

Trat – Laem Sok (Song Thaeo minibus), a distance of 28 km., leaving the Trat Municipal Market during 08.00 a.m. –01.00 p.m. The fare is Bt 35.

Trat – Khao Saming – Bo Rai, a distance of 53 km., leaving the Trat Municipal Market during 08.00–12.00 a.m. The fare is Bt 50.

Trat – Khao Saming – Saen Tung – Tha Chot, a distance of 28 km., leaving during 06.00 a.m.–05.30 p.m. The fare is Bt 25.

Getting to Islands

Ferries depart either from Ao Thammachat Pier, or Koh Chang Centre Point Landings between 07.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m., with a travel time of 30 minutes.

Ferry at Ao Thammachat Pier

Private vehicles can be loaded onto the ferry. Please note that vehicles used on the island should be 4 wheel drive vehicles as road conditions are bumpy and there are steep slopes to be negotiated. From the landing on Koh Chang there are song taew services to various points. Fares should be settled beforehand.
There are also bicycles and boats for rent.

Those wishing to charter a boat can contact the Laem Ngop landing or make advance enquiry at the Koh Chang Centre Point at Tel: (039) 538055, 538059).

Places of Interest

Mueang Trat

Wat Buppharam

Wat Buppharam or Wat Plai Khlong located on Phatthanakan Plai Khlong Road, Mu 3 Ban Plai Khlong, Tambon Wang Krachae. It is the province’s oldest temple built around the reign of King Prasat Thong (1648 A.D.) in the Ayutthaya Period. It has undergone restoration and reconstruction since the reign of King Rama V of the Rattanakosin Period.

Wat Buppharam or Wat Plai Khlong

Lately, a temple museum was established and the temple’s landscape has been well tidied, so it has become a local religious centre. Spots of interest within the temple include:

Museum a collection of precious objects of antiquity, especially the Lord Buddha’s relic, as well as golden Buddha images coated with silver, Buddha images in various attitudes, Chinese and European ceramic wares, ceremonial kettledrum, etc. These objects indicate cultural exchanges among the Eastern ports and overseas ports in the Southeast Asian region as far as the West. Open daily during 8.00 a.m.–5.00 p.m.
Murals the walls of the Phra Ubosot–ordination hall–and Wihan Phra Phutthasaiyat–the Reclining Buddha Hall–were painted by local craftsmen in the Rattanakosin Period, with a blend of Chinese arts and literature. It can be assumed that this temple might have been patronised by Chinese traders who immigrated to Trat since the Ayutthaya Period from Ayutthaya, Bangkok, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore.
Other interesting buildings in the temple include Mu Kuti Lek Song Thai–a complex of small Thai-style monk’s cells or ‘Kuti’ which were built in accordance with the Buddhist discipline requiring each to be large enough to accommodate a single monk, one will be built for the person to be ordained and put in a procession to the temple on the day of the ordination; Ho Suat Mon or praying hall–a wooden hall built on octagonal wooden posts and roofed with glazed tiles and a projecting roof, with a carved and gilded gable depicting an angel in adoration and traditional panelled wall or ‘Fa Prakon’; Chedi –a square laterite and mortar Chedi with 12 redented corners; Wihan Fa Kradan–a brick and mortar image hall built on a curved Chinese junk-like base of the late Ayutthaya Period with a single roof and plank wall, etc.

For more information, please call Tel. 0 3951 2636.

How to get there: from the provincial town, follow Highway No. 3 (Sukhumwit Road) and turn left opposite the Trat Hospital for approximately 2 km.

Wat Yotha Nimit

Wat Yotha Nimit also known as Wat Bot, is situated on Thetsaban 4 Road at the junction near the City Pillar Shrine. It is the only royal temple in Trat, which was built in the reign of King Taksin the Great when he was gathering his troops in order to liberate the country from Burma’s control. The construction was finished in the reign of King Rama III. The temple was once used as a place to hold the oath of allegiance ceremony by government officials since the reign of King Taksin until King Rama V, when the place to hold the ceremony was changed to Wat Phai Lom.

There is an old ordination hall of Ayutthayan art, containing murals which depict the Vessantara Jataka. At present, it serves as a Wihan called Wihan Yotha Nimit for storing many antiques such as palm-leaved books, scriptures for sermons and the Lord Buddha’s footprint. This Wihan was last renovated in 1975. They repaired the roof, columns, doors, windows and outer wall but their old forms still remained.

City Pillar Shrine

City Pillar Shrine is on Lak Mueang Road near Wat Yotha Nimit. It is different from other city pillar shrines because of its form as a Chinese pavilion. When King Taksin came to gather troops here, he ordered to build this city pillar which was believed by the Chinese to protect the city from enemies and to bring peace to the people. Therefore, the city pillar was a symbol to maintain a good relationship between the Thais and Chinese. Every year on the sixth night of the waxing moon period of the sixth lunar month, there is a celebration called, Phli Mueang Day or known among the Chinese as Xia Gong Sae Yitwhich means the birthday of the City Pillar God. There are many activities such as Thai alms-giving and Chinese Pung Tao Ma annual fair during a month before and after Chinese New Year.

It is said when France colonized Trat, French soldiers saw people in Trat going to pay homage to the city pillar everyday, so they wanted to pull the pillar down but could not. Although they used an elephant to pull it, it moved just a little. Then the Trat people helped together to renovate and maintain the pillar.

Wat Phai Lom

Wat Phai Lom located on Lak Mueang Road and has played an important role in the province’s education. It used to be a resident of Trat’s Father of Education–Than Chaokhun Phra Wimonmethachan Worayannurak. The temple also houses a Buddhist garden for public meditation and Chedi museum of three much revered monks of Trat. Its devout monks as well as novices have helped to enhance faith among the villagers and made the temple an always reliable place for them.

Residang Kampot

Residang Kampot is the former residence now used as the Office of Probation, Department of Corrections, still in its original architectural style. Open during working hours on weekdays.

Laem Sok

Laem Sok was used as the residence of Kromluang Chomphonkhetudomsak, the father of Thai Royal Navel Army. Fishermen villages are found nrae the area. It has a fantastic view of the sunset; moreover, the fisherman villages such as Laem Hin Village and Ao Cho Village are interesting places to visit.

Wat Khiri Wihan

Wat Khiri Wihan formerly known as Wat Tha Luean or Wat Phukhao Yuan an old temple of over 110 years old located at Ban Tha Luean on a mountain overlooking forested hills and sea. Having undergone restoration to look like a brand new temple, it also houses a small teak forest, which lends a shady and serene atmosphere. The temple features fine architecture with a blend of modern art.

Principal buildings inside the temple’s precincts include a large Phra Ubosot or ordination hall, Phra Chedi, reception pavilion for HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, monk’s residence, preaching hall, and Chinese pavilion enshrining Phra Phuttha Udom Sombun, Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, and Phra Sangkatchai.

How to get there: take Highway 318, the Trat – Khlong Yai – Ban Hat Lek route, for some 20 km.

Laem Klat

Laem Klat is a lovely white sandy beach sticking out into the sea with not too deep water ideal for swimming. Its serene atmosphere is relaxing. A panoramic view of Laem Sok, Ko Mai Si, Ko Kradat and Ko Mak is available from here. How to get there, take Highway No. 318 and turn right to Ban Laem Klat.

Wat Saphan Hin

Wat Saphan Hin is located at Km 31-32 on the Trat – Khlong Yai Road (Highway 318), along the way to Khlong Yai. Turn off the main road to get to the temple’s entrance. Although it is unknown when the temple was built, it is assumed to be more than a hundred years old.

Ruins of the statue of Buddha at Wat Saphan Hin

There is an old Buddhist ordination hall in the water, approximately 1 km. from the temple. The main transportation route is paralleled with a rock line, which links both sides of the canal.

Khlong Yai

Hat Sai Ngam

Hat Sai Ngam an approximately 200-metre long white sandy beach running parallel to a grove of pine trees.

Quiet beach of Hat Sai Ngam

To get there, take the same route as Laem Klat at Km. 37 and walk across a wooden bridge of some 15 metres long to the beach.

Hat Sai Ngoen

Hat Sai Ngoen a not-so-wide beach with a pine forest more ideal for relaxing or fishing than swimming. Hat Muk Kaeo is accessible from here.

How to get there: Hat Sai Ngoen is at around Km. 41 next to Hat Sai Ngam.

Hat Sai Kaeo

Hat Sai Kaeo Beach

Hat Muk Kaeo is a white sandy beach, which lies along from Hat Sai Ngoen to Hat Sai Kaeo, with the shade of pine and coconut trees all along the beach. Visitors can also admire the beautiful sunset here.

Ratchakarun Thai Red Cross Association’s Khao Lan Center

Ratchakarun Thai Red Cross Association’s Khao Lan Center, formerly called the Thai Red Cross Association’s Khao Lan Center, is on the Trat – Khlong Yai Road, at Km 48 on the roadside of Highway 318. Her Majesty the Queen ordered to establish the Thai Red Cross Association’s Khao Lan Center to help Cambodian refugees. However, the center was closed in 1986 since all the refugees returned to their homeland. In 1992, the Thai Red Cross built the Ratchakarun Hall and the museum to glorify Her Majesty the Queen, President of the Thai Red Cross Association on the occasion of her 60th Birthday Anniversary. The museum is open at 8.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. and contains an exhibition concerning H.M. Queen Sirikit’s duties and models of Cambodian refugees in many movements, doing their routine activities such as cooking and embroidery. There is also a garden of auspicious trees from 76 provinces, herbal garden, Buddha image in the Sukhothai style in a gesture of subduing Mara, which was built following the command of the Queen for healing Cambodian refugees’ painful minds after they escaped from war. It is also a holy place for people in Trat and from other provinces. Behind the museum, there are some peaceful beaches. Accommodation is available for tourists. For further information, please call Tel. 0 3952 1621, 0 3952 1624, 0 3952 1838, or Fax. 0 3952 1621.

Hat Mai Rut

Hat Mai Rut otherwise known as Hat Samran turn right off Highway No. 31 between Km. 57–58 toward Ban Mai Rut for 5 km. to end at the concrete bridge. The entrance to the beach is in front of the Community Pavilion or Sala Prachakhom. Walk on another 200 metres to the beach where there is a single bungalow for rent.

Hat Banchuen

Hat Banchuen, formerly called Hat Maro, is located before Amphoe Khlong Yai on Highway 318, between Km 59 and 60. When getting to the junction, turn right and go on for about 3 km. This beach has delicate sand grain and clear sea water where it is possible to swim. Bangalows for rent are available near the beach.

Thailand’s Narrowest Area located at Mu 2 Ban Khot Sai, Tambon Hat Lek, on the Trat– Khlong Yai route between Km. 81–82. The area is only 450 metres wide.

Ban Hat Lek Border Market

Ban Hat Lek Border Market a village on the Thai-Cambodian border located at Ban Hat Lek, Tambon Hat Lek, at the very end of Highway No. 31. When fighting in Cambodia was over in 1986, it used to serve as an intermediate marketplace for grain trading between farmers in Cambodia and traders in Ko Kong.

Ban Hat Lek situated at the border of Thailand and Cambodia

The market on the Hat Lek side is open in the morning during 7.00–8.30 a.m., selling also inexpensive commodities from Cambodia such as electrical equipment, spectacles, perfume, etc. A taxi to Ko Kong is available from the Cambodian side opposite Ban Hat Lek at an agreed fare.

Ban Hat Lek Border Market

How to get there: an hourly van from Trat to Hat Lek is available daily at Bt 100, taking approximately 1½ hours, whereas a taxi trip across the bridge to Ko Kong from the Cambodian side takes about 45 minutes.

Note: Foreigners crossing the border to Cambodia will have to present their passports and visas at Ban Hat Lek border checkpoint, Tel. 0 3958 8084 or at the Cambodian Embassy in Bangkok, Tel. 0 2253 7967, 0 2254 6630.

Khao Saming

Wat Mueang Kao Saen Tum

Wat Mueang Kao Saen Tum and Boran Sathan Khao Tomo are situated at Mu 7, Ban Irem, Tambon Pranit, approximately 38 km. from the district office of Amphoe Khao Saming.

Temple ruins at Wat Mueang Kao Saen Tum

This temple is surrounded by nature, suitable to be a recreational place to relax or to practise meditation.
In the south, you can visit Boran Sathan Khao Tomo which was built before the Buddha’s era. It is believed that there is a treasure stored in a hundred thousand jars (Saen Tum) under the ground of this historical site. That is why it is also called Wat Saen Tum. Boran Sathan Khao Tomo is a mound covered with trees and there are dark-brown stone poles in various shapes of angled forms, with a length of 30–150 cm., diameter length of 15-20 cm. and weight of 10-100 kg. The way they lay stones over and over is similar to the way the ancient people built a place of worship. Some stones give a bell-like sound when they are knocked.

To get there: From Saen Tung Intersection, take Highway 3157, Saen Tung – Bo Rai to Km. 18.5 and turn left at the junction. Go on to Ban Ta Phlai on Highway 3158 about 2.5 km. Turn left and drive along the route Ban Na Makham and Ban Irem for about 9 km.

Aranyaprathet

The Replica of Phra Siam Devadhiraj Image is in front of the Aranyaprathet District Police Station. The image is 1.29 metres high. Phra Uthai Thammathari, the abbot of Wat Pa Mafai, had the replica constructed in 1975. Later, the people built a spired shelter to house the image. The laying ceremony of the foundation stone was held on 20 December, 1985. Due to the unrest inside the Cambodian border connecting to Aranyaprathet District for more than 7 years, Phrakhru Uthai Thammathari, therefore, gave the replica to Prachin Buri (at that time). The replica was taken to the frontier for protecting the soldiers, policemen, and people from the fighting. At present, Phra Siam Devadhiraj is a sacred image of the people of Aranyaprathet and those in the nearby provinces.

Prasat Ban Noi

Wat Anubanphot or Khao Noi is located at 66 Mu 6, Ban Mai Nong Sai Sub-district, approximately 1km on Thanawithi Road from the intersection, connecting Suwannason Road. It was constructed in 1925 or during the reign of King Rama VI. Inside the temple is a beautiful ordination hall, different from others because of its square base with a width of 11.5 metres, and its pointed traditional Thai spired roof decorated in the Thai style of art. Inside the hall houses a brass replica of the Buddha’s footprint which has been widely respected among the people of Aranyaprathet.

The Plant Genetic Preservation Project under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn is situated within the compound of the Border Patrol Police Division 12, Aranyaprathet, on Thanawithi Road, Ban Mai Nong Sai Sub-district. It is open as an ecotourism attraction for tourists with a speaker guiding around the place and providing an explanation on various species of plants, herbs, as well as, the 1,500 – 2,000 flying foxes, residing in this area for 10 years. The distance from the town of Aranyaprathet to the division is approximately 4km.
For further information, please contact Tel. 0 3723 1096, 0 3723 1869, 0 3723 1012.

Prasat Khao Noi Si Chomphu

Prasat Khao Noi Si Chomphu is located within the compound of Wat Khao Noi (Si Chomphu), Khlong Nam Sai Sub-district, 12km from the Aranyaprathet District to the south. This ancient remain is on the top of Khao Noi, which is a limestone mountain, 130 metres from the ground. There are 254 stair steps up to the Prasat. Otherwise, it can be accessible by car, passing Wat Khao Noi (Si Chomphu) along the 1-kilometre route around the mountain. Walk further for approximately 250 metres. It is assumed that the Prasat was constructed during the 7th century and was later renovated in the 10th century. It significance lasted until the 11th century. It is believed to have been a Hindu shrine.

Ruins at Prasat Khao Noi Si Chomphu

The Prasat is made of bricks without any use of mortar. It comprises 3 brick constructions; namely, the northern Prang, the central Prang, and the southern Wihan. However, only the central one remains in quite a good condition, while only the bases of the northern and the southern ones are left. In 1935, Prasat Khao Noi was registered as a national ancient monument by the Fine Arts Department. There have been many surveys and excavations unearthing various artefacts such as those made of metal, pottery, 5 sandstone lintels, an inscription indicating the construction period of the Prasat called “Khao Noi Inscription”, and a sandstone lintel in the Sombor Prei Kuk style, aged around the 7th century. The stone inscription indicates the year 637, which is considered as the oldest inscription of the country. The artefacts from the excavations were collected and displayed at the Prachin Buri National Museum.

To get there: From Thahan Ruam Chit Road, passing Wat Chana Chai Si, along Highway 3067 for 500 metres, turn left for 12km, passing the Na Dong Checkpoint, and Wat Pa Aranyawasi. Wat Khao Noi (Si Chomphu) will be on the right. Pass the temple until reaching the intersection. Turn right along the way up to the mountain for approximately 1km. There will be a moderate size parking lot. Walk further for approximately 250 metres.

Prasat Mueang Phai

Prasat Mueang Phai is in Mueang Phai Sub-district. The interesting object is an ancient chedi made of bricks into a rectangular shape with 4 porticos engraved into beautiful floral, vine and personage designs. It is assumed to be a chedi of the Dvaravati style. Moreover, there has been a discovery of various kinds of art objects such as Dharmacakra – the wheel of the doctrine – made of greenish stone, god’s images in the Lop Buri style of art, and Buddha images in the Dvaravati style. These artefacts are at present well preserved at the Bangkok National Museum.

Ruins at Prasat Mueang Phai

To get there: Take the Aranyaprathet Route, pass the clock tower and go to Rat Uthit Road. Turn right at the crossroads to Ban Nong Thao (Aranyaprathet – Mueang Phai) for approximately 7km until reaching Mueang Phai Sub-district. A direction sign of Prasat Mueang Phai will be on the left hand side. Go along the road for 400 metres, there will be ruins. Otherwise, turn right for 300 metres, a sign indicating the other site of Prasat Mueang Phai will be seen. Visitors will have to walk for approximately 15km to get there.

Talat Rong Kluea

Talat Rong Kluea or Talat Chaidaen Ban Khlong Luek is located at Ban Khlong Luek, Tha Kham Sub-district, 6km from Aranyaprathet District to the east, bordering with the Thailand – Cambodia frontier. It can be reached by taking Highway No. 33 (Sa Kaew – Aranyaprathet). Talat Rong Kluea is an important border market on the Thai side. The word “Rong Kluea” has originally been called because this location was once a place to reserve salt – Kluea – for further sale to the Cambodians as an ingredient to preserve fish. Then, the necessity to use salt decreased, together with the fighting inside Cambodia from 1979 – 1993, causing the Cambodians to face famine. Therefore, Thailand came to help to solve the problem. Shops in the market are constructed in the style of school buildings, divided into rooms. Most products are from the Cambodian border such as brass products, glazed products, ceramics, crockery, clothes, curtains, electronic appliances from Russia, woven products, dried fish, etc. Go further from the market for 500 metres to reach the Khlong Luek Checkpoint to Talat Poi Pet of Cambodia. From the Ban Khlong Luek border market; there will be a van and a pick-up rental service of the tour agent to Talat Poi Pet, in Siem Riep which is the location of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.

For further information, please contact Talat Ban Khlong Luek.

Note at present, Khlong Luek Checkpoint is open from 7.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m.
Visitors who wish to cross the Thailand – Cambodia border have to comply with the following regulations:

Contact the Embassy of the Kingdom of Cambodia in Thailand in advance for information at the Sa Kaew Office Tel. 0 3742 5066-7, Aranyaprathet Immigration Checkpoint Tel. 0 3723 1131, Aranyaprathet Customs Office Tel. 0 3723 1214, and TAT Central Region Office: Region 8 Tel. 0 3731 2282, 0 3731 2284. The Kingdom of Cambodia will not allow tourists to bring cameras nor video recorders into the country. Moreover, items such as scale, wild animals, products from wild animals, onions, and garlic are prohibited to be brought from Thailand into Cambodia and vice versa.

To get there: There is a Song Thaeo service from Aranyaprathet District to Talat Rong Kluea, costing 7 baht or a motorcycle service costing 50 Baht.

Aranyaprathet Victory Gate

Aranyaprathet Victory Gate is situated on the Thailand – Cambodia border at Ban Khlong Luek, Tha Kham Sub-district. The gate was constructed in 1939. The gate consists of two posts standing on the opposite sides of the road. The shape of the left one is preserved to commemorate the brave soldiers who passed away and were injured from the battle at the frontier on the Khlong Luek side. This post is in a hexagonal shape with a height of 15 metres. Its base was a guard room but was ruined from the fighting. Therefore, renovation was conducted in 1959. On the other hand, the right one was reconstructed into a large marble boundary stone with a Garuda – mythical bird-man – image on top and an engraved word of “Thailand” below, facing toward Cambodia.

Khok Sung

Prasat Sadok Kok Thom

Prasat Sadok Kok Thom is a large important ancient monument of Sa Kaew Province, located at Ban Nong Samet, Khok Sung Sub-district. It is assumed to have been constructed during the 10th century as an enshrining place of the revered images and a venue for conducting ceremonies after the Hindu belief. The remains comprise 3 towers, facing towards the East, a moat surrounding its 4 sides, as well as, 2 boundary walls: the outer one made of laterite, while the inner one, sandstone.

Ancient Monument of Prasat Sadok Kok Thom

The sanctuary was made of sandstone whose Gopura entrance gates on the east and the west still remain. Inside the surrounding gallery and in front of the main central Prang tower lie 2 constructions of sandstone Bannalai or libraries. The central tower and the one on the left hand side are ruined. In accordance with an inscription, the sanctuary was mentioned as the enshrining venue of a linga. Outside the Prasat in the east is a large rectangular pond. They are connected to each other by a stone-paved path. There was a discovery of 2 stone inscriptions in ancient Khmer script. They are important evidence indicating this Prasat’s construction period, as well as, objective. The second stone inscription implies that it was erected to praise the honour of King Udayadityavarman II on the completion of the Prasat’s renovation in 1052. The word Sadok Kok Thom means “a city with abundant reeds in a large swamp”. At present, the ancient large swamp can still be seen near the Prasat, while both stone inscriptions have been preserved at the National Library, the Fine Arts Department.

To get there: Take the Aranyaprathet – Ta Phraya Route (Highway No. 348) for approximately 25.5km to Highway No. 3381. Turn right for 8km. The Khok Sung Public Health Centre will be on the right. Turn left and go further along the road for 4km, passing Ban Nong Samet School to Km. 12. Turn right further for 2.5km to the Prasat.

