Khao Kaen Chan

Attraction Details :

Khao Kaen Chan, or originally ‘Khao Chan Daeng’, is a 141-metre-high mountain on Phetkasem Road two kilometres from the main provincial area. This highest mountain of Ratchaburi enshrines ‘Phra Phuttha Nirokantaraichaiwat Chaturathit’ or ‘Phra Si Mum Mueang’ at the top, as one of the four Buddha images ordered by His Majesty the King to be ordinated at four different provinces: Ratchaburi, Lam Pang, Saraburi, and Phattalung. The scenery around the city could be seen at this top; the place is also accessible by car smaller than six-wheel drives due to switchbacks.
‘Phra Phuttha Nirokantaraichaiwat Chaturathit’ or ‘Phra Si Mum Mueang’ is in fact the common name for each of the four Buddha images created according to a traditional belief dated back to Ayutthaya period, saying that holy objects are needed in order to protect all four borders of the city or the empire. Here, ‘Chatura Phuttha Prakan’ - the using of Buddha images to bless the people and forfend the kingdom from the rivals, the dangers, and the evils - was chosen as Phra Phuttha Nirokantaraichaiwat Chaturathits were created. The image is in Sukothai-style meditation attitude; the right hand and the right foot are placed over the left ones, the eyes are wide open, the facial expression gives a clear and serene look. The bronze statue is of 49-inch lap size, placed in the four-gabled stand-alone mortar structure which is roofed with wooden superstructure and traditional Thai roof tiles. The door and all four windows of the building are also beautifully gilded.
At the foothill stands another statue, but of Somdet Phraphutthayotfa Chulalok, King Rama I the Great, which was created to mark the 200th year anniversary of Rattanakosin era by cooperation of people of Ratchaburi. The vicinity was built into a public park ‘Chakri Anusorn Sathan Park’ as a public recreation and exercise area, with a variety of exercise machines and food shops. There is Chao Mae Kaen Chan Shrine on the other side of the foothill which is worshipped by the local citizens as well.
Khao Kaen Chan is open from the foothill entrance 5.30 - 19.30hrs every day.

Jipathapun Ban Khu Bua Museum

Attraction Details :

Jipathapun Ban Khu Bua Museum is located around Wat Klong Suwan Kiri in Khu Bua sub-district, Muang District, Rachaburi province. Ban Khu Bua Museum is a local museum of the community created by many organizations within the district.
Originally, the place was established in order to pay homage to Thai-Vietnamese ancestors living in Ratchburi province. Ban Khu Bua is the name of the sub-district, Muang district in Ratchaburi. It was first started in 1999 and was opened to the public in 2005 by the senior good contribution group. This museum aims to gain more contribution form the next generation to create new cultural innovation. The museum displays the deeds of the ancestors from past 203 years. This two-storey building was 24 meters long and 18 meters wide surrounded with shady trees. Next to the museum, there is an ancient remain from Dvaravati period with over 2,400 years old. It was renovated by Fine Arts Department and registered during 1961-1963. There are also other ancient remains around the area for those who interest in history to visit.
At the ground floor of the museum, it presents the local wisdom of the Dvaravati Period such as stucco arts and baked clays in various forms including human, Nagas and Buddha. The left Buddha arts from Fine Arts department and from those who tried to steal it have not been stored at Wat Klong Suwan Kiri, instead, they are kept in one of the museum gallery granted by the monks to praise indigenious knowledge of Dvaravati ancestors. Next room displays local wisdom of Yonok-Chiang Saen people or Lanna who immigrated from Chiang Saen to Chiang Saen around 200 years ago. The exhibition includes tools and utensils and community developing activities from last generation presented by wax models.
The uniqueness of this museum is its story-telling technique through the wax models or dummies in various activities including daily routines and community development where the community leaders are sitting around a table and exchanging their opinions. Not so far there a few respected Thai-Vietnamese monks displayed. Also, harvesting culture is exhibited including rice threshing, rice pounding, rice making process.

Thai Textile Tin Chok Museum Ratchaburi

Attraction Details :

Thai Textile Tin Chok Museum Ratchaburi is located at Wat Kae Sai, Moo.13, Khu Bua Sub-District, Muang Ratchaburi District. It is the museum that displays the progress of weaving Tin Chok cloth as well as sells Thai-Vietnamese Chok textile with the aim of preserving the core values of Chok textile and making it to become one of the Thai-Vietnamese best heritages. Udom Somporn and Wat Kaerai School Alumnis with Thai- Vietnamese blood whom emigrated from Chiang Saen are the group that initiated the museum 1987. The group got cooperation from the government sector, private sector, and charity organizations to build this museum and make it as a center of knowledge for students and public. Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn was invited to be the guest of honor in an opening ceremony that was held on October 14, 1991.
There are nine different patterns for the vintage textiles which are as follows: Kong Kaeng pattern, Dok Sia pattern, Karb pattern, Nha Mhorn pattern, Dok Kaew pattern, Hak Nok Khu pattern, Kong Kaeng Son Sia pattern, Karb Dok Kaew pattern, and Kae Rai pattern. Kae Rai pattern was created after Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn came over at the museum and plant one of the Kae Rai tree here. Udom Somporn later ordered craftsmen to carve the Kae Rai flower pettern. Also, there are many more patterns show at the museum such as Dok Khao Tok pattern, Khor Pra Jae pattern, Kood pattern, Nok Khu Kin Nam Huam Tao pattern, Khor Liao pattern, Nok Khao Hong pattern, Nak pattern, Ma pattern, Nok pattern, Sapao pattern, Malilueay pattern, etc.
The area inside the museum was divided into two zones.
The first zone is an exhibition zone that keeps all the Chok textiles inside the glass cabinet. There are more than 100 kinds of textile both vintage and new display for anyone interested.
The second zone is where the people come to encounter the progress of weaving Tin Chok cloth and Thai-Vietnamese girl will show and take care of you throughout the tour.
The museum opens 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the admission is free.
For further information, please call 032300031
How to get here?
By car: Take the road that heads to Khu Bua Sub-District which is 7 kilometers far from the center of the town.
By Bus: Take a bus from Bangkok Bus Terminal (South) which departs at every single hour. Later when reach the center of Ratchaburi town, find a motorcycle ride of tricycle ride to bring you directly to the museum.

Khao Prathap Chang forest feeds research station and open zoo

Attraction Details :

Khao Prathap Chang forest feeds research station and open zoo is located at Din Krong Sub-District, Muang District and as well Pak Chong Sub-District, Chom Bueng District. It lies on the foothill of Khao Prathap Chang which is connected to the central literature botanic garden. It is a plant tissue culture and as well a place for breeding endangered wild animals. There is a 40 acres area opening as a zoo and any visitors can encounter a variety of wildlife at close range here. All animals living here were given by the folks in order to make them have a better life under the care of Khao Prathap Chang forest feeds research station and open zoo. The place compiles varieties of plant and it is the only research station that does breed tigers. There are many more beautiful creatures live here at the open zoo such as Chamois, hens, deer, tigers, ostrich, etc. All these animals were contributed or else were seized from those who owe these animals illegally. Khao Prathap Chang open zoo opens daily and the admission is free. But, the donation for animal foods is as well accepted.
Besides, during December to April, you will spot Orapim flower blooms everywhere. Khao Prathap Chang forest feeds research station and open zoo is a perfect place for those who interested to learn more about varieties of plant and to relax at the same time. Also, Khao Prathap Chang forest feeds research station and open zoo offers a nature trail named ‘Pruksa Nanaphan’ which consists of 13 stations with 900 meters distance and it would take you 45 minutes.  You will encounter the tree plots which are related to Thai literature such as herbs, plants of each province, etc. Also, you can spot the wildlife such as tigers, deer, etc. Moreover, on January and June of each year, there will be a marathon and cycling activities held by the central literature botanic garden together with Chombueng Ratchaphat University.
Khao Prathap Chang forest feeds research station and open zoo opens daily from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. For more information, please call 032211025 ext. 807 or call 061631871
How to get here?
Take a Bangkok – Chom Bueng bus from Bangkok and drop off in front of Khao Bin cave and you will spot Khao Prathap Chang forest feeds research station right in front of you.

