TAT 360 Magazine by Krayshadow

Art of Life

Art of Life Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, the city of art, home of world-class artists. Once you visit this beautiful province, you will understand why it became place where world-class artists were made and where new artists thrive. It is because Chiang Rai has different ethnicities, traditions, and cultures that blend perfectly together. Here, the art of living appears in all aspects and every molecule of life. From traditions, culture, cuisine, lifestyle to clothes and appliances, well preserved local wisdom that has been passed down from the first generation of Lanna’s greatest craftsmen is still being reflected to this day. Today, Chiang Rai is Thailand’s city of art, opening its arms for Thai and international artists. The city is moving forward with collaborations between renowned artists such as Thawan Duchanee, Chalermchai Kositpipat and various other artists, including the newcomers who are seeking for inspiration. All of these artistic elements make visitors feel immersed in art wherever they are in Chiang Rai.

Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) “I built this temple without ever asking for Kathina donations. I only asked for

donations from Buddhists who truly desire to make merit for Buddha, Buddhism, and Thai Buddhist art with their pure hearts. I did not want any donation to satisfy my artistic ambitions.”

- C ha l e r m cha i K o si t p i p a t -

The construction of Wat Rong Khun began in 1997 by Chalermchai Kositpipat, one of Thailand’s greatest artists who received his inspiration from three elements :• Country: With his love for his country, he hope to contribute a great piece of art as a national treasure. • Religion: Dharma changed calmed Chalermchai’s once raging mind. Therefore, he devotes himself to Buddhism. • The King: In multiple occasions, Chalermchai was able to visit and work for the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Seeing the king’s artistic skills and receiving his majesty’s kindness made Chalermchai apreciate him deeply. CHIANG RAI

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Chalermchai created this great Buddhist art and dedicated it as the art of King Rama IX’s reign, by building a temple resembling heaven reachable by human. Wat Rong Khun’s ordination hall is painted in pure white. It is decorated with beautiful mirrors and Thai stucco art, creating a memorable tourist attraction for foreign visitors who nicknamed it ‘The White Temple’. The creator’s intention in building the white temple is to depict multiple religious symbolism. White, in this case, means the purity of Buddha. The White Temple is full of Buddhist symbolisms which are thought provoking, encouraging visitors to seek self-development. For example, mirrors are the symbol of Buddha’s intelligence that shines bright. The bridge is the symbol of a journey out of Samsara into the land of Buddha. Before crossing the bridge, a small half-circle represents the human world. The big half-circle with teeth depicts the mouth of Mara or Rahu, a symbol of human desire and Dukkha or suffering.

The middle of the bridge refers to Mount Meru, where the angels live. The pool below refers to Sandara Ocean where 6 levels of heaven is located. Having passed through the 6 levels of heaven, visitors will reach 16 levels of Brahma Heaven represented by 16 lotuses around the ordination hall. Four biggest flowers located near the stairs of the ordination hall represent four stages of enlighten-

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Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57000 0-5367-3579 0-5367-3579 www.วัดร่องขุ่น.com Everyday 06.30 – 18.00

Art Gallery:

Monday – Friday 08.00 – 17.30

Saturday – Sunday and National Holidays 08.00 – 18.00

ment, including Sotapanna, Sakadagami, Anagami and Arahant. The semicircle on the floor in front of the stairs represents Lokuttara Panya. Three steps on the staircase represent three marks of existence (impermanence, suffering, no essence). One of the four doors has a triangle shape, which represents emptiness (freedom), before walking through the door into the land of Buddha. All paintings inside the ordination hall portray the journey from the temptations of Mara into the Lokuttara World. The ordination hall roof design was inspired by Trisikkha or meditation practices, which includes virtue, concentration and wisdom. The three leads to Nippan or emptiness, represented respectively by the Gabel apexes. Behind the third Gabel apex, 7 patterns represent 7 Factors of Awakening. The patterns served as a foundation of eight-tiered umbrellas, representing Noble Eightfold Path to liberation from the cycle of birth. Apart from the ordination hall, there is also a Ganesha hall, which is showcasing paintings and images of Ganesha. An art gallery near the temple has an exhibition displaying Chalermchai’s paintings. Having finished the tour, visitors can purchase a piece of memory and beautiful souvenirs at the gift shop. CHIANG RAI

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Baan Dam Museum Baan Dam was the home of Thawan Duchanee, a world-class artist who regarded himself as ‘just a painter’. However, no one can deny his status as a national treasure, as he was honored with the title of National Artist (Fine Art, Visual Art) in 2001 and became world-famous. He is one of Thailand’s art legend, whose story will forever be told. Baan Dam Museum is an oasis of artistic ideas that will never run dry. It is a place that provokes many dimensions of visitors’ imagination. All pieces of art are embedded with deep philosophical

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ideas. Baan Dam is also a place where Thawan collected art or objects that inspired his works such as animal skin, horns, and bones, all of which he studied before creating his fine arts. Moreover, there is an exhibition of old appliances in multiple buildings, showing the old way of life. In the vicinity of Baan Dam Museum, there are more than 25 Northern style buildings, together with buildings that has a mix between local and other architectural styles. Every building on this 100 Rai (40 Acres) area are painted black. All of them are different in their inspirations and features, for example: •The Grand Hall (the museum building) was built to summarize all aspects of wood culture, from shape, content, philosophical concepts and contemporary creativity, together with current Buddhism architectural art. •Sala Ngiw Ngeaw (Ngiw Ngeaw house) has a unique shape, with three level roofs build by Shan Burmese constructor to resemble Ava Burmese gate. This rectangle building is aligned from north to south, with both of its doors aligned. The structure is supported by 6 pillars. Thawan’s purpose of building Sala Ngiw Ngeaw is to show the grandeur of Burmese Royal Household. Before leaving, don’t forget to visit Baan Dam Gallery, which is Thawan’s personal art gallery and a souvenir shop with merchandise inspired by Thawan’s collection, such as T-shirts, bags, paintings and books. All earnings after expenses will be donated to Baan Dam Museum Maintenance Fund and to support art students who require financial assistance.

