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.