Sarika Cave

Attraction Details :

Sarika Cave is located in Tham Sarika Village, Moo 8, Tambon Thamsen, Photharam District, Ratchaburi Province. It is one of the caves with a long history dating back to Phra Chao Taksin's period according to a chronicle saying that Phra Chao Taksin along with 500 soldiers broke into Ayutthaya and stayed overnight at this cave led by Thong Duang or Rama I who used to serve as the governor of Ratchaburi. After having stayed for one night, he gathered volunteers and food before traveling along the coast to create a group in Chantaburi. Later in 1890, Rama V visited this cave by water. He debarked at Ko Phlapphla pier in Thoong Thamsen, Photharam District, Ratchaburi Province and rode an elephant to the route from the clue Rama V had explored in 1856 by boat following Phra Chao Taksin's note. In 1968, two sacred objects – Katyayana and Sivali – were built as well as the staircase to the cave.
In the past, Wat Tham Sarika was considered as a priest's house; however, as many people had constantly come to practice the dharma, it was allowed to be a temple in 1987. Mr. Thong-Erb and Mrs. Som Cheua Yaipimon from Bangkok were the operators but currently the temple is operated by Maha Nikaya monks. The area is about 9 acres with the north side attached to a private land, the south and the west to public ways, and the east to mountains. There are an Ubosot built in 2000, 3 abodes for monks which one was made of concrete and the other two are half wood, a bell tower, a Chedi, sacred objects, the principle Buddha images and a number of other Buddha images.
Wat Tham Sarika is clean and calm with various plants. Inside the cave, there are beautiful stalagmites and stalactites and the hall is also divided into hot and cold which make it a quite place suitable for practicing the dharma and tourism.
Open daily from 08.00-17.00

Bo Khlueng Hot Stream

Attraction Details :

Bo Khlueng is a natural hot stream whose water source is from the Tanao Si Mountains and is full of mineral water believed can be used for skin treatment. The water which flows all year round has temperature between 50-68 degrees Celsius. On the route to the hot stream, there is another attraction Kao Chon Waterfall. It has very beautiful waterfall cascades consist of 9 tiers that will be plentiful during the late rainy season. There also are stream bathing facilities provide bathroom and pool hot stream pool where visitors can dip into the hot mineral water.
Opening hours: 8am-5pm
Contact: 032-329-025, 032-711-086
Admission: 80 baht for adults and 50 baht for children to baht in the hot stream bathing.
To get there: Depart from Amphoe Suan Phueng about 5 kilometers until reaching an intersection leading to Bo Khlueng Hot Stream. Go straight on for 10 kilometers.
http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Bo-Khlueng-Hot-Stream--992

Siam Cultural Park

Attraction Details :

Located on Phetkasem Road, Wang Yen Subdistrict, Bang Phae District, Ratchaburi, the Siam Cultural Park has an area of about 18 acres with shady trees along the paths in the park. It was born out of the intention and the ideas of the founders who had backgrounds and over 40 years of experience in making Buddha images and sculptures. This experience inspired them to create realistic wax figures of monks staying in Kutis, and successful significant people whose attitudes towards work and life were praised. They also wanted to create waxworks showing regional Thai culture and lifestyle. They, therefore, established the Siam Cultural Park, which is divided into six following exhibition zones:
1.Hall of Fame
With organised exhibits, it displays wax sculptures of both Thai and foreign important figures, e.g. Mom Luang Pin Malakul, an important Thai educator; Sanya Dharmasakti, a Thai jurist; Puey Ungpakorn, a Thai economist who played a major role in shaping Thailand’s economic policy; Montri Tramote, a Thai musician who preserved traditional Thai music; Seub Nakhasathien, a Thai conservationist who sacrificed himself to protect his beloved forest; Mother Teresa, one of the world’s most benevolent figures; President Ho Chi Minh, a great Vietnamese hero who liberated Vietnam; Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping, Chinese revolutionists and leaders; etc.  
2.Terrace of Buddha images of Three Periods
Set among the natural beauty of a garden, this is where massive Buddha statues of Sukhothai Period, Ayutthaya Period and Chiang Saen Period are hosted with signs giving information about the main characteristics of each of the Buddha images.
3.Jataka Cave
After leaving the Terrace of Buddha Images of Three Periods, you will see a man-made waterfall and the Jataka Cave, which houses wax statues illustrating the Vessantara Jataka, the tales of the Lord Buddha’s tenth life, in the story’s chronological order with light and sound effects. You will find waxworks exhibiting, for instance, the scene in which Jujaka asked Vessantara for his two children and also the scene in which Jujaka died as a result of overstuffing himself.
4.Monastic Cells From Four Regions
Housed in each living quarter of monks are realistic wax figures of well-known monks respected by Thai people. A recorded voice is also provided so as to give visitors some information about the monks. The four monastic cells include:
1Monastic cell in the Central Region with waxworks of Somdet Phra Phuttachan (To Phromrangsi) and one of the former Supreme Patriarchs
2Monastic cell in Northern Thailand with waxworks of Kruba Srivichai Siriwichayo of Wat Ban Pang, Li District, Lamphun and Luang Pu Waen Suchinno of Wat Doi Mae Pang, Phrao District, Chiang Mai.
3Monastic cell in North Eastern Thailand with waxworks of Phra Achan Man Phurithatto of Wat Pa Sutthawat, Sakon Nakhon and Luang Pu Rian Woralapho, Wat Aranya Banphot, Sri Chiang Mai District, Nong Khai
4Monastic cell in Southern Thailand with waxworks of Phra Ratcha Muni Samiram Khunupamachan (Luang Pu Thuat) of Wat Chang Hai, Pattani and Phra Khru Wisai Sophon (Phra Achan Thim Thammatharo) of Wat Chang Hai, Pattani
5.Chanting Hall
It features waxworks displaying monks that gather together including:
1Luang Pho Ngoen Phutthachot of Wat Bang Khlan, Pichit
2Luang Pho Thong Kham (Phra Maha Metta Wirakhun) of Wat Bueng Ba, Pathum Thani
3Luang Pu Supha Kantasilo of Wat Silasuparam, Phuket
4Luang Pu Tim Isariko of Wat Rahan Rai, Rayong
5Luang Pu Kham Phan Khosapanyo of Wat That Maha Chai, Nakhon Phanom
6.Thai Style Houses of Four Regions
It exhibits traditional Thai houses of Thailand’s four major regions including the Northern, the Central, the North Eastern and the Southern Regions. These houses possess waxworks displaying traditional Thai lifestyle of people in the four regions.
Operating hours:
Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 16:30
Weekends and public holidays from 8:30 to 17:00
Admission fee:
Adults: 80 baht, Children and monks: 40 baht, Foreign adults: 300 baht, Foreign children: 400 baht (The admission fee is subject to change by the Siam Cultural Park.)
Contact information:
Tel: 032381401 or 032381404, Fax: 032381403, E-mail: scp_2549@hotmail.com, Website: www.scppark.com

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Attraction Details :

In the past, daily commerce in Thailand was conducted mostly along rivers and canals (or khlongs in Thai). Bangkok’s water network was busy and served as the principal means of communication causing Bangkok to be called as the “Venice of the East” by early European visitors. Out from Bangkok, there is a floating market that becomes one of the Thailand’s most famous attractions, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Every morning, boat venders will cramp in Khlong Damnoen Saduak to sell product from their plantations that varies from fruits to vegetables. Now the product is more varieties as there are many visitors visit here every day. Check out there early morning and take a ride on a row boat to get the real sense of floating market.