333 Moo 13, Nang Lae, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57100 0-5377-6333, 0-5370-5834, 0-5377-6333, 08-1673-1155 www.thawan-duchanee.com/baandam-thawan.htm Tuesday – Sunday 09.00-17.00 (Closed on Monday)

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Wat Rong Suea Ten Wat Rong Suea Ten is located on the site of an old abandoned temple. Around a century ago, villagers used to tell a story of their encounters with wild animals, especially tigers jumping back and forth across the canal, hence the name ‘Rong Suea Ten’ (the canal of dancing tigers) for the Blue Temple and its surrounding area. The temple was built as a place for locals to make merit because there wasn’t a temple nearby. Before the construction of the Blue Temple, people had to commute for a long distance to

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This ordination hall’s construction began on 27 October 2005. It was finished 11 years later on 22 January 2016. A 5 meters wide and 5.5 meters tall pearl white Buddha Image called Phra Phutta Ratchamongkon Bodhi Trilokkanat is kept inside the hall, with 88,000 Phra Rod amulets from Lamphun with precious jewelry and metals buried in the foundation. The Sarira embedded in the head of this Buddha image and the name was given by Somdet Phra Sangkharat Chao Kromma Luang Wachirayannasangwon, the former Supreme Patriarch of Thailand. The name ‘Phra Phutta Ratchamongkon Bodhi Trilokkanat’ means ‘The Buddha whose auspicious kingship is dependable by the three worlds.’ Behind the ordination hall stands five ‘Phra Tat Kedkaew Chulamanee’. Each one is 20 meters tall. The top of each Phra Tat also contains the Sarira given by the former Supreme Patriarch as well.

make merit on Buddhist lent days. The signature of Wat Rong Suea Ten that made it Chiang Rai’s landmark is the fact that it was built by Chiang Rai’s local artist, Phutta Kabkaew or Salah Nok, whose Buddhism artistic style was influenced by his master, Chalermchai Kositpipat. Wat Rong Suea Ten’s ordination hall is painted blue and gold, providing a striking look. Blue, in this case, represents the Buddha’s Dhamma that has spread across the world. The Naga in front of the hall was influenced by Thawan Dutchanee’s art, which stressed on strong bold structure and fierce features, while keeping a degree of gentleness visible.

306 Moo 2, Rong Suea Ten Community, Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 08-2026-9038 7.00 น. - 20.00 น. CHIANG RAI

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Wat Phra Tat Mae Chedi

Moo 3, Mae Chedi Mai, Wiang Pa Pao, Chiang Rai 0-5378-9508 Everyday 07.00 – 17.00

Wat Phra Tat Mae Chedi is located on the top of Doi Mae Chedi. It is an old temple in Wiang Pa Pao, which was abandoned for around 1,000 years. The monks in this temple believed that it was built by King Anawrahta Minsaw of Burma. In 1988, a group of monks and the locals started renovating the main pagoda to prevent it from collapse. Later on 7 December 2006, the royal ascent was asked for the area to become a temple with resident monks. The temple is surrounded by high mountains with sylvan landscape, providing a refreshing atmosphere for visitors since their first step inside. Moreover, if visitors take a walk up the mountain behind the ordination hall, they will get to enjoy the view of Khao Phra Lai, where the abbot has built multiple Buddha images as an attraction for visitors to preserve nature in the area. A trek to different points of the mountain takes around 1 day, before walking down to Ban Chum Mueang Yen and Wang Matcha, the forest below. Today, the temple is granted by The Royal Department of Forest to build a community forest garden and Buddhism demonstration center in the area of 7,200 Rai (approx. 2,847 acre) near Huai Ya Kam Ma Reservoir. Another important highlight to visit in the temple is its amulet museum, which was founded as various artifacts were found in the temple grounds, including a golden Buddha image, which is interesting to study. CHIANG RAI

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Wiang Kalong Terra Cotta

mains several historical evidences to be seen, such as of old soil ditches and city walls, old kilns that were used to heat renowned terra cotta wares, known for its quality and unique patterns, with animal patterns such as crows and Ghilen, and flora patterns such as Kankhot (vine pattern) and Kakhoo. The crow pattern is especially unique. It was developed from flower petals or leaves, which has similar shapes to a crow. In other words, crow pattern has a resemblance to Kalong flower pattern. Here at Wiang Kalong, visitors are welcomed to immerse themselves in an ancient ceramic culture and to study Wiang Kalong history, all of which are taught by Salatan Thijittang, a local scholar with passion for Wiang Kalong Ceramic. Salatan Thijittang has studied, developed and experimented with ceramics until he found out exactly how his ancestors created their Wiang Kalong Ceramic wares to be light, which is a unique feature of ceramic wares in the area. His works are painted with more than 50 patterns. All products on sale here are made with meticulous care in every process. All materials used are natural, and safe for daily use.

“The city of art, land of Buddhism, home of white crows and civilized people.” is the motto of an ancient city where people practice Dharma, which became a community learning center called “Wiang Kalong”. Wiang Kalong is located on Doi Dong Mountain on Doi Luang mountain range. It was a civilization located near a volcano, which is believed to have erupted before, creating volcanic soil in the area from decomposed lava. Locals have been using this unique volcanic soil to create their terra cotta wares since the ancient time, making Wiang Kalong the biggest terra cotta wares manufacturer in Lanna. The emergence of this community cannot be exactly dated. However, there re-

97 Moo 3, Wiang Kalong, Wiang Pa Pao, Chiang Rai 57260 8-9838-5874 (Salatan Thijittang) Monday – Friday 08.00 – 17.00.

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Choui Fong Tea Plantation

97 Moo 8, Tumbon Pa Sang, Mae Chan, Chiang Rai 57110 0-5377-1563 www.chouifongtea.com

Choui Fong tea plantation is a source of high-quality tea by Choui Fong Tea Co.,Ltd., the biggest tea producer in Chiang Rai with more than 40 years of experience. Today, Choui Fong Co., Ltd. is a producer, distributor and exporter of tea with industrial clients as their main target. With foggy climate all year round, Choui Fong tea plantation attracts visitors who wish to see the beauty of this over 1,000 Rai (400 Acres) area with tea planted around the ridge in lower circles similar to a staircase, creating a unique view. Visitors will also get to learn traditional tea making in order to understand charm and happiness found in tea,

CHOUI FONG TEA ทุกวัน เวลา 8.30 น. - 17.30 น.