Ta Phraya

Lalu

Lalu is a new natural tourist attraction of Sa Kaew, located at Ban Noen Kham and Ban Khlong Yang, Thappharat Sub-district, 36km from the District Office. Lalu in Khmer language means “penetrated”. It is a natural phenomenon caused by the erosion of rainwater and the subsidence or collapse of soil. The condition of some part of the soil at this place is hard and durable. However, the wind has eroded it into many shapes similar to a city wall or cliffs, while some are pillars similar to those in “Phae Mueang Phi” of Phrae province, but smaller in size. Therefore, some people call it “A New Phae Mueang Phi”. As it covers an area of more than 2,000 rai, Lalu possesses beauty and uniqueness, suitable for a visit. Moreover, accommodation is provided at the Service Centre or visitors can stay at the locals’ houses.

Please contact local officers for the local transportation service, as well as, a guide or a local junior one at Achan Ramphai, Tel. 0 3724 3229, 08 9094 0772 or 08 1723 4322 (after 6.00 p.m.), or Khun Yingyong (an officer of the Sub-district Administration Organisation) Tel. 08 9099 9734. (The transport rental fee is around 120 – 160 Baht for 8 – 10 persons).

To get there: From Aranyaprathet District, go along Highway No. 348 (Aranyaprathet – Ta Phraya). Turn left at Ban Kut Toei at Km. 35 – 36 and proceed further along Highway No. 3486 (Ban Kho Khlan – Nong Phak Waen) for 18km. From Ban Nong Phak Waen, go along the laterite road for 1km to the village.

Prasat Khao Lon

Prasat Khao Lon is situated at Ban Charoen Suk, Thappharat Sub-district. The Prasat stands in the compound of Wat Prasat Khao Lon on the summit of Khao Lon, a small hill located at the foot of Khao Sakae Krong. It comprises 4 Prang towers, but only the central one remains until the present time.

Ruined remains at Prasat Khao Lon

The other 3, 2 at the front and 1 at the back, have already been ruined. Its characteristics are similar to Prasat Khao Noi which was constructed of bricks on a sandstone base. The top of the Prasat has been broken, while on the sandstone doorframe appears an ancient inscription. In the northeastern side of the Prasat lie 2 large ponds connected to the Prasat by an ancient path. There are traces of a village or ancient community in the past surrounding this mountain.

To get there: Take Highway No. 3068 (Ta Phraya – Buri Ram) and turn left to Ban Charoen Suk until reaching the foot of the mountain, where the Prasat is located. The distance from Ta Phraya District to Prasat Khao Lon is approximately 28km on Highway 3486 at Km. 15-16.

Ta Phraya National Park

Ta Phraya National Park was acclaimed a national park in 1996, covering an area of 371,250 rai or 594 square kilometres. The park comprises long mountain ranges, connecting to Pang Sida National Park in the west and stretching to the Kingdom of Cambodia in the east, Thap Lan National Park and Buri Ram Province in the north, and Ta Phraya District, Sa Kaew, in the south. The Office of the National Park is also situated at this side of the park.

Geographically, it comprises a plain surrounded by mountain ranges. The important range of the national park is Banthat mountain range stretching to the east. It is a natural boundary bordering Thailand and Cambodia. At the mountain slope is a plain where abundant plants grow. The forest is in perfect condition comprising mixed deciduous forest, dry evergreen forest, and deciduous dipterocarp forest. It is an origin of many streams such as Lam Saton, Huai Sap Kradon and Lam Nang Rong, as well as, a habitat of a variety of fauna such as gaurs, wild boars, barking deer, deer, mouse deer, bears, tigers, Asian golden cats, bantengs, hyenas, jungle cats, elephants, porcupines, mongooses, etc. Moreover, there are more than 300 species of birds in the forest such as minivets, blue magpies, woodpeckers, black-crowned night-herons, emerald doves, white-rumped shamas, red jungle fowls, pheasants, and hawks. The distinctive point of this national park is the variety of nature study routes for tourists. They are suitable for those who like bird-watching, butterfly-watching, and studying species of plants and animals. Along the route, there will be a salt lick, Nam Sap – water seepage, and viewpoint spots. Various kinds of birds and beauty of both sides of the forest will be seen. The scenery below is also admirable. Furthermore, there is a Pong Yup whose characteristics are similar to Lalu and Phae Mueang Phi, but smaller in size. It covers an area of 40 square metres.

Interesting Attractions within the Park

The Viewpoint Spot on Phanom Dong Rak Mountain Range where Phran Nut and Sakae Krong Mountain Ranges will be seen. It is located 3km from the Office of the National Park.

Lan Krachiao is a stone terrace where there is the splendour of Krachiao – curcuma – blossom and a perfect condition of the forest.

Chong O-Bok is a viewpoint at the end of Thailand’s frontier. From this spot, abundant forests and villages in the Kingdom of Cambodia can be seen. To get there: Take Highway No. 2121 to Sai Tho 1 Road.

Mi Akson Shrine houses the royal handwriting of King Rama V. It is situated on Highway 3068. Tourists usually come to pay respect to the shrine and admire the scenery at this place.

Khao Yak is an ancient picture of a hermit engraved on a large stone, located at the entrance to the national park at Km.5.

Lan Hin Tat is a stone quarry with traces of the stone cutting process to construct a Prasat, as well as, is a venue where beautiful nature can be admired. Take Highway No. 2121 and walk along Sai Tri 4 Road.

To get there:

By car: Take Highway 33, passing Mueang Sa Kaew District and Watthana Nakhon District. At Aranyaprathet District, turn left into Highway 348 around Km. 76, approximately 27km passing Ta Phraya District, the entrance to the Office of the National Park will be seen. It is a laterite road stretching for 13km to the Office.

By bus: From Aranyaprathet, take the Aranyaprathet – Buri Ram bus for approximately 1 hour to Wat Khao Chong Tako which is opposite the Office of the National Park.

The entrance fee to the national park is 400 Baht for an adult, 200 Baht for a child, 10 Baht for a bicycle, 20 Baht for a motorcycle, 30 Baht for a 4-wheeled vehicle, and 100 Baht for a 6-wheeled vehicle. The park also provides accommodation and a camping site for those who wish to stay overnight. However, they have to bring their own bedding, tents and food. The park will provide only a small cooking and dining area. Contact the Ta Phraya National Park directly at P.O. Box 9, Non Din Daeng District, Buri Ram Province, Tel. 08 1723 5663, 08 9095 4438, 0 3749 8002.

Huai Yang Reservoir

Huai Yang Reservoir is located at Mu 8, Ban Khok Krat, Thappharat Sub-district. From Sa Kaew Province, take Highway No. 33 to Aranyaprathet District. Turn left to Ta Phraya District for 37km and turn left again at the To Cho Do (Border Patrol Police) Checkpoint at Ban Kut Toei and go straight on for 10km. Turn left into Huai Yang Reservoir for 3km. It is suitable for relaxation and dining at the restaurant by the reservoir. For further information, contact the Sa Kaew Irrigation Project, 222 Mu 11, Watthana Nakhon Sub-district, Watthana Nakhon District, Sa Kaew Province 27160.

Events and festivals

Eastern Cultural Fair and Sa Kaew Red Cross Fair is organised at Wat Sa Kaew Kindergarten during mid-February every year. There are processions of Sa Kaew’s culture and products, singing contest, exhibitions of the government agencies, various forms of entertainment, and booths presenting various kinds of products.

Cantaloupe Day is held in front of the Aranyaprathet District Office during April of every year. It is the period when the cantaloupes are harvested and offered in the market. In the fair are cantaloupe floats, cantaloupe and agricultural produce contests, exhibitions of the government authorities, a cantaloupe beauty contest, a myriad of booths, as well as, various forms of entertainment.

Sa Kaew Establishment Commemoration is organised approximately in December of every year. In the event, there will be cultural and art processions, exhibitions, as well as, booths offering many kinds of products.

Dok Kaew Blooming Day is held yearly at the Si Aranyothai Kindergarten and in front of the Aranyaprathet Railway Station around December. In this event, there is a procession of the Dok Kaew Blooming Day, a light, sound and mixed media presentation, a singing contest and various forms of entertainment.

Introductions

Sa Kaeo is a province of Thailand.It is located in the east of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from south clockwise) Chanthaburi, Chachoengsao, Prachin Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima and Buri Ram. To the east it borders Banteay Meanchey and Battambang of Cambodia.

Apart from the historical ancient remains worthy for study, Sa Kaew also possesses abundant natural resources such as the Pang Sida National Park and the Ta Phraya National Park, as well as, the natural canyonlike soil sculpture caused by ground subsidence called “Lalu” with unique characteristics.

Sa Kaew is an eastern border province of Thailand, located approximately 245km from Bangkok. In the past, it was once an important and prosperous community with a long history since the Suvarnabhumi and the Dvaravati Kingdoms, which can be noticed from the group of various remains of ancient monuments and architecture, scattered in the provinces, as well as, artefacts telling the history and glory of the past to the descendants.

Natural canyon like soil sculpture called Lalu

Sa Kaew is the 74th province of Thailand and was originally a satellite town of Prachin Buri (called Prachim in the past). In 1933, the system of Thesaphiban or administrative circle was abolished and Prachin Buri was uplifted to a province. Therefore, Sa Kaew became a district in Prachin Buri. It was later separated from the province and officially acclaimed a province on 1st December, 1993.

History

The history of Sa Kaew can be traced back for over 4,000 years, starting from the Neolithic – Metal Age with a discovery of artefacts at Ban Khok Makok, Khao Sip Sub-district, Khao Chakan District. In a later period, other antiques were found such as in Aranyaprathet and Ta Phraya Districts, presenting evidence that Sa Kaew was once an important and prosperous community during the Chenla – Dvaravati Periods with their own civilisation and culture under the kings or rulers who believed in Hinduism, both the Shivaite and Vishnuite sects. It can be observed from the ancient remains and inscriptions in the Pallava script at Prasat Khao Noi, Khao Rang, and Chong Sa Chaeng, etc, especially the Pallava inscription at Prasat Khao Noi, Aranyaprathet District, which has been considered as the oldest piece of evidence discovered in Thailand that states the year of its construction, in approximately the year 637.

Moreover, there were discoveries of evidence reflecting the civilisation during the 10th – 11th century within this area such as various Prasats or sanctuaries made of bricks or stone, ceramic kilns, ancient moats which have left traces until the present time, including 2 inscriptions in Prasat Sdok Kok Thom, estimated to date from the 10th century. This Prasat was constructed to be a religious shrine of the God Shiva as stated in the 1st inscription that in 937, King Jayavarman IV had this inscription placed in this Prasat as an announcement prohibiting servants dedicated to this shrine to serve in other businesses, but only take care and conduct a worshipping ceremony to the Shiva Lingam – a Hindu phallic symbol of creative power – or other sacred images enshrined in this Prasat. On the other hand, the other inscription praised the good deeds of King Udayadityavarman II, who had this ancient sanctuary renovated, as well as, finished an inscription on the civilisation and religion.

Khmer ruins in Sa Kaeo Province

From the aforementioned inscriptions and remains, the system of administration utilised by the Ancient Khmer Empire over the area can be noticed. Therefore, this province can be considered as intellectual heritage which has been passed on and is valuable for further study.

Map

Click to download the sakaeo-tourist map

Click to download the sakaeo-city map

Administrative Divisions

Sa Kaeo is subdivided into 9 districts. The districts are further subdivided into 59 subdistricts (tambon) and 619 villages.

1. Mueang Sa Kaeo
2. Khlong Hat
3. Ta Phraya
4. Wang Nam Yen
5. Watthana Nakhon
6. Aranyaprathet
7. Khao Chakan
8. Khok Sung
9. Wang Sombun

Sa Kaeo-districts map

Geographical Locations

Sa Kaeo has its border facing Cambodia of approximately 165 kilometres. Generally, the area varies from plains to highlands. Highlands and mountains are in the north where Pang Sida National Park is located, while the south is covered with wavy plains and hills. Also, there are evergreen forests along the Chanthaburi mountain range. In the central, there are plains and hills, with Amphoe Watthana Nakhon as the highest area when compared to the other Amphoe Mueang in the west, and Amphoe Aranyaprathet in the east.

The north of the province is covered with the forested mountains of the Dong Phaya Yen range. To the south are foothill plains, which are mostly deforested.

Two national parks are located in the Cardamom Mountains at the border to Cambodia, protecting the rain forests. Pang Sida National Park was established in 1982, Ta Phraya National Park in 1996.

Sa Kaeo Province is bounded in the north by Khon Buri of Nakhon Ratchasima, and Lahan Sai of Buri Ram. In the South Soi Dao of Chanthaburi is located. Eastern part is bordered with Cambodia. The western part is bordered by Kabin Buri, Na Di of Prachin Buri, and Sanam Chai Khet of Chachoengsao.

Communications

By Car
There are 4 routes to Sa Kaew as follows:

1. From Bangkok, take Phahon Yothin Road to Rangsit, keep left and cross the ring bridge to Highway 305, passing Ongkharak District and Nakhon Nayok Province. Enter Highway 33, passing Kabin Buri District to Sa Kaew Province. The total distance is 214km.

2. From Bangkok, take Highway 1 and turn right at Hin Kong Intersection. Go along Highway 33, passing Nakhon Nayok Province, and Kabin Buri District. The total distance is 245km.

3. From Bangkok, take Highway 304, passing Min Buri District and Chachoengsao Province to Phanom Sarakham District. At Km. 35, turn right to Kabin Buri District along Highway 304. At Km. 95, turn right again into Highway 33 to Sa Kaew Province. The total distance is 210km.

4. From Bangkok, take Highway 304, passing Min Buri District to Chachoengsao Province. Then, take the route to Phanom Sarakham District, passing the Khao Hin Son Royal Development Study Centre. At Km. 54, there is a crossroads. Turn right to Sa Kaew Province by taking Highway 359 for 65km. It is a shortcut to Sa Kaew at the present time.

By Bus

The Transport Company Limited provides services of both ordinary and air-conditioned buses, leaving the Northeastern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit), on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, and the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) many times a day. It takes 4 hours to Sa Kaew (3½ hours by taking the Ongkharak route). For further information, contact Tel. 0 2936 2852 – 66 ext: 311, or the Transport Company Limited (Sa Kaew Office) on Thetsaban Soi 9/1 Road, Tel. 0 3724 1282, Air Aran Company Limited at Tel. 0 3742 1210.

From Sa Kaew, there is a bus service to other provinces such as Chanthaburi, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Saraburi, Buri Ram, and Nakhon Ratchasima.

By Train

The State Railway of Thailand provides a Bangkok – Sa Kaew – Aranyaphrathet train service 2 times a day. The first one leaves Bangkok at 5.55 a.m. and arrives at Sa Kaew at 10.32 a.m. and to Aranyaprathet at 11.30 a.m. The second one departs Bangkok at 1.05 p.m. to Sa Kaew at 5.25 p.m., and to Aranyaprathet at 6.20 p.m. Additionally, there are 2 trains to Bangkok. The first one departs Aranyaprathet at 6.35 a.m. to Sa Kaew at 7.26 a.m., and to Bangkok at 11.30 a.m., while the second one departs Aranyaprathet at 1.35 p.m. to Sa Kaew at 2.37 p.m., and to Bangkok at 7.30 p.m. The fare is 48 Baht. For further information, please contact Tel. 0 2223 7010, 0 2220 4334, 1690 Sa Kaew Railway Station at Tel. 0 3726 1217.

Places of Interest

Mueang Sa Kaeo(district)

Sa Kaew Sa Khwan

Sa Kaew Sa Khwan are twin ponds located to the west of the centre of the town within the Sa Kaew Sa Khwan Public Park, near the Sa Kaew Municipality Office, Suwannason Road (approximately between Km. 246 – 247) within Soi Thetsaban 2. It is believed that the water in the ponds is holy. According to legend, during the Kingdom of Thon Buri, Phraya Chakkri (Thong Duang) was appointed by King Taksin the Great to lead an army to fight the unrest in Cambodia. When the troops arrived at the place where it is currently Sa Kaew, they stopped at both ponds before the fight at Siem Reap. The troops eventually won the fight and succeeded in managing the unrest in Cambodia. Sa Kaew and Sa Khwan have become a symbol of holiness and auspiciousness, as well as the origin of the province’s name. Moreover, the water in these ponds was once utilised in the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony.

City Pillar Shrine

City Pillar Shrine is on Highway No. 33, 4km on the left from the centre of the town toward Watthana Nakhon District, within the compound of Kanchanaphisek Park, Tha Kasem Sub-district.

City Pillar in Kanchanaphisek Park”(district)

The shrine was constructed following the pattern and standard of the Architecture Division, the Fine Arts Department. It comprises a main prang of 6.6 metres wide and 19.1 metres high surrounded by 4 small prangs at the 4 corners. Within the shrine stands the city pillar made of Chaiyaphruek or cassia wood whose characteristics are in accordance with the ancient tradition. Its circumference at the base is 120 inches, while its height is 229 inches. Moreover, there is a golden plate of the city’s horoscope which was anointed by H.M. the King on 12 September, 1996. The ceremony of uplifting the pillar to be enshrined in the shrine took place on 25 September, 1996. This shrine is evidence of the solidarity of the people and a symbol of the loyalty to King Rama IX, as well as, a centre of spirit and unity of the people of Sa Kaew.

Pang Sida National Park

Pang Sida National Park covers Mueang Sa Kaew District, Watthana Nakhon District, Ta Phraya District of Sa Kaew, and Na Di District of Prachin Buri, being a total area of 844 square kilometres or 527,500 rai.

Pang Sida National Park map(district)

It was acclaimed a national park on 22 February, 1982. Its northern territory and some parts of its western side are the continuation of the forest line from the Thap Lan National Park.

Pang Sida National Park

It comprises steep undulating mountain ranges, moist evergreen forest, hill evergreen forest, dry evergreen forest, deciduous dipterocarp forest, savanna, etc. It is an abundant forest where rare fauna and more than 300 species of birds are found such as gaurs, elephants, common barking deer, deer, wild boars, hornbills, peacocks, hill mynas, as well as, plenty of butterflies, especially in April and August.

Pang Sida Waterfall(district)

It is also a remaining source of freshwater crocodiles and origin of many rivers and streams such as Huai Samong, Huai Nam Yen, Huai Phra Prong, Huai Phlapphlueng, Huai Yang, Huai Loeng Phai, etc. before flowing into the Bang Prakong River or the Prachin Buri River, an important river of the East. Within the national park, there are many interesting attractions as follows:

Namtok Pang Sida is approximately 800 metres from the Office of the National Park. It is a 3–tier waterfall with a height of 10 metres. The water drops to the lower large water basin and stone terrace surrounded by shady atmosphere. It is suitable for swimming and there is a lot of water during the rainy season.

Namtok Pha Takhian is approximately 3km from the Office of the National Park and 2km from Namtok Pang Sida. The waterfall is accessible by walking through two paths. Direction signs are located at every 300 metres along the routes which are shady with abundant trees. It is the last cataract that shares a similar stream with Namtok Pang Sida. The water is dropping from a 10-metre cliff. It is suitable for trekking and nature studying.

Thungya Pong Krathing was originally an old village which has become an abandoned grass field after the people migrated out from this area. It is similar to the grass field at Mo Singto in the Khao Yai National Park. There are many kinds of wildlife searching for food in this area. The park has settled an artificial salt lick and an animal observatory tower. From the road in the national park, there is a crossroads at Km. 3.5 and Km. 6. Continue by walking further for 2km. Along the Pong Krathing nature study route, there is a natural salt lick where wild animals can be easily found.

Namtok Tham Khangkhao waterfall is located at 22 km from the Office of the National Park, walk further for 10km. Near the waterfall, there are many bats – Khangkhao – in the cave. It is a beautiful waterfall located in the middle of a deep forest, which takes 3 days and 2 nights for a round trip. A request for a ranger can be done at the Office of the National Park.

Namtok Thap Sung is a new waterfall of the National Park. Along the way, there is a nature study route, where there are various kinds of plants. It is 1.5km by walking from Km. 22.

The Viewpoint Spot is a wide valley, located between Km. 25 and Km. 35. The surrounding scenery, picturesque sunrises and sunsets can be admired from this spot. It is accessible by driving from the Office of the National Park.

A Group of waterfalls known as Khwae Makha Waterfalls can be found at about 40 km, and then walk further for 6km. The Khwae Makha Waterfall drops from a 70-metre high cliff. Trekking and camping can be done. Nearby, there are Namtok Rak Sai Yoi 500 metres from Namtok Khwae Makha, Namtok Lan Hin Yai , 1.5km away, Namtok Suan Man – Suan Thong , 3km, and Namtok Man Thara , 4km from Namtok Khwae Makha. It takes 2 – 3 days to travel to these waterfalls because they are located deep in the forest.

Phukhao Chedi is an accumulation of rocks with cracks similar to those at Phu Hin Rong Kla. It is 4 metres high, while its circumference is 25 metres. It is located at the National Park’s Po Do 1 (Kaeng Yai Mak) Ranger Station, 50km from the Office of the National Park.

Freshwater Crocodiles can be found at Kaeng Yai Mak which is approximately 5km from the Office of the National Park. Turn into Ban Khlong Phak Khom – Thung Pho for 50km. It is a place where freshwater crocodiles have been discovered since 1981 to have remained in the Huai Nam Yen Forest, where there is an observatory tower provided near the National Park’s Po Do 1 (Kaeng Yai Mak) Ranger Station.

Accommodation: The Park provides 3 bungalows, costing 900 – 1,000 Baht / 6 persons / night, and a camping area. The tent rental fee is 150 – 300 Baht, while the camping area costs 30 Baht / night for an adult, and 10 Baht / night for a child. For further information, contact the Pang Sida National Park, P.O. Box 55, Tha Yaek Sub-district, Mueang District, Sa Kaew Province 27000 at Tel. 0 3724 6100, 0 3724 3775, or the National Park Office, the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Flora, Bang Khen District, Bangkok, Tel. 0 2561 4292 ext: 724 – 725, 0 2579 5734, 0 2579 7223.

To get there:

By car: From Mueang Sa Kaew, take Highway No. 3462 to the north for 27km. The park will be on the right side.

By bus: A Song Thaeo, routing Sa Kaew – Ban Khlong Nam Khiao is provided from the bus terminal from 9.00 a.m. – 3.30 p.m. The total distance is 27km to the Office of the National Park. The fare is 25 Baht a person, or the Song Thaeo rental fee is 300 Baht.