Opening hours: 6am-noon
To get there: Take Rama 2 Road (Highway No. 35 until reaching 63km and take an overpass to the right reaching to Highway No.325. Go furhter for 12 kilometers, the market entrace will be on the left before reaching Thanarat Bridge.
http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Damnoen-Saduak-Floating-Market--989

Ratchaburi National Museum

Attraction Details :

The edifice was formerly the town hall, built in 1922. Established as a museum in 1988, it displays art and ancient items founded in the Ratchaburi area from different period. There also are history exhibits of Ratchaburi, as well as its folk arts and geology.
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 9am-4pm
Admission: 30 baht
Contact: 032-321-513, http://on.fb.me/1aP0kWy
To get there: The museum located on Woradet Road near the Mae Klong River in the city center.
http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Ratchaburi-National-Museum--987

Wat Phananchoeng

Attraction Details :

Wat Phanan Choeng Worawiharn is located in Khlong Suan Plu subdistrict, on the south bank Of Pasak River opposite the main city. From Wat Yai Chai Monkon, make a left turn and keep going for a kilometer, you will find Wat Phanan Choeng on your right.

Although Wat Phanan Choeng has been built even before the establishment of Ayutthaya as the capital city, there is no clear record about its founder. According to the Northern Chronicles, Phra Chao Sai Namphung, the ruler of Ayotthaya, had it built at the royal cremation site of Phra Nang Soi Dok Mak and named the temple “Wat Phra Chao Nang Choeng” (or Wat Phra Nang Choeng)

The assembly hall (vihara) houses a majestic Buddha image cast in B.E. 1324, 26 years before the establishment of Ayutthaya. This Buddha image was formerly called “Phra Buddha Chao Phanan Choeng”, until King Rama IV renamed it “Phra Buddha Trirattana Nayok”. It was built of stucco in subduing Mara posture and was magnificently lacquered and gilt. In front of the Buddha Image are a talipot fan and 2 statues of disciples made of stucco sitting on its left- and right- hand side. The columns inside the assembly hall were decorated with red painting of Phum Khao Bin pattern. The capitals of the columns were ornamented with stucco multi-petal lotus flowers. All the 4 walls were indented to make several chambers which enshrine 84,000 small Buddha images.  The wooden front doors were craved exquisitely with Kan Khod pattern, a distinctive feature of Ayutthya Art. 

The ordination hall (ubosot) houses Sukhothai-style Buddha images. Viharn Sien in front of the main assembly hall is a rectangular building whose walls decorated by mural painting. The traditional Thai architectural sermon hall is made of wood. Its pediment was ornamented with a gable apex and ridges. The crossbeam inside was covered with the painting portraying the life of the Lord Buddha. 

In addition, you will find the shrine of Chao mae Soi Dok Mak, the Chinese architecture enshrining the statue of Chao mae Soi Dok Mak in Chinese costume. The sacred statue is known as “chu-sae-near” and widely worshipped by the Chinese. Admission fee for foreigners is 20 baht and free of charge for Thai visitors.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Attraction Details :

One of the most visited historical site of Ayutthaya, Wat Chaiwattanaram rests on the bank of the Chao Phraya river, to the west of the city island. The temple was ordered to built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother, featuring the architectural style influenced by Angkor temple in Cambodia—its unique feature is a large, central prang (Khmer-style pagoda) surrounded by smaller prangs, symbolizing Mount Sumeru, the gods' mountain according to Hindu belief. The lighting at night makes the temple even more exotic and beautiful.

Wat Yai Chaimongkon

Attraction Details :

Wat Yai Chaimongkol was originally named Wat Pa Kaew or Wat Chaoprayathai. It is situated at the east side of Pa Sak River. As the history said, it was assumed that King U-Thong built this temple as the place for the monks who came back from the ordainment in Sri Lanka to stay. This monk group’s name is “Pa Kaew” that is why this temple was also named Wat Pa Kaew. Then, the impieties of this group have appointed the leader as Somdet Pra Wanrat and is also the right patriarch with the Pra Puttakosajan as the left patriarch. After that, they changed the name of the temple to “Wat Chaoprayathai” which was assumed that this name came from the reason that King U-Thong built this temple at the cremation place of Chao Kaew Chai Thai or might be the reason that this temple is the dwelling place of the right patriarch which was originally called “Chao Thai”.

This temple also had a bond with King Naraesuan’s reign. In year 1592, when King Naraesuan conquered the war with King Uparat of Myanmar at Tambol Nongsarai, Supanburi, he built a big chedi as the signal of the conquest. It was not clear whether it was a new chedi or a restoration of an old one. However, it was named “Chaimongkol Chedi”. The people called it “Chedi Yai”. After that, it was combined together to “Wat Yai Chaimongkol”. However, it was abandoned after the 2nd fall of Ayuttaya. It was then restored again during the Rattanakosin Kingdom.

The interesting thing inside the temple is the chedi and the viharn which was built during King Naraesuan’s Kingdom. Nowadays, there is the King Naraesuan’s palace which is the attraction of many tourists.

Wat Yai Chaimongkol is opened daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with 20 THB admission fee. The tourists can retrieve more information at 035-242-640 or www.watyaichaimongkol.net

The travelling route to this temple starts from Bangkok to Ayuttaya, take the left turn as soon as you see the Chedi Wat Sam Pluem. Go straight for 1 kilometer and Wat Yai Chaimongkol is on the left side.

Map

http://www.tourismthailand.org/fileadmin/upload_img/Multimedia/Ebrochure/475/วัดใหญ่ชัยมงคล.pdf

Wat Phu Khao Thong

Attraction Details :

Wat Phukhao Thong is located 2 kilometers northwest of the royal palace.
Khamhaikan Chao Krungkao (Testimony by the People from the Old Kingdom) manifested that Phrachao Bhureng Noung of Hongsawadi commanded the construction of a gigantic Mon-style pagoda to commemorate his victory after the successful siege of Ayutthaya. However, as the Burmese army returned to its home country, merely the pagoda base was built. After Somdet Phra Naresuan Maharat declared the independence of Ayutthaya in 1584, he gave the royal command to superimpose a Thai-style pagoda on the large Mon-style base at Thung Makham Yong. It can be said that the uniqueness of the pagoda is the combination of 2 architectural styles.
Formerly, Chedi Phukhao Thong is a massive pagoda towering in the middle of paddy fields and can be seen from afar. Therefore, the temple adjacent to this pagoda was also given the similar name: Wat Phukhao Thong.
Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning collaborated with the Fine Arts Department to erect the equestrian statue of King Naresuan in front of Wat Phukhao Thong. It is situated very close to Queen Sri Suriyothai Monument which has been built earlier by Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning. The area mainly features an open space of flood-plains and moulds, so it became major battlefields between Thai and Burmese armies in both periods, including the fights on elephants’ backs.
It is unfortunate that the temple was abandoned after the 2nd collapse of Ayutthaya kingdom. However, Phra Maha Chedi still maintains its religious significance, as mentioned in Nirat Phukhao Thong written by Sunthorn Phu during the reign of King Rama III. Several visitors nowadays, likewise, go there for veneration.
It is not until the year 1957 that monks are allowed to reside at the temple again.

