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CHACHOENGSAO

	[ Wat Sothon Wararam Woravihan ] This temple is located on the edge of the Bangpakong River in the south part of the city. It was built during the Ayutthaya Period. Towards the end of this period, the revered "Luang Por Sothon" was enshrined there . The statue is sculpted in a meditation pose. It is 1.65 meters wide and 1.48 meters high. Every day, a large number of people come to pay homage to "Luang Por Sothon". Some will pray to have their wishes granted, and those who are successful will return to present offerings by commissioning the dancers who are on hand to perform as a way of showing gratitude. [ Wat Chin Prachasamoson (Wat Leng Hok Yi) ] is a temple built by the believers of the Byddhist Mahayana doctrine with Chinese architecture. The structures and images inside the temple have drawn many Chinese to the temple. It is 1 km off the City Hall.

	In order to appreciate these tourist attractions to the best possible advantage, 2 tours have been established. At present, the Ubosot or main chapel is being rebuilt as the original was in a state of disrepair. The new Ubosot is in the style of the Rattanakosin. Period and will be completed in 1998. Upon completion, this temple will be the largest white marble temple in the world. In the area of the temple, there are stalls that sell food produce and local merchandise from Chachoengsao and nearby provinces. At the temple's pier, there is a long-tail boat service to take people between the market in the city and the temple. The cost is B40,or it is possible to rent a boat to see the sights along the Bangpakong River. The cost depends on the number of people and the distance of the route [ Wat Pho Bangkhla ] Located 23 kilometers from Chachoengsao , the trees within this peaceful temple are the home for thousands of fruit bats. During the day, they cling upside down off the branches of the trees. At dark, they wake and leave to search for food. In the temple grounds, there is a small stall that sells refreshments at Pho Bangkhla can also be visited by boat.

	[ City Fort ] Located in the main part of the city, it was erected during the reign of King Rama III to protect the city from enemies. During the reign of King Rama V, it was used by the military against the Chinese opium traders. The area on front of the fort has now been arranged as a public park to allow people to admire the scenery of the Bangpakong River. Behind the wall, there are large cannons, remnants of the past. [ Boat Trip Along the Bangpakong River Boat Trip ] The Bangpakong River flows down from above the Korat Plateau through Prachinburi and Chachoengsao provinces out into the Gulf of Thailand at Bangpakong, a distance of approximately 230 kilometers. From the city of Chachoengsao. there are boat tours along the Bangpakong River that allow people to admire the nature of both side of the river, which includes fruit plantations, mangoes, and a variety of river life. Travel pass places of interest; for example, the fort and ancient city wall, groups of old rafts, a variety of Thai and Chinese temples, and foreign churches. This trip has many interesting aspects that are typically Thai. The distance of this route is approximately 25 kilometers, and it takes approximately 3 hours. Boats can be rented from the pier at Wat Sothon. or at the pier in front of the market in the city. [ Khao Hin Sorn Development Study Center ] Is located on Highway 304 at km. 51-52 approximately 15 kilometers from Phanom Sarakham. This agricultural development study center was established in 1979, and has a total area of 1,227 rai (196 hectares). With the co-operation of both the government and the private sector, the aim of the center is to promote sustainable agriculture in accordance with the wishes of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej by demonstrating to and educating the people in various forms of agriculture. Examples of this are the development of soil and water conservation, forestry, and livestock. A herbal project has also been established, so that research work may be undertaken with regard to the benefits of various plants as well as other herds. There is accommodation for approximately 120-150 people; however, bookings must be made in advance. It is also necessary to bring your own food and beverage. For details, contact the Khao Hin Sorn Development Center ; Tel :(038) 599105. [ Ban Santitham ] Also known as the Bio-science and Technology Center, is located in Amphoe Sanamchai district. Follow Route 3259 for approximately 3 kilometers. The total area of the center is 10 rai, which is shaded with various species of plants that are used in Thai herbal medicine. In the interior of this property, there is the original old wooden house which is designed in the typical Thai style. The downstairs area of the house is open whereas the upstairs area has some handicrafts, household goods, and other old articles of a bygone era. Behind the house ,there is a small rice silo as well as equipment to thresh rice. Opposite the house, there is a small library with books on different varieties of herbs. Scattered among the trees are various farming implements ploughs, carts, etc. which may have been used in the past. For those who want to experience the peace and tranquility of the forest, there is a place for camping with shower/toilet facilities ; however, it is necessary to bring your own food and beverage. □ For further details : Ban Santiham, Ban Huay Hui, Moo 1 Tambon Latkrabang, Amphoe Sanamchai, Chachoengsao.