Interesting RATCHABURI

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RATCHABURI

	Ratchaburi to Nakhon Pathom Most tourists come to Thailand for the culture and the “mai pen rai” lifestyle of the Thai people. Thailand’s reputation as “The Land of Smile” still holds true, even though modern life may make the smile fade from city dwellers from time to time. To catch a glimpse of Thailand “as it once was”, the following places are highly recommended. The day guarantees to be a big hit with the kids and adults alike. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (ตลาดน้ำดำเนินสะดวก) Chances are the images of the boats, floating leisurely down the canals selling exotic fruits and delicacies and wooden structures of traditional Thai villages are what draw many visitors to the Kingdom. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is where they filmed those memorable images. This popular attraction is some 80 kilometres west of Bangkok, accessible by regular bus from the Southern Bus Terminal. Everyday, hundreds of vendor boats crowd the market area in the early morning till noon. Samphran Elephant Theme Show and Crocodile Farm Thailand About one hours drive from Bangkok city, on Petkasem Rd., km 30, The Elephant Theme Show and The Crocodile Wrestling Show at the Samphran Elephant Ground & Zoo are the popular edutainment for excursion or daily Bangkok sightseeing. The elephant shows re-enact the elephant round-up ceremony of the old days when wild elephants are captured and domesticated, the Yutha Hathi, great royal battles on elephants’ back of the Ayudhya Era. Modern shows include, elephant dancing, racing, football and other fun and games. Conclude the visit with exciting Crocodile Wrestling Show between the primeval alligators and the masters. Samphran Elephant Ground & Zoo located on Petkasem Road at Km.30, Samphran, Nakhon Pathom Province , Thailand . Opened daily from 08.30 until 18.00 hrs. Thai Human Imagery Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์หุ่นขี้ผึ้งไทย) Thai Human Imagery Museum is the first museum of fiberglass models in Thailand. It was born from spiritual power predestination of a group of creator leaded by Artist Duangkaew Phityakornsilp, with the objectives of promotion, propagation and conservation of Thai art, culture, and custom which will benefit the study and research of future generations. The exhibition consists of various Thai history sets for example, The Royal Images of Chakri Dynasty Kings, The Enlightenment Monks, and King Rama V, The Great & Independence of Slaves. All models look authentic in every part of their bodies, skin, eyes, arms even hair. Open daily: Mon - Fri 9.00 am - 5.30 pm, Sat - Sun & Official holidays 8.30 am - 6.00 pm. Thai Human Imagery Museum 43/2 Moo 1, Boromratchanchonni Rd., (Pinklao-Nakhonchaisri Rd.), Km.31, Kunkaew, Nakhonchaisri, Nakhonpathom, 73120 Thailand Tel. 0-3433-2607, 0-3433-2109, 0-3433-206 Fax. 0-3433-2061
	Siam Cultural Park When people think about tourism, most of the time they usually think of beaches, waterfalls, and mountains which are natural tourism. However other than those natural ones, Thailand also house many interest human-made tourist attractions. Like recently in Ratchaburi province, a newly built attraction opened for the public renowned Siam Cultural Park. Siam Cultural Park situates in Wangyen sub - district the district of Bangpae close to the famous Dumnurnsaduak Floating Market just a kilometer from Bangpae intersection on Petkasem road. The park was originated with the aim to conserve Thai traditions, cultures, and arts along with the shady natural park . The Park is divided into six zones covering area more than 42-rai. The fist zone is housed to the Hall of Fame building which exhibits well-know important persons both Thai and foreign for example, M.L. Pin Malakul, H.E. Professor Dr. Sanya Dhammasak, President Ho Chi Minh, and Mother Terasa. Just a few steps from the Hall of Fame building and right before entering into the second zone, there are amazing and difficult-to-find-one trees in which a sugar palm tree surrounded by a bo tree, the tree the lord Buddha enlightened. The second zone is called the Terrace of Buddha Image of Three Periods. The Buddha images reproduced from historical parks from three different periods, Ayutthaya , Sukhothai and Chiang Saen also known as Lanna. This zone gives an opportunity to explore three historical park in three different provinces in one place. The third zone is housed to a Jutaka Light and Sound Cave where the story of the Buddhist Saga Vessantara Jutaka is told with the aim to show the result the endless greed of human beings. Next to the cave lies a Herbal Drink house where a tradition refreshment drinks like Chrysanthemum, Rosella, Bael fruit, Lemon Grass, and Longan and Thai tradition sweets are served. The forth zone is exhibited Buddhist Monastic Cells which divided into regional styles where each cell housed two famous monks from the region. Crossing the bridge to the other side of the canal would bring visitors back to the past with the Thai traditional houses style in the fifth zone. This zone is also divided into regional styles where each styles has its uniqueness of architecture and design. Inside each house are artifacts to tell about the way of life of the people in the region. Crossing the second bridge would take visitors to the water-fall front for taking photos and enjoy coffee, tea, Thai sweets, ice-cream, and herbal drinks served by the Coffee House. After enjoy taking photos and the refreshments, walking along the footpath would finally take visitors to the footpath would finally take visitors to the last zone the Terrace of Avalokitasvara where the area is beautifully decorated with trees and flowers for the last shot before leaving the Park. Siam Cultural Park is a very interesting tourist destination which shouldn’t miss in Ratchaburi province Operating Hours Monday -Friday : 9.00-16.30 Saturday -Sunday : 8.30-17.00 Annual holiday : 8.30-17.00 Ticket Adult : 50 B Child : 20 B