Phra Chedi Sisuriyothai

Attraction Details :

Chedi Phra Sri Suriyothai is located on the western part of the city island near the Office of Archeology and National Museum on U-tong Rd. This Phra Chedi is one of  a very important archeological site in Ayutthaya Historical Park. It is the monument of the first Thai heroine, Somdet Phra Sri Suriyothai who died during an elephant duel between Maha Chakkraphat and the Viceroy of Prome and is also a symbol of Thai women's honor in Thailand since the ancient time.

During Ayutthaya period, Somdet Phra Maha Chakkraphat reigned the kingdom and had Somdet Phra Sri Suriyothai as his wife. After having reigned for 7 months, Tabinshwehti and Bayinnaung surrounded Ayutthaya by using the invasion route via the Three Pagodas Pass towards Kanchanaburi, and then to the capital Ayutthaya. Somdet Phra Chakkaphat mounted his war elephant with his son accompanying. Somdet Phra Sri Suriyothai was so worried that she dressed in make military attire and followed them on a war elephant. When the Ayutthaya army had faced the vanguard of Tabinshwehti's army led by the Viceroy, Somdet Phra Maha Chakkraphat gave flight but the elephant charged away from the enemy. Somdet Phra Sri Suriyothai, therefore, charged ahead between the King and the Viceroy to block his pursuit and was fatally cleaved from shoulder to heart with his spear. After the war, Somdet Phra Maha Chakkraphat ordered a grand cremation and placed Queen Sri Suriyothai's body at Suan Luang, the Royal Garden, was then known as Wat Sop Sawan.

Afterwards, during the reign of Rama V, there were investigations to find places mentioned in the royal annals in order to compile into books. The finding led to the location of Wat Sop Sawan where the big Chedi was found. Rama VI later called it “Chedi Phra Sri Suriyothai”.

In 1990, The Fine Arts Department restored the damaged Chedi and, from the restoration, they found some ancient objects such as a glass image of Buddha, a model of the Chedi, and a golden casket with relics inside. They are all preserved in Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.

Prof. Dr. Santi Leksukhum, a scholar of Thai archeology, found that Chedi Phra Sri Suriyothai is probably the oldest among all Chedi with the same shape and is a unique architecture of Ayutthaya.

Direction to Chedi Phra Sri Suriyothai http://www.tourismthailand.org/fileadmin/upload_img/Multimedia/Ebrochure /428/พระเจดีย์ศรีสุริ โยทัย%20cs5%20.pdf

Wat Phra Ram

Attraction Details :

 In addition to a significant historical site, Wat Phra Ram is commonly known among Ayutthaya residents as a recreational area. There is a large-scale swamp located in front of the temple. It is named Bung Phra Ram Public Park, or formerly called Nong Sano or Bung Che Khan as stated in the Monarch Law. When the city of Ayutthaya was established, soil under the swamp has been dug out to raise the foundation grade of the temple. The size of the swamp is thus enormous. Phra Ramesuan ordered the construction of the temple in 1369 at his father’s cremation site. However the completion actually took place during the reign of Somdet Phra Borommaracha I (Phra Chao U-thong), so the temple was named after the king. 

The temple stands outside the royal court complex to the East and is opposite the assembly hall of Wat Phra Mongkhon Bophit. Its current location is Pratu Chai subdistrict, Phra Nakorn Si Ayutthaya (Krung Kao) district. The arrangement forms a quincunx where the main Prang (Khmer-influenced stupa) is in the middle. The Prang sits on a massive square platform with arch facades on its west. Its 4 corners are surrounded by Himmaphan mythical creatures. Observational remarks made by archeologists on the architecture of the temple are that the Northern temple wall overlaps with the Eastern, Western and Southern ones; and that the arch facade in the West is proportional to the Northwestern cloister of the Prang, while the Northwestern cloister does not even have any arch facade. The architecture of the temple remains mysterious whether such arrangement was intentionally meant to serve some purposes. The debris found in Wat Phra Ram include the Prang, temple walls, pillars inside the ordination hall, 7 assembly halls, assorted sizes of 28 pagodas dotting around the Prang. Even though the temple is in ruin, its eternal charm still portrays the glorious history of Thais. The temple is open to visitors from 8.00 to 18.00 and after hours with spotlights from 19.30 to 21.00. The admission fee is 10 baht for Thais and 40 baht for foreigners.

Wat Phra Mahathat

Attraction Details :

Wat Mahathat is located west of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, at the foot of Paa Than bridge.

According to some historical records, the temple was built during the reign of Somdet Phra Borom Rachathirat I. Later Somdet Phra Ramesuan enshrined the reliquary inside the foundation of the Prang, and this incident thus originated the temple’s name “Wat Mahathat” or “Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat” which means the sacred temple where the relics of the Lord Buddha were installed. The Prang of Wat Mahathat was built in Early Ayutthaya. Its structure became the traditional model when constructing a temple and can be found nationwide. Within the kingdom of Ayutthaya, the reliquary holds historical and religious significance as the edifice representing the Buddha. It is believe that Somdet Phra Borom Rachathirat I or Khun Luang Pa Ngua granted a permission to build the temple, but the completion took place during the reign of Somdet Phra Ramesuan. The Prang in which the holy relics were installed was greatly influenced by Khmer-style architecture - the lower part was made of laterite, whereas the upper part was masonry. There was a restoration during the reign of Somdet Phrachao Prasatthong in order to heighten the Prang, but this caused a serious damage to the top and the Prang was left alone with the portico. It was so unfortunate, as it was such an enormous and magnificent one. In 1956 the Fine Arts Department made another attempt to renovate and found a large number of invaluable antiques, such as the stone casket containing the relics. The casket is in fact consists of 7 superimposing stupas: a combination of lead and tin, silver, copper alloy, ebony, sandalwood, garnet and gold. Nowadays the casket is kept in Chao Sam Phaya National Museum.

Additionally, highlights of Wat Mahathat include the octagonal pagoda, the plaster base of a Buddha image, the medium-size Prang with mural paintings about the life of the Buddha, the resident hall of the Buddhist Supreme Patriarch and other smaller Viharas. What seems to be the most prominent landmark of the temple is the head of a sandstone Buddha image entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree.

Wat Ratchaburana (Ayutthaya)

Attraction Details :

Wat Ratchaburana is at the foot of Paa Than bridge in Tha Wasukri subdistrict, Phra Nakorn Sri Ayutthaya (Krung Kao) district, Ayutthaya province. It is located north of Wat Mahathat and stands only a short distance away from the royal palace. Wat Ratchaburana is one of the royal monasteries built in the Ayutthaya era and the eldest temple in the province. According to the Royal Chronicles, it was constructed in 1424 during the reign of Somdet Phra Borommaracha II, commonly known as Chao Sam Phraya, on the royal cremation site of Chao Ai Phraya and Chao Yi Phraya. Somdet Phra Borommaracha II had 2 memorial pagodas built on the location where both of his elder brothers fought each other to the death on elephants’ backs, and named the pagodas after his borthers’ names – Chedi Chao Ai Phraya and Chedi Chao Yi Phraya.

