Saturday, August 30, 2008

Attraction

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Destination Guide
CHACHOENGSAO

Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan
Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan, Chachoengsao

This temple is in the municipal area by the Bang Pakong River. Built in late Ayutthaya Period, with its original name of “Wat Hong”, it is the location of Phra Phutthasothon or Luang Pho Sothon, the important Buddha image in the attitude of meditation with a width of 1.65 meters and a height of 1.48 meters high. According to the legend, this Buddha image had been floated along the river, before being placed here at this temple. The original image was a beautiful Buddha image, but later on cement was placed on the image to prevent from burglary. Worshippers from all walks of life come to pay respect to this most reputed image by pasting gold leaves on the image.

The present chapel (ubosot) is a new, beautiful, and gigantic building which has replaced the old one. The chapel actually depicts the style of the applied Rattanakosin period.. The operating hours are during 07:00 –16:15 hrs. weekdays and 07:00 – 17:00 hrs. weekends. Moreover, there are many stalls for food and local souvenirs. Long-tailed boat service to and from the city market and the temple is also available.


Wat Chin Prachasamoson
Wat Chin Prachasamoson, Chachoengsao
Wat Chin Pracha Samoson (Wat Leng Hok Yi) is another Chinese temple of Wat Leng Noei Yi in Bangkok. It is on Supphakit Road, far from the City Hall about 1 kilometer. The interesting points in the temple are Chinese warrior sculptures and the ceremonial hall (viharn) with Chinese arts. It is also a popular site for Chinese religious ceremonies.


Klongsuan Market
Klongsuan Market, Chachoengsao

Situated on the banks of Prawetburirom Canal, Khlong Suan Market lies in two provinces: Tambon Thepparat, Amphoe Ban Pho, Chacoengsao Province and Tambon Khlong Suan, Amphoe Bang Bo, Samut Prakan Province. This traditional market dates back to the reign of King Rama V. The market contains many different shops, which are getting rare these days, since they are increasingly being replaced by modern convenience stores and shopping malls. More than 100 years old, it still retains the quaint charm of the old days. Visitors will be pleased with the traditional market atmosphere while enjoying a great variety of tasty food.

In the past, the market was most conveniently accessible by boat. There was only one passenger boat service from Chachoengsao to Bangkok, serviced by Nai Loet (Mr. Loet). The boat picked up passengers at Chachoengsao, ran past Khlong Suan Market, and eventually arrived at Pratu Nam (Water Gate) in Bangkok.

The market is still an important community centre, transit point for commuters, and cargo port. The market is also a centre uniting the spirit of the Thai, Chinese and Muslim people who lived peacefully in the same area, as can be seen from the architecture of its temples and mosques, and a Chinese canteen offering free vegan food for people. In addition, its people always cooperated in developing the community’s infrastructure, for instance digging canals and building roads. Though they were of different religions, they have always enjoyed morning cafe get-togethers to share ideas, experiences, news and politics. The coffee shops have always been lively community meeting places.

The local governmental organizations of the two provinces support the preservation both of the community’s buildings and simple way of life. In addition, Khlong Suan Market has been promoted to the status of cultural attraction, of which visitors are welcomed to experience its idyllic atmosphere dating back to the reign of King Rama V.

Getting there:
By car – from Bangkok, take Motorway Expressway, and follow the signs for ‘100 Year Old Khlong Suan Market’, or take On Nut – Chachoengsao Road, drive past Latkrabang Institute of Technology, continue straight, and Khlong Suan Market will be on the left.

For further information, contact Tambon Thepparat Municipality, Amphoe Ban Pho, Chachoensao, tel. 0 3859 5633, 0 3859 5716, or Tambon Khlong Suan Municipality, Amphoe Bang Bo, Samut Prahan, tel. 0 2739 3253, 0 2739 3329, 0 2704 1273.


City Pillar Shrine
City Pillar Shrine, Chachoengsao
Located on Na Mueang Road, the shrine is featured by the Thai architectural style with 4-sided roofs and a tower (Prang) in the center. Inside, there are 2 city piles which were built in 1834 and 1895. In the same compound, there is Chao Pho Lak Mueang Shrine, which is highly respected. Operating hours are from 07:00 16:00 hrs.

Wat Pho Bang Khla
Wat Pho Bang Khla, Chachoengsao

This temple is 23 kilometers from Chachoengsao. Using highway No. 304 for 17 kilometers, then turn left to highway No.3121 for 6 kilometers, pass the Monument of King Taksin the Great, then turn left 500 meters. Also, another route is to travel by boat from Chachoengsao town at Tawan Ok Plaza pier, and land at the pier of the temple. There are many bats on trees during the day and fly out to search for food during the night. And even though fruits are their favorites, these bats never eat fruits grown by Bang Khla people.

Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary
Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, Chachoengsao

Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary is the conserved forest covered 643,750 Rai (257,500 Acres), located in the forest in the junction of 5 provinces: Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Prachin Buri. This fertile forest is the last of the east. General landscape is about 30-150 meters high above sea level. It is the origin of Bang Pakong River in Chachoengsao, Khlong Tanod in Chanthaburi, and Prasae River in rayong. There are many kinds of wild animals and birds. Ang Rue Nai Waterfall is about 2 kilometers from the Guard Unit. Traveling: From Chachoengsao, go to Pahnom Sarakham first, and then use highway No.3245 to Tha Takiap, after that go to Ban Nong Khok for 57 kilometers, and use the route to Wang Nam Yen of Sa Kaeo for 15 kilometers. Tourists who love nature should contact Wildlife Conservation Division, Forestry Department (Tel: 579-9446) in advance.

Khao Hin Son Development Education Center
Khao Hin Son Development Education Cente..., Chachoengsao

Khao Hin Son Development Education Center

Khao Hin Son Development Education Center is at the 51st-52nd kilometers on highway No.304, 17 kilometers far from Phanom Sarakham, with the area of 1,869 Rai. This is the education center for new agricultural development, with the cooperation of public and private sectors. The area inside has been divided for demonstration and experiment for farmers and other people. Many projects are: land development, livestocks, fishery, arts, and herb garden. “Eastern Botanical Garden” has been established to study and conduct research for plants and herbs. Herb sauna is also available in Wednesday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday with 20 Baht fee. More information, contact Tel: 280-6198 – 200 or (038) 59-9105-6.


Somdet Phra Sri Nagarindra Park
Somdet Phra Sri Nagarindra Park, Chachoengsao

This public park is in front of the City Hall, in the area of 90 Rae (36 Acres) which features a large swamp in the middle. Surrounded by various types of trees, the park is most suitable for relaxation.

Thailand Sand City
Thailand Sand City, Chachoengsao


Situated next to Carrefour Supermarket in Chachoengsao downtown, the World Sand Sculpture commemorates HM King Bhumibol’s 80th Birthday. This exhibition shows displays exquisite craftsmanship in the gigantic sand statues which were created by over professional 70 sculptors worldwide from the Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, the United States, Czechoslovakia and Thailand. More than 30 pieces are exhibited on 4.8 acres of land, making this the world’s largest indoor sand sculpture exhibition.

The exhibition is divided into 3 sections:
1. Sand sculptures concerning HM the King
Sculptures in this zone extol HM the King and his many good works and dedication to his country and people.
2. Sculptures depicting Thai history and literature
This is a very interesting exhibit in the dark, with stunning light and sound effects.
3. International Sand Sculptures
This zone is dedicated to sculptures drawing source material from worldwide sources, including the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, the Statue of Liberty, Brandenberg Gate, Van Gogh’s work, wind mills, etc.

Sand City is open every day from 10.00-19.00 hrs. Admission is 80 Baht for adults and 40 Baht for children. For further information, contact the Office of World Sand Sculpture, tel. 0 3851 5120 or -5121.


Wat Uphai Phatikaram
Wat Uphai Phatikaram, Chachoengsao
The present chapel (ubosot) is a new, beautiful, and gigantic building which has replaced the old one. The chapel actually depicts the style of the applied Rattanakosin period. The weekdays operating hours are during 07:00-16:15 and 07:00-17:00 hrs for weekends. Moreover, there are many stalls for food and local souvenirs. Long-tailed boat service to and from the city market and the temple is also available.Wat Uphai Phatikaram (Wat Sam Po Kong) Situated on Suphakij Road, near Talad Mai, this temple was formerly a Chinese temple. However, it has now turned into a Vietnamese temple. It is also a location of the Chao Pho Sam Po Kong or Luang Pho To (Phra Trairattananayok). Every weekend, many Chinese tourists come to pay respect to the image.

Maenam Bang Pakong
Maenam Bang Pakong, Chachoengsao
Maenam Bang Pakong or Bang Pakong River is originated from Korat plateau, pass Prachin Buri, Amphoe Bang Nam Priao and Bang Khla of Chachoengsao, and exit Thai Bay at Amphoe Bang Pakong with the distance of 230 kilometers. The three hour trip of 25 kilometers starts from Chachoengsao town to view the local Thai nature along both banks. The route passes some interesting places such as Khrommakhun Maruphong Siriwats Residence, ancient fortress and walls, previous City Hall, old rafts, many Wats, and landed at Wat Pho Bang Khla to view the spectacular sights of the bats. Tourists can hire boat at the pier of Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan or in town. The long-tailed boat can accommodate 8-10 people, and 40 people for a big boat. The hiring rate can be bargained due to number of passengers and distance.

Ancient Fortress
Ancient Fortress, Chachoengsao
Located on Suk Kasem Road, this site was built in the reign of King Rama III. During the reign of King Rama V, this fort was used to fight against the Chinese riots. At the front of the fortress, there is a public park suitable for viewing the scenery of the Bang Pakong River. Also, many old cannons can be seen along on the wall.

Monument of King Taksin the Great
Monument of King Taksin the Great, Chachoengsao
Monument of King Taksin the Great The monument has been built as a memorial site to commemorate King Taksin passing Chachoengsao after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 to restore Thailands independence. It is told that at this location was formerly a stupa built for his victory over the enemies. After that, it was demolished in 1931. And eventually the new shrine was constructed in 1988.