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101 Tea Plantation With the slogan “This shelter will surround you with mountains and tea plantations.” 101 tea plantation is the producer and distributor of Oolong tea within Thailand and to other countries. This certified tea plantation has won the prize for best tea leaves quality in 2004 World Tea Expo. In 2017, 101 Tea Plantation is still constantly developing itself in order to welcome tea lovers from around the world by launching “101 Tea Green View”, a Loft-style hotel with a sense of Yunnan culture, where visitors can enjoy a stunning view from their balcony and services that will make their vacation more special than anywhere else. And to spice up your photographic opportunities, tribal costumes are also available for rent. Another attractive activity that visitors should not miss is a tea making demonstration by expert staff who will explain the differences between different types of tea and the right way to make them. 90 หมู่ 6 ตำ�บลแม่สลองนอก อำ�เภอแม่ฟ้าหลวง จังหวัดเชียงราย 57110 09-0705-9009

101 Tea Green View

info@101teagreenview.com 101tea.greenview ทุกวัน เวลา 7.00 น. - 20.00 น.

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Baan San Kong hand embroidery group Northern style embroidery is famous for its interesting and beautiful patterns, which is a part of local wisdom and culture passed down from older generations. Baan San Kong is a space where people from every generation, especially the elders, gather to create hand embroidery arts, a signature skill of Baan San Kong ladies that has been passed down for decades. This hand embroidery group began as a way for elders to spend their free time together. The group started in the year 2000 by creating Thai mountain tribe pattern embroidery. When the group later started to sell some of their works, their works were bought by many Thais and foreign visitors, making embroidery a side work for many in the community. Since the beginning, Baan San Kong group has developed a more diverse range of embroidery products, such as laptop cases, mobile phone cases, backpacks and many others. Moreover, the group is also engaged in other arts, including artificial flowers, cooking, baking ancient desserts and making herbal drinks. They are more than willing to share their knowledge with visitors.

Recommended activities and fees: Learning Embroidery (100 Baht/Person), Other learning activities, such as making artificial flowers, making flowers out of Pandan leaves, making Khao Tom Mat or Khao Neaw Sam Liam, making herbal drinks such as Butterfly pea herbal drink. (600 Baht/ group) 109 Moo 2 Ban Mae Rai, Mae Chan, Chiang Rai 57240 08-1568-9385 (Nitee Suthammarak) niteesu@gmail.com CHIANG RAI

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Baan Pa O Baan Pa O was established for 20 years. This place is a home to five northern tribes, including Akha, Yao, Lahu, Kayaw and Kayan people. Each tribe settled in their own village located only a few hundred meters apart. Visitors can take a walk through every village, spectate and join fun activities in each tribe. Some of the must join activities are: fabric weaving in Yao, Kayaw and Kayan tribes, Akha swinging ceremony and music performance using bamboo instruments, Lahu “Jaku Dance”, playing Khene and bamboo carving by Lahu tribe. Today, Baan Pa O became one of the agricultural tourist destinations. During farming seasons, the tribal population will plant crops with organic fruits and vegetables, such as pumpkin, Cucurbitaceae vegatables, morning glory, chili, eggplants and other household vegetables. There is also a big lotus pool. Moreover, there are chicken, fish, cow and buffalo farms that keeps around a hundred buffalos for farming work and to preserve Thai buffalo breeds as well.

Moo 6, Baan Pa O, Tumbon Nang Lae, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57100

08-1993-3827 (Anant) unionhilltribe@hotmail.com Everyday 07.00 – 19.00

200 Baht for Thais and 300 Baht for foreigners. CHIANG RAI

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Tai Yuan Art Gallery

art that can be reached by locals and young people who wish to immerse themselves in art. Moreover, the gallery also has activities to encourage youth’s involvement in art and provide a space for art and literature exchanges between artists and their audiences.

Tai Yuan Art Gallery was created by Chalong Pinijsuwan, an artist who created his art using only ball pen and was inspired by Thawan Dutchanee. The name ‘Tai Yuan’ has a deep meaning. Tai Yuan is a tribe located in the northern part of Thailand with its own language and culture. Many would believe that the tribe had been evicted from their home since 1804. However, Tai Yuans have since returned to their home and lived near their original location. Chalong named his art gallery ‘Tai Yuan’ to commemorate his own ethnicity. The gallery is located in a two-storey house, filled with Chalong and his colleagues’ exhibition. Portraits, history, religious and abstract paintings could be found in this gallery. Tai Yuan Art Gallery is a source of cultural knowledge, local wisdom and contemporary

Ratcha Yotha Soi 3 Road, Tumbon Rob Wiang, Mueang, Chiang Rai 08-9631-9438 (Chalong Pinijsuwan) Wednesday to Sunday 10.00 – 17.00 No Entering Fees CHIANG RAI

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Art Bridge Chiang Rai (Khua Silapa)

55 Moo 1, Phahon Yothin Rd., Ban Du, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57100 0-5316-6623, 08-8418-5431 https://www.facebook.com/artbridge.cr Everyday 10.00 – 19.00

Art Bridge Chiang Rai is an art gallery and cultural promotion organization. The word ‘Khua’ in northern Thai language means ‘bridge’, depicting a purpose of this art gallery as a bridge that connects all creative artists to one another and passing the spirit of artists onto the next generation. The gallery is located in a two floor building with two exhibition halls, each with rotating art exhibitions all year round. The main exhibitions every year are Art Bridge Chiang Rai, which shows the works from members of Chiang Rai Artist Fund, Thai Artists’ exhibition, Chiang Rai Artists’ exhibition and International Artists’ exhibition. Visitors who are interested in purchasing a piece of exhibited art can contact at the information counter at the lobby. Moreover, Khua Silapa has a restaurant called ‘Krua Silapin’ (Artists’ kitchen), a coffee shop, a gift shop and art courses. And apart from immersing themselves in art, visitors can also relax in the peaceful atmosphere next to Kok river and exchange their love of art with like-minded people.