The highlight of Wat Ratchaburana is the crypt where tremendous treasures were stored. In the year 1956 – 1957, looters smuggled through the Prang and plundered a considerable amount of valuables, especially votive tablets made of tin and lead. In September 1957, the Fine Arts Department officially excavated and restored the crypt of Wat Ratchaburana. To their surprise, they uncovered the relics of the Lord Buddha, swords, crowns, golden attires, Buddha images made of gold and copper alloy, royal regalia and a few hundred thousands of votive tablets. Later the Fine Arts Department allowed collectors to purchase these recuperated sacred items, and the proceeds from the sale were meant to build Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. The museum was founded on the occasion that His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen paid a visit to admire the invaluable artifacts excavated from the crypt. The museum is situated in Pratu Chai subdistrict, Pridi Banomyong Road. All the recuperated treasures are stored in Ratchaburana Room inside the museum.

Wat Thammikarat

Attraction Details :

Wat Dhammikaraj is located on the east of the ancient palace. Being built before the foundation of Ayutthaya, the royal temple of the Maha Nikai demonization was initially named Wat Mukaraj. When King Sai Nam Phueng had Wat Phanan Choeng built, his son, King Dhammikaraj, ordered the temple to be built in the old city area, which was formerly known as Mueng Sangklaburi before the time of Ayutthaya. The temple had been well maintained since then. In 1610, Somdet Phra Boromma Trailokkanat restored the place and had a large nine-room vihan, the ‘Harn Song Dhamma’, built for listening to sermon on Buddhist Sabbaths. The vihan once housed a bronze head of Buddha dating back to U-Thong period. The head was brought away by the Fine Arts Department and is now kept at Chao Sam Phraya Museum.          

In addition, there is a vihan of the reclining Buddha image, which was ordered to be built by the Queen following the fulfilled wish for the princess’s recovery from illness. The reclining Buddha is 12 metre long, facing north. The toes are covered with gold leaf and pieces of mirror. The vihan is situated on the north side of the main chedi. The chedi has a bell shape and features an octagonal base encircled by 52 singha statues made from mortar, which is different from other chedi bases commonly encircled by elephant statues.

The ubosot of the temple contains a purely white image of Buddha in subduing Mara position. The Buddha image is assumed to have been built in the early Rattanakosin period.

How to get there

Wat Dhammikaraj is located in front of the ancient palace on U-Thong Road. To get there, tourists can use the same direction as that of Wat Phra Mongkhon Bophit and Wat Phra Si Sanphet.

The temple is recommended for those who are interested in pre-Ayutthaya art for its . There are also horse carriages available in front of the temple. Wat Dhammikaraj is open daily from 8.30 am – 4.30 pm.

Ancient Palace

Attraction Details :

The Royal Palace or The ancient Palace is located near Wat Mongkol Borpit temple. At present, there is only the remains of the building’s base. Only Wat Phra Si Sanphet is there with the glamorous architecture. It is presumed that King U-Thong ordered to build this palace once he stayed in the small Vienglek palace in 1347. Once he successfully formed Bangkok in 1350, he moved to stay in this new palace near Nhon Sanon. The area, where Phra Thinang or throne halls were built by wood, now becomes the area of Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Later in 1448, King Phra Borom Trai Lokkanart offered the area of
the former palace to be built as a temple in the royal palace area. The temple is “Wat Phra Si Sanphet”. Then he ordered to build a new royal palace located in the North close to Lopburi River. The palaces in the former palace area were the residences of every king in Ayutthaya period.
Tourists can use Wat Mongkol Borphit’s entrance and pass Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which has beautifully narrated pagodas, then continue walking to the ancient palace. The palace area is divided into the outer area, the middle area and the inner area.
The outer palace area is the location of Phra Thinang Chakkrawat Phaichayon which was used to observe the procession and the performance. Moreover, it is consisted of many government offices such as jury court, royal court and account list court.
The middle palace area is the location of three great Maha Prasart which are Phra Thinang Viharn Somdej, Phra Thinang Sanphet Prasart, the main residence of the King, and Phra Thinang Suriya Amarin, which is believed to be the place where the Phra Narai’s remain is kept.
The inner palace area is the location of Phra Thinang Banyong Ratanart, Rong Kriang Ton,
Phra Thinang Trimook, Phra Thinang Song Puen and the residences of the officers who work in the palace.
For visiting, take the road around the city, drive pass Wang Chan Kasem palace for only
2 kilometers and you will reach the palace. The palace opens daily from 07.00 – 18.30. The special event at this palace starts between 19.30 – 21.00 where there are lighting tour for observing the ancient palace. The light and darkness will provide you another experience differently from the daytime visiting.
The admission fee is 10 baht per Thai adult and 30 baht per foreigner. Tourists can buy a package of mixed tickets which is60 baht for Thai adult and 180 baht for a foreigner.

Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit

Attraction Details :

Viharn Pra Mongkolborpit is situated on the south of Wat Prasrisanpetch and is where the bronze Buddha image in the attitude of subduing Mara is situated. This Buddha image has a lap measurement at 9.55 metres and height at 12.45 metres. This is one of the biggest Buddha image in Thailand. It was assumed to be built during the Ayuttaya Era of King Srongtam. The King transferred the location from the east side to the west side which has been the location since then. After that the King ordered to build a dome on top.

However, in the era of King Suer, a thunderbolt struck at the tip of the dome which causes damage to the dome. The King ordered to restore the dome and change the roof of the dome to a cathedral and the top of Pra Mongkolborpit was extended during the reign of King Barommakote. During the 2nd fall of Ayuttaya, Viharn Pra Mongkolborpit was ruined by the enemy. After that King Rama 5 ordered to restore this viharn again in the Ayuttaya architectural style. It is a good model of the Buddha image during the end of Ayuttaya reign.

Originally, the east side of the viharn is Sanam Luang, which was used for the cremation ceremony of the Kings and the royalties same as the Sanam Luang in Bangkok.

Viharn Pramongkolborpit is opened on from 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and public holidays. The tourists can visit Wat Prasrisanpetch or visit both temples via riding on elephants from Wang Chang Ayuttaya.

Map

http://www.tourismthailand.org/fileadmin/upload_img/Multimedia/Ebrochure/477/วิหารพระมงคลบพิตร.pdf

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Attraction Details :

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is located in Pratu Chai subdistrict, Phra Nakorn Si Ayutthaya district, Ayutthaya province. The temple is not only a significant historical site, but also considered as the spiritual center of Thais for a long time. Situated within the royal palace grounds, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is the royal monastery and therefore no monk is allowed to reside at. However, the temple served to conduct ceremonies within the royal court, such as the ritual to drink an oath of allegiance. It is also regarded as an equivalence of Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai and a model for Wat Phra Sri Ratana Sasadaram (the royal temple of the Emerald Buddha) or Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.