Mango Orchards
Mango Orchards, Chachoengsao

Chachoengsao is the venue for the most favorite fruit in Thailand which is mango. With the area of 86,000 Rae or 34,400 Acre, mangoes are grown mostly in Amphoe Bang Khla and Plaeng Yao. The most popular species are Raet, Khiao Sawoei, Chao Khun Thip, and Thongdam. The mango season is in March, which the mango Festival will be held annually.

Wat Phayakkha Intharam (Wat Chedi)
Wat Phayakkha Intharam (Wat Chedi), Chachoengsao

Has been proved to be built in the reign of King Rama V, the big stupa inside the temple was built in 1873, while the temple itself was built in 1881. Being one of the most ancient temples, this venue has been registered by the Fine Arts Department as the archeological site. Highlights of the temple are one big stupa, two small stupas , some other Buddhist buildings such as the ceremonial hall (viharn), the chapel, the bell tower, etc.

Trip guide

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Destination Guide
CHACHOENGSAO

Absolute Explorer - Bicycle Safari
Absolute Explorer - Bicycle Safari


Absolute Explorer is dedicated to the casual traveller, emphasizing simple, fun and leisurely trips. A "bicycle safari" is an adventure that you view local people, culture and wildlife at your pace - the traveller.

About the Trip

After a quick bike fitting and briefing they take to the outskirts of Bangkok for our adventures. They ride down Bangkok back roads, along tiny laneways and through leafy parks well away from Bangkok’s famous traffic. A maximum of 6 persons means genuinely small groups. Experience has show that smaller groups are less intrusive to local cultures and environments whilst allowing more interaction with local people. Furthermore, it means greater flexibility and on a social level proves to be more fun. Try being “low-key” in a village or spotting any wildlife with 20 other people around!

The intention is to travel as a group of friends rather than a typical tour group, so don’t expect stick-on name badges or any “following of umbrellas.”

The Trip / Fare

They have several tour programs in the Bangkok and surrounding areas such as Chachoengsao Province. These programs are approximately 5 to 7 hours in duration. These trips are in the surrounding countryside and will be on paved and dirt road surfaces. The pace is easy, the stops to talk to locals are frequent. Some of the tours involve the use of a local train that adds to the adventure spirit as you will most likely be the only non-Thai passenger for the entire day.

Tour prices are from 1,000-1,200 baht, which is only around 20-22 USD, the tour times start at approximately 10:00 AM. These prices included food and beverage, bicycle, tour guide and local tour guide fees, and insurance.

For more information or reservation, please contact Absolute Explorer Company at Tel. 08 7077 9696 or 08 9145 4409 E-mail: info@absoluteexplorer.com, orathai@absoluteexplorer.com, www.absoluteexplorer.com


Activities

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Destination Guide
CHACHOENGSAO

Traveling along Bang Pakong River

Bang Pakong is originated from Korat plateau, pass Prachin Buri, Amphoe Bang Nam Prieo and Bang Khla of Chachoengsao, and exit Thai Bay at Amphoe Bang Pakong with the distance of 230 kilometers. The three hour trip of 25 kilometers starts from Chachoengsao town to view the local Thai nature along both banks. The route passes some interesting places such as Khrommakhun Maruphong Siriwat’s Residence, ancient fortress and walls, previous City Hall, old rafts, many Wats, and landed at Wat Pho Bang Khla to view the spectacular sights of the bats. Tourists can hire boat at the pier of Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan or in town. The long-tailed boat can accommodate 8-10 people, and 40 people for a big boat. The hiring rate can be bargained due to number of passengers and distance.

RESTAURANT

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Destination Guide
CHACHOENGSAO

Little Pizza Steak
Little Pizza Steak
Address : 15 , Suan Somdet Road, Tambon Na Mueang, Amphoe Mueang, ChaChoengsao
Telephone : 0 3851 1869, 08 1588 6381


Rom Mai Sai Tarn
Rom Mai Sai Tarn
Address : 2 Phra Satupe Chedi Road, Amphoe Bang Khla, Chachoengsao
Telephone : 0 3854 2794 , 0 3854 2879, 08 6155 7111 , 08 1682 7937
E-mail: rommaisaitarn@hotmail.com
Website : http://www.rommaisaitarn.com


Ban pa Noo
Ban pa Noo
Address : 64 Talad Baan Mai, Supakit Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chachoengsao
Telephone : 0 3881 7336


Ban Prem Boon
Ban Prem Boon
Address : Soi Sothorn , Tat Mai Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chachoengsao
Telephone : 0 3853 5099 , 08 9833 4832


Pradit Pochana
Pradit Pochana
Address : 133 Maruphong Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chachoengsao
Telephone : 0 3851 1246


Khum Boonsong
Khum Boonsong
Address : 30 Mu 2, Bang Kanak Amphoe Bang Nam Priao, Chachoengsao
Telephone : 0 3852 4130
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