	[ Tour the temples, visit the palaces, hug the coast of the Mae Klong river ] The city of Ratchaburi, located in the west of Thailand, on the banks of the Mae Klong River, the major western river which is the lifeblood of the many generations of life that reside beside it. It has been the link from past to present civilization. If you want to visit Ratchaburi, it is from here that you must begin "The ancient town of Koo Bua", the source of many archaeological remains which relate that this used to be a prosperous port during the Dvaravati period of Thai history. Located on the Taow-u-thong Road in Tambon Koo Bua, about 4 kilometers from Ratchaburi. People who are interested in seeing other ancient relics many also like to pay a visit to "Wat Khlong Suwankhiri", which is opened free of charge to those who inform the temple of their visit in advance. Apart from Wat Klong Suwankhiri, other evidence of art from the Dvaravati period can be found at Tham Ruesi Khao Ngu in "Tambon Ko Phlub Phla", which is located about 6 kilometers from the town. In this cave, you will find a pictures of the Lord Buddha sitting with his back against a wall feet raised in the attitude of giving his first sermon. This picture is known as "Phra Phuttachai Tham Ruesi Khao Ngu", and is another example of the unusual art that could be found during the Dvaravati period. It is believed that after the decline of Koo Bua, the center of society moved to the banks of the Mae Klong River. It was around this time that the Cambodian influence began to spread itself to Ratchaburi and Petchburi, which can be seen in the pagodas and bas relief's in the walls of the temples around "Wat Mahatat Rachaworawiham", where examples of the distinctive Characteristics of Cambodian Bayon style art can be found. The temple is located on Khao Ngu Road in Muang Ratchaburi. But if you really want to know about Ratchaburi, we suggest you don't miss visiting the "Ratchaburi National Museum". Near the clock tower on the river's edge. It is open daily from 9.00 am - 4.00 pm except Mondays, Tuesdays and Public Holidays and located inside the old Town Hall which almost 80 years old. The museum highlights all aspects of Ratchaburi's history, including the two most outstanding and widely-recognized features, the dazzling blade of the Ratchasatra sword, and the "Phra Awalogitaesuwan bodhisattva" image which is a fine example of Bayon-style Cambodian art. This image is the best-preserved example of the five that have been unearthed in Thailand. Whichever way you come to Ratchaburi, if you arrive feeling hungry, take the chance to head down to the market on the edge of the river. Here you can satisfy your pangs of hunger with a bowl of the excellent rice porridge and "foi thong" sweetmeat ice cream. Around the central market in Ratchaburi, there are a lot more places that you must try to visit. For example, the revered wooden image of the venerable monk of kaen chan, or "Luang Pho Kaen Chan" which was carved from "chan" wood, and is housed in Chong Lom temple. The image is respected by all the citizens of Ratchaburi province. Or you can go to see the beautiful Buddha image of Phra Prathan, The biggest in Ratchaburi and housed within Klab viharn at "Khao Lua temple". From here, you can cross to the opposite bank of the Mae Klong river, and together look through a magnifier at a tiny figure of a durian molded into the wall, and above the door of the consecrated chapel, at "Wat Tarn". These tiny figures have their own unique design. If you're still not tired, you ought to try and visit "Khao Wang Ratchaburi" so that you can compare it to Khao Wang in Petchburi. In fact, it is at the wats and temples that many of the most valuable items in Ratchaburi are kept. And yes, there are still many more places of interest to visit-if you have time.