Somdet Phra Ramathibodi I or King U-thong commanded the construction of his royal house in this area, but when Somdet Phra Borom Tilokkanat succeeded the throne, the king considered moving the royal palace further north and converting the piece of land into a sacred ground which later became this temple. During the reign of Ramathibodi II, an enormous Buddha image was cast. The Buddha image of “Phra Sri Sanphetdayan” is 16 meters high and its surface is coated with 143 kilograms of gold. It had been enshrined inside the assembly hall until the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 when the Burmese invaded and melted the gilded gold away. The Buddha image was seriously damaged, so in the Rattanakosin period Phra Bat Somdet Phra Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke installed the broken core of Phra Sri Sanphetdayan in a pagoda inside Wat Phra Chetupon Vimolmangkalararm Rajvoramahaviharn in Bangkok and named the pagoda “Chedi Sri Sanphetdayan”.

Somdet Phrachaoyuhua Borommakot was the first to command the temple restoration. During the reign of Phrabat Somdet Phra Chulachomklao Chao Yuhua (King Rama V), Phraya Boran Rachathanin the regional intendant found a considerably large collection of artifacts in the underground chamber of the pagoda, for example Buddha images and gold ornaments. Later Field Marshal P. Piboonsongkram assigned a committee to renovate the ruins until the temple regained its current condition.

This royal monastery plays an important role in history of art and archeology. The remaining debris still evidently portrays how glorious the country was. At the heart of the temple, there are three adjacent Ceylonese (or bell-shaped) pagodas situated on rectangular platforms. It is believed that these platforms were the base of royal houses in the Ayutthaya period. Currently, the temple is regarded as the symbol of Ayutthaya province.

Wat Na Phramen

Attraction Details :

The temple is located along Khlong Sra Bua and the north bank of the Khlong Mueang or as know as Lob Buri River just opposite the ancient Grand Palace. It was received the name Wat Phra Meru Rachikaram, the old temple outside the city area. As its name indicates, it must have been established at a Royal cremation area during the later Ayutthaya period. Remarkably, this temple was not destroyed when Ayutthaya was lastly defeated by Burmese troops. 

The ordination hall (ubosot) faces south and measures approximately 50 m by 16 m. Inside the ubosot, there are octagonal columns. The top of the columns were made in the form of closed lotuses to support the large roof. The ceiling was decorated with carved wood and colored glasses showing the meaning of beautiful stars in the sky. The windows appear along the ubosot’s walls which later has been extended by adding pillars during the later Ayutthaya period.

Highlight of this ubosot is its gable. The ubosot’s gable is featuring Vishnu (in Thailand called Phra Narai or Narayan) mounted on Garuda, on top of the demon head Rahu placed between two Nagas and flanked by 26 celestial. Vishnu is considered the symbol of the King. 

The principal Buddha image at Wat Na Phra Men’s ubosot is seated in the 'subduing Mara' position, and wears royal attire. Its full name is : Phra Buddha Nimitr Vichit Maramoli Sisanpeth Boromtrailokanat with the lap of 4.40 meters wide and 6 meters high. The image’s face is graceful, peaceful and respectful. Buddha images were royal attire like this are typical for the later Ayutthaya period. The statue is the most beautiful and largest crowned Buddha image that was left following the war with Burma.

The ubosoth of Wat Na Phra Men was restored during the reign of King Rama III. In a separate small Viharn next to ubosot, another unique seated Buddha image of the Dvaravati period, named Phra Khantharat, which was carved in green stone, can be seen. It’s 1 of 5 seated Buddha images in Thailand which is worth preserved.

Wat Na Phra Men is one of the culture heritages of Ayutthaya. This temple is perfect for those who are interested in history and archeology and a good attraction for visitors. It opens from 8am-6pm. Admission fees are 20 baht for foreigner. For more information please call 035-241-704 (Ayutthaya Studies Institution) or 035-246-076 (Tourism Thailand ,Ayutthaya)

Wat Suwan Dararam Ratchaworawihan

Attraction Details :

Wat Suwan Dararam Ratchaworawihan was formerly known as “Wat Thong” and was constructed by King Rama I ’s father since the Ayutthaya period. When King Rama I the Great was crowned as the first king of the Rattanakosin period, he had the temple re-established and renamed it “Wat Suwan Dararam” to suggest his parents’ names, ‘Tong Dee’ ‘Dao Rueng’.

There are some places worth visiting such as the temple’s Phra Ubosot is of the late Ayutthaya style, being situated on a boat-like concave foundation. Its gable depicts the God Vishnu on his mount Garuda. Inside, there are murals of angels on the upper parts and scenes from the Jataka stories on the lower parts of the side walls.The front wall to which the principal Buddha image is facing depicts the scene of the Buddha Subduing Mara from the life of the Lord Buddha, with the Mother Earth Goddess in the centre.

Unlike the Phra Ubosot, Phra Wihan. It was built in the reign of King Rama II. Inside, there are fine murals depicting the story of King Naresuan the Great painted in the reign of King Rama VII, which are the prototype of Don Chedi Monument in Suphan Buri.

There is also a belfry in the Western style. It was made from bricks and cement. There are 2 floors and shaped in square.  A concave door was built on the lower floor. It was assumed that it was built in King Rama IV era. 

The temple is located inside the city wall to the southeast of the town island near PomPhet .To get there, use the same route as Chanthara Kasem National Museum, turn right at the T-junction for another 1 kilometer.

The map to Wat Suwan Dararam Ratchaworawihan http://www.tourismthailand.org/fileadmin/upload_img/Multimedia/Ebrochure /473/วัดสุวรรณดาราราม.pdf

Khao Chong Krachok

Attraction Details :

A monastery situated  395 steps up from the foot of the hill north of town, Khao Chong Krachok features a small pagoda and a troop of playful monkeys, with highlight on a panoramic view of the coastline and seascape.
http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Khao-Chong-Krachok--723

Ao Noi, Ao Prachuap Khiri Khan

Attraction Details :

Ao Prachuap Khiri Kan and Ao Noi are two connected bays and home to the city of Prachuap Khiri Kan. Ao Prachuap Khiri Kan is 8-km-wide, starting from Khao Ta Mong Lai from the north, curving towards Khao Lom Mak in the south. In the bay, there are a number of strange-shaped islets facing the land and giving a panoramic view. The bay is a good spot for working out, especially in the morning and in the evening when one can jog or ride a bicycle along the beach road towards Ao Noi. Visitors can observe a variety of lifestyles of local people in different places, ranging fisherman’s village, shops, hotels, government offices, parks and other recreation sites.      
Islands in Ao Prachuap Khiri Kan
Koh Rad is where ‘Vajiraroongroj’ lighthouse is located. On October 31, 1943, the lighthouse was built by the Admiralty on the royal assets of King Vajiravudh or King Rama VI.
Koh Lak is where a water level measuring station is located. The station is under the care of the Royal Thai Army. It is the starting point for measuring heights of lands and mountains compared to sea levels between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. The measurement is under the care of the Royal Thai Survey Department.
Koh Hai Lam is home to the shrine of Admiral Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, Prince of Chumphon, or Sadej Tia, which his admirers had long built. It is in the property of Wing 5. The island is reachable on foot during the ebb tide.    
In addition, Koh Lak in Ao Prachuap Khiri Kan is where Thailand’s first water level measuring station and first mean sea level (MSL) are located.   