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Doi Din Daeng Pottery Thousands of pottery wares that can be found here are the works of Somlak Pantiboon, a prominent Chiang Rai potter with more than 40 years of experience. Somlak has studied the art of pottery and clay in Thailand and other countries like Japan. And with his interests in various types of clay, which have different minerals, Somlak’s potteries are various in its colors. In order to make a piece of pottery, Somlak suggested that it is important to understand the clay, to touch and feel its texture. He believed that there is a meaning in every step of pottery making. Mixing clay before shaping it is like choosing your ingredients before cooking. And if you plan and execute your shaping well, you will get exactly what you hope for. The works of Doi Din Daeng is has never ceased to develop because Somlak would always be thinking about new elements that he could add to his works.

Therefore, everytime visitors visit Doi Din Daeng, they will surely experience Somlak’s new works, making their journey or even shopping feels worthwhile.

49 Moo 6 Soi 3, Baan Pa O, Phahon Yothin Rd., Nang Lae, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57100 0-5370-5291 Monday – Saturday 08.30 – 16.00

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Jinnaluck Miracle of Saa This former Mulberry paper factory preserves the traditional method of making mulberry paper, with a determination to pass this knowledge on to the next generation. Later on with multiple research and developments, Jinnaluck Miracle of Saa discovered that fibers from multiple plants, such as ginger flower, crane flowers, ginger, galangal, banana, water hyacinth and vetiver, can be used to make paper. The team at Jinnaluck Miracle of Saa have added colors and patterns to make their mulberry paper products more colorful and modern. They have also created many items out of mulberry paper, including storage boxes, bags, lamps, notebooks and saucers. Visitors can join in workshop sessions where they can participate in fun and educating activities, from making mulberry paper items to relaxing in a peaceful accommodation and spa.

Pang Ha village, Ko Chang, Mae Sai, Chiang Rai 57130 08-1883-9062 Jinnaluck Miracle of Saa

Everyday 09.00 – 17.00

For walk-in tourists: Painting on water (190 – 500 Baht), making mulberry paper bag (190 Baht), making mulberry paper box (390 Baht), making recycled art (90 Baht), herbal foot spa (50 Baht) and gold thread facial mask (900 Baht). For visitors who wish to participate in local activities, such as visiting Ban Tee Mid, Ban Tian, visiting Kimchi guava plantation, a 2-3 day reservation is required. Please contact the community center via +660646797470

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Sridonmoon Art Space Sriwan Janehuttakarnkit is a freelance artist whose paintings, sculptures, graphic arts and mixed arts under Buddhist concepts spread messages relating to Dharma, nature, normality, Samsara and Buddha’s teachings such as ‘Working equals merit making.’ preached by Buddhadhasa Pikku. She once described her artistic process, saying that “My artistic works are created naturally, with my own personality and without stress, as much as the opportunities are available, like human breath. The stories depicted in my arts are reflections of my feelings and thoughts at that particular moment.” Therefore, this art gallery can be compared to a house in the middle of nature, surrounded by big and small trees. And apart from showcasing Sriwan’s works, Sridonmoon Art Space is also a community art center for locals, students and interested visitors with workshops available for their participation.

256 Moo 7, Sridonmoon, Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai 57150 06-5253-2515 Sridonmoon Art Space Tuesday – Sunday 10.00 – 17.00

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Phahee Coffee House How great would it be, if you can sip a cup of coffee while clouds are floating right in front of you, and enjoy a view of green mountains with small white wooden houses in the village below, right here at Phahee Coffee House? Doi Pha Hee is a prominent source of coffee in Chiang Rai. Located on this mountain is a village where an Akha tribe lives a simple happy life. They are surrounded by mountains; on their left is Doi Pha Mee, on their right is Doi Tung and from their location they can clearly see Doi Nang Non. Phahee Coffee House is a place that allows you to be very close to nature. The breathtaking view combined with the friendliness of locals is a secret recipe that attracts thousands of tourists each month. Moreover, Phahee Coffee is also unique for having its own coffee bean roasting factory, which special coffee smells with mildly strong, fruity coffee taste. The coffee house has seating where visitors can sit, hang their leg, enjoy their coffee and the view. Akha costumes are also available for photo opportunities.

Pha Mee Village, Mae Sai, Chiang Rai 09-0948-2784 (Manus)

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Paam Sai Aua Restaurant You cannot say that you have visited Chiang Rai without have eaten its local food such as Nam Prik Ong or Sai Aua. So we would like to introduce you to ‘Paam Sai Aua’, a fusion restaurant that has a perfect blend of northern and international cuisine. Signature dishes with unique taste are freshly made daily. The restaurant uses vegetables from its own garden, making sure that their ingredients are clean and fresh. As for the atmosphere, the restaurant was designed to have a clear atmosphere. Interesting attractions can also be found in the restaurant area. The interior decoration is inspired by Northern Thai style, giving a cozy feeling of home. Recommended dishes: Sai Aua and Nam Prik Num Pizza, Stir fried Sai Aua with basil.

123/20 San Kok Chang Rd., Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 0-5202-0499 PAAM SAI AUA Everyday 08.00 – 21.00

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Ma Long Der Restaurant Ma Long Der is a restaurant with a scent of art. It is a contemporary northern cuisine restaurant located within Art Bridge Chiang Rai. The restaurant offers various Lanna fusion dishes, serving around 50 customers at a time. The boutique atmosphere in the restaurant is a good attraction worth visiting, with decoration pieces such as table cloths made by locals. And although most of the decoration materials are locally sourced, you can rest assured because the decoration is meticulously designed under the concept of “Food is fashion, every event is a runway.” Recommended dish: Kai Krua Long Der

551 Ban Du, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57100 09-5229-5359 Everyday 10.00 – 20.00

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Sawanbondin Farm and Homestay Sawanbondin Farm and Homestay is a herbal tea shop with a small homestay that were created from the love of nature and passion in herbs by the owner. This cozy, pretty, little tea shop located in the middle of an organic farm is a place where health products are offered to visitors, who can also feel the lightness of pure air and enjoy the beautiful scenic full of small vegetable gardens. The farm began as a small garden with only a few types of vegetables and herbs. Later on people at the farm developed and add value to their herbal tea products. Butterfly peas, chrysanthemum, stevia, lemongrass and roselle are used to develop original herbal tea recipes. Moreover, every tea cup in this farm were also handmade. Visitors can also learn how to make their own tea cup in workshops provided by Sawanbondin Farm and Homestay. Recommended food: Perilla seed cookies, Butterfly pea blue latte, Clouds and blues, Butterfly pea and mulberry, Butterfly pea latte and Bael fruit soda.