By train: The Bangkok – Aranyaprathet Train runs to Sa Kaew Railway Station. Then, continue by taking a Sa Kaew – Ban Khlong Nam Khiao bus for approximately 27km to the Office of the National Park.

Tha Krabak Reservoir

Tha Krabak Reservoir is situated at Mu 10, Tha Yaek Sub-district, 37km from Mueang Sa Kaew. It is a large reservoir under the Royal Initiative of H.M. the King to improve the irrigation system on the plain in the valley. It is an earthfill dam with a height of 17.5 metres and a length of 720 metres. The surrounding area is a tall forest, where various kinds of plants both perennial and decorative ones are grown. It is an attraction with beautiful scenery, suitable for relaxation and admiring nature. For further information, contact Tel. 0 6133 2668 or Sa Kaew Irrigation Project, Tel. 0 3726 1667.

Namtok Tha Krabak

Namtok Tha Krabak is 1km beyond the Tha Krabak Reservoir. The entrance to the waterfall is not yet conveniently accessible. The waterfall comprises 3 tiers. Each tier is 400 – 500 metres apart from one another. Below each tier lies a water basin which is suitable for swimming.

Amphoe Khao Chakan(district)

Khao Chakan is located at Khao Chakan Sub-district, next to Wat Tham Khao Chakan, 17km from Mueang Sa Kaew District along Highway No. 317 (Sa Kaew – Chanthaburi) between Km. 131-132, on the left turn. It is a limestone mountain whose ridge is 90 degrees against the north and the south. Its summit is 240 metres above sea level. It comprises 3 mountains lining up. Khao Chakan is the largest and stands in the middle between Phukhao Ming on the left and Khao Falami on the right. The three mountains are established as the Khao Chakan Arboretum under the supervision of the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Flora. The Arboretum is a residence of wild monkeys, as well as, millions of bats flying in a long line in the evening. At the foot of the hill stands a temple called Wat Tham Khao Chakan.

Wat Tham Khao Chakan

Wat Tham Khao Chakan covers an area of 28 rai, 2 ngan, 8 square wa. It is a temple of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism. It comprises an ordination hall, a reinforced concrete building constructed in 1990, a monk residence which is half concrete, half wood, and steps to the mountain summit, where there is a viewpoint to admire panoramic scenery. There are 72 small caves within the compound of Khao Chakan. The popular ones are Tham Muet, Tham Hanuman, Tham Khao Thalu, Tham Mahahing, Tham Namthip and Tham Kaew Phlai Chumphon. The spot of interest is the replica of the Buddha’s footprint at Tham Khao Thalu.

Wat Tham Khao Chakan

Wat Tham Khao Chakan covers an area of 28 rai, 2 ngan, 8 square wa. It is a temple of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism. It comprises an ordination hall, a reinforced concrete building constructed in 1990, a monk residence which is half concrete, half wood, and steps to the mountain summit, where there is a viewpoint to admire panoramic scenery. There are 72 small caves within the compound of Khao Chakan. The popular ones are Tham Muet, Tham Hanuman, Tham Khao Thalu, Tham Mahahing, Tham Namthip and Tham Kaew Phlai Chumphon. The spot of interest is the replica of the Buddha’s footprint at Tham Khao Thalu.

Khao Sam Sip Reservoir

Khao Sam Sip Reservoir is at Khao Sam Sip Sub-district. From Mueang Sa Kaew District, take Highway 317 until reaching Km. 137 – 138, turn left for approximately 10km or around 2km beyond Wat Khao Sam Sip. It is under the supervision of the Khao Chakan Development Project (Ban Khao Sam Sip) under the Royal Initiative. Its office is located next to the Khao Sam Sip Reservoir near the foot of the mountain. Many activities are organised such as star watching, bird watching, trekking to study nature along the 3 routes led by officials and local people. These activities can be called “Star-watching at Night and Bird-watching in the Morning”. Accommodation and a camping area are provided. Contact the Head of the Project at Tel. 08 1983 5987 or the Khao Chakan Development Project (Ban Khao Sam Sip) under the Royal Initiative, P.O. Box 20, Mueang Sa Kaew District, Sa Kaew Province 27000.

Khao Chakan Arboretum

Khao Chakan Arboretum is situated at Khao Chakan Sub-district, within the compound of Wat Khao Chakan, 17km from Mueang Sa Kaew District along Highway 317 (Sa Kaew-Chanthaburi), between Km. 131 – 132, slightly on the left turn. It is a limestone mountain whose ridge is 90 degrees against the north and the south. Its summit is 240 metres above sea level. It comprises 3 mountains lining up. Khao Chakan is the largest and stands in the middle between Phukhao Ming on the left and Khao Falami on the right. The three mountains are established as Khao Chakan Arboretum under the supervision of the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Flora. The arboretum is a residence of wild monkeys, as well as, millions of bats flying in long lines in the evening. At the foot of the hill stands a temple called Wat Tham Khao Chakan. There are steps rising up to the top of the mountain. There are 72 small caves within the compound of Khao Chakan. The popular ones are Tham Muet, Tham Hanuman, Tham Khao Thalu, Tham Mahahing, Tham Namthip and Tham Kaew Phlai Chumphon. The spots of interest are the replica of the Buddha’s footprint at Tham Khao Thalu and the viewpoint spot from which the panoramic scenery can be admired.

Wang Namyen(district)

Bamboo Ceramic Basketry Village

Bamboo Ceramic Basketry Village is located at Mu 3, Thung Maha Charoen Sub-district. The housewives of this village come together and form a group in the form of a cooperative known as Chai Phatthana Women Cooperative which produces and demonstrates the production of ceramic wrapped with bamboo basketry, called the bamboo ceramics, famous for their delicacy and beauty. It is open from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. The head of the group is Mrs. Mut Suesat. For further information, contact Tel. 08 9936 9715.

To get there: From Sa Kaew District, take Highway 317 to the milestones of Km. 120 – 121, turn right into Ta Lang Nai – Khlong Ta Sun Road for 19km or take Highway 317, until reaching Km. 128 – 129, turn right into Highway 3434. A police booth will be on the right. Go further for 11 – 12km to the Khlong Yai intersection, turn right for 8km into Ban Chai Phatthana Soi 4.

Namtok Khao Takrup

Namtok Khao Takrup is situated in Maha Charoen Sub-district. From Mueang Sa Kaew District, take Highway 317, shops offering Wang Nam Yen’s wooden furniture will be on the right hand side. Pass the shops for 20 metres, the So Ko 3019 Road will be on the right. Go further for 28km to the parking lot. Continue for a 2-kilometre walk. The total distance is 30km. It is another beautiful waterfall. Along both sides, a variety of plants and birds will be found. It is suitable for adventure and conservation tourism. The waterfall is 50 metres high. Most tourists are locals. For further information, contact the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, Tel. 0 3850 2001, and Thung Maha Charoen Sub-district Administration Organisation.

Wang Namyen Hospital

Wang Namyen Hospital is a model hospital, which conducts herbal treatment and healthcare. Take Highway 317 until reaching Km. 108. There are hot compressed massage and herbal steam services provided, as well as, an offer of herbal medicine and products from nature such as shampoo, balm, oil, and herbal tea. It is open Monday to Friday, 8.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. (during office hours) and 4.30 p.m. – 9.00 p.m. (out of office hours). For further information, please contact the Traditional Thai Medicine Section, Tel. 0 3725 1108 – 9.

Wang Sombun(district)

Wangnamyen Dairy Cooperative Limited

Wangnamyen Dairy Cooperative Limited is located at 669 Mu 1, Chanthaburi – Sa Kaew Road (Highway No. 317), Wang Mai Sub-district, at the Khlong Hat Intersection. It is the second biggest dairy production venue of the country, established in 1987. At present, there are more than 1,000 members and more than 30,000 milk cows with a production capacity of 70 tones of raw milk a day. Its management system is so effective that the cooperative was chosen the national best cooperative of the year 1997. Its production process is conducted with quality, similar to the raw materials used. The milk, therefore, possesses a good taste and smell. Pasteurized products are delivered to schools, while the UHT ones are offered in front of the cooperative. It is open daily from 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. For more information or contact Tel. 0 3725 1862-3, 0 3751 7111-3 or Fax. 0 3751 7136.

To get there: There is a van from Victory Monument to the cooperative, costing 160 Baht/ person. It departs every 45 minutes. The departing spot is under the expressway on Phahon Yothin Road.

Namtok Khao Sip Ha Chan

Namtok Khao Sip Ha Chan is located at Ban Wang Phai, Wang Thong Sub-district. It is a very beautiful waterfall due to the large amount of water flowing throughout the year. The surrounding area is abundant with forest and a variety of birds, suitable for ecotourism. For further information, contact Tel. 0 9938 4218, 0 9832 5820, 0 7129 0225.

Khlong Hat

Queen Sirikit Chaloem Phra Kiat Public Water Park

Queen Sirikit Chaloem Phra Kiat Public Water Park is located at Mu 6, Khlong Hat Sub-district, behind Khlong Hat District Office. It is a big irrigation reservoir, covering an area of 250 rai, with beautiful scenery of mountains and streams, as well as, comfortable atmosphere, suitable for relaxation. There are restaurants provided. For further information, contact the Khlong Hat District Administration Organisation at Tel. 0 3744 5108, 08 9936 3880.

Tham Nam

Tham Nam is situated within the compound of Ban Khao Chan Daeng, between the Ta Ngok and Kok Mamuang mountain ranges, 16km from Khlong Hat District Office. It is a cave with a running stream throughout the year. The cave is 500 metres deep, while the level of water inside is 10 – 220 centimetres deep. Inside the cave are beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. Some of them are spreading, similar to a curtain. Moreover, there is a small waterfall inside the cave. It is suitable for adventure lovers who can swim. Equipments that should be prepared are non-absorbent outfit, a waterproof torch, a lamp, a lighter, a rubber raft, and a life buoy or life jacket. Please contact for a local guide at the Khlong Kai Thuean Sub-district Administration Organisation in advance at Tel. 0 3724 6089, 08 9887 3762, 08 1069 5404.

To get there: Go from Wang Nam Yen District for 47km and turn left at the crossroads to Khlong Hat District for 13km. At the Khlong Hat District Office, proceed to the direction of Ban Khao Chan Daeng for 16.7km and turn left into Khao Ta Ngok for 18km to the entrance of the cave.

Watthana Nakhon(district)

Chong Klam Bon Wildlife Breeding Station

Chong Klam Bon Wildlife Breeding Station is in Nong Mak Fai Sub-district, covering a total area of 430 rai. This station is an office under the supervision of the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Flora, established in 1983 under the Royal Initiative of H.M the Queen, to be a breeding station for rare and endangered animals. It is also a research station on the wildlife, providing knowledge and understanding on wild animals. The station is divided into breeding sections proportionate with the categories of the animals. The animals are bred in the environment that is as similar to their natural habitat as possible. Some are let free to search for their own food, while some live in the zoo. There are various kinds of animals such as foxes, brow-antlered deer, sambars, bantengs, and binturongs. Besides, birds found within the station are peacocks, Oriental pied hornbills, great pied hornbills, wreathed hornbills, wrinkled hornbills, homrais, hill mynas, blue magpies, and the most important are white-winged wood ducks, a symbol of the province. The compound of the station is clean and shady. It is suitable for a family trip to study rare wildlife. For further information, contact Tel. 08 1351 8823.

To get there: Take the similar route to the Pang Sida National Park, passing Tha Krabak Reservoir for 500 metres, turn left and go further for 4km.

Phra Prong Dam

Phra Prong Dam is the largest irrigation dam in Sa Kaew, located at Mu 3, Ban Rabo Hukwang and Mu 6, Ban Huai Chan, Chong Kum Sub-district. Most of the area is forest within the compound of the Pang Sida National Park, which has become flooded, making its scenery beautiful. It is also a habitat of various kinds of birds, abundant with freshwater fish, and suitable for a trip to admire nature. Interesting activities organised are cruising and admiring the surroundings around the dam, trekking and studying nature, as well as, bird watching. For further information, contact Tel. 0 3726 1667 or 0 3724 2667.

To get there: Take Highway 33 and then Highway 3198 for 35km.

King Naresuan the Great’s Statue

King Naresuan the Great’s Statue is situated within the Chaloem Phra Kiat Park, along Highway 33, opposite the Watthana Nakhon District Office. This statue was erected because in the past, Watthana Nakhon District was once an area where King Naresuan the Great resided during the battles in the East in 1593. The statue is in a standing posture with a height of 280 metres, raising the sword above his head, demonstrating his power of governance and protection for his people.

Luangpho Thong

Luangpho Thong or Phrakhru Rattana Sarathikhun is a monk of Wat Sa Kaew, Mueang District, Sa Kaew. He possesses knowledge in academic and traditional medicine. The monk uses his medical skills to treat and cure sick people, as well as, is a developer. Therefore, he has been widely respected among the people of Sa Kaew and nearby provinces who come to pay respect and ask for their prosperous lives.

Wat Nakhon Tham

Wat Nakhon Tham is located near Watthana Nakhon Sub-district Municipality and Watthana Nakhon District Police Station, approximately 1km from the railway station and Suwannason Road. Its construction period is not yet known. It was originally called “Wat Sa Lop” and later changed into Wat Nakhon Tham after the auspicious name of Phrakhru Wiwat Nakhon Tham.

Wat Nakhon Tham

Within the compound of the temple are interesting attractions, Luangpho Khao, an ancient Buddha image aged around 100 years in a cross-legged posture, and cast of lime (white soil from Nong Din Chi). The image is 130.9 centimetres wide at its lap and 199 centimetres high. It is well-known due to its holiness. Luangpho Khao was taken from an abandoned temple at Ban Chik in 1925. During the ceremony, there was a miracle. Monks in the event clearly saw the tears of Luangpho Khao dropping from the image’s eyes. Moreover, there was a heavy rain during that time. Furthermore, the Luangpho Khao’s hall also houses the Buddha’s Relics, brought from Wat Pamadunla Racha Maha Wihan, in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, a replica of the Buddha’s Footprint and the image of Phra Siam Devadhiraj.

The hall is open from 6.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. For further information, contact Wat Nakhon Tham at Tel. 08 9824 3065.

To get there:

By bus: Take the Bangkok – Aranyaprathet bus to Watthana Nakhon District and continue with a Tuk Tuk for 900 metres into the temple.

By train: Take the Bangkok – Aranyaprathet train to Watthana Nakhon Station and continue with a Tuk Tuk for 800 metres.

Prasat Ban Noi

Prasat Ban Noi is located at Mu 4, Phakkha Sub-district. It is a Prasat with 2 walls. The Outer Wall is an earth mound of 67 metres wide and 80 metres long. Outside the mound, it seems to have once had a surrounding moat that is at present shallow. On the other hand, the Inner Wall was constructed of laterite with a height of 2.2 metres. The sanctuary faces East with one entrance at this side, of which the gateway pavilion is 10.8 metres wide and 19.7 metres long. It is divided into 3 rooms inside: one each in the north and south, while the other is at the centre.

Pond at Prasat Ban Noi

Outside the boundary wall lays a pond in the northeast, with a width of 15.5 metres and a length of 20.5 metres. The edge of the pond was lined with laterite and constructed into staircase steps on its 4 sides. There is water remaining inside the pond.

Ruins of Prasat Ban Noi

Inside the boundary wall in the southeastern corner stands a construction made of laterite with a width of 4.5 metres and a length of 9 metres. It is a Bannalai – a library. However, the entrance gate and the western wall of the building were all ruined. At the centre inside the boundary wall is a Prang whose base was made of laterite with a height of 1 metre. On top is a brick construction, with only northern and southern walls remaining. The middle of the Prang was excavated illegally into a large hole. At the back outside the boundary wall is a pile of bricks, while at the front of the Prang is a piece of the moonstone doorstep made of laterite. It is possibly the doorstep of the entrance to the Prang.

Moreover, at the 500 metres northwest of the Prasat Ban Noi Ancient Monument, there is a mound of an ancient monument, where there are various holes illegally excavated and scattered rectangular laterite blocks.

To get there: take Highway No. 33 (Watthana Nakhon – Aranyaprathet) from Watthana Nakhon District for 10km. At the 800 metres prior to the Phakkha Sub-district Administration Organisation, there is a direction sign on the left. Proceed for 2km along the narrow laterite road.

For further information, please contact the Phakkha Sub-district Administration Organisation at Tel. 0 3723 2289 or the Office of Archaeology and Museum 4, Prachin Buri, at Tel. 0 3721 2610.

Getting around on Ko Samet

The island has only a single road. Some parts are concrete and some parts are only a dirt trail. A pick up truck offers a passenger service to the desired beach. The fee depends on negotiation, ranging from 20-100 baht each. Chartered service to get around the island costs between 200-1,500 baht.

Attractions on Ko Samet and Nearby

Most beaches are on the eastern side of the island. The beaches hide in small bays and stretch some 200 metres. From the north, there are Hat Sai Kaeo, Hat Hin Khrong, Hat Khlong Phai, Ao Phutsa, Ao Thapthim, Ao Naun, Ao Cho, Ao Thian, Ao Wai, Ao Kio Na Yok and Ao Karang. The only beach on the western side is Ao Phrao. One of the famous beaches is Ao Wong Duean in the middle of the eastern side. This beach stretches in the shape of an almost complete circle. Both Ao Wong Duean and Hat Sai Kaeo have very fine white sand.

Ko Kruai, Ko Kham, and Ko Pla Tin

Ko Kruai, Ko Kham, and Ko Pla Tin islands are some 600 metres north of Ko Kudi. With coral reefs, tourists can enjoy fishing here. A rental boat service is available at the port in Ban Phe.

Tranquil beauty Ko Kham island of Ko Kham island

Ko Kudi

Ko Kudi or Ko Kut island is on the east of Ko Samet, six kilometres from the mainland. Ko Kudi totals an area of 63 rai. A nice beach and coral reefs make it a nice place for a hideaway. Nearby islands are Ko Thai Khangkhao and Ko Tham Ruesi. Without accommodation, the national park office on the island offers a tent for rent at 200 baht per person/ night. Pitching a private tent requires paying a fee of 20 baht per person/night. For more information, call Tel. 0 3865 3034, or in Bangkok at Tel.0 2561 2919 and 0 2561 2921.

Ko Thalu

Ko Thalu island located some 6 kilometres east of Ko Kudi.The island is another scuba diving site among coral reefs. The island totals an area of 69 rai, most remains lush forest. While high cliffs occupy the west, white sandy beaches occupy the east and south of the island. Ko Thalu is a habitat of seagulls, flying fox, and turtles.

Quiet Beach Of Ko Thalu

Tourists visiting Ko Kudi, Ko Kruai, Ko Kham, Ko PlaTin and Ko Thalu should rent a boat from Ban Phe or Ko Samet. They should prepare food and water, as there is neither facilities nor food supplies available on such islands.For more information, please contact Ireland Tour co., Ltd., Tel. 0 3865 3055-9.

Klaeng(District)

Suan Wang Kaeo Park

Suan Wang Kaeo Park is about 38 kilometres from Rayong town. The park is on the beach road, 11 kilometres from Suan Son. Forest and garden, beach and beautiful bay characterize the park. Houses, tents and bicycles are available for rent. The entrance fee is 10 baht for adults and 5 baht for children. The park opens daily from 7 a.m. till 6 p.m. For more information, please call Tel. 0 3863 8067 – 8 or 0 2259 4150 – 1.

Laem Mae Phim

Laem Mae Phim beach is without large waves, the beach is nice for swimming. Restaurants and bungalows are available along the beach. Laem Mae Phim is 48 kilometres from Rayong town. Via Sukhumvit Road, you can access the beach by turning right at kilometres 259.5, 263 and 268.

Sunthon Phu Monument

Sunthon Phu Monument was built to commemorate Sunthon Phu, a leading poet in the early Rattanakosin era, two centuries ago. There are statues of Sunthon Phu and characters from his famous literature. The monument is located on the Klaeng-Laem Mae Phim Road, five kilometres from Laem Mae Phim.

Wat Saranat Thammaram

Wat Saranat Thammaram temple is built in 1945. The temple houses a main Buddha image imitated from the famous Phra Phuttha Chinnarat in Phitsanulok province. Four major pagodas surround the Ubosot. They include Phra Pathom Chedi, Phrathat Phanom, replica of Bodh Gaya, and Phrathat Chaiya. The temple is located one kilometre off Sukhumvit Road, turn left at kilometre 265.

Mu Ko Man

Mu Ko Man comprises of three islands: Man Nai, Man Klang, and Man Nok.

Ko Man Nai island is the location of the turtle conservation station initiated by Her Majesty the Queen. The project conserves the breeding of hawksbill turtle and olive turtle. Tourists can make a visit from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Various bays are good for relaxing such as Ao Ton Makham, Ao Hin Khot Ya, Ao Kongkang, and Ao Na Ban, which have also coral reefs. Ko Man Nai is five kilometres from Laem Mae Phim. Rental boat is available at Laem Mae Phim or Ao Makham Pom. The boat trip takes 30 minutes to the island. For more information about the turtle conservation station, call Tel. 0 3861 6096 and 0 3865 7466.

Ko Man Klang and Ko Man Nok islands have beautiful beaches which make the islands a nice place to relax. Private-owned resorts are also available.

Ban Chang(District)

Hat Phayun and Hat Phla are two beautiful beach located 32 kilometres from Rayong town. Phla Beach, only three kilometres from Phayun Beach, is a quiet beach with a shady sea pine forest. Various hotels and bungalows are available for tourists.

Ban Khai(District)

Supattra Land Orchard is open for the public to witness its fruit variety such as durian, rambutan, mango, grape, star fruit and longan. During harvest season, from April to June, the orchard organises an orchard trip to explore the farm by car and enjoy fresh fruits for 30 minutes. The trip costs 120 baht each. The orchard is open daily for tourists from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Accommodation is available. For more information, call Tel. 0 3889 2048 – 9.

Khao Chamao(District)

Khao Chamao – Khao Wong National Park was established in 1975, covering an area of 52,300 rai. This lush forest with a great variety of flora and fauna is the watershed of the Prasae River. The national park has two nature trails for tourists to explore herbs and animal behaviour. The trails are two kilometres and three kilometres long, respectively. To explore the trail, registration at the tourist centre is required in advance. Admission is 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children. Houses and tents are available for tourists. Pitching a private tent costs 30 baht per person/night. For more information, please call the park at Tel. 0 3889 4378 or National Park Department in Bangkok at Tel. 0 2562 0760.