Wat Ao Noi or Tham Phra Nawn

Attraction Details :

Located in Ao Noi subdistrict, Mueang district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, Wat Ao Noi or Tham Phra Non sets right at the foot of the hill near Ao Noi. Just before entering downtown Prachuap Khiri Khan, there is a roadway lane splitting from Petchkasem Road at Km. 314. To get an access to this place, drive along for 3 kilometers.
Within the compound of Wat Ao Noi stands a chapel which required tremendous cost of construction. The dazzling chapel was entirely made of golden-teak wood, decorated with elaborate Thai paintings and exquisitely craved. There is a Buddha image enshrined inside for visitors to worship and pray for good fortune. Moreover, the wall was covered with elegant hand-painted murals depicting a collection of Buddhist stories. The surrounding area of the temple is peaceful with lush green shades.
One must not miss visiting Tham Phra Non (Reclining Buddha Cave) which is located on the side of the hill  that faces Ao Noi bay. To overlook the sea, tourists are required to climb a flight of steps for approximately 10 – 15 minutes. Despite the small scale, the cave is breezy with good ventilation. Inside there are 2 grand and beautiful reclining Buddha images wearing similar yellow robes. It is also believed that in the old days sailors took shelter from rainstorms inside this cave, so it is the reason why Thai and foreign tourists come here to pay homage.

City Pillar Shrine of Prachuap Khiri Khan

Attraction Details :

Phrachuap Khiri Khan
Opening days: Every day
Official Hours: 08.30 – 17.00
Contact Information: It is located at Khao Deang, Amphur Kui Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province Telephone +663 282 1568

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is located in Amphur Kui Buri area and Amphur Sam Roi Yot, 63 kilometers away from Hua Hin to the south. Based on the passed-on legend, the area was once the sea with a number of big and small islands. At that time, a merchant junk passed by and encountered the storm which was resulted in sinking. The 300 junk survivors settled down on those islands. Therefore,the area was called “Koh Sam Roi Rot” (the 300 survivors) and slightly changed into “Khao Sam Roi Yot” (the 300 peaks) until nowadays.
 This national park is 98 square kilometer or 61,300 rai in total. The geographical features is consisted of coastal steep limestone mountains with the another plain wetland near the sea which is wetland and shallow basin including limestone islands lining close to the coast. This area is a habitat for various kinds of birds especially between November and February. It is announced as a national park on 28th June 1966 which is the fourth national park and the first coastal national park of Thailand.
 The national park has many interesting places worth visiting, starting from “Khao Daeng View Point. This place is located on one peak of the Khao Deang range. The most suitable time for watching the scenery or sunrise is 5.30 am in early morning.
For those who prefer watching sunset, you can ride a boat along Khao Daeng canal to the view point. The pier is at the front of Khao Daeng Temple. The ride is 3 – 4 kilometers and it is recommend to have a boat ride between 16.30 – 17.00 since the weather will not be too hot and it will be the perfect time to enjoy the captive sunset. The fee for one boat ride is 400 baht. The boat can accommodate up to 6 passengers.
Lastly, those who love Thailand’s marvelous nature, it is suggested to visit “Sam Roi Yot Field” which is natural large lowland. It is a home of diversified plants and animals and one of the important spot for bird watching of the country.

Kui Buri National Park

Attraction Details :

The 969 Sq.Km. of Kuiburi National Park spreads over 4 districts in Prachuap Khiri Khan, namely Amphoe Pran Buri, Amphoe Sam Roi Yot, Amphoe Kuiburi and Amphoe Mueang. There are walking trails to enter the wood in Mueang district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province. From Km. 320 on Petchkasem Road, there is an entrance to Ban Nikom Doen Bandai which is a 15-kilometer long tarmac road. Yet, the rest is a gravel-paved road causing great difficulties to travel in rainy season.
An overview of geography of Kuiburi National Park is made up of an undulated mountain range and vast watershed areas west of Thai-Myanmar border. The national park sits on the steep Tanaosri Mountain range and contains evergreen rain forest, dry evergreen rain forest, and mixed deciduous forest. Its abundant natural resources includes a variety of economically important plants and natural habitats for a great number of wild animals, for example wild elephants, gaurs, chamois and etc.
Kuiburi National Park maintains its natural beauty and intact ecosystem not altered by human exploitation. Visitors can find 2 kinds of accommodation, namely residence house and tent. The national park also provides a safe area to observe herds of elephants and gaurs, so this is the must-do activity. In addition, tourists can try the 300-meter long walking trail to admire Kalamet. The walking route takes about 30 minutes. The aromatic wood of Kalamet has been used to make the urn-shaped casket for the Royal cremation of HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana, the princess of Naradhivas.

 Admission fee is 200 bath for adults and 100 bath for chrildrent.

Khao Kalok Beach or Naresuan Beach

Attraction Details :

The path to the beach is between Km. 253-254 (opposite the Thanarat Infantry Camp and Pran Buri District Office). Turn into the path for 3 kilometres, turn left again at the T-junction for 2 kilometres, pass Wat Na Huai and turn right for a further 6 kilometres.

King Mongkut Memorial Park of Science and Technology at Wa Ko

Attraction Details :

Established in Wa Ko in 1989 to commemorate the father of scientific study in Thailand, King Mongkut Rama IV, this science museum contains many elements of youth education as well as an aquarium and butterfly garden.  The museum was built on the site where Rama IV himself visited to witness an eclipse of the sun he forecasted in 1868. It is located at Km.355 of Highway No.4, about 12 kilometers from Prachuap Khiri Khan and 4 kilometers along a branch road.
Contact: 032 661 098, www.waghor.go.th
http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/King-Mongkut-Memorial-Park-of-Science-and-Technology-at-Wa-Ko--725

Kaeng Krachan Dam

Attraction Details :

This Thailand’s most extensive national park occupies a largely unexplored area of 2,915 square kilometers (720,312 acres). Kaeng Krachan  was declared a national park on 12 June 1981. The park is located 53.5 kilometers from the city and is 3 kilometers beyond KhueanKaeng Krachan  (Kaeng Krachan  Dam) where there are a plenty of water activities such as cruising along the reservoir or fishing. With the large area of forests, camping and trekking are also popular activities here. The highest peak called Panerntung is the spot of the most picturesque scene which is the sea of fog during rainy and winter season. Kaeng Krachan  is also famous for its natural diversity and beautiful waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy seeing rare type of birds and millions of butterflies during summer.
Opening hours: 6am-6pm
Admission: 200 baht for adults, 100 baht for children
Accommodations: The national park provides bungalows and tents for rent.
Getting there: From Bangkok, take Highway No.4 until reaching Amphur Tha Yang then turn right to Highway No. 3499 until reaching the national park. It’s about 115 kilometers.
From Phetchaburi town, drive 20 kilometers towards Amphur Tha Yang then turn left and drive about 38 kilometers to the park.
Contact: 0-3246-7326, 0-86166-2991, 0-3245-9293 Fax. 0-3245-9291, E-mail: k.krachan_np@hotmail.com Website: http://bit.ly/4urPSU
http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Kaeng-Krachan-National-Park--980

Hat Chao Samran

Attraction Details :

Locate approximately 15 kilometers from the city center, this beach had been a significant resort of the royal family since Ayutthaya period. There was a legend that King Naresuan the Great and his brother, King Ekathotsarot, fell in love with this peaceful seaside and decided to extend their stay during a short visit. Since then, people surrounded decided to name this beach as Hat Chao Samran, meaning the Royal Leisure Beach.
The beach was highly popular during King Rama VI period, who had ordered the construction of Hat Chao Samram Palace, which finished in 1918.
Today, Hat Chao Samran is a favorite place for tourists who love its calm and beautiful. The fisherman village is also an interesting spot to have a walk to meet friendly fishermen and observe their daily life.