171/12 Moo 4 Soi 1 Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57100 08-1205-3554

Sawanbondin Farm & Home Stay

07.00 – 20.00 Daily CHIANG RAI

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Nai Suan Bed and Breakfast Nai Suan Bed and Breakfast us a cozy little accommodation in Chiang Rai that is renovated from an old wooden mansion into a beautiful blue house. This house was built and decorated in a European style with a small English garden and a waterfall in the middle, providing relaxation and chill atmosphere for visitors. The accommodation is very private, since there are only 8 rooms available, all of which are carefully decorated to give a cozy feeling of home. Sitting areas are available for you to just sit back and relax. A restaurant and a coffee shop are also opened for visitors. Every visitor will surely receive happiness from this place as the motto of Nai Suan Bed and Breakfast is “Every dishes and services are made to share our happiness with our family.” 11 Moo 14, Kong Chang Rd., Rob Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57000 09-8812-6330 Nai Suan Bed and Breakfast

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Dining by Design Restaurant at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort Experience a very exclusive local meal made by your personal chef with meticulously selected ingredients in a unique peaceful atmosphere with pure air. Here at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, your dining table is surrounded with ladder rice fields and a pavilion where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets. The highlight of the stay at this resort is an elephant camp. Visitors can feed elephants without having to move from their dining table. If you are looking for a place to replenish your body and soul, this resort is your answer. 256 Moo 7, Sridonmoon, Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai 57150 0-5378-4084 www.anantara.com/th/golden-triangle-chiang-rai/restaurants/ dining-by-design Dining by Design Restaurant opens everyday from 06.00 – 22.00. CHIANG RAI

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Border View Restaurant at Imperial Golden Triangle Resort Border View is a restaurant located in a glamorous resort with great view that people dreamt of staying in. Dining in this restaurant is complimented with the views of Maekong River near the Golden Triangle area. The locals in this area live with the river, Thais, Laotians and Burmese alike, providing a beautiful atmosphere that could be found nowhere else. Dishes served in this restaurant are mainly local dishes made of clean and fresh ingredients with chef’s care. Visitors who dine here will receive fulfillment for both the mind and the body. 222 Mae Sai-Chiang Saen Rd., Wiang, Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai 57150 0-5378-4001

The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort

Everyday 06.00 – 23.00

The Phufa Waree Chiang Rai Resort The Phufa Waree Chiang Rai Resort is designed with an element of Lanna style blending well with modern architectural style. An outdoor swimming pool surrounded by the trees and a garden can make feel so relaxed like no other place. The modern decoration with a scent of Lanna beauty can be found in various types of guest rooms, capable of welcoming tourists, a group of friends, families or even tour and conference groups. At this resort, all of the staffs are well trained to have service mind. Visitors can rest assured that they will be welcomed with a family-like service. Moreover, the resort is also easy to travel to, as it is located near many of Chiang Rai’s tourist attractions and business area.

888 Moo 1, Phahonyothin Rd., Tha sud, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57100 0-5391-2333 Phufa Waree Chiangrai Resort

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Phufa Zaje Homestay Phufa Zaje is a small homestay with only 4 guestrooms, encircled by Doi Pha Mee’s nature. Located in a small Akha tribe village with 360 degrees of stunning mountain landscape with cool breezing air, people who would like to escape the hustle and bustle of the city should not miss out on this place. Because apart from its peaceful scenery, Phufa Zaje is operated entirely by local staffs who will welcome you like family. Be assured that you will be fully recharged by the time you are leaving. Moreover, the locals here also have coffee farming and production as their main work. In fact, Doi Pha Mee is one of the biggest and most popular coffee source in Chiang Rai. Therefore, visitors will get to enjoy the delicious blend of Doi Pha Mee’s coffee, which is dripped into a bamboo tube. As for food, anyone who would like to taste original Akha cuisine will not be disappointed. Some people may find that Akha cuisine have an uncommon look, but every bite is made out of natural ingredients and hearty hospitality of the locals here.

Phufa Zaje offers multiple activities for visitors. Whether you choose to go on a scenic swing or enjoy a bamboo dance with local Akhas, staying here will give you an unforgettable experience. No 8 Moo 6, Ban Pha Mee, Mae Sai, Chiang Rai 57130 08-0491-2999 Phufa Zaje

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HEALTHYâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;HARMONY

Healthy Harmony Mae Hong Son

To live healthy is to live in sync with nature’s tune. Here at one of the purest land in Thailand, Mae Hong Son boast its forests, mountains, streams, temples and diverse people from different culture. From the top of the big mountain or the middle of a green forest full of useful plants to the city where prosperity is rising, people of Mae Hong Son still live in tune with their nature. Mae Hong Son has mud and hot water springs that will give you a therapy, warm streams that will make you feel relaxed. And if you believe that ‘mind the the master of your body’, Mae Hong Son is full of attractions that will charge up your mind, from peaceful and beautiful ancient temples to the welcoming locals who will open your world with their friendliness.

Sai Ngam hot spring

Ban Sai Ngam, Pai, Mae Hong Son 58130 06-5361-2982 - 3 Everyday from 08.00 – 16.00

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/

Water therapy is well known and received all around the world, especially hot water therapy that proved to have many good effects on your body such as reducing muscle pain. Imagine how good it would be to dip yourself in a warm, crystal clear stream where you can see the ground from the surface, then let yourself enjoy the greenery of the surrounding trees and breathe in fresh pure air. You will feel completely relaxed here. This is Sai Ngam hot spring, where warm water flows all year round. And apart from giving relaxation and health benefits, this hot spring is also a famous photo spot for tourists who wants to take pictures with a clear water stream and surrounding green forests. Sai Ngam hot spring is a place you must not miss when you’re in Pai, especially in the winter.