How to get there: The national park is 71 kilometres from Rayong town. Follow Sukhumvit Road and turn right at the Khao Din Intersection, kilometre 274. The national park is 17 kilometres away.

Attractions in the national park

Namtok Khao Chamao or Namtok Khlong Nam Sai is a crystal clear waterfall is one kilometre before the national park. The waterfall comprises seven levels, stretching for three kilometres. The large pond called Wang Matcha, is a habitat of brook carp.

Pha Sawan is a viewpoint located at 1.5 kilometres from the national park headquarters. On the way, visitors can explore nature. Contact the national park staff first.

Namtok Khlong Pla Kang waterfalls are three kilometres from the headquarters. Ferns and orchids grow well in this lush forest.

Namtok Khlong Hin Phoeng is a small waterfall is actually in Chanthaburi province, ten kilometers from the headquarters. Water runs all year round. Nature lovers can enjoy wild flowers around the waterfall.

Khao Wong ia a flat region surrounded by many limestone mountains. The amazing mountains have a total of 80 caves inside. This is also a habitat of mountain goat.

Krommaluang Chumphon Shrine houses the statue of Krommaluang Chumphonkhetudomsak, founder of Thailand’s modern navy. He is much honoured by the people of Rayong. Turn right at kilometre 274 off Sukhumvit Road, the shrine is 10 kilometres away.

Nikhom Phatthana(District)

Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Herbal Park is located on 60 rai of area in the maintenance centre of the PTT Public Company Limited on Highway 3191, 25 kilometres from Rayong town. The park grows various kinds of herbs as well as conducts research. Visitors are welcome everyday from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Group visitors should contact in advance at Tel.0 3868 1827 – 30.

Activities

Taphong Bike Route

Bikers can explore agro-tourism in Tambon Taphong with a homestay service. The Subdistrict Administration Organisation of Tambon Taphong offers a tour package including accommodation and meals at 400 baht per person/night. Call 0 3866 4053 for more information.

Golf

Rayong is one of Thailand favorite golf destination, where you can play golf all year round. The wonderful courses are invariably located close to Rayong’s major tourism destination, ensuring you can enjoy your golf and have a good holiday at the same time. So if you want to bring your family along, they are assured of lots of activities and interesting places to visit. There are several golf courses in Rayong.

Driving Range (Mueang Rayong )

Amazing Rayong Driving -528/4 Sukhumvit Road, Tambon Nuen Phra Tel: 0 3861 8643, 0 1313 5668

Vac-Vac Driving Range 65/5 Sukhumvit Road, Tambon Noenpra Tel: 0 3860 8008 Fax: 0 3880 7090.

V.J. Star Dust Driving Range-385/3 Sukhumvit Road, Tambon Noenpra Tel: 0 3880 7090.

Mab Kha Golf Mab Kha-Mabtapud Industrial Estate Road, Tambon Mabtapud Tel: 0 3868 1573.

Poly Golf-2/15 Sukhumvit Road, Tambon Ta Pradu Tel: 0 3865 5055.

Sri Mueang Golf- Near Sri Mueang Park, Adulyathamprapat Road Tel: 0 3861 1934.

Horse Riding (Mueang Rayong)

Slo Bunny Mae Rumphung Beach Road Tel: 0 3889 8623.

Horse Riding (Klaeng)

Orchard Park Riding Club 99/1 Moo 7, Songsalung Tel: 0 3861 7397.

Scuba Diving Service

Rayong

Rayong is one of the locations to enjoy your diving, in order to experience an underwater adventure of a lifetime. There are several diving club:

Mueang

Dive Club Rayong International Diving School Chok Dee Square, Sukhumvit Road Tel: 0 1629 6513, 0 1611 5057 www.diveclubrayong.com.

Ao Prow Resort 292/2 Moo 2 Tambon Phe, Samet Island Tel: 0 3865 1134-5 Fax: 0 3865 1962 Bangkok Office: 0 2438 9771-2 Fax: 0 2439 0352.

Klaeng

Ko Nok Resort Ko Mun Nok Tel: 0 3866 1136.
Ray Divers 267/136-7 Maptaput New City Tel: 0 3860 7480 Fax: 0 3860 7481.

Boat Rental(Mueang Rayong)

Island Tour Ko Samet-280/108 Moo 2 Ban Phe Pier Tel: 0 3865 1999, 0 3865 1351 E-mail: islandtour1999@hotmail.com Service: Speed Boat from Ban Phe and Samet Island to Islands.

The Toy Tour-236/4 Moo 3 Tambon Krum Tel: 0 3863 8146 Service: Speed Boat from Mae Phim Beach to islands.
Chok Mana Tour Tambon Phe Tel: 0 3865 1531.
Sai Kaew Villa Ko Samet Tel: 0 3861 5852-3.
Rier Leus (Mongkol Tambon Phe Tel: 0 3865 1901.
Rier Sang Samoot Tambon Phe Tel: 0 3865 1364.

Events and Festivals

Rayong Fruit Festival (Mueang Rayong)

In May of each year, Rayong’s fruit reaches its peak season. The venue for celebration is always changed between Mueang and Klaeng districts.

Rayong Fruit Festival

Tourists can enjoy floats decorated with fruits, fruit contests, beauty contests, as well as fruit and seafood fair.

Sunthon Phu Day(Mueang Rayong)

Sunthon Phu Monument

Organised on June 26 of each year at Sunthon Phu Monument, Klaeng district, to honour the great poet. Exhibitions and plays from his poetry will entertain visitors.

Changing the robe for Phra Chedi Klang Nam

The annual traditional event is held during the full moon night of the 12th lunar month, or in November. The robe blanketing around the pagoda in the middle of the Rayong River, in Mueang district, will be changed. Meanwhile, the people will celebrate the event along with the Loi Krathong Festival by boat racing and many kinds of local entertainment.

Thot Pha Pa Klang Nam (Waterborne Robe Offering Ceremony)

During the Loi Krathong Festival of each year, or on the full moon night of November, people living near the mouth of the Prasae River will prepare a monk’s robe at the pier. After completing the ceremony on the boat, a monk will come to get it. Normally, the robe offering ceremony is held at the temple. This special tradition has been inherited for over a century.

Introductions

On the east coast of Thailand, 179 kilometres from Bangkok, modest beaches dotted around Rayong province are tranquil paradises for sea lovers who wish for hideaway places near to the capital.

Mun Klang Island

Months of monsoon allow lush forest as well as fruit orchards to cool down from the heat of the day, and give produce during May of each year, so fruit lovers always travel here for various tasty fresh tropical fruits, particularly durian, rambutan and mangosteen. After the end of the monsoon season in late October, the crystal clear water of Rayong along its hundred kilometre-long coast embraces to welcome all visitors.

History

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.

King Taksin, during a short stay in Rayong he built a navy, and then went on to Chantaburi to collect his arms to fight back against the Burmese. There is a shrine in Rayong where local people pay respects to Taksin.

Maps

Click here to download Rayong-Tourist-Map.pdf

Click here to download Rayong-City-Map.pdf

Administrative Divisions

The province is subdivided in 8 districts These are further subdivided into 58 sub-districts and 388 villages.

1. Mueang Rayong
2. Ban Chang
3. Klaeng
4. Wang Chan
5. Ban Khai
6. Pluak Daeng
7. Khao Chamao
8. Nikhom Phatthana

Rayong Adminsitrative Divisionsd

Geographical Locations

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. Although the north is hilly, the province consists mostly of low coastal plains. Several islands in the Gulf of Thailand belong to the province, including the popular tourist destinations, Ko Samet, Ko Mun and Ko Kodi.

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.

Weather

The climate of Rayong is tropical with a mean temperature of 28.9° C. The best months to visit are between November and January when there are relatively cool, dry breezes from the northeast. During this winter period the temperature ranges between 19° and 30° C, with humidity of 60%. The weather is hot in February, March and April, sometimes reaching 42° and averaging 38° with 70% humidity. From late May until October the southwest monsoon prevails, bringing ferocious afternoon downpours which usually only last for an hour or so. September is the rainiest month. During monsoon season the temperature averages 32° with humidity regularly reaching 90%.

Communications

By Car
From Bangkok, driving to Rayong is very easy.

1. By Sukhumvit Road, Highway 3, you can drive via Bang Pu, Bang Pakong, Bang Saen,Si Racha, Pattaya, Sattahip, Ban Chang to Mueang district of Rayong. This route is a total of 220 kilometres.

2. By Bang Na-Trat Road, Highway 34, you can drive through Bang Phli and Bang Bo districts of Samut Prakan province before entering Highway 3 at kilometre 70 in Bang Pakong. Then continue the same direction as the first route. The route is a total of 220 kilometres.

3. By Highway 36, you can drive on the second route till kilometre 140, in Bang Lamung, and turn left to Highway 36. Rayong is 70 kilometres away. This route totals 210 kilometres.

4. By Highway 344, from Chon Buri, you can drive through Ban Bueng, Nong Yai, Wang Chan, to Klaeng district of Rayong. This route is180 kilometre in distance, suits those who are going to visit attractions in Klaeng orcontinue their journey to Chanthaburi and Trat provinces. Rayong is 42 kilometres away by Highway 3.

5. By Highway 7, from Phattanakan Road, you can drive to Chon Buri then use Highway 36 to reach Rayong. This route is a distance of 175 kilometres.

By Bus

Buses leave the Eastern Bus Terminal at Ekkamai to Rayong and its districts via many routes. You can select to go to Rayong, Ban Phe, Klaeng, Laem Mae Phim, Map Ta Phut, or Prasae. For more information, Tel. 0 2391 2504, Rayong Bus Terminal, Tel. 0 3861 1379. Rayong Tour Co,Ltd., private-owned bus, operates a faster bus service via Highway 7. For more information, Tel. 0 2712 3662 or Rayong branch at Tel. 0 3886 1354 – 5, Cherdchai Tour Co.,Ltd., Bangkok, Tel. 0 2391 2237, Rayong branch, Tel. 0 3867 4144. Buses serving Rayong are also available from the Northern Bus Terminal Tel. 0 2936 1216, 0 2936 0199.

Places of Interest

The Shrine of King Taksin the Great is located in Wat Lum Mahachai Chumphon, Taksin Road, with a huge tree of 300 years old at the front.

Statue of King Taksin

Folklore says that King Taksin the Great tied his elephant to the tree while leading the troops to Chanthaburi for retrieving the Kingdom of Siam from Burmese occupation.

The shrine houses a statue of King Taksin the Great.

How to get there: From Mueang distirct, take Sukhumvit Road for 200 metres and turn right at the Taksin intersection into Taksin Maharat Road.

Wat Pa Pradu

Wat Pa Pradu located on Sukhumvit Road in Mueang municipality, this ancient temple dates back to the Ayutthaya period. The temple was honoured as a royal temple in the year 1990. The wihan houses a large reclining Buddha image, 11.95 metres long and 3.60 metres High. Unusually, the reclining Buddha image lies on its left-hand side. The image was first built outdoor and the Wihan was built later in 1981.

Reclining Buddha of Wat Pa Pradu

How to get there: The temple is accessible by two routes. The first route: From Mueang district, take Sukhumvit Road via Rayong Hospital and Wat Pa Pradu School, then turn left into Pa Pradu Road to reach the temple. The second route: From Highway 36, bypass road, turn right to Chantha Udom Road at Ko Loi Intersection. Through Mueang district, turn right into Sukhumvit Road and follow the first route to the temple.

City Pillar Shrine

City Pillar Shrine is located on Lak Mueang Road, this shrine was first built of wood. Then it was replaced by a concrete construction with Chinese characteristics. The old city pillar was formerly in front of the shrine. A new one was later set up with a four-porched shelter. A celebration is held annually during the Songkran festival in mid – April.

Wat Ban Don Shadow Play Museum

Wat Ban Don Shadow Play Museum is located in Wat Ban Don, exhibiting a hundred Nang Yai shadow play characters, or Nang Yai, which is a large piece of leather carved and painted into different characters.

Nang Yai shadow play characters.jpg

Wat Ban Don Shadow Play Museum

Aged over 200 years, these characters were brought from Phatthalung in 1988.

Wat Ban Don Shadow Play Museum

For the Nang Yai performance, please contact 3 days in advance. Tel. 0 5087 0235, 0 9831 6053.

Phra Chedi Klang Nam

Phra Chedi Klang Nam is an island in the middle of the Rayong River, two kilometres south of downtown near the mouth of the river. A pagoda is situated on an island. It is a landmark for the crew to indicate that they are reaching Rayong province. On the full moon day of the twelfth lunar month, a celebration will be held to change the robe covering the pagoda. Boat races and the Loi Krathong Festival will be celebrated here.

Phra Chedi Klang Nam-rayong

Si Mueang Park

Si Mueang Park is called Ko Klang by the people of Rayong , this park totalling an area of 70 rai is located behind the city hall.

Si Mueang Park

Si Mueang Park

This place was once used for the execution of prisoners and now it has been rebuilt as a park for people to enjoy. At the front of the park is a famous Buddha image of Rayong, Phra Phuttha Angkhirot.

Hat Laem Charoen beach

Hat Laem Charoen beach near the mouth of the Rayong River, five kilometres south of downtown, is the nearest beach from Rayong. Tourists love to enjoy the sea and seafood for dinner at Laem Charoen Beach, which is also a famous place for its fish sauce. Hat Saeng Chan beach is some seven kilometres from Rayong town, connecting to Laem Charoen Beach. The Saeng Chan Beach is a nice sandy beach where tourists can enjoy swimming and dining. Lots of restaurants are available for selection.

Hat Mae Ramphueng – Ban Kon Ao beach

Hat Mae Ramphueng – Ban Kon Ao beach is some 11 kilometres from Rayong town. Make a right turn on Sukhumvit Road at kilometre 229 and head for Mae Ramphueng Beach which stretches for 12 kilometres.

Ban Kon Ao -beach

There are various accommodations for tourists along this clean beach. The beach road, 10 kilometres long, leads to Ban Kon Ao local fishery village.

Khao Laem Ya

Khao Laem Ya is a sea side hill. Following the beach road, a bit beyond Ban Kon Ao, one can reach the seaside hill

Khao Laem Ya beach

From the sunset viewpoint, it is possible to see Mae Ramphueng Beach and Ko Samet.

Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park

The 670 rai area is the headquarters of the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park.

Admission fee is 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children. Accommodation is available. Camping is allowed. Tents are available for rent at 300-400 baht per person/night. Pitching a private tent requires paying a fee of 20 baht per person/night. For more information, call the National Parks Headquarters at Tel. 0 3865 3034, the National Park Department at Tel. 0 2562 0760.

Rayong Aquarium

Rayong Aquarium Located in the Eastern Marine Fisheries Research and Development Centre , Ao Ban Phe.

Rayong Aquarium

The aquarium keeps various kinds of beautiful fish and sea plants. The centre conducts study, research and testing regarding marine biology and behaviors of marine life. A large aquarium with a tunnel allows visitors to see various beautiful fish as well as economic-related creatures living in the mangrove forest such as cuttlefish, crab, giant clam, and horseshoe crab.

Rayong Aquarium Glass Tunnel

The outdoor aquarium also houses various marine lives. The turtle pond houses hawksbill turtles, olive turtles, and leatherback turtles. The fish pond houses large species of fish. Visitors can witness the real underwater world in a special pond that houses starfish, anemone and sea cucumber. Various fishery tools in miniature are also displayed. The Fossil Museum exhibits stuffed and extinct animals as well as a display of rare animals such as humpback dolphin and Irrawaddy Dolphin. Seafood products are available on sale outside the building.

The Rayong Aquarium is open from Wednesday to Friday during 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and on weekends from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Group visitors should call in advance. Tel. 0 3865 3741, Fax. 0 3865 1763.

Sopha Botanical Park

Sopha Botanical Park is 32-rai park is decorated with many kinds of trees, particularly Thai flora mentioned in literature. In the compound, three traditional Thai houses on stilts of nearly 100 year old exhibit ceramics from various periods as well as prehistoric pottery from Ban Chiang World Heritage Site. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. till 4.30 p.m. except on Thursday. Admission costs 50 baht. Tel. 0 3865 1688 for more information.

How to get there: The park is located close to the road to Ban Phe, 17 kilometres from Rayong town. Turn right from Sukhumvit Road at kilometre 238 and keep going for 200 metres. The park will be on your right.

Ban Phe

Ban Phe is a small port town offers a boat service to Ko Samet. In the fish market, many shops offer local seafood products such as fish sauce, sun-dried cuttlefish, dried shrimp, etc.

Ban Phe pier on wooden stilts

Another view of Ban Phe

How to get there: Turn right off Sukhumvit Road at kilometre 231 and keep going for 5 kilometres or turn right at kilometre 238 and keep going for 3 kilometres.

Suan Son

Suan Son is just four kilometres from Ban Phe, 29 kilometres from Rayong town. Many kinds of pine along with local trees make the beach road shady.

Drink Stall at Suan Son

Beutiful beach at Suan Son beach

The nice beach of Suan Son allows visitors to enjoy swimming.

Restaurants and accommodation are available for visitors. For more information, call the National Park Department at Tel. 0 3865 2163, 0 2561 4292 – 3.

Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park

Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park is located in Ban Phe, 20 kilometres from Rayong town, the park totals an area of 81,875 rai comprising land, sea and islands. Its major attractions include Mae Ramphueng Beach, Khao Laem Ya, and Samet Archipelago. The most famous island is Samet where many private-owned bungalows are available. The park has three nature trails; namely, Ko Samet, Ko Kudi, and Khao Laem Ya. On each route, visitors can enjoy nature as well as beautiful view points.

Admission fee: adults 200 baht, children 100 baht each.

The national park offers houses and tents. Pitching your own tent costs 20 baht per person/night. For more information, call Tel. 0 3865 3034 and 0 3865 2136 or the National Park Department at Tel. 0 2562 0760.

Ko Samet

People believe Ko Samet that this is the miracle island in Thai classical literature by Sunthon Phu. Ko Samet is quite a famous beach attraction of Rayong, for both Thai and foreign tourists. The island is 6.5 kilometres offshore of Ban Phe, Mueang district. Forest remains blanketing up to 80% of the total area of 3,125 rai. Tourists should be careful of storms in the monsoon season during May to September.

Beutiful evening view of Ko Samet beach

How to get there: Four operators; namely, Nuanthip, Si Ban Phe, Phe Port, and Saphan Pla, around Ban Phe offer shuttle boat services between their ports and the main port of the island. All operators charge a flat rate of 100 baht per person for a round trip or 50 baht for a single journey. Boats can leave anytime when more than 20 passengers are waiting. The service is available around the clock, seven days a week.

For groups of at least 7 persons, Nuanthip Boat (0 3865 1508) offers a shuttle boat service to other bays as well, such as Ao Wong Duean (120 baht each) and to the last bay Ao Pakarang (200 baht each). Si Ban Phe Boat (0 3865 1902) also runs a scheduled boat service during weekends between Ban Phe and the main port of Samet. The hourly boat service from Ban Phe runs from 8.00 a.m. to 6 p.m. In the return trip from Samet, the boat leaves at 10.00 a.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. The company also offers a speed boat service at 1,000 baht a trip for 12 people to the main port, or higher rates for other routes. A parking service on the main land is available.

Wat Bang Krabao

Wat Bang Krabao is located on the Ban Sang – Bang Taen Road, Tambon Bang Krabao, about 6 kilometres from Ban Sang District Office. Luangpho Chat, a famous Buddhist monk, resides here. The highlight of this temple is the spectacular sight of thousands of bats living on the trees. Tel. 0 3727 1475.

Amphoe Si Mahosot

Ton Pho Si Maha Pho (The Great Bodhi Tree)
The country’s oldest and largest bodhi tree is located in Wat Ton Pho Si Maha Pho, Tambon Khok Pip. It was recorded that 2000 years ago, the seedling stock of this bodhi tree was brought from Buddhgaya, India. The tree is about 20 metres in circumference, 30 metres in height, and 25 metres in diameter. Legend has it that Phrachao Thawanampayadit, the ruler of Mueang Si Mahosot during the Khmer empire sent his representatives to Nakhon Patuliputra in India for a branch of the Pho tree, under which the Lord Buddha had sat during his enlightenment. Thereafter, the branch had been planted at this Wat Ton Pho Si Maha Pho. This Pho tree has been the symbol of Prachin Buri. On Visakha Puja Day, there will be a fair to commemorate this Pho tree. To get there: Situated some 22 kilometres off Prachin Buri along Suwinthawong Road. Proceed along the Prachin Buri – Phanom Sarakham route (Highway No. 319). At Km. 129 turn left for another 1 kilometre.

Luangpho Thawarawadi

Currently situated in the Wihan in front of the Si Mahosot District office, this 1.63-metre greenish sandstone Buddha image in a standing posture and giving the sermon, believed to be from the 7th -9th Century or Dvaravati Period, was discovered at the leprosy settlement, Camilo Hospital, to the south of Mueang Si Mahosot.

Sa Morakot Archaeological Site

Situated in Wat Sa Morakot, Tambon Khok Thai, this gigantic complex of Buddhist ancient monuments, lying on top of one another since the 9th – 13th Century, comprises of laterite and brick architectures – with only the bases left. The most fascinating attraction is Thailand’s largest and oldest Lord Buddha’s Footprints – like a human’s – - carved on the natural laterite floor. Also, there is the Wheel of Dhamma in the middle of both soles and a carved cross sign. At the centre features a hole for putting a pole, which is believed to be a Chatra or umbrella. These footprints are believed to date back to the Dvaravati until Lop Buri period. Next to it lies the holy well,where many Buddha images and artefacts were discovered. The water from the well was humbly offered to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej for use in the celebration of his record reign “Raja Mangala Bhisek” — the day on which he had reigned longer than any of his predecessors. Moreover, there is a rectangular pond called Sa Morakot, which is part of the Sa Morakot ancient monument featuring a laterite building surrounded by a boundary wall. The building is believed to be an ancient hospital or Arogayasala. As for Sa Morakot, it is 115 metres wide, 214 metres long, and 3.50 metres deep, with a total area of about 25 rai. It is assumed that this pond was dug as a reservoir and the laterite was used to build the architecture. Also, there are the “Sa Bua La” pond, and Si Mahosot Building – an exhibition centre on Mueang Si Mahosot ancient town, which is open daily to the public.