http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Hat-Chao-Samran--978

Phra Ram Ratchaniwet

Attraction Details :

Originally called "Ban Puen Palace," this European baroque and art nouveau style palace is situated at Ban Mo on the south of the town. The construction began in 1909 by the command of King Rama V to be his rainy season palace. A German architect, Mr. Karl Deurring designed the palace, while Admiral HRH Prince Boriphat of Nakhonsawan and HRH Prince Damrong supervised the construction. It was completed in 1916 in the reign of King Rama VI and it was used to welcome and accommodate state visitors during that time. It has been commissioned to many institutes, it now becomes Petchaburi Historic and Arts Museum under the conservation by Thai Royal Army.
Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 8.30am-4pm, Saturday – Sunday 8.30am-4.30pm
Admission: 50 baht
Contact: 0-32428-506 to 10 ext: 259

http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Phra-Ram-Ratchaniwet--977

Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park

Attraction Details :

Phetchaburi’s most well-known landmark, the locally known as Khao Wang (Palace Hill), is located on the three peaks of 95-meter high verdant hill, in the city. It was built under the royal command of King Rama IV to become his summer palace that finished in 1860. The whole compound is comprised of royal halls, palaces, temples and other buildings which were elegantly constructed in a well-balanced of Thai, neoclassical Western and Chinese architectural styles.
The east side is situated by important temples for the royal family. The highest peak is home of WatPhraKaew that was meant to be as important as WatPhraKaew at The Grand Palace in Bangkok. The central peak is where Phra That JomPetch situates. The 40-meters-tall white pagoda is installed the Buddha's relics. It is believed if visitors worship the pagoda with the purest mind, they will be known widely like the 360 degree views on the top. The old palaces on the west have been transformed into museums displayed royal amenities which were used by the King Rama IV and the King Rama V.
http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Phra-Nakhon-Khiri-Historical-Park--976

Maruekhathaiyawan Palace

Attraction Details :

The summer seaside palace, often referred to as "the palace of love and hope is located midway between Cha-am and Hua Hin. It was built in 1923 under the royal command of King Rama VI using golden teakwood from the demolished Hat Chao Samran Palace.

Hat Cha-am

Attraction Details :

The premier beach resort of Phetchaburi, Hat Cha-am is just as beautiful as the neighboring Hua Hin Beach. Located approximately 163 kilometers south of Bangkok, 40 kilometers south of Phetchaburi and 20 kilometers north of Hua Hin, the beach is famous for being long and clean. In addition, it serves excellent fresh seafood. Originally a fishing village, Cha-am received much attention after the royal palace, Maruekhathaiyawan, was built near Hua Hin in the reign of King Rama VI. At that time, the Royal Family and the elite occupied the land in Hua Hin and its vicinity as a holiday seaside resort. When people started looking around for twin seaside resort town for Hua Hin, Cha-ams beauty was discovered and quickly developed.
Today, Cha-am is a popular lively resort town offering a large variety of accommodations and challenging activities. Boredom is rare in Cha-am as there are a variety of water sports that can be enjoyed, while a possible alternative to water sports is bicycle riding along a 6-kilometer sandy white beach. During the weekdays the beach is virtually deserted and there are beach umbrellas and sling chairs are available for hire.
The State Railways of Thailand operates a special trip to Cha-Am at every holiday. Detailed information can be obtained from Travel service Section, Tel. 02 237- 010, 2237020.

The former city hall of Pathumtanee Province

Attraction Details :

By Royal Command of King Rama VI, it was proclaimed that Mueang had been changed to Province since 19 May 1917 and that there had been some changes in government systems, for this case is that the former offices, including the city hall, the city shrine, health stations, governor's official residence and Phae Kao were moved from Kok Chaplutai, Klong Bangsai, on the eastern side of the Chao Phraya River to Tambon Bang Prok, Amphoe Mueang, on the western side of the Chao Phraya River.
There’s no historical evidence showing the date of establishing the former city hall. Presumably, the architectural form was built in the reign of King Rama 6, the same period of building the city shrine and the district office.
The city hall was made of brick and cement, highly influenced by western art. The ground floor is about1 meter elevated and walled the space below with cement as well as with double porches above. Moreover, the building has an extension wing on both sides. A rectangular building is behind the porches. The well-lined balustrades in European style are beautifully-decorated along the edges of the roof in front of the building. The top installs a garuda as its symbol with cement roof above. The porches and terraces on each side are decorated with perforated design. So is the ventilation channel and the double door frame is made of wood.
The city hall has been registered as one of the ancient remains in Royal Thai Government Gazette on 18 February 1996 8 rais 2 ngans 3 square wahs.
Department of Cultural Promotion of Pathumtanee Province is financially supported by the province as it is in line with the local museum project in financial amount of 6595000 baht. The project was undertaken from 1 September 2003 to 28 April 2007

Rare Stone Museum

Attraction Details :

Rare Stone Museum is the first and the only private stone museum in Thailand. Many strange stones are collected here such as jades, fossils and ores from inside and outside Thailand. It takes time and several journeys in making the collections. Moreover, inside the rare museum are many photos, drawings, Chinese paintings, stamps, matchboxes and old ashtrays.
The definition of “stone”, according to the dictionary, means “the hard mass which naturally consists of one or more substances”. There are several types and colors of stones, for example stalagmites, stalactites, sedimentary rocks, shales, sandstones, limestones and coral rocks which naturally form.
Since millions of years has passed by, these stones are changed into different strange shapes, They will trigger the audiences to imagine the creative picture according to the shapes such as the forest view,
the river, the village, the island, the sea, plants and animals. Therefore, many people call them “the strange stones”. Some compares these stones to the heaven scripts without words written inside as the audiences can use their own imaginations to portray the picture of the stones.
Rare stone museum is the first and only place in Thailand that presents and conserves these stones such as strange-shaped stones, jades, fossils, natural stones, stalactites and ores from inside and outside Thailand. These stones are uniquely beautiful and offer a chance for audiences to imagine the picture of the stones.
Apart from rare stones, the museum also displays pictures, stamps, labeled matches, Thai and foreign cigarette labels, old ashtrays made from different materials such as baked clay, animal bones, woods, bamboos, seashells, crystal, brass, glass and ceramic, and rare drawings and paintings which all reflect the historical value and Thai culture.
The rare stone museum is the first rare stone in Thailand and Asia. At present, the rare stone museum has been moved to be located at the Rattanakosin village’s entrance and Poonsup market, before the Y-intersection of St. Carlos hospital, Pathumthani province.

The Golden Jubilee Museum of Agriculture

Attraction Details :

The Golden Jubilee Museum of Agriculture comprises a group of 9 connected buildings. The museum depicts the development of agriculture and modern agricultural technology, covering each aspect of land development, forestry, fishery, animal husbandry, and ecology. Outside are greenhouses, plots of rice demonstration fields, and presentations on the lifestyles of Thai farmers by region. In addition, the museum is a training center, a venue for academic seminars on agriculture, and educates the public on royal projects.

The Golden Jubilee Museum of Agriculture is situated in TambonKhlongNueng (Km. 46-48 Phahonyothin Road), opposite the Nava Nakorn Industrial Promotion Zone.

It is open from Tuesday-Sunday and on public holidays, from 9.30 am-3.30 pm (closed on Mondays). Admission is free. For more information, please contact  0 2529 2211-4 or 0 2902 7940 ext. 111, 113.