	[ A strip of beautiful forest : SOURCE OF THE PHA CHEE TRIBUTARY ] A newly-formed and little-known amphur Sub-District located west of Ratchaburi town center, its area extends to the Thai-Burmese border. There are many outstanding, unspoilt and natural places which can easily infatuate tourists and distract them from their planned itineraries. [ Follow the Hornbills to "NAM TOK HUAY SUAN PHLO" waterfall ] Located in the forest animal protection zone of Pha Chee River, Muu 4 , Tumbon Ban Bung, the waterfall is surrounded by unspoilt natural forest.. It has been reported that 5 different kinds of hornbills were sighted in this area together with other scarce birds such as long-tailed white drongo. There are also many wild orchids during the hot season and thousands of bees. You should try to stay at least one night if you want to see everything, and lovers of the forest can't fail to enjoy this spot. [ Inbade the herb Jungle at "NAM TOK SUB TOEY" waterfall ] Situated about 6 kilometers from the Amphur Sub-district. It is about 2 kilometers from the top to bottom level of this nine-level waterfall. On the way you can see all kinds of herbs, wild orchids and ferns. [ Pay homage to the remains of Luang Pu Thet at "WAT PA PHRATHAT KHAO NOI" ] In Muu 1 , Tambon Ban Kha, about 11/2 kilometers from the Amphur Subdistrict, there is a pagoda which houses the remains of "Luang Pu Thet" and is deeply respected by followers of Buddhism. On the mountain is a spot where you get the closest view of the Tanawsri Mountains. [ Where a hot stream meets a cool stream at " PHU NAM RAWN PONGKRATING " spring ] There is a hot spring located in the park at Chalern Prakeat Thai Prachan. The temperature in the pond is 65 degrees centigrade. If visitors to the spring clap their hands, a stream of bubbles will gush into the air. The place is open for tourists who wish to bathe at the spot where the cool water from the Tanawasri Mountains meets the hot water which flows the spring. [ SUGGESTED DRIVING ROUTES FOR TOURISTS ] Turn off of the main Petchkasem Road and go pass Amphur Ban Kha Sub-district, into Amphur suan Phung. This is a beautiful route, but if you are traveling in your own car and have already been to various attractions in Amphur Chom Bung, you might like to try another route. We suggest you take road 3206 at Pak Tho and turn on to road 3313 to Ban Pongkrating before passing Amphur Ban Kha Sub-District to Suan Phung. Alterna tively you can use the Huay Chinasi (opposite the turn off to tambon Koo Bua) Road 3337. This route takes you past Thung luang until you reach the first road at Ban Pongkrating. Turn on to this road and continue through the Amphur Ban Kha Sub district until you reach Suan Phung. This is perhaps the most beautiful route in Ratchaburi, cutting through the forest and passing close to the undulatating mountain ranges.

	[ Ban Pong ] During World War 2 this town used to be a Japanese soldiers camp, and it is here that Kilometer stone 0 marks the start of the infamous Death Railway at Nong Pladuk Station before it and the soldiers reached Burma. Ban Pong is also the hub of one of the biggest bus operations in Thailand. Many people call this town "Detroit Muang Thai" or "Thai Detroit" [ Sample the cultural heritage at "WAT MUANG LOCAL MUSEUM" ] This is the place to do further research into the history, past accounts and events, way of life and culture of the local community, especially the Mon or Peguan people from the past up to the present.. All of the very interesting displays in the museum are intended to show the knowledge and proud heritage of the local people. Open on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Government holidays from 8.00 am. - 4.00 pm. Anybody who is interested in visiting on any other day must telephone 372548 in a advance.

	[ The Land Of Fruit And Thai Life By The Riverside ] This is the area best known to the eyes of the overseas visitors. Around 1866, King Rama 4 ordered that a 32 kilometers long canal be dug at Damnoen Saduak. This canal would connect the Mae Klong River at Bang Nok Kwak with the Tacheen River at Bang Yang lock, Tambon Krathum Ban in Samut Sakon. There are many small tributaries that flow off of this watercourse, which was not completed until the reign of King Rama 5. A lot of Chinese people have now settled in this area, because in the past they labored with the Thais to build this canal. The excellent quality soil beside the canal is very fertile and suitable for growing many kinds of fruit and vegetables. The area is famous for its strains of sweet white Malacca grape, Chinese grapefruit, mangoes and coconut.. Nowadays the area hosts the Damnoen Saduak Sweet Grape Festival each year. [ Experience The Way Of Life Amongst The Riverside People At "DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET" ] The Damnoen Saduak District of Ratchaburi first showed itself to the eyes of the tourist world in 1967 when pictures were seen of a market trading on water. Where paddle boats loaded with all of life's necessities plied their trade up and down the river. The various vendors are often dressed in dark clothing, similar to that worn by workers in the fields, their faces shielded from the strong rays of the sun by hats made from bamboo and palm leaves. They paddle up and down the waterway selling and bartering their merchandise. It is generally known as Klong Ton Khem Floating Market or Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Nowadays, the market buses with activity from very early in the morning until about 11.00 am. However, at Wat Prasart Sit Floating Market, which has maintained its old style and traditions the market operates from very early in the morning, but begins to wind down before 8.00 am. [ FLOATING DOWN THE RIVER IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF KINGS ] In the past, once the canals had been dug, King Rama 5 decided he wanted to known more about the lives of the people who resided along the banks. So he look a fast dugout boat and traveled down the river by himself. His route has become part of history, and yet another example of the King's care for the lives of his subjects, who in return show their great love and respect for the monarchy. If you follow this route, you will come across more of the attractions of Ratchaburi…. Starting from the wharf of Damnoen Saduak Canal, you pass the grape vineyards, have a chance to taste the coconut milk from the young coconuts before passing various agricultural plantations. See the traditional Thai Houses at waterside. Quench your thirst with a glass of delectable fresh coconut nectar. Fill yourself with traditional Thai noodles sold from boats. On this route, you will pass the winner of the "Best in Damnoen Saduak" award, the owner selling his delicious noodles from a boat moored alongside the river. Pass in front of Chotikaram temple and Ban Jek Huat, or Jek Huat's house. During his reign, King Rama 5 used to come, visit and dine with the common folk along the river. From here, you proceed past Lad Phi Market before coming back to the hub of the central Damnoen Saduak market. □ If you are interested in taking a leisurely float down the river and through the market, you can get additional information from Khun Anon Yaiying by calling 345074 or 346161.