To get there: From Prachin Buri, proceed along Suwinthawong Road. Use Highway No. 319 (Prachin Buri – Phanom Sarakham route) for about 23 kilometres, then turn left and proceed for another 500 metres.

Si Mahosot Ancient Town

Located at Ban Khok Wat, Tambon Khok Pip, this oval or rectangular shape with round edge ancient town dates back to the Dvaravati period, covering an area of about 700 rai. Remains of the moat, mound, and more than 100 interesting ancient monuments such as various architecture, knolls, ponds, and wells are found scattered in the area. Most of the archaeological finds are related to Hinduism such as shrines, graven images, and Shiva Linga.

Relics of Si Mahosot Ancient -Town

The most important venue is the complex in the centre of town. There were Hindu shrines estimated to have been built in the 13th Century, with the base made of laterite, while the top is made of brick. A laterite well, believed to be from the 6th- 7th Century, was found behind this site. Many artefacts found were from the Lop Buri, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, and Rattanakosin Periods such as sculptures of gods and pottery.

Relics of Si Mahosot Ancient -Town

Also, there is Phukhao Thong – a round-shape stupa from the Dvaravati Period. Another venue is the Ancient Monument No. 25, a Hindu shrine with a laterite rectangular base believed to be from the 6th Century. Sa Kaeo Ancient Monument is a square pond measuring approximately 18 metres wide, dug deep into the natural laterite floor, with a stairway of 4 metres wide and some 13.60 metres long in the west leading down into the pond. It is located to the southwest of Mueang Si Mahosot.

Another view of relics of Si Mahosot Ancient -Town

On the walls of the pond, there are bas-reliefs showing animals from myths such as elephants, Makaras, lions, pig, Kinnaree, and snake. It is believed that the water from this pond is sacred, and was used in many religious ceremonies by the kings of Mueang Si Mahosot. The pond is believed to be from the 5th – 6th Century.

To get there: Located some 20 kilometres from Prachin Buri. Use Highway No. 319 and turn left at Km. 130 for Highway No. 3070. Proceed for another 1 kilometre. The ancient town with scattered architectural remains is located on the right hand side. It is accessible via many connected routes.

Si Maha Phot

Royal Handwriting Monument

Located at the Si Maha Pho Royal Handwriting Park, Tambon Nong Phrong, under the supervision of the Mueang Kao Municipality and Mueang Kao Sub-district Administration Organization, this inscription of the royal initials was made during the visit of King Rama V to Prachin Buri in 1908. The inscription was made on a laterite artefact from the Lop Buri Period, dating back to the 7th – 8th Century.

To get there: This monument is about 1.5 kilometres from Si Maha Phot District Office – - on the way to Ban Khok Khwang, just opposite the Lum Mueang entrance.

Lum Mueang

Located in Soi Thetsaban 10, Tambon Si Maha Phot, this is a place with about 48 holes or “Lum” of different sizes dug deep on laterite ground. The date of the digging is unknown. During his royal visit on 18 December, 1908, King Rama V assumed that the holes were mortars for mixing cement for architectural decoration. But some elderly believed that these holes were meant for a local game known as “Lum Mueang”.

Phan Hin Ancient Monument

Situated at Ban Khok Khwang, Tambon Nong Phrong, this large square Phan Hin ancient monument is made solely of laterite. It is 15.50 metres wide on each side, and 3.5 metres high, with 4 porches. It is assumed that the building was a shrine for the Hindu God, Vishnu, built during the 7th – 9th Century in the reign of King Jayavarman I of Chenla. The shape of a sculptural pedestal found in the centre of the ancient remains is similar to a tray or “Phan” in Thai. Therefore, the place has been called “Phan Hin” or stone tray since. In addition, a carved round laterite base was also discovered. King Rama V paid a royal visit in 1908.

To get there: It is about 1 kilometre from Si Maha Phot District Office — on the way to Khok Khwang, and then proceed for another 600 metres.

Prachantakham

Namtok Than Thip

Located at Ban Noen Hin Tang, Tambon Nong Kaeo, the waterfall runs through different rocky levels. At some point, it passes a wide rock terrace, and some points are a deep pool. People can swim here. There is a rock terrace for recreation. The left side of the stream is quite steep. The forest is still very intact contributing to tranquility and a suitable retreat.

To get there: From Prachin Buri, proceed along the Prachin Buri – Prachantakham route (Highway No. 3452), a total distance of 16 kilometres. On to Highway No. 33 and all the way to Prachantakham Intersection. Another option is to proceed along the Noen Hom Intersection, turn right onto Highway No. 33, and follow all the way to Prachantakham Intersection. Take a left turn onto Thanon Rho Pho Cho and follow all the way to Km. 9, where the Than Thip Waterfall’s entrance sign is eventually visible. Proceed for another 9 kilometres

Namtok Som Poi

Located at Ban Khao Noi, Tambon Bu Fai, this not-so-high waterfall runs through cataracts at different levels. The stream stretches some 400 metres and there are pools suitable for swimming.

To get there: From Prachin Buri, proceed along the same route as Namtok Than Thip onto Thanon Rho Pho Cho. At Km. 14, take another turn and proceed for some 2 kilometres further to the waterfall.

Namtok Takhro and Namtok Salat Dai

Located at Ban Takhro, Tambon Bu Fai, Namtok Takhro is some 500 metres from the Takhro border checkpoint. This waterfall has wide rapids and there is a suspension bridge spanning across it. The left side features a hill while the right hand side features a timber forest –a relaxing stop. There is a 2-kilometre path to the beautiful Namtok Salat Dai. Must contact a guide officer from the Safeguard Unit 10 of Khao Yai National Park, located near the Takhro Waterfall, beforehand.

Beautiful Waterfall

To get there: From Prachin Buri, proceed along the same route with Than Thip and Takhro Waterfalls onto Thanon Rho Pho Cho at Km 16.

Kabin Buri

Kabin Chaloem Rat Park

Located on the side of Highway No. 33 (Prachantakham – Kabin Buri) at Km. 206 – 207, this large park/swamp occupies an area of approximately 900 rai. During October – May, thousand of grebes migrate from Siberia. Open to the public from 6.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m.

Mueang Thong Kham Ban Bo Thong Museum

Mueang Thong Kham Ban Bo Thong Museum intended as a knowledge and cultural hub, this museum is located at Tambon Bo Thong along Highway No. 33 (Kabin Buri – Sa Kaeo route). It features history of gold mining, archives, as well as, mine-related objects such as artefacts, or local tools. Exhibitions inside displays the history of the gold mine such as underground mining, and separating the ores. Also, there are showcases displaying surveying tools, furnaces, different types of ores, ancient factory, storage ground, and a number of preserved mines like Kwan mine, Mak mine, Maduea mine, Sam-ang mine, Khi Lek mine. Tourists can learn from actual places.

Open to the public from 8.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. Closed on public holidays. For further information, contact Bo Thong Sub-district Administration Organization, Tel. 0 3746 0037.

Na Di

Thap Lan National Park

Beautiful Waterfall at Thap Lan National Park

Covering Tambon Bu Phram, Amphoe Na Di, Prachin Buri; Amphoe Pak Thong Chai, Wang Nam Khiao, Khon Buri, and Soeng Sang of Nakhon Ratchasima; and Amphoe Pakham of Buri Ram, Thap Lan National Park occupies an approximate area of 2,240 square kilometres or 1,400,000 rai. It was established as a national park on 23 December, 1981.

The attractions in the park include:

Lan Forest and Recreational Garden

This is the last piece of natural Lan or Corypha palm forest – a rare species of primitive palm – located near the Park’s office. Lan trees are in bloom only after 20 years. Their beautiful yellow blossoms will appear during April to June. They, however, die after flowering. The recreational garden, covering an area of 20 rai, is adjacent to the Thap Lan National Park’s headquarters. There are Lan trees and various plants. The atmosphere in the garden is very serene. There are gazebos and a large pond right at the centre of the garden. Besides the Lan forest, the national park is also covered with deciduous dipterocarp forest and evergreen forest of abundant flora and the habitat of wild animals, and a variety of birds.

Namtok Thap Lan or Namtok Heo Nok Kok

This beautiful waterfall is about 7 kilometres from Ban Thap Lan and 1 kilometre further on foot. Water is running only in the rainy season.

Thap Lan Reservoir

This reservoir is 1 kilometre from Ban Thap Lan. Surrounded by mountains and cool climate, this site is suitable for relaxation.

Namtok Huai Yai

Located to the west end of the Park, this large and beautiful waterfall cascades like a curtain of 50 metres high and 30 metres wide. Water is running all year round but there is no pool for swimming. To get there: Take Highway No. 304 and at Km. 79, go 6 kilometres further. The waterfall is in Amphoe Wang Nam Khiao, Nakhon Ratchasima. In the dry season, it is accessible by car.

Lam Mun Bon Dam

An earth dam of 30 metres high, this is where the Mun River takes its source – the Thap Lan forest. A scenic view of the reservoir is available from the dam’s crest.

Hat Chom Tawan

A 300-metre beach by Lam Plai Mat Dam. Rental boats are available for a tour around it.At present, no accommodation is available in the Park. Tourists need to bring their own tents. A fee of 30 Baht will be charged per night. For more details, contact the Thap Lan National Park at No. 520, Mu 1, Tambon Bu Phram, Amphoe Na Di, Prachin Buri, post code 25220, Tel. 0 3721 9408 or National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkok, Tel. 0 2562 0760.

To get there: From Kabin Buri, use Highway No. 304 (Kabin Buri -Nakhon Ratchasima route) for 32 kilometres. The Park is 90 kilometres from Prachin Buri and 107 kilometres from Nakhon Ratchasima. The Park’s headquarters is located on the Highway’s roadside.

Kaeng Hin Phoeng

Located at Tambon Saphan Hin, these beautiful and large rapids are in the Sai Yai River. This area is under the responsibility of the Khao Yai National Park Unit 9 (Sai Yai), Amphoe Na Di. It is most popular for the challenging and enjoyable whitewater rafting during the rainy season (July-November) — the water is very vigorous and flows through different cataracts. After the rainy months, Kaeng Hin Phoeng becomes a large rock terrace. Tourists pass six rapids: Kaeng Hin Phoeng, Kaeng Wang Nam Lom, Kaeng Wang Bon, Kaeng Luksuea, Kaeng Wang Sai, and Kaeng Ngu Hao. A rubber dinghy can take up to 8-10 people and drifts along the Sai Yai River. Tour operators will take tourists to Khao Yai National Park Unit 9 (Sai Yai) and walk 2.5 kilometres to the source. The trip takes about 45 minutes. Then, the rafting starts taking approximately 20 minutes until reaching the end of the journey at Unit 9. Tourists can contact tour agents for whitewater rafting, camping overnight, and resort facilities in Amphoe Na Di.

To get there: Proceed along the Kabin Buri – Nakhon Ratchasima route (Highway No. 304). At Km. 11, go 25 kilometres further. Park at the Park Unit 9, and walk for another 45 minutes.

Suan Nongnuch Camping Resort

It is located at Ban Thung Pho. From Bangkok, take the Rangsit -Ongkharak route via Nakhon Nayok. Turn right onto Highway No. 33 to Kabin Buri Intersection and, then, take a left turn onto Highway No. 304. At Km. 22, you will see the Suan Nongnuch sign. The trip takes about 2 hours. Occupying an area of approximately 2,000 rai, Suan Nongnuch Camping Resort, filled with a variety of flowering plants and exotic gardens, is adjacent to Khao Yai National Park. Many outdoor activities are available for tourists as well.

Admission fees for adults and children are 40 and 20 Baht, respectively. Operating hours are from 6.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m., Tel. 0 3740 1371.

Activities

Many trekking routes are available as follows:

Trekking in Thap Lan National Park

Scenic beauty at Thap Lan National Park

Covering the area of Amphoe Na Di of Prachin Buri, Amphoe Wang Nam Khiao, Amphoe Pak Thong Chai, Amphoe Khon Buri, and Amphoe Soeng Sang of Nakhon Ratchasima, as well as Amphoe Pakham of Buri Ram. Many trekking routes are available such as the Huai Kham Phu, Tambon Kaeng Dinso – Khao Thung. The total distance is 32 kilometres (return) and takes 2 days. Along the route, tourists will see flora like ferns, orchids, field of Kradum Ngoen (Eriocaulon spp.), and fauna such as banteng, Asiatic wild dog, Asiatic black bear, guar, and tiger. Also, there are strange yet beautiful looking stones, reminiscent of a train (Rotfai). Other routes include Heo Nok Kok Waterfall, Huai Yai Waterfall, Thung Tu Rotfai, and Lam Plai Mat Dam. For more details, contact Thap Lan National Park 2 days in advance at P.O. Box 37, Kabin Buri Post Office, Prachin Buri 25110, Tel. 0 3721 9408.

Khao Samo Pun Route

Located in Amphoe Mueang and Amphoe Prachantakham, a total distance of 30 kilometres, which takes about 3 – 4 days. Tourists can choose many starting and finishing points such as Khao Yai National Park Safeguard Unit 12 (Noen Hom), Unit 11, (Khlong Pheka), or Unit 10 (Prachantakham) or use the route to Khao Khiao. Major tourist attractions include Thung Na Pha, Thung Phrommachan, Lan Suriyan, Thung Hin Pratu Mueang, field of ferns, field of wild flowers, as well as waterfalls such as Namtok Hin Tat, Namtok Bang-oen, and Namtok Heo I Am along the route.

Namtok Som Poi -Tat Hin Yao – Thung Ngu Lueam Route

Starting from Namtok Som Poi, Tambon Bu Fai, Amphoe Prachantakham, to Namtok Sai Khu, Namtok Kaeng Kritsana, Tat Hin Yao, Thung Na Prang, and Thung Ngu Lueam, a total distance of 10 kilometres, which takes 2 – 3 days for a round trip. If choosing to go via Thung Hin Lek Fai to Namtok Heo I Am, the distance will be 15 kilometres, with a duration of 3 days.

Namtok Takhro – Namtok Heo Chakkachan Route

A short route starting from Khao Yai National Park Safeguard Unit 10 (Prachantakham) to Namtok Takhro, and across the suspension bridge to Namtok Salat Dai. The route ends at Heo Chakkachan Waterfall, a total distance of 6 kilometres, with a duration of 2 days and 1 night.

Khao Yai National Park Safeguard Unit 10 Route (Prachantakham – Namtok Fong Sabu)

AThe route starts from Khao Yai National Park Safeguard Unit 10 and walk uphill, via Khlong Takhian Phrong, to Namtok Fong Sabu. On the return trip, stop by to visit Namtok Heo Ta Khon Dam, a total distance of 12 kilometres, with a duration of 2 days.

Namtok Takhro – Namtok Wang Heo – Sai Yai Route

Start from Khao Yai National Park Safeguard Unit 10 and head northeast to the beautiful Namtok Wang Heo. Stop by to visit the dinosaur footprints. On the returning route, pass Kaeng Hin Poeng at Khao Yai National Park Safeguard Unit 9 (Sai Yai), Amphoe Na Di , Prachin Buri. The total distance is about 25 kilometres, with a duration of 3 – 4 days. For further details, please contact Khao Yai National Park Safeguard Unit 10, Amphoe Prachantakham, Prachin Buri.

Events and festivals

May / June
Fruit Festival Held in May / June, this festival has a fruit and agricultural produce fair. There are exhibitions and competitions of fruit and vegetables, as well as demonstrations of various agricultural activities.

September
Long-boat Racing Held in September on the Bangpakong River.Various categories of long-boats compete for the Princess’ Cup.

Makha Purami Si Prachin Festival takes place yearly on Makha Puja Day at Wat Sa Morakot, Amphoe Si Mahosot. In the event, both monks and the public will practice meditation, as well as, pay respect and participate in the candle light ceremony around the biggest and the most ancient Buddha’s Footprints in Thailand with lighted candles, incense and flowers.

The Bang Fai Sky Rocket Festival is organized annually on Visakha Puja Day at Wat Ton Pho Si Maha Pho, Amphoe Si Mahosot. There is the lighting of the Bang Fai sky rocket, the competition of Soeng Traditional Dance in the Sky Rocket Procession, as well as, performances celebrating the event.

Agriculture and Well-known Products of Prachin Buri Fair happens approximately during May-June every year in front of the city hall. In the fair, there are fruits and agricultural product market, fruits and vegetable contests, agricultural competition and demonstration, exhibitions by various authorities, as well as, competition of agricultural vehicles and entertainment celebrating the event.

Whitewater Rafting at Kaeng Hin Phoeng Week is organized annually around August-September at the 9th Safeguard Unit, Khao Yai National Park, Amphoe Na Di. In the event, there is a rafting competition and an economical whitewater rafting at Kaeng Hin Phoeng.

Traditional Long Boat Races takes place during the second week of September every year on the Bang Pakong River, in front of the Mueang District Administration Office. There are both traditional long and local boats competing to win Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Cup.

Loi Krathong Festival is organized on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month at the edge of the dam next to the conference hall of the Mueang District Administration Office. There is the Nang Nopphamat Beauty Contest, Krathong procession contest, students’ performances, as well as, performances celebrating the festival.

Lights on Loi Krathong Festival

Loy Krathong is as old as Thai heritage and represents a close bond between Thai culture and water. The festival takes place on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month when the water level is high and the climate is cooler. Participants ask water spirits to sail away their troubles in their krathongs, which are containers traditionally made from banana leaves and carrying offerings of incense, lotus flowers and small money.
The festival of Loy Krathong is a time to pay our respects to the Goddess of Water by floating candles and joss-sticks.

Introduction

“A City of the Sacred Bodhi Tree, Sweet Bamboo Shoots, Tasty Fruits and Ancient Remains of Dvaravati Towns”

In the old days, Prachin Buri had a long history of civilization of about 800 years ago, since the Dvaravati period. The ruined town of Muang Si Mahosot at Tambon Khokpip, Amphoe Mahosot was discovered. At Ban Khok Kwang, Amphoe Si Mahosot, east to Mueang Si Mahosot, there was an ancient community at the same period as Muang Si Mahosot.

Through the traces of the ancient towns, there were discoveries of historical venues that were used for religious purposes and historic materials such as Buddha images, earthenware, and pottery.

Stone Statues of Buddha belonging to Dvaravati period found in Prachinburi Province

It was also recorded that the center of civilization has been moved to the present coast of the Bang Pakong River. There were many administration alterations, from town to Monthon, and Changwat (Province) at present.

Prachinburi is located some 134 kilometers from Bangkok. It occupies an area of 11,957.5 square kilometers and is administratively divided into seven Amphoes.

History

History of Prachinburi is closely associated with Dvaravati period which dates back to about 800 years. Prachinburi’s history is of the evidence that the ruined town of”Muang Sri Mahosot at Tambon Khokpip, Amphoe Sri Mahosot was discovered. At Ban Khok kwang, Amphoe Sri Mahosot, east to Muang Sri Mahosot, there was an ancient community as the same period as Muang Sri Mahosot.

History and culture of Prachinburi is of great importance to the archaeologists and anthropologists since there have been the discoveries of the ancient towns, there were also the discoveries of the historical venues that were used for religious purposes and historic materials such as Buddha images, earthen wares, and pottery.

These historical attractions are very important when it comes to the history of Prachinburi and a tourist must know these interesting facts before exploring the beautiful province of Prachinburi. In the temple Wat Si Maha Phot there is a provincial seal that displays a Bodhi tree and it is the first Bodhi tree that has been planted about 2000 years ago. All these historical attractions in Prachinburi are simply going to make to make the vacations of a guest to Prachinburi simply amazing and worth it. The history of Prachinburi shows that these colors are red and yellow – red stands for the land, and yellow for Buddhism.

Provincial tree is the Bodhi tree (Ficus religiosa); provincial flower is the Cork Tree (Millingtonia hortensis). It was also kept notice that the center of civilization has been moved to the present coast of the Bang Pakong River. There were many administrative alterations, from town to Monton and Changwat (Province) till the present date. All these facts of the history of Prachinburi reflects that this region was rich in the culture and civilization.

Maps

Click here to download Prachinburi-tourist-map.pdf

Click here to download Prachinburi-city-map.pdf

Administrative Divisions

1. Mueang Prachinburi
2. Kabin Buri
3. Na Di
6. Ban Sang
7. Prachantakham
8. Si Maha Phot
9. Si Mahosot

Prachinburi Administrative Divisions

Geographical Locations

In general, Prachin Buri has plain areas and highlands. There are hills and mountains in the north adjacent to Dong Phaya Yen Mountain ranges. In the south and east, there are plains and forests. Low-lying plains suitable for agriculture are in the west of the province.

The province is divided into two major parts, the low river valley of the Prachin Buri River, and the higher lands with plateaus and mountains of the Dong Phaya Yen mountains. In those areas are also two national parks, Khao Yai and the Tab Larn National Park.

Weather

Prachin Buri has an alternative climate of both dry and damp. Tropical rain in the southeast monsoon season causes damp and rain throughout the season. Northwestern wind in cool season causes dryness. There are 3 different seasons: rainy, during June October ; cool, during November – February; and dry, during March – May. The average temperature of the year is approximately 27 – 30 degree Celsius or 83 – 88 degrees Fahrenheit.

Communications

By Car

Prachin Buri is accessible via many routes from Bangkok:
1. Travel along Phahonyothin Road to Rangsit, and keep left to use the overpass.Change to Highway No. 305. Drive along Khlong Rangsit through Amphoe Ongkharak, Nakhon Nayok. Change to Highway No. 33 (Nakhon Nayok – Prachin Buri Route), and turn right at Nong Cha-om T-junction at Km 155. Then, change to Highway No. 319 before reaching Prachin Buri. The total distance is about 132 km. Or use Highway No. 33 and turn right at the roundabout near the King Naresuan the Great Shrine. The total distance is 136 km.

2. Travel along Highway No. 1, pass Amphoe Wang Noi, Ayutthaya. Turn right at Km 90, and change to Highway No. 33. Travel through Amphoe Wihan Daeng, Saraburi, and Amphoe Mueang, Nakhon Nayok. Turn right at Nong Cha-om T-junction at Km 155. Then, change to Highway No. 319 before reaching Prachin Buri. The total distance is 164 km.

3. Travel along Highway No. 304 through Amphoe Mueang, Chachoengsao, and Amphoe Phanom Sarakham. Then, change to Highway No. 319 and go through Amphoe Si Mahosot before reaching Prachin Buri. The total distance is 158 km.