โป่งน้ำ�ร้อนไทรงาม--7766 MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Mae La Noi Royal Project Development Center

ing and preserving natural resources, Three forests, Four benefits, river and soil preservation through vetiver, campaign for reduction in farming chemicals use and the establishment of high altitude farming learning center gives plenty of learning opportunities for those who are interested. Visitors will get to enjoy the beauty of ladder rice fields during the farming season (September – October) and visit an organic plantation that is growing all year round. Most of the produces from this Royal Project development center are temperate fruits and vegetables that are popular among salad lovers, such as red coral lettuce, green oak lettuce, red oak lettuce, spinach, beetroot, celery, baby cos lettuce, pak chai, jalapeno, eggplant, kabocha, cape gooseberry, passion fruit, avocado, Arabica coffee, red kidney bean and rice.

A visit to this agricultural tourism attraction that preserves the nature and the locals’ way of life is good for your body and soul. Mae La Noi Royal Project Development Center is currently developing and promoting standardized farming to the locals. Utilizing measures such as Good Agricultural Practice or Organic Coffee Standards can increase local product values and improve living quality for communities. Moreover, other projects such as the preservation of tribal craftworks, reviv-

Huai Hom, Mae La Noi, Mae Hong Son 58120

0-5381-0765 - 8 (Chiang Mai Royal Project Office) www.royalprojectthailand.com/maelanoi

Everyday 08.00 – 18.00 MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Huai Hom Karen Village

Ban Huai Hom, Huai Hom, Mae La Noi, Mae Hong

Son 58120

08-9555-3900 (Maliwan Nakrobthai), 09-5448-2350 (Angkhana Nakrobthai)

บ้านห้วยห้อม Huay Hom Coffee plantation and ladder rice field tour (300 Baht

This small village located among high mountain canyons in Mae La Noi is one of the villages in Mae La Noi Royal Project Development Center’s responsible area. Huai Hom is truly hugged by the mountains. Ladder rice farms and betel trees surrounded the village where Paganyaw Karen people live. With beautiful scenery and all year cool weather, Huai Hom Karen village is suitable for tourists who would like to take a rest with pure air and experience well-preserved Paganyaw local culture and tradition. In addition to beautiful nature and traditions, the locals and their children are very friendly with tourists. Many activities are available for those who visit this village, such as coffee plantation tour, in which visitors can taste Huai Hom’s renowned strong blend organic Arabica coffee. The villagers has the production capabilities to produce coffee in all stages from planting, cultivating, roasting, packaging and delivery. Sheep farming is another main work for locals. After the royal visit by Queen Sirikit, locals are given royal advice to take up wool textile making as another main work. Wool products such as scarfs, shawls, woven tote bags and table cloths etc. Moreover, a little homestay is available in Huai Hom for those who would like to immerse themselves longer in the local way of life.

per group of 10 people or less) Homestay (400 Baht per night; dinner and breakfast included)

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Pang Ung (Pang Tong Royal Development Project) One of the most romantic places in Thailand, the scenery of Pang Ung is one with floating morning fog above the water where a pair of swans are paddling together. The official name of Pang Ung is Pang Tong royal development project (Pang Ung). It is a big reservoir on the top of a mountain. According to the Office of Royal Society, the word ‘Pang’ in this case, means ‘a temporary resting area in the forest’ and the word ‘Ung’ means ‘low area’ in Northern Thai language. The locals of Pang Ung used to farm opium. Intrusion and forestation were common until the development project began. The project encouraged the locals to plant useful crops and trees, build reservoirs and revive the nature. Nowaday, Pang Ung is an area of temperate fruits and plants farming. Winter flowers are being grown together with herb-

al gardens, which provide good produce on higher area with lower temperature. Popular activities that visitors often do at Pang Ung are sightseeing rafting to see morning fog kissing the water early in the day and camping, which allows them to enjoy the beauty of nature. Mok Champae, Mueang Mae Hong Son, Mae Hong Son

0-5361-1244 (Mae Hong Son Silapacheep Foundation office)

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/โครงการพระ ราชดำ�ริปางตอง-2-ปางอุ๋ง--4448

Everyday (Closed during rainy season from 1 June – 30 September, every year) Rafting (150 Baht/person), Camping (400 Baht/tent) or (30 Baht/person, for people who have tents)

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Phu Klon Country Club In 1995, an area of mud with therapeutic elements was first discovered around Phu Klon Country Club’s current location by a team of Thai and French geologists who were visiting Mae Hong Son on their vacation. Their discovery began when they have found a hot water spring in the middle of a field. The spring then flowed into a stream. At the same time, people who had pain or sickness often found therapy while bathing in the spring. In the following year, pure black mud and mineral water samples were collected for a research which was done in France. Four years later in 1999, the results suggests that mud in the area resembles Dead Sea mud and Romanian volcanic mud, with numerous minerals that benefits human skin and blood flow, only found in few places on earth. Nowadays, Phu Klon is ranked as one of Thailand’s best mud therapy area. And at Phu Klon Country Club, various products made from mud and services such as mud spa are available for visitors.

132 Moo 2 Mok Chapae, Mueang Mae Hong Son, Mae Hong Son 58000

0-5328-2579

http://phuklon.co.th/

Everyday 08.00 – 17.00

Face Masking and feet spa (140 Baht) Body Mud spa (900 Baht/90 minutes or 1,200 Baht/120 minutes) Facelift massage and face masking with mud (390 Baht)

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Boon Ko Ku So Bridge This bridge is located in a Tai Yai village. Tai Yai is a group of people with firm believe in Buddhism. The reason for building this really long (815 meters) bridge was to reduce the distance between the community and its temple. ‘Ko’ in Tai Yai language means “bridge”, while “Ku So” means merit. When combined ‘Ko Ku So’ means ‘the bridge of merit’. The bridge was built a connecting point between the village and Wat Huai Kiri located nearby and to help the monks to collect food offerings more conveniently every morning, without having to

step on the rice fields and allowing villagers to offer food conveniently. Boon Ko Ku So became another landmark tourist destination of Mae Hong Son that visitors must not miss. Many people would love to take a stroll on this long bridge during the farming season, when rice crops become green, making the field look especially beautiful. And apart from the beautiful scenery, this village also has a tribal store and a homestay, which is ready to welcome visitors to experience Tai Yai’s way of life and learn skills such as rice pounding, broom making and making roof out of Bai Tong Tueng. However, as the amount of guest rooms are limited, visitors are recommended to make a reservation. If you visit this village during religious holidays, you can also join the villagers in making morning food offerings to the monks, fulfilling your merit and spirit.