4. Travel along Highway No. 3481 at Khet Nong Chok and pass through Amphoe Bang Nam Priao, Chachoengsao, and Amphoe Ban Sang, Prachin Buri. The total distance is 70 km.

By Bus

The Transport Company Limited provides buses from the Bangkok (Northeastern) Bus Terminal on Kamphaeng Phet Road (Mo Chit 2) to Prachin Buri many times daily, taking about 2 hours to get to the province. For further information, contact the Transport Company Limited, Tel. 0 2936 2852-66, 0 2936 3670, 0 2936 2816 (reservation) or visit www.transport.co.th. The Prachin Buri Provincial Bus Terminal, Tel. 0 3721 1292.

Buses travel via these two main routes:

1. Bangkok – Hin Kong – Nakhon Nayok – Prachin Buri route: The first-class and second-class air-conditioned buses No. 58 and 59, cost Baht 110 and 85, respectively. The first trip from Bangkok leaves at 4.50 a.m. and the last trip leaves at 9.00 p.m. Buses depart every 30 minutes.

2. Bangkok – Ongkharak – Nakhon Nayok – Prachin Buri route: The first-class and second-class air-conditioned buses No. 920, cost Baht 92 and 71, respectively. The first trip from Bangkok leaves at 5.25 a.m. and the last trip leaves at 6.25 p.m.

By Train

A train service between Bangkok and Prachin Buri is available 4 times daily: 5.55 a.m., 8.00 a.m., 9.40 a.m., and 3.25 p.m. Trains depart Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong) at 5.55 a.m. and arrive in Prachin Buri at 8.55 a.m., while another departs at 8.00 a.m. and arrives in Prachin Buri at 10.41 a.m. For further details, please contact the Travelling Service Unit, Bangkok Railway Station, at Tel. 1690 or 0 2220 4334, 0 2220 4444.

Places of Interest

Mueang Prachinburi(administrative division)

King Naresuan the Great

Located at Noen Hom Intersection, Tambon Ban Phra, 9 kilometres north of Prachin Buri by Highway No. 320, the roundabout of King Naresuan the Great Shrine is on the right hand side. Another route is from Nakhon Nayok by Highway No. 33 at Km 158. The shrine houses a standing statue of King Naresuan the Great to commemorate his camping at Prachin Buri on the way from Ayutthaya to Cambodia in 1589. People in Prachin Buri and nearby provinces normally come to pay respect.

Adjacent to the King Naresuan the Great Shrine (towards Sa Kaeo province), this museum houses prehistoric archaeological finds, various artefacts and art objects from neighbouring countries, as well as, reproduction of antiquities. There are about 900 pieces of these archaeological objects such as bronze bangles, pottery, ceramics, Buddha images in various positions, Thai coins, ancient coins from the neighbouring countries, spur disc supports, etc.
Open daily (including holidays) from 8.30 a.m.- 4.00 p.m.

2nd Infantry Division, Queen’s Guard

Located at the Phomyothee Camp, Tambon Ban Phra, this Queen’s Guard Unit offers many activities such as golfing, horse riding, and shooting. For further information, the 9-hole golf course, Tel. 0 3747 1439 ext. 7032. The horse-riding club, 30th Cavalry Battalion, Phomyothee Camp, is located along Highway No. 320 at Km. 159. Open daily from 7.00 – 9.00 a.m. and 4.00. – 6.00 p.m. It offers a 20-hour basic riding course. Contact Tel. 0 6394 1619, 0 3747 1190 or www. geocities/ Phomyothee. The shooting club offers a shooting range for pistol and rifle (to both members and non-members).
Open daily from 8.00 a.m.- 4.30 p.m., Tel. 0 6536 2279. For further details, contact Civilian Affairs, Tel. 0 3721 1439 ext. 63315.

Yusuksuwan Museum ( Lamps Museum)

Yusuksuwan Museum prachinburi

The museum is in the Forestry garden 6 kilometers from Prachinburi City Hall. In the Yusuksuwan Museum are the collections of lamps hanging from the ceilings, decorating shopping and parking areas even the rest rooms.

The Yusuksuwan Museum is comprised of five buildings.

Rachawadee building, has two floors. The exhibition on the first floor is the collection of ancient silverware, brassware, pottery, irons, kerosene refrigerators and kerosene fans.The second floor is a show room for the collections of pressure lamps, ship lamps and the lamps for slide projectors. The components of the lamps are displayed in details for visitors to study.

Leelawadee building is a twin building of six rooms. On the first floor is Ratchapruk Room. Ancient crockery, ceramic trays, pots and lemonade bottles are shown in this room. The next room is Chaiyapruk Room for the exhibition of brassware, betel trays, bronze bowls, kerosene stoves, oil lamps. Also on this floor is Kalapapruk Room. The collections of bicycles and motorcycles are exhibited in this room.

On the second floor of this building is Tong-gwaw Room. Children can see many kinds of toys displayed in this room.

Yusuksuwan Museum-toys

Tonglang Room on this floor is an exhibition of small Buddha images. Tongphanchang Room exhibits the collections of scales and measurers of all sizes. Chuanchom building, has one floor. It displays the pictures of prachinburi in the old days. Among the pictures of great value is the picture of our beloved King visiting Wat Kaewpichit, Prachinburi. The collections of old newspapers , cartoons, stamps, books and lottery are also displayed in this building.

Chow Payu building, is designed and constructed in the room form of a pressure lamp, 13 meters high. Visitors can see the scenery around the museum from the top of this building. Apart from the collections of valuable things, pleasant surroundings are waiting for visitors to enjoy, including fish ponds, large bird cages, peacocks, turtle and also crocodile ponds.

The inner most of the museum is the boat-house. Many kinds of boats, including a dugout are shown here.

Yusuksuwan Museum-bamboo-hut

There is also a bamboo house in the area. The house was built without nails and wire. Thai tools for living in the old days are displayed in the house, too.

Open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 6.00 p.m. Admission fees for adults and children are 60 and 30 Baht, respectively. For further information, Tel. 0 3721 1345.

Wat Kaeo Phichit

The temple is located on the right bank of the Bang Pakong River, Thanon Kaeo Phichit, Tambon Na Mueang, Prachin Buri, 2 kilometres east of the town. Being the very first Dhammayutika Buddhist temple in Prachin Buri, it was built in 1879 by a Prachin Buri millionaire who was a wife of Khun Pramunphakdi.

Wat Kaeo Phichit and the Golden Buddha

In 1918, Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr (Chum Aphaiwong) constructed a new ordination hall (Phra Ubosot) to replace the old dilapidated one. The unique characteristic of this hall is the combination between the Thai, Chinese, European, and Cambodian art. The principal Buddha image, built in 1919 by Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr, was granted the name “Luangpho Aphaiwong” or “Luangpho Aphai” by King Rama V to commemorate Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr himself. The Phra Ubosot houses fabric banners with religious paintings such as the Ten Jatakas by the royal artists of King Rama VI. The exterior showcases the Ramayana stucco reliefs. Certain religious riddles were introduced by Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr – - a clock that never tells noon or exact time at the entrance archway, or the single lion at the window (a governing riddle). In front of the Phra Ubosot houses a concrete building – the Dhamma School – with a dome-shaped stupa in the Greek or Roman style. Moreover, within the compound, the temple also features a Holy Scriptures library, and 3 – facet pavilion (Sala) at the pier with a shady environment.

Open at 8.30 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. For further information, Tel. 0 3721 2795, 0 1481 1740, 0 1650 0327.

Prachin Buri Cultural Centre

Situated on the bank of the Bang Pakong River, Prachin Anuson Road, near the District Auditorium, this centre was built by Phra Prichakonlakan (Sam-ang Amattayakun) in the reign of King Rama V. Its architecture is a mixture of the Thai and western style. After having undergone renovation and been registered as an ancient monument by the Department of Fine Arts, it is currently the Prachin Buri Cultural and Red Cross Offices.

Prachin Buri National Museum

Located some 200 metres behind the City Hall, this archaeological museum displays artefacts discovered within the eastern region and neighbouring provinces like Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Nakhon Nayok, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Chanthaburi, Trat, and Rayong. The museum mostly displays important artefacts discovered from the ancient city of Mueang Si Mahosot.

A view of Prachin Buri National Museum

There are two zones; downstairs displays the archaeology of Prachin Buri, Nakhon Nayok, and special exhibitions. While upstairs displays the archaeology of Thailand, prehistory of the Eastern region, celadon found under water from Ko Khram, Chon Buri. The museum displays important artefacts discovered from ancient cities in the Dvaravati Period such as Buddha images, Hindu statues, Shiva Linga – Hindu phallic symbol of creative power, lintel, and bronze tools. Thai arts in various periods since the prehistoric until Rattanakosin period (King Rama V) are also displayed for comparative study. Moreover, temporary exhibitions on special occasions have been on display.

The museum service hours are Wednesday -Friday, and holidays, 9.00 a.m – 4.00 p.m. Closed on Monday and Tuesday. The admission fee is Baht 30. More details are available at Tel: 0 3721 1586.

Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr Building

The building is located 2.5 km. from town in the Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital on Prachin Anuson Road (Highway No. 3069). Its architecture is a 2-storey Renaissance building with the front porch featuring a central dome. Stucco reliefs in a floral design ornate the outside walls, doors and windows. The inside is decorated in a Western style. It was constructed by the personal budget of Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr in 1909 as a residence for King Rama V on his next royal visit to Prachin Buri. Unfortunately, His Majesty passed away in 1910. King Rama VI and his family stayed here instead during his royal visit in 1912. It can be seen that the owner never did stay in this building at all. The building used to serve as the administrative office of the hospital. While downstairs featured the examination room, medicine room and operating room, upstairs served as the women’s ward. It was in full operation until 1969 when the present administrative office was completed. In 1990, the Department of Fine Arts registered the Chaophya Abhaibhubejhr Building as an ancient monument. It was officially opened on 24 June, 1996, as the Abhaibhubejhr Thai Traditional Medicine Museum, the centre for collection of Thai traditional books, herbs, medicine, and local medicine. It is also a study centre for research and dissemination of knowledge on the local’s lifestyle related to local herbs and medicine. Downstairs features the building’s history, Thai traditional books, Thai medicine, local medicine, as well as, samples of ancient Thai medical tools like the medicine cabinet, herb grinder, slate, and sorcerer’s knife. While upstairs features Thai folded books, medicine books, and grinding stones from Dvaravati period.

Open daily from 8.30 a.m.-5.00 p.m

Sa-nga Ngam

This temple is located in Tambon Bang Boribun. To get there, proceed along Highway No. 3069 and at Km. 7, go 1 km further. Wat Sa-nga Ngam was granted consecrated boundaries on 10 April, 1917, and the Ubosot, where devoted Buddhists duck under and pass through it for good luck and pray to recover from their illnesses, was officially constructed on 12 March, 1971. Since the temple ground was likely to be flooded, a problem for monks in performing their ceremonies, during July – August of every year, the whole Ubosot was lifted and underwent major renovation on 15 February, 2002. This was when the ducking ritual and gilding the statue of Luangpu Phio, a former abbot (Phrakhru Silawisutthachan), began. It was subsequently spread by word of mouth.

For further information, Tel. 0 3721 4490, 0 6097 5803.

Wat Bot

Located in Tambon Wat Bot, the temple is on the west of town. It was built in 1278 on the bank of the Prachin Buri or Bang Pakong River and covers an area of 45 rai. There are 3 Buddha images along the bank; namely, Phra Siri Mongkhon Nimit (the walking Buddha), Phra Sapphasitthi Nawa (the Buddha sitting in the European style), and Phra Maha Chinasaiyat (the reclining Buddha). The temple is peaceful and shady.

To get there: Proceed along Thetsaban Damri Road to Suwinthawong Road Intersection (Highway No. 319). Change to Highway No. 3071 and proceed for another 4 km.

Bamboo Garden

Supervised by the Department of Corrections, the garden is located in Tambon Noen Hom with an area of about 300 rai. It has a wide collection of bamboo species for research and breeding. One area is allocated as a training centre – cut bamboo, growing vegetables, building furniture – for good behaviour inmates. Various young bamboo plants are available for sale on the roadside in front of the garden.
Operating hours are between 8.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m., Tel. 0 3721 9904, Fax. 0 3721 2661.

To get there: From Highway No. 33, turn left at Noen Hom Intersection (King Naresuan the Great Shrine Circle). Proceed along Highway No. 3077 (Noen Hom – Khao Yai route) for 10 kilometres (the same route to Khao Yai National Park) or 20 kilometres from town.

Namtok Heo Narok

Located on the Prachin Buri – Khao Yai route, Namtok Heo Narok is part of Khao Yai National Park, which covers the area of Prachin Buri, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Saraburi provinces. It is a gigantic and beautiful waterfall 60 metres in height and a steep cliff. The water, running to the valley down below, is very vigorous during the rainy months. It can be reached by a 1 km. trekking trail. There is a path from the upper level down to the lower level for a better and more beautiful view. To get there: Proceed from Prachin Buri via Suwannason Road to Noen Hom Intersection (King Naresuan the Great Shrine Circle). Turn left to Highway No. 3077. At Km. 21-22, turn right and proceed for another 40 km. to the waterfall.

Chakkraphong Dam

The reservoir is an earth dam of 16.50 metres high and 740 metres long. From the entrance to the dam on the left, there is an 11-kilometre road up to the top of the mountain for viewing the scenic atmosphere. At Km. 7-8, there is a 150-metre long wonder hill. If you stop your car and leave it in neutral gear, the car seems to run up hill because of illusions affected by the surroundings.

To get there: From Noen Hom Intersection, turn right to Highway No. 33 for about 3 kilometres, turn left at the sign to the dam, between Km. 160-161, for about 2 kilometers.

Namtok Than Rattana

TLocated in Tambon Noen Hom, about 100 metres from Noen Hom – Khao Yai route (Highway No. 3077) at Km. 16 and some 25 kilometres from Mueang Prachin Buri District Office. This waterfall, running through the valley, has plenty of water during the rainy season

Namtok Khao Ito
This not-so-high waterfall in Tambon Ban Phra is a popular tourist attraction, which runs through rocks at different levels. Surroundings are full of timber forests. There is plenty of water only in the rainy season. The waterfall is on the same route to the Chakkraphong Dam but is 1 kilometre further.

Introduction

Chonburi is a province of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi and Rayong. To the west is the Gulf of Thailand. The eastern seaboard is heavily industrialized and underpinned by shipping, transportation, tourism, and manufacturing industries, and second to only Bangkok in economic output.

History

From historical evidence, Mueang Chonburi has been settled since the Ayutthaya period. Originally, it comprised many small towns such as Mueang Bang Sai, Mueang Bang Pla Soi, and Mueang Bang Phra. Later, King Rama V combined these towns together into Chonburi Province.

The history of Chonburi is primarily related to the agrarian economic conditions since the land was fertile and meant for the agricultural purposes. It was until the period upto 1960 that Chonburi was a fishing village and it was during the Vietnam War that the American paramilitary troops found convenient base and that it became a popular location and gradually started growing as a tourist destination.

Archeological discoveries made in 1979 at Pha-Na Nichom district reveal that there were active settlements and communities in Chon Buri over 2,000 years ago. Tales from Thai folklore include references to the prosperity of Sri Pha-Ro, which was a center for sea trade during the Ayutthaya period. However, towards the end of the Ayutthaya period and throughout the Lopburi era the towns became uninhabited. There was a revival during the Rattanakosin era and later, during the reign of King Rama VI, a naval base was established in Sattahip.

Administrative divisions

The province is subdivided in 11 districts (amphoe). These are further subdivided into 92 subdistricts (tambon) and 691 villages (muban), and one special administrative area, Pattaya.

1. Mueang Chonburi
2. Ban Bueng
3. Nong Yai
4. Bang Lamung
5. Phan Thong
6. Phanat Nikhom
7. Si Racha
8. Ko Sichang
9. Sattahip
10. Bo Thong
11. Ko Chan

Geographical Locations

Chonburi province, approximately 80 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, is part of a narrow coastal plain lying between the Damrek range of hills to the northeast and the Gulf of Thailand to the south.

Drained by the Bang Pakong river, Chonburi, like much of central and southeastern Thailand, was formed by alluvial deposits laid down over millions of years.

Nine thousand years ago, when sea level was 100 meters below its present height, this part of Thailand was a low-lying flatland that stretched hundreds of kilometers beyond the present coastline. Then sea levels rose until they were several meters higher than they are today, and 5,000 years ago what is now South East and Central Thailand was a shallow sea as far north as Ayutthaya, 76 kilometers north of Bangkok.

As recently as a century ago most low lying areas of Chonburi province were natural swamps, marshlands and mangrove forests, and travel by boat was the only feasible method of transport, particularly during the monsoon floods. Today canals siphon off the excess water allowing cultivation of rice, tapioca, cassava, coconut and sugar cane. Hilly areas, once covered with thick forest, have been nearly completely denuded by logging, or cleared to make way for fruit orchards.

Communications

By Car
There are many routes from Bangkok to Chon Buri as follows:
Take Highway No. 34, Bang Na-Trat to Chon Buri.
Take Highway No. 304, Bangkok-Min Buri, passing Chachoengsao province-Bang Pakong into Chon Buri.
Take the old route of Sukhumvit Road, Highway No. 3, passing Samut Prakan province to the intersection of Bang Pakong District. Enter Highway No. 34 to Chon Buri.
Take the Motorway, Bangkok-Chon Buri-Pattaya. Tel. 1193, 0 3839 2001.

By Bus
From the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai), there are many air-conditioned buses to Chon Buri from 5.30AM-9PM every 40 minutes, Tel. 0 2391 9829. Also, the second-class air-conditioned buses are provided from 5.30AM-9PM every 30 minutes. Tel. 0 2391 2504. Non air-conditioned buses leave Ekkamai every 30 minutes from 5AM-9PM. Tel. 0 2391 2504. Otherwise, there are also air-conditioned buses leaving the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Mochit 2). Air-conditioned buses take the Motorway from 6.30AM-6.30PM. Tel. 0 2936 2852-66 or www.transport.co.th.

Additionally, there are private buses departing from the Southern Bus Terminal. Air-conditioned buses to Pattaya run daily along the Bang Na-Trat route and stop at the Rot Rungrueng Company Limted’s air-conditioned bus terminal on Pattaya Nuea Road. They leave from 5.30AM–6.30PM every 2 hours. Tel. 0 2884 5582 or Pattaya Branch at Tel. 0 3842 9877.

By Train
From Hua Lamphong Railway Station, there is 1 daily train running to Phlu Ta Luang Railway Station in Chon Buri. For further information, please Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4444, 0 2222 4334 or www.railway.co.th.

By Air
There is no direct flight from Bangkok to Pattaya, but Bangkok Airways has daily flights from Bangkok to Samui and one flight each day from Samui to Utapao airport, which is 40 minutes by bus from Pattaya.

Climate

The tropical climate of Chonburi (mean temperature 29.1? C) is moderated by the monsoons and by it’s maritime location. From November to February the dry season brings cooler temperatures followed by a hot intermonsoonal period extending into May. In June the southwest monsoon sends humid air across the Indian Ocean and the Malay peninsula. The hot air masses pick up additional moisture as they cross the Gulf of Thailand and Chonburi province is subject to sudden, violent rainstorms, often in the early afternoon. The cooling rains, which can make the area quite humid, peak in September then taper off in October.

Places of Interest

Chon Buri

Wat Khao Phra Phutthabat Bang Sai
Wat Khao Phra Phutthabat Bang Sai is on the left side of Sukhumvit Road a slightly prior to Mueang Chon Buri. Originally, there was an ancient Ayutthayan temple at the foot of the hill but it was later ruined. Later, Phraya Phichitchonlakhet, the administrator of Mueang Chon Buri had Wat Phra Phutthabat Bang Sai re-constructed during the reign of King Rama V. Inside the Mondop–a square building with a crown-like cupola- resides the Buddha’s footprint. Moreover, there is a small building on the summit of the mountain housing a Buddha image in the reclining posture. At the foot of the hill, there are many constructions in European style of the King Rama V period. From the end of the fourth lunar month to the second day of the fifth month during the period of the waxing moon, there is a tradition that people will proceed up the hill to pay respect to the Buddha’s footprint. Moreover, there is a Takbat Thewo, alms-giving ceremony at the end of the Buddhist Lent.

Wat Yai Inthraram
Wat Yai Inthraram is located on Chet Chamnong Road, Mueang Chon Buri, it is an ancient and significant temple of Mueang Chon Buri, influenced by the late Ayutthayan architectural style.

The Ubosot was built in its Gunwale Curve base and inside displays very beautiful mural paintings. Above the windows’ edge are the pictures of the gathering of angels.

On both of the side walls are paintings depicting the Thotsachat, or the Ten Births (Jatakas) of the Lord Buddha, and the story of Prince Vessantara. Moreover, there is a wooden tri-facade pavilion, where a bronze-cast bejewelled Buddha image called Luangpho Choei resides.

Phra Phutthasihing Shrine
Phra Phutthasihing Shrine is situated on Wachiraprakan Road., about 500 metres from the city hall. The shrine houses a replica of the Phra Phutthasihing cast in pure silver. An extremely beautiful icon, it is highly revered by townspeople. Open daily from 8.00 a.m.-4.00 p.m

During the Songkran Festival, there is a procession of the Phra Phutthasihing image around the town to provide an opportunity for the people to conduct a water-pouring ceremony onto the Buddha image for good luck.

Wat Thammanimit
Wat Thammanimit is in Tambon Ban Suan, on the Chon Buri-Phanat Nikhom Road, 1km from the town. It was constructed in 1941 and is a place where the Phra Phutthamongkhon Nimit Buddha image resides.

It is a concrete Buddha image decorated with mosaic tiles in the Boarding a Boat posture (The image sits in the European style on the throne. The left hand is placed on his lap, while the right one is hanging by his side.) It is 34 metres high and is situated at the foot of the hill. Along the path to the summit, the scenery of Mueang Chon Buri can be viewed.

Ang Sila
Ang Sila is a seaside fishing village, some 5km from Chon Buri. Most villagers are skilled in making implements from granite. Items made are mainly mortar and pestle widely used in Thai households in the olden times and figurines of animals such as lion, elephant and horse as decorative items.

Near the market are two European-style building in the reign of King Rama IV served as a convalescence home and a retreat for the royal household and foreign high-ranking officials. The buildings are considered the country’s very first seaside residence.

Wihan Thep Sathit Phra Kitti Chaloem or Nacha Sa Thai Chue Shrine
Wihan Thep Sathit Phra Kitti Chaloem or Nacha Sa Thai Chue Shrine is in Ang Sila sub-district, covering an area of 4 rai. It is a Chinese shrine, beautifully and gigantically constructed by the Dharma Rasami Maneerat Foundation along the seaside road from Ang Sila to Khao Sam Muk.

It is a 4-storey building decorated in the extraordinary Chinese architectural art and housing various Chinese deity images such as Nacha Sa Thai Chue God and 1000-handed Bodhisattva Kwan Yin image, etc. Walking to the upper levels, the splendid beach scenery can be witnessed. It is open daily from Monday to Friday at 8AM-5PM. On Saturday, it is open until 6PM, while until 8PM on Sunday. For more information, contact Tel. 0 3839 8381-4, 0 3839 8399.

Khao Sam Muk
Khao Sam Muk is a low hillock situated between Ang Sila and Bang Saen Beach, along the Road, facing the seashore.

A habitat of scores of wild monkeys, the hill-top affords a panoramic view of the Bang Saen Beach. At the foot of the hill are Thai and Chinese shrines highly respected by visitors. Legend has it that the cliff-top was where two lovers jumped to their death because of parental objection.

The Marine Scientific Institute
The Marine Scientific Institute is situated in the Burapha University at Bang Saen Beach,. It is a modern aquarium with realistic underwater environment.

There is a marine science museum which is open daily, except Mondays, from 8.30AM until 4.30PM on weekends open to 5PM and fish feeding demonstration 2PM Admission fee is 100 baht for adults and 50 baht for children. Call 0 3839 1671-3 for more information.

Bang Saen Beach
Bang Saen Beach, is a well-known holiday beach only 14km from the provincial town. From Sukhumvit Road., take a right turn at km 104 and proceed on for another 3km to get there. In 1943, the government built the first holiday resort in the country here. It is now under the supervision of Saen Suk Municipal Administration.

Bang Saen Beach is widely popular with Thai holiday-makers who happily romp along the long beach and partake in the tasty food available.

Sunset at Bang Saen
Weekends are particularly crowded while it is relatively quiet during weekdays. Fronting the beach are hotels, bungalows, foodshops as well as recreational gears and bicycles for rent.

How to get there: Bus services are available from Bangkok’s Ekkamai Bus Terminal throughout the day. There are also local “Song Thaeo” transports serving Chon Buri town-Nong Mon Market-Bang Saen Beach.

Laem Thaen
Laem Thaen is in the area of Bang Saen Beach near Khao Sam Muk. It is a cape reaching out to the sea where pavilions for relaxation and restaurants are situated.

There are a lot of people coming to do fishing in the area. Moreover, a beautiful sculpture of a dolphin stands at this place.

Nong Mon Market
Nong Mon Market on Sukhumvit Road., near the entrance Road, to Bang Saen Beach, is the widely popular Nong Mon Market. It offers a vast range of local products but mostly foodstuffs, both fresh and preserved.

Among its well-known buys are different types of dried seafoods and local specialties.

The Mangrove Forest Conservation and Study Center for Ecotourism
The Mangrove Forest Conservation and Study Center for Ecotourism is located at Mu 3, Tambon Samet, covering an area of approximately 300 rai. It is an interesting ecotourism attraction. The centre has prepared a 2,300-metre-long wooden boardwalk for visitors to wander in the mangrove nature where its ecological system still remains in perfect condition. Moreover, there are also a bird-watching scaffold and various kinds of mangrove plants such as Kongkang (mangrove), Samet, Samae, Lamphu, etc. Also, there is marine life such as fiddler crab, “Yok Fa”, a new species of crab, as well as, various kinds of fish-eating birds. In front of the center is also a health park. The admission fee is 10 baht for adults and 5 baht for children. It is open daily, as well as, on public holidays from 8:30AM-6:30PM. For more information call 0 3839 8268, 08 1713 9683.

How to get there: Take Sukhumvit Road from Mueang Chon Buri, the similar route to the Chon Buri Provincial Administration Office. Go straight on for 4km until the end of the road.

Si Racha
Ko Loi is a small islet near the northern shore of Si Racha.

Connected to the mainland by a bridge, it is a popular location for recreation by the local people. Visitors can enjoy feeding sea turtles in a pond. A flight of stairs leads up to the breezy hill-top temple which offers a delightful view of the sea.

Sriracha Tiger Zoo
Sriracha Tiger Zoo located at km 20 on Highway No. 3241 between Pattaya and Bang Saen Beach, or 10km from Si Racha District, this is a well-maintained zoo with hoards of crocodiles, Bengal tigers, camel, deer, scorpions and more.

There are four different shows at various times during the day, including crocodile and tiger shows.

Visitors also see how friendship can be possible among tigers, pigs and dogs that live together.

The park is open daily from 8AM-6PM. Admission: 300 baht for adults and 150 baht for children. Tel. 0 3829 6556-8 Bangkok, Tel. 0 2934 7841, 0 2934 7841.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Tambon Bang Phra This famous zoo operated by the Zoological Garden Organization and covers a vast tract of forestland. It is Located 19km after a left turn at Bang Phra, about 20km south of Chon Buri on Sukhumvit Road.

There are more than 200 species of wildlife living in their natural habitual. They include both domestic and imported types. Open daily from 8AM until 6PM, the zoo is also put on shows of well-trained animals and birds. Until 11AM-4PM. Admission fee is 300 baht for adults and 150 baht for children. Night Safari tours by auto-trams. Tel. 0 3829 8188, 0 3829 8270.

Ko Sichang
Ko Sichang is twelve kilometers off the shore of Si Racha is the large island of Sichang offering pleasant and quiet mountain and sea views.

Ko Sichang has served as a cargo station since the early days of the country’s trading history. It is also the site of a summer palace built during the reign of King Rama V. Although abandon for over a century, several sections of the palace have been restored.

Places of interest on the island include:
* Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine is located on a northern hill of the island, the shrine is a natural architecture masterpiece, revered by both the Thai and Chinese worshippers. From here the front side of the island with a panoramic view of Sichang community can be clearly seen.

* Mondop atop Buddha’s Footprint King Rama V had this footprint replica installed on top of Khaya Sira Hill. It is another vantage point to admire Ko Sichang and its surrounding.

* Hat Tham Khao Phang at the back of the island surrounds this white sandy beach. The sloping beach is thus on the un-windy side. The sea is clear and not too wavy. It is a good spot for swimming and lazing on the beach to admire the sunset.

* Khao Khat Pass and Hat Hin Klom .The name of “Hat Hin Klom” comes from the rounded rocks on the beach which have been “rounded” by the westerly wind that normally comes from March to September. The white sand makes the beach look clean and clear. The pass on the back side of the island is also another vantage point to watch the sunset.

Phra Chuthathut Ratchathan
Phra Chuthathut Ratchathan is the only palace amidst the sea, King Rama V had it built in 1892 as a holiday retreat and a convalescence home for his wives and children. The king loved to visit Sichang Island because of the beautiful scenery and the tranquil atmosphere it offered. It was also a big cargo station with lively transactions with foreign ships. For the construction, the king spent the money from his private treasury. He named the palace after the name of Prince Chuthathut who was born here.

The landscaping of the palace compound has carefully planned. Residential quarters, lawns, pools, and swamps are designed and located in ascending tiers from the beach up to the top of the hill, alternated with frangipani trees (Plumeria acuminata) of different colours. Each building was named after the queen who sponsored its decoration, for example, Watthana Mansion, Phongsi Mansion, and Aphirom Mansion. On the beach there is a green house made of wood decorated with ginger-bread patterns. A building called “Man-that Phairot” was unfortunately stopped by the Thai-Franco disturbance in 1894. In 1899 the king had it moved to Dusit Palace in Bangkok and had the construction completed. He named it “Vimanmek,” which is now opened as a museum. A temple called “Wat Atsadang Nimit” was also built on a hill near the palace. Western architectural style was adapted and applied to the construction of the temple.

Facilities
There are several hotels and bungalows on the island. For local transport, motorised tricycles can be chartered to travel around. The narrow Road, on the island is in good condition, suitable for cycling and strolling.

How to get there
There are daily ferry services between Si Racha and Ko Sichang. Boats leave Ko Loi Si Racha everyday and every hour from 7AM-8PM. It takes about 45 minutes for the journey.

On return, boats leave Ko Sichang every hour from 6AM-8PM. The boat services are operated by two companies: Saeng Prathip Tel. 0 3821 6116, 0 3821 6237, 0 3831 3687 and Sichang Palace Tel. 0 3821 6276-82.

Ko Kham Yai
Ko Kham Yai is located 5 minutes at the front of Ko Sichang. The ferry to Ko Sichang will stop at Ko Kham Yai. On the island is a fishing village with homestay accommodation, as well as, various activities of fishing, collecting oysters and catching squid provided for the visitors.

Ko Thai Khangkhao
Ko Thai Khangkhao is a small island on the southern side of Ko Sichang where there is a sandy beach and coral. Take a boat at Thewawong Pier for approximately half an hour. The cost is approximately 800 baht. Otherwise, a speed boat can be rented from Ko Loi Siracha Pier for 5,000 baht for 10 persons. Accommodation is also provided on the island.

Bang Lamung and Mueang Pattaya

Underwater World
Underwater World is on the Sukhumvit–Nong Prue Road and is an aquarium where there is a collection of marine species in the Gulf of Thailand.

Visitors can walk through the acrylic pedestrian tunnel and witness various kinds of fish swimming in the 180 degree area. The tunnel is 105 metres long divided into 4 zones.

The first zone where there are beautiful and rare fish such as angel fish, cleaning wrasse and butterflyfish.

The second zone displays soft-bone ones such as sharks, stingrays.

In the third zone are the economic ones such as the Napoleon fish, groupers, pomfrets, hawksbill turtles, and green turtles which reside around a replica of shipwreck.

The fourth zone is a special one where fish from the Amazon River and the biggest ones are on display. Moreover, there are marine lives feeding shows, both on the surface of the water and underwater in each zone.
It is open everyday from 9AM-6PM (the ticket counter is closed at 5:30PM). Entrance fee is 360 baht for the adults and 180 baht for children. For more information, please contact Tel. 0 3875 6879 or Fax. 0 3875 6879.

Ban Sukhawadee is located at 219 Mu 2, Sukhumvit Road. It is the residence of Dr. Panya Chotithewan. Visitors can enter the house to pay respect to the Bodhisattva Kwan Yin, to see the spacious conference room and the roof. It is open on Monday-Friday from 8:30AM–6PM and on Saturday–Sunday and public holidays from 8AM-6PM. Entrance fee is 300 Baht for adults and 50 Baht for children.

How to get there
Ban Sukhawadi is in Bang Lamung District on the beach side near the Cholchan Pattaya Resort and not far from Bang Lamung District Office. For more information, Tel. 0 3822 3536-9.

Hat Pattaya is the half-moon-shaped Pattaya beach is about 4km long with Road., running parallel to the beach. The beaches have been renovated with shady footpaths along the clean sandy beach taking a walk, lazing, jogging or cycling around here.

North Pattaya and Central Pattaya are not as bustling as the south beach. In the old days, many first class hotels are located in this area.

South Pattaya, with its lively atmosphere of nightclubs, beer bars, restaurants, shopping complexes, and other businesses, this is the heart of the city. Several kinds of aquatic sport gear are available for rent on the beach.

Khao Phra Tam Nak or Khao Phra Bat
Khao Phra Tam Nak or Khao Phra Bat is a small hill located between South Pattaya and Chom Thian. It is a vantage point for a panoramic view of the whole city of Pattaya and its crescent bay. Locals and visitors come here to pay homage to Wat Khao Phra Bat atop the hill and the monument of Kromluang Chomphonkhetudomsak, who is resgared the “founding father of the modern Thai navy.” and Suan Chaloemphrakiat Khao Phra Tam Nak Road., This is a fitness park at the foot of Khao Pattaya. With an area of 6 acres, the park was dedicated to commemorate His Majesty the King’s sixtieth birthday on December 5, 1988. The gardens of the park boast a wide variety of flowering plants and offer a scenic view of Pattaya. There are also multipurpose grounds and winding trails for walking or jogging and standard exercise facilities.

Hat Chom Thian
Hat Chom Thian is a 6- kilometre-long beach is only 4km from Pattaya. A beach Road., runs parallel to the shore along which are hotels and restaurants. Less noisy than Pattaya, it is popular as a site for relaxation, swimming and water-sports.

Hat Wong Phra Chan
Hat Wong Phra Chan is a small tranquil one kilometre beach is on the northern side of Pattaya Bay. The serene atmosphere here is attractive to those longing for a complete rest and privacy.

Sanctuary of Truth
Sanctuary of Truth is a gigantic wooden structure is situated by the sea at Laem Ratchawet, North Pattaya. The entrance is at Soi 12, Na Kluea Road.

The sanctuary of Truth was first built in 1981 by Mr. Lek Wiriyaphan, the founder of the Ancient City in Samut Prakan Province. With exquisite architectural features, the building was conceived out of the vision that human civilisation has been achieved and nurtured by religious and philosophical truth. It is open daily from 9AM-6PM. Admission fee is 500 baht. Tel. 0 3836 7229, 0 3836 7815.

The Million-Year Stone Park and Crocodile Farm
The Million-Year Stone Park and Crocodile Farm is a popular attraction situated at 9km from Pattaya on Chaiyaphonwithi Road., off Highway No.3 at km 140. Its grounds are landscaped with flowering and rock gardens. Hundreds of crocodiles as well as some rare animals, including albino bears and horses, are kept.

There are crocodile shows, magic performances and animal shows 7 times a day from 9AM-5PM. The compound is open daily from 8.30AM-6PM. Admission: 300 baht for adults and 150 baht for children. Tel. 0 3824 9347-9

Mini Siam
Mini Siam is located at Km. 143 on Sukhumbit Road., Highway No. 3, North Pattaya, Mini Siam is one of famous model villages in the world.

It celebrates the heritages of Thailand with miniature replicas of the most famous monuments and historical sites including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Democracy Monument, Bridge over the River Kwai, Prasat Hin Phimai etc. Minature replicas of the Tower Bridge of London, Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty and Trevi Fountain are also displayed in the section called “miniworld”.
The compound is open daily from 7AM-10PM. Admission: 250 baht for adults and 120 baht for children. Tel. 0 3842 1628, 0 3872 6201-3, 0 3872 7333 for more information.

Pattaya Elephant Village
Pattaya Elephant Village is located at km. 146, 7km from Central Pattaya on Phonpraphanimit Road., this elephant camp focuses on daily life of elephants and their masters and also offers stage shows demonstrating how to catch wild elephants, elephants-at-work in the jungle, elephants playing football and a grand war elephants parade.

The shows are held daily at 2.30 p.m. and last one hour. The ticket costs 500 baht per person. A one-hour elephant ride is available from 8AM-5.30PM at 900 baht and rafting trekking three-hour is available from 10AM-3.30PM at 1,800 baht. Contact counter in Tropicana Hotel, Tel. 0 3824 9145-7, 0 3824 9818 or www.elephant-village-pattaya.com.

Siriphon Orchid Farm
Siriphon Orchid Farm is situated at 235/14 Mu 5, Noen Phlap Wan Road, Tambon Nong Prue, Turn left for 800 metres from Sukhumvit Road, diagonally across the Pattaya Klang Intersection. Inside the farm are various kinds of orchids to be admired and purchased such as Pompadua, Vanda, Golden Shower, and Cattleya. For more information, Tel. 0 3842 9013, 03842 1536.

Monkey Training Centre
Monkey Training Centre is located in Soi Chaiyaphruek off Highway No. 3 at km 151, the centre displays the intelligence of monkeys trained to climb and pick coconuts and to undertake other activities. Cock-fighting and snake shows are also staged. Shows times are 9AM, 11AM, noon, 2PM and 5PM. Admission: 250 baht. Tel. 0 3875 6367, 0 3875 6570 for more information.

The Three Kingdoms Park
The Three Kingdoms Park is a beautiful attraction full of the Sino-Thai architectural style, covering an area of 36 rai. It was originated from the idea of Khun Kiarti Srifuengfung, a leading Chinese businessman of Thailand.

The art objects in this place is in accordance with the Chinese Fengshui, comprising of a 5-storey building, displaying oil paintings of the life story of Kong Ming, as well as, Jiangxi sculptures of leading characters from the chronicle in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. The uppermost storey is the Buddha image hall and a sightseeing spot. Moreover, there is another building where there is a 4 metre-marble-engraved Bodhisattva Kwan Yin sculpture, Kuan Yu God, as well as, a fine art corridor where there are paintings on tiles depicting the major episode of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.
It is open everyday from 10AM-5PM. On Saturday and Sunday, it opens until 6PM. Entrance fee is 150 baht for adults and 80 baht for children.Tel. 0 3842 1428-9 or Bangkok Office at Tel. 0 2633 8114-5.

Bottle Art Museum
Bottle Art Museum is located at km 145 on Sukhumvit Road., of Highway No. 3. This small museum, as its name implies, it specialises in glass bottle containing elaborately crafted creations, including the usual vessels. The exhibits are the works of the Dutch master, Peter Bedelais.

Open daily from 8:30AM-10PM. Admission fee is 250 baht for adults and 120 baht for children.Tel. 0 3842 2957, 0 3841 5783.

Ripley’s World of Entertainment
Ripley’s World of Entertainment is on the 3rd floor of the Royal Garden Plaza Department Store, on Pattaya Beach Road. The tourism activities are as follows:
1. The Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Auditorium is a museum of a large collection of more than 300 stories and pieces of oddities and amazements from all over the world, owned by Mr. Robert Ripley, an American man. Examples of the pieces are a three-legged horse, a four-eyed man, a miniature of a human’s head and a shark museum. Entrance fee is 380 baht for adults and 280 baht for children.

2. Four-Dimensional Cinema is a cinema of the future with a special system, creating a feeling of being in an actual situation among the viewers. Entrance fee is 200 Baht.

3. The Miracle Labyrinth Witness the modern special effects of lights, colours and sounds in the 16 rooms, as well as, admire the beauty of the mysterious dimensions and illusions. Entrance fee is 380 baht.

4. The Haunting Warehouse , Tel. 0 3871 0294-8 or Bangkok Office Tel. 0 2247 0777. open daily from 11AM-11PM. Take an adventure in one of the 5 biggest coffin warehouses of the world. Entrance fee is 380 baht. The admission fee package is 1,340 baht for adults and 1,240 baht for children.

Cabaret Shows There are two venues of transvestite cabarets in Pattaya.

Alcazar Cabaret, Pattaya 2 Road., Tel. 0 3841 0225-7, 0 3842 8746. Showtimes: 6.30PM, 8PM, 9.30PM. Admission: 500 and 600 baht.

Tiffany Show , Pattaya 2 Road., Tel. 0 3842 1700-5, 0 3842 9642. Showtimes: 6PM, 7.30PM and 9PM. Admission: 500, 700 and 800 baht.

Tuxedo Magic Castle
Tuxedo Magic Castle is located at 78/16-17, on Pattaya Sai 2 Road, Tambon Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District. It is a magical theater in the form of a split-level restaurant. There are series of shows such as making an umbrella out of cards.

It is open everyday, 3 rounds a day at 7PM, 8.30PM and 10PM. On Saturday and public holidays, there is also a 5.30PM round. Admission fee is 450 baht. For more information, Tel. 0 3848 8880

Open Eyes Show is on Pattaya 2 Road, opposite the Tiffany Show. It is a magic performance in various styles such as Aladdin, the Mermaid, Invisible Woman, the Wonderland, etc. Each category of performances will be shown in rotation.

The admission fee is 600 baht for adults and 300 baht for children. Tel. 0 3836 2077-79 Fax. 0 3836 2075.

Pattaya Park and Tower, Pattaya Park Beach Resort and Tower
Pattaya Park and Tower, Pattaya Park Beach Resort and Tower at Chom Thian features a large whirlpool with giant sliders and a tower with a revolving restaurant.

Visitors can also enjoy several games and rides on the tower and in its playground.
A Ticket for tower visit costs 200 baht. open daily from 10AM-7PM. On Saturday, it opens until 8PM. The Entrance fee of tower is 100, 200 baht for adults Tel. 0 3836 4110-20 or 0 2579 9612-4 or www.pattayapark.com for more information.

Ko Lan
This island is 7.5km from South Pattaya, about 45 minutes by ferry or 15 minutes by speedboat. Tourists prefer a swim and enjoy water sports along several beaches. Most fine beaches with white sand and clear water are on the western side of the island.

Hat Thonglang and Hat Ta Waen are popular beaches for its bustling atmosphere, aquatic sport gear, souvenir shops, and restaurants while Hat Laem Thian and Hat Samae offer a more restful atmosphere. Visitors can choose glass-bottom boats or skin-diving to view coral reefs in front of Laem Thian. At the southend of the island is Hat Nuan, Hat Samae, Hat Ta Waen and Hat Thian where a hotel is situated. It is another spot for viewing corals.

How to get there:
A ferry service departs Laem Bali Hai Pier to Ko Lan everyday. Departure time is from 7AM-6.30PM, while the arrival trips leave Ko Lan from 6.30 a.m.-6.00 p.m. It costs 20 baht. The boat will stop at Na Ban Pier. In case of going to other beaches, a long-tailed boat can be rented or a taxi can be hired. Furthermore, speed boats for 10 persons are available along Pattaya beach. Visitors can stop at Ta Waen Beach and Thong Lang Beach. The rental fee for the speed boat is 2,500-3,000 baht or depending on the agreement. Note: Prices stated above are subject to change without notice.

Ko Sak
Ko Sak is located six hundred metres north of Ko Lan is Ko Sak, a small island shaped like an upturn horseshoe. There are two connecting beaches to the north and south. Along the south shore are ranges of corals. Accommodation is available. Mu Ko Phai is 23km from Pattaya beach comprising Ko Phai, Ko Man Wichai, Ko Lueam and Ko Klueng Badan. Ko Phai is the biggest one and is under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy.

Along the island lie perfect coral reefs suitable for scuba diving. How to get there: a tour boat can be rented at Pattaya beach. There are those for 20-80 people or speed boats for 20 people. The rental rate depends on the size of the boat and the destination. Visitors cannot stay overnight and ought to prepare food and water by themselves.

Anek Kuson Sala
Anek Kuson Sala (Wihan Sian) whose entrance is a bit prior to Wat Yanasangwararam, 800 metres from the intersection at the reservoir, is the place collecting high-class Chinese architecture and fine arts constructed in 1987 to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Birthday.

Wat Yanasangwararam Woramahawihan
Wat Yanasangwararam Woramahawihan covers an area of 366 rai. Turn left from Sukhumvit Road, at Km. 160 for 5km. It was constructed in 1976 for Somdet Phra Yanasangwon, the present Supreme Patriarch, and later was supported by His Majesty the King.

At the entrance are situated international pavilions presenting each country’s national architectural style around the pond. Within the compound of the temple are the Mondop where a replica of the Buddha’s footprint is enshrined, a large Chedi containing the relics of the Lord Buddha, as well as, his enlightened followers, and Wihan Phra Yanaret.
It is open from 8AM-4PM. For more information, Tel. 0 3823 7506. Moreover, there is a place where the Royal Project for Agricultural Training Centre and Wildlife Preservation Area are located. For more information, Tel. 0 3823 8060.

Sattahip
On the last curvy bay of Chon Buri is situated the Royal Thai Naval Base. Presently Sattahip is simply small fishing town by the sea. Domestic tourists come to pay homage to Wat Luang Pho I, a renowned Buddhist monk. Its big squid pier at Samaesan is still viable.

Thai Alangkarn Theater
Hai Alangkarn Theater is located at Km. 155 on Sukhumvit Road. The entire project includes a prototype Hexa stage Theater with 2,000 seats in tiers, Cultural Rostrum and a Restaurant with 1,000 seating capacity. The state of the art shows called ‘The Thai Extravaganza Show‘, is presenting Thailand through our new Panoramic Concept with the use of hi-tech equipment such as the Multi-Color Lasers, Real Surround Sound System, Pyrotechnic and etc, which synchronize with the act from more than hundred experienced of performers on stage.
Perform daily except Wednesday. Show time 6PM. For reservation call +66 (0) 38 256 000

The Laser Beams Cast Buddha Image of Khao Chi Chan is on the same route as Wat Yanasangwararam, 6km from Km. 160 of Sukhumvit Road., The image is in the subduing Mara posture, cast by laser beams on the Khao Chi Chan cliff. It is a combination of Sukhothai and Lanna arts with a height of 130 metres and width of 70 metres at the lap of the image. The image called “Phra Phuttha Maha Wachira Uttamophat Satsada” was constructed in 1996 to honour His Majesty the King. Inside the chest of the image resides the Lord Buddha’s relic. Moreover, the garden in the compound is decorated for relaxation and is under the supervision of the Royal Thai Marine Corps, Royal Thai Navy.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Resort is about 18km south of Pattaya, with a left turn from Sukhumvit Road., at Km. 163, Nong Nooch Garden is a sprawling recreation park in typical Thai settings. Groups of traditional Thai houses and gardens of different plants, for example, an orchid garden, a palm garden, a banana garden, a bonsai garden, a cactus garden and a heliconia garden, are dotted around the beautifully landscaped site. A zoo and a butterfly garden are also in the compound.

There are daily cultural and elephant shows attracting crowds of delighted visitors. Show times are 9.45AM, 10.30AM, 3PM, 3.45PM and holiday 2.45AM. Admission: 400 baht. Tel. 0 3842 9321, 0 3842 9958, 0 3870 9358-62 or Bangkok Tel. 0 2252 1786. The admission fee to the garden is 100 baht, while that including the performance is 400 baht. Moreover, the garden provides a tram for touring around costing 20 baht per one round per person. For more information, Tel. 0 3842 9321, 0 3842 2958 Bangkok Tel. 0 2251 2161, 0 2252 1786.

Bang Sa-re
Bang Sa-re is a fishing village some 16km south of Pattaya, with a right turn at km 164. South of Bang Sa-re is a deep bay suitable for angling. To the north are accommodation and dining facilities along the beach.

Wat Sattahip or Wat Luangpho I
Is in Sattahip Sub-district. Its back side is next to the sea. It was constructed during the reign of King Rama V by Luangpho I or Phrakhru Worawet Muni who possessed knowledge of meditation and was the comforter for local in their difficult times. Therefore, the monk was highly respected among the locals. They, therefore, cast an actual-size statue of him residing inside the Ubosot.

Hat Toei Ngam
Hat Toei Ngam is lines of toei trees (Pandanus kaida Kurz) on the 200 meter crescent beach add to the tranquility of the atmosphere. The northern side of the beach is located a naval museum and monument. Toei Ngam Beach is under the navy’s supervision. It is, however, open to the general public from 6AM-9PM everyday.

Hat Dong Tan
Hat Dong Tan is next to Sattahip Market is the curvy bay with lines of fan-palms called “tan” trees from which the name of the bay is derived. The peaceful and quiet atmosphere of the bay attracts local regulars who would like to take a rest.

Hat Sai Kaeo
Hat Sai Kaeo is a beautiful beach under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy and is near the Naval Rating School. Accommodation for tourists is provided. For more information, Tel. 0 3843 6187 Ext. 2201-2.

Hat Nang Ram
Hat Nang Ram is situated close to the Sattahip deep-water port, Nang Ram beach is about 200 metres long. At the tip of the beach stands the shrine of Kromluang Chumphonkhetudomsak, the Father of Royal Thai Navy. The atmosphere is very peaceful with shadowy pine trees and lines of frangipani trees.

Hat Nang Rong
Hat Nang Rong is a little beyond Hat Nang Ram. It is a 200- metre beach with pine trees, suitable for swimming and relaxation. There are various beach accessories for rent such as a hammock for 30 baht, a football for 20 baht and a takro for 10 baht. It is open every Saturday and Sunday, as well as, public holidays. The entrance fee is 20 baht for a car, while 10 baht for a motorcycle.

Hat Thian Tale
Hat Thian Tale is a new tourist destination under the supervision of the Air and Coastal Defence Command, Royal Thai Navy. It is a sandy beach alternating with rocks, covering an area of 900 metres. It is a panoramic sightseeing point, with a bizarre shape of cliffs where a view of the sunset on the horizon can be admired. Moreover, there are various kinds of marine plants for study, kayaks for rent, as well as restaurants for food and beverage. For more information, please contact the Queen Sirikit Hospital, ext. Air and Coastal Defence Command at Tel. 0 3824 5760.

HTMS Chakri Naruebet
HTMS Chakri Naruebet is an offshore Patrol Helicopter Carrier anchored at the Chuk Samet Deep Seaport. His Majesty the King named the ship “Chakri Naruebet” meaning the Sovereign of the Chakri Dynasty. It was constructed in Spain in 1994. It is an 11-storey ship measuring 182 metres in length and 30.5 metres in width. It is equipped with modern weapons, as well as, long-range surveillance radar.

The important missions during wartime are the Flagship of the fleet, controlling and commanding the fleet in the sea, as well as the aircraft carrier and air defence mission. It is open daily from 8AM-4PM. It is closed only on Wednesday from 8AM-12AM. It is free of charge. International visitors will have to write a letter to the Commander of the Royal Thai Fleet, Sattahip, Chon Buri, 20180. For more information, Tel. 0 3843 8547-62 ext. HTMS Chakri Naruebet.

Turtle Conservation Center
Turtle Conservation Center, is a source of knowledge on the biology of the sea turtle life cycle for the government agencies and other groups of visitors.

The center also provides a lecture for the public and youth, VDO presentation and exhibitions. Visitors can admire the cuteness of the sea turtles in the nursery ponds. Its objective is to create love and the preservation awareness towards Thai sea turtles.
The Center is open everyday from 8AM-5PM. Please contact in advance at the Air and Coastal Defence Command, Tel. 0 3843 1477ext.1035-6, 0 3824 5760, ext.066-3809

Chong Samaesan Village
Chong Samaesan is another village offering good fishing opportunities. It is located some 17km further from the Sattahip deep-water port. There are bungalow-type accommodations and tourists can charter boats to enjoy fishing around the nearby islands. These entire small islands are under the jurisdiction of the navy.

Suan Chunlakan Sathit Sathan Banphachon Siam
Suan Chunlakan Sathit Sathan Banphachon Siam is a park built for Admiral Prince Krommaluang Chumphon Khet Udomsak in 1995. It is situated at Mu 1, Tambon Phlu Ta Luang where a shrine and statues of Prince Krommaluang Chumphon Khet Udomsak and significant persons in Thai history as well as revered Buddhist monks in the past are situated. The park is open daily from 7AM-6PM.

Phanat Nikhom

Phra Phuttha Ming Mueang
Phra Phuttha Ming Mueang is an engraved Buddha image out of Padauk wood in the posture of subduing Mara. It is the Laotian art, constructed in 1828 by the Laotians who immigrated into this area. Originally, the image was enshrined in an abandoned temple, called “Wat Pha Khao Yai”, which is assumed to be an ancient temple, the first to be constructed in the Phanat Nikhom area. Later, Phanat Nikhom Municipality Office renovated the temple and its compound, as well as, built a Wihan as a residence of the wooden Buddha image at the location where the original Ubosot had been. At present, it is near the community centre of the Phanat Nikhom Municipality Office.

Ho Phra Phanatbodi
Ho Phra Phanatbodi is situated in the middle of a pond, opposite the Phanat Nikhom Municipality Office, Mueang Kao Road, Soi 1. It is a place where a replica of Phra Phanatbodi (Vanaspati) is enshrined. It is a dignified standing Buddha image in the blessing posture of the Dvaravati period, whose age is approximately 1,200-1,300 years. It was elaborately engraved out of a delicate black stone. The image is standing on a mythical creature whose characteristics are a mixture of a garuda, a bull and a swan.

Wat Chum Saeng Si Wanaram
Wat Chum Saeng Si Wanaram is located at Mu 1, Tambon Nong Nang, 13km from Phanat Nikhom Market via Thung Hiang Market along the Highway No. 3284. Then, turn left for 2km. This temple was originally called “Wat Mai Yang Ngam”. The distinguishing point of this temple is Sala Kan Parian–a temple hall for the Buddhist monks’ meeting and religious ceremony, constructed of terra-cotta into modern architecture. It is called Mabunkhrong Building. Moreover, the Ubosot displays interesting religious puzzle paintings.

Luangpho Tio
Luangpho Tio, Wat Hua Thanon is 10km from the centre of the district. Take the Phanat Nikhom–Sa Siliam route to Tambon Hua Thanon, which is the location of the temple. Luangpho Tio is a Buddha image in subduing Mara posture. It is an engraved image of Taeo wood (called Tio wood by the Laotians). During the Songkran period, on 19 April every year, there is a procession carrying the image around the village. It is believed that the image would make all the wishes and success come true.

Sa Siliam
Sa Siliam is situated at Mu 6, Tambon Sa Siliam. From Phanat Nikhom, take the Phanat Nikhom–Sa Siliam Road, passing Wat Hua Thanon to an ancient pond in a square shape (Sa Siliam), dug into a laterite. According to legend, it is the pond where Phra Rot in the folk story “Phra Rot-Meri”, brought his cock to drink water in this area when he ran a cock fight to make a living for the 12 ladies.

Wat Luang Phrommawat
Wat Luang Phrommawat is situated at Ban Khlong Luang, Tambon Wat Luang on the Phanat Nikhom-Chachoengsao Road, the similar way to Wat Bot. This temple was once a place where the ceremony of drinking an oath of allegiance was conducted. The temple’s compound is large and abundant. Moreover, there are a large number of flying foxes in the trees.

Wat Tai Ton Lan
Wat Tai Ton Lan is located at Rai Lak Thong Sub-district on the Phanat Nikhom–Chachoengsao Road. It was constructed in 1905, representing the interesting architecture of the local skilled craftsmen such as the old wooden Sala Kan Parian–a preaching hall, a pair of swan columns, the cement giant sculpture in front of the Ubosot, the ancient Jiangxi Chinese tiles layering the floor of the Ubosot, and the scripture hall or library made of teakwood surrounded by water.

The Basketry Village
The Basketry Village is located at Mu 1-11, Rai Lak Thong Sub-district. However, the area where the basketwork is widely made is at Mu 10, in the area of Wat Ko Kaeo Khlong Luang, 4km from the district along the Phanat Nikhom-Chachoengsao Road. Turn right and go further for 4km. Bamboo will be woven into purses, baskets, betel sets, etc. in colourful, beautiful and modern patterns. Those interested can purchase the products at shops behind the municipality fresh market (the old market).

Bo Thong

Khao Cha-ang
Khao Cha-ang is 30km from the centre of the district. It is an isolated limestone mountain standing on a plain and an important source of gold and antimony. Khao Cha-ang comprises of Khao Cha-ang Song Khrueang, Khao Cha-ang Ha Yot and Khao Cha-ang On. Inside each mountain are various beautiful caves such as Tham Nam, Tham Khangkhao, Tham Laplae and Tham Mangkon.

Tham Khao Cha-ang Song Khrueang
Tham Khao Cha-ang Song Khrueang is 19km from Bo Thong District in the east. It is a large cave with a carrying capacity of thousands of people and a location of beautiful stalagmites and stalactites, as well as, a habitat of a large number of bats.

Tham Khao Cha-ang Ha Yotis
Tham Khao Cha-ang Ha Yotis 7km further from Khao Cha-ang Song Khrueng. It is also a big cave of stalagmites and stalactites. Moreover, inside is divided into many small chambers.

Activities

Bungle Bungee Jump
Bungle Bungee Jump is situated at Jomtien Beach, at Km.3, near the fishing pond of the Jomtien Fishing Park. It is a place suitable for those who enjoy excitement. It is open everyday from 9.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. It costs 1,800 baht. For more information, call 08 6378 3880.

Pattaya Air Park
Pattaya Air Park is located at Ban Amphoe, Bang Lamung District, on the way to the Phoenix Golf and Country Club. It is a place providing lessons of aviation and small airplane training to admire the panoramic view around the city of Pattaya and Sattahip. It is 6,500 baht for a round of 20 minutes or 14,500 baht for 5 persons per 1 hour. For more information, call 08 6374 1718.

Chon Buri Flying Club
Chon Buri Flying Club is in Bang Phra District. Visitors can admire the scenery of the city from the 500-1,000 feet bird’s-eye view by a small airplane for 15 minutes a round for 1,500 baht per person. For more information, call 0 3829 8202, 08 1377 8447.

CMT Flying Club
CMT Flying Club is a world-class sports flying complex at Km. 10 of Highway No. 36 on the way to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo. The CMT Flying Club provides a manicured turf runway for use by both light and ultralight aircraft and has designated flying areas for radio-controlled (RC) model aircraft flying. The club also provides comprehensive facilities for its members and visitors, including a government certified flying school, aircraft maintenance centre and RC model shop. Visitors can enjoy a 15-minutes fly on a light aircraft with skilled instructor, which costs 1,500 baht per person. It is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m. Tel. 0 3827 3250-7 for more information.

Jo Jo Horse Club
Jo Jo Horse Club is a training place for horse riding. It is located at the entrance of the Marina Inn, Na Kluea Soi 12 Road. The horse riding fee is 600 baht for an hour, 4,000 baht for 10 hours. Tel. 0 3822 5149 or www.jojo@chonburi.ksc.co.th.

Horseshoe Point Club
Horseshoe Point Club is at 100, Tambon Pong. It is a place of horse riding training and accommodation located on Phon Prapha Nimit Road., (the similar entrance as the Siam Country Club), approximately 10km off Sukhumvit Road at Pattaya Klang. It covers an area of 300 rai. There are horse riding training fields for both indoor and outdoor, cross-country jumping and polo, which are up to an international standard. Moreover, the performance of the high-level art of Dressage or horse dance is presented. For more information, call 0 3825 3500 or www.horseshoepoint.com.

Pattaya Cart Speedway
Pattaya Cart Speedway is at 248/2 Mu 2, Thep Prasit Road which links between Sukhumvit Road and Pattaya Hat Na Jomtien Road, 5km from the centre of Pattaya to the south. It is a cart racing circuit where there are separate lanes for professionals and amateurs.

It is open daily from 9.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. The fee is 250 baht, 300 baht and 500 baht for 10 minutes. For more information, Tel. 0 3842 2044.

Thailand International Motor Sport Complex (TIMC)
Thailand International Motor Sport Complex (TIMC) is 20 minutes from the center of Pattaya. There is a 4,200-metre-long road course and a 5,000-square-metre motor sports complex, as well as, an industrial estate for motor sports.

Pira International Circuit
Pira International Circuit is an international racing circuit, covering an area of 326 rai on Highway No. 36, 15km from the centre of Pattaya. Races are usually organized on Saturday and Sunday. For more information, Tel. 0 2280 3547, 0 2522 1731-8, 0 2971 6450.

KR Go-cart Grand Prix
KR Go-cart Grand Prix is on Thep Prasit Road, prior to Jomtien Beach. It is a standard circuit with a distance of 1,100 metres for professionals and amateurs who are interested in speed challenges. The fees are 200, 300 and 500 baht per 10 minutes. Moreover, there are group seminar rooms and restaurants. For more information, Tel. 0 3830 0347-9.

Fairtex Sport Club
Fairtex Sport Club and Hotel is located at 179/201, Mu 5, North Pattaya Road. It is a sports complex comprising artificial cliff climbing, boxing, yoga, squash, tennis court, etc. Contact Tel. 0 3848 8196, 0 3848 8657.

Golf

Chon Buri
* Mountain Shadow Golf Club 159/1 Mu 2, Saensuk-Bang Phra Road, Tel. 0 3839 3001-8, 18 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

Si Racha
* Bangphra International Golf Club 45 Mu 6, Bang Phra, Tel. 0 3834 1149-50, 18 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m.

* Bhurapha Golf Club 281 Mu 4, Tambon Bueng, Tel. 0 3834 5151-2, 0 3837 2700-1, 36 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

* Crystal Bay Golf Club 502 Mu 10, Bang Phra, Tel. 0 3834 9370-81, 27 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m.

* Khao Kheow Country Club 220 Mu 12, Bang Phra, Tel. 0 3829 8224-6, 27 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m.

* Laem Chabang International Country Club 106/8 Mu 4, Tambon Bueng, Tel. 0 3837 2273, open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

* Pattana Sport Club 99/89 Mu 9, Tambon Khaokhunsong Road, Tel. 0 3826 3379, 0 3831 8999, 27 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

* Sriracha International Golf Club 284-285 Mu 6, Tambon Bueng, Tel. 0 3833 8375-8, open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

Bang Lamung and Pattaya
* Pattaya Country Club and Resort Km.30 Highway 331, Tambon Khaomaikaew, Tel. 0 3842 3718, 18 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

* Phoenix Golf & Country Club Km. 158, Sukhumvit Road., Tambon Huay Yai, Tel. 0 3823 9391-5, 27 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m.

* Siam Country Club 50 Mu 9, Tambon Pong, Tel. 0 3824 9381-6, 18 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-8.00 p.m.

Sattahip
* Plu Ta Luang Royal Thai Navy Golf Course Mu 6, Plu Ta Luang, Tel. 0 3870 1891, 36 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

Bang Bueng
* Chonburi Century Countury Club 99/1 Mu 5, Tambon Khlong Kiew, Tel. 08 1304 1545, 18 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.

* Noble Place Golf Resort and Country Club 88/8 Mu 6, Tambon Khlong Kiew, Tel. 0 3826 3158-60, 27 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m.

* Treasure Hill Golf & Country Club 222 Mu 7, Tambon Khlong Kiew, Tel. 0 3842 0466, 08 6311 2568, 18 Holes: open everyday. 6.00 a.m.-8.00 p.m.

Festivals/Events

Chonburi Annual Festival
This fair is held about mid-April during the Songkran Festival. Phra Phutthaishing, Chonburi’s principle Buddha image, is put in a procession around the city.

Wan Lai Festival
Wan Lai Festival is a Chonburi merit making day of the seamen on the Thai New Year during the Songkran Festival, organized during 13-20 April every year. There is alms-offering to the monks, ceremony of pouring water onto the Buddha’s image, sand pagoda making, splashing water and local games and sports in Chonburi. The areas where the Wan Lai Festival is organized are as follows:

Pattaya–Na Kluea Wan Lai Festival and Na Kluea Kong Khao Fair are organized on 18-20 April every year at Lan Pho Public Park, Na Kluea and Wat Chai Mongkhon in South Pattaya.

Songkran Si Maha Racha Festival
Songkran Si Maha Racha Festival and Kong Khao Tradition is an ancient festival of the Chonburi locals. At present, Si Racha District still preserves this tradition and organizes it every year, during 19-21 April, to worship the gods who have been protecting them throughout the year. Activities comprise of the procession led by the elderly and various organizations in traditional Thai costume, a worship ceremony, spirit offering ceremony, Kong Khao tradition demonstration, local games, demonstrations, and sales of traditional desserts and local food.

Ko Phra Sai Wan Lai Festival, Bang Saen
Ko Phra Sai Wan Lai Festival, Bang Saen is the festival which has been conducted by the Saen Suk people from the past. Originally, it was called “Ngan Thambun Wan Lai”, a gathering of people from various villages to do the merit making in the Songkran Festival or the Thai New Year Day, taking place on 16-17 April, every year. Monks from every temple in Saen Suk sub-district are invited to perform the religious ceremony. There is merit making, food offering and bahting ceremony. Later, there are activities of sand pagoda making, water splashing, local games and sports, etc.

Ngan Bun Klang Ban and Phanat Nikhom Basketwork
Ngan Bun Klang Ban and Phanat Nikhom Basketwork are traditions that have been passed on for a long period of time of the Phanat Nikhom people. They are organized on Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the first week of May or the Thai 6th lunar month. The locals will bring food, offer them to the monks, and dedicate the merit to the guardian spirits, enemies from a former life, the deceased relatives, as well as, to drive out bad things, to ask for rain during the season and to wish for abundant food and plants. After the religious ceremony, there is lunch, local games and a demonstration of Phanat Nikhom basketry making.

Chonburi Buffalo Race
This is a long-established celebration of this most useful animal of Thai farmers. A fun-filled event, it is held not only in Chon Buri itself but also in Ban Bueng and Nong Yai districts. The beasts of burden are dressed outrageously or with admirable creativity by owners depending on their imagination. Assembled in the courtyard in front of the town hall, the buffaloes partake in racing, or take part in physical fitness and “fashion” contests.