Ban Pam Bok, Thung Yao, Pai, Mae Hong Son 58130 06-3123-9022 (Seksith) https://www.facebook.com/cbt.pambok/

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

ถ้ำ�น้ำ�ลอดปางมะผ้า Spending a holiday with a little bit of adventure could make your body and soul feel alive and refreshed. Mae Hong Son has Tham Lot Cave for anyone who is looking to go on a holiday adventure. This cave is called Tham Lot because it is a mountain cave with water flowing inside, caused by millions of years of limestone corrosion. Stalactites and stalagmites can be found in this precious historical venue worthy of studying. Visitors from all over the world are attracted to the beauty of this cave and its history.

Tham Lot Cave, Pang Mapha, Mae Hong Son 58150 0-5361-7218

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/สถาน

ศึกษาธรรมชาติและสัตว์ป่าถ้ำ�น้ำ�ลอด--4458

Everyday 08.00 – 17.00

150 Baht/person (Torch and one navigator included)

Tham Lot have 3 different stops for visitors to visit 3 chambers, which are Tham Sao Hin, Tham Tukta and Tham Phi Man respectively. The first chamber is the biggest, consisting multiple giant limestone poles with wonderful shapes. The second Chamber, consists many doll-shaped stalactites and stalagmites. A wall is also covered with prehistoric drawings, showing signs of human living in this cave in the distant history. The third chamber, Tham Phi Man, has boat-shaped wooden logs with removed middle parts inside. It is speculated that these logs were used as caskets. The path inside Tham Lot Cave has few high elevations and stairs. Some areas in the cave have thinner air. Visitors are recommended to take a slow walk. A popular activity inside the cave is a 200 meters rafting from the second to the third chamber. Along the way, you can feed fishes in the water. Water level is up to season and the amount of rain. Visitors are not allowed to enter the cave without a navigator, because parts of the cave are completely dark and dangerous without guidance. MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Ban Muang Pam Ban Muang Pam is a Kayaw village. Kayaw is a Karen tribal group with unique traditions and cultures. The tribe originally settled near river basins close to Tenasserim Hills near Thai-Burmese border. The village is a local forest reservation zone with various plants, herbs and trees that the community is allowed to use according to village rules. If you are looking to spend some alone time in the nature, Ban Muang Pam one of the choices you wouldn’t like to look over, as it has a nature scenery that is hard to be compared with. Apart from strolling through a green forest, bath in a small stream flowing through the village, visitors can also have a meal under a big tree near the stream as well. Various nature related activities are available. You can visit Tham Huai Rai (Tham Pae) during rainy season. People called this cave Tham Pae because you need a raft or ‘Pae’ to get through this 600 meters long cave or ‘Tham’. For summer, Tham Yao awaits your visit. This approximately 1 kilometers long cave has a small waterfall inside with shrimps, bats and grasshoppers inhabiting the cave. There is also another cave called ‘Tham Chedi’ with a pagoda or ‘chedi’ at the entrance. Tourists who visit Ban Muang Pam during cultivating season can enjoy seeing villagers joining one another in cultivating rice fields. You can learn how to

traditionally produce each grain of rice in every process, from cultivating, rice threshing and pounding. As for all year round main activities, visitors can learn how to weave textile in traditional Karen way or learn how to create basketry according to Karen’s culture suggesting that “Men should be able to do basketry, as much as women should be able to sew fabric.” and learn wood carving. Finally, in order to experience true Kayaw traditions and culture, visitors can participate in an important Ban Muang Pam tradition called ‘Kee Chue’, or a hand tying ceremony, performed to show the harmony among villagers and join the villagers as they pray to forest and mountain spirits for good produce. Recommended activities: Textile weaving, hand crafting, trekking.

Ban Muang Pam, Tham Lot, Pang Mapha, Mae Hong

Son 58150 09-6147-2719 (Seree Thong, leader of Ban Muang Pam tourism group)

CBT Ban Muang Pam 500 Baht/activityVillage tour with local guide 350 Baht/ day Trekking with guide: 450 Baht/day Homestay 150 Baht/person/night (meals not included)

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Rak Thai Village Rak Thai Village is a Yunnan Chinese village located next to Thai-Burmese border. This Yunnan group were migrated from the south of China during the Communist Revolution. Some of the villagers were members of Kuomintang Party who fled communist threats and settled in Mae Hong Son. The village itself is surrounded by wonderful nature, especially the morning scenery when fog descended and touched the top of tea leaves, which were planted beautifully like a staircase made of grass. The area is geographically suitable for tea farming. Multiple kinds of quality tea are being made here. Rak Thai is still firmly preserving Yunnan culture. The idea of living a simple life and Yunnan cuisine are still kept alive. Moreover, mud houses are common to be seen here, making life here a combination of living harmoniously with nature and unique Yunnan art. Therefore, there is no doubt that the village became a tourist hotspot for Thais and foreigners alike. Visitors of Rak Thai Village usually took beautiful photographs of the scenery, especially during sunrise when the morning fog fills the air. Among the most popular places are the lake, tea plantation and artistically decorated resorts.

A must-not-miss thing to do at the village is to try Yunnan cuisine. A signature dish like braised pork leg with Chinese bun and a visit to souvenir shop for tea and dried fruits will surely make your stomach full.

Mae Or Village, Mok Champae, Mueang Mae Hong Son, Mae Hong Son 58000

Levine Rak Thai Resort 08-9552-9650 Cha Sa Rak Thai 08-6118-2067

Ta Lao Chuer Rak Thai 08-9557-2258 and 08-6420-4382

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/บ้านรัก ไทย--7352

Resort rates starts from 500 – 1,500 Baht/night. MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Wat Chong Kam and Wat Chong Klang

which the record suggests that they were made by Burmese painters from Mandalay. If you have a chance to visit Mae Hong Son, these two temples are not to be missed. Taking your time to explore all of the spots in order to seek hiding pieces of long history is recommended. Having visited these two temples will surely fulfill your merit and your soul. Chong Kham, Mueang Mae Hong Son, Mae Hong Son 58000

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/ วัดจองคำ�--450

Fulfill your soul at this big temple located in the middle of Mae Hong Son. Many people are stunned by the beauty of Wat Chong Kam and Wat Chong Klang’s beauty even before having visited them. They might also wonder where the temples are. Wat Chong Kam and Wat Chong Klang are two temples that were built next to each other and stood for centuries inside the same walls. Wat Chong Kam was the first temple to be built in Mae Hong Son in 1827 by Phraya Singhanart Racha, a Tai Yai ruler of Mae Hong Son. Later during 1932 – 1936, Phothong, Techagomain built a Trimook design monastery in Tai Yai style to place a Burmese Luang Phor Toh Buddha image, which has the same size with Bhudda Shakayamuni image at Wat Suthat in Bangkok. At Wat Chong Klang, visitors can find a gilded Phra Phutthasihing Buddha image inside the chapel with other attractions, such as human and animal shaped wooden carved dolls depicting the story of Vessantara, ‘Phra Chao Indra San’ or the ‘Bamboo weaved Buddha image’ in the sermon hall, Prince Siddhartha’s images and pictures depicting lives in the Buddhism era,

Everyday 8.00 น. - 18.00 น.

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Mae Hong Son Sunday Market (Kad Tid) To understand the local way of life in whatever place you visit, a market is the place to go. The name ‘Kad Tid’ came from a Mae Hong Son’s local language word, which means ‘the Sunday market’, where the locals sell their agricultural produces. This unique market is located on a 500 meters strip of Rung Rueang Kanka road in Tambon Chong Kham. The highlight of this local market is fresh local fruits and vegetables, which were brought in straight from the farms. Mae Hong Son’s seasonal produces could be found in this market, where every shopper will be happy with clean and fresh produces they have bought in reasonable price, straight from the farm. Moreover, visitors will also experience the local way of life, which is filled with smiles and generosity. Rung Rueang Kanka Rd., Chong Kham, Mueang Mae Hong Son, Mae Hong Son 58000 https://www.tourismthailand.org/Mae-Hong-Son

(ททท. แม่ฮ่องสอน)

Saturday 11.00 – 18.00, Sunday 06.00 – 11.00

9 Steps for Happiness Rice Bridge (Saphan Kao Gao Puea Suk) A bamboo bridge stretched long over a rice field, surrounded by the mountains, filled with pure air and beautiful nature is located in Pha Bong Community. This new Mae Hong Son landmark was built for tourists to experience Tai Yai’s way of life in this community, which was nicknamed ‘Tai Yai Town’. Tourists can take a stroll on the bridge for fresh air and scenery. Viewpoints are available along the way. Chairs, benches and small huts are available as photo props. People who visit Pha Bong Community in the rainy season may also get to see morning fog touching the fields after the rain. Moreover, 9 Steps for Happiness Rice Bridge also has a rice learning center, where visitors can learn about different varieties of rice.

Pha Bong Village, Pha Bong, Mueang Mae Hong Son, Mae Hong Son 58000 https://www.tourismthailand.org/Mae-Hong-Son

(ททท. แม่ฮ่องสอน)

Everyday MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Before Sunset Coffee Mae Hong Son

Pang Mu, Mueang Mae Hong Son, Mae Hong Son 58000

0-5361-2234 Before Sunset Coffee Maehongson

Everyday 08.00 – 18.00

“Before Sunset Coffee” is a café surrounded by the mountains. Located near Wat Phrathat Doi Kong Mu, this small coffee shop has only a few tables. The unique feature of this café is its heavenly view. When seated, the view in front of you is one with green mountains, with floating fog on the mountain tops. All these views accompanied by a cup of coffee made with the barista’s care will surely make your heart grows. In the evening, prepare to be astonished by the beautiful orange sun setting behind green mountains. The beautiful gradient of red and orange sunset has proven to be unforgettable for many. Apart from the beautiful scenery and a cup of coffee made with care, the coffee shop itself also has decorated corners with vintage props, which are perfect photo spots for those who love checking in on Social Media. With all of the elements above combined, Before Sunset Coffee is one of the destinations and heaven for many who appreciate nature and would like to relax with a cup of delicious coffee. MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Earth Tone Vegetarian Café and Health Shop Organic and vegetarian diet are not just popular among Thais, but it is also becoming increasingly popular around the world. This little vegetarian restaurant for healthy diet lovers is located across Wat Phra That Mae Yen. It is a very popular coffee among Thais and foreigners, who often keep the seats full. The special feature of this vegan café are organic vegetarian dishes and organic products. All dishes and products for sale are 100% homemade. Customers can be sure that all products and equipment in this café are all eco-friendly. Earth Tone Vegetarian café and health shop was created by an owner who truly loves vegetarian diet. Therefore, all dishes served and all products sold in this café are all vegetarian. People with lactose intolerance or dairy allergy can order any dishes without worry. Moreover, all items on the menu are created by the founder of this café, who only choose fresh ingredients from grains to fruits and experiment until all of the healthy menus are created and served beautifully in a reasonable price.

81 Mae Hong Son Rural Road 4024, Mae Hi, Pai, Mae Hong Son 58130 (Across Wat Phra That Mae Yen) 08-4662-8062 09.30 – 17.00 Closed on Saturdays Earth Tone MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Sai Nam Pai Restaurant

323 Moo 8, Wiang Tai, Pai, Mae Hong Son 58130 08-6194-1448, 08-4378-2418 ครัวสายน้ำ�ปาย อำ�เภอปาย Everyday 09.00 – 22.30

Eating fish is good for your health. Here at Sai Nam Pai Restaurant, fish dishes are their specialty. With great care for the quality of each dish, the restaurant owner personally oversees that selection of fishes from Pai and Salaween River. Every dish is guaranteed to be fresh and naturally delicious. Apart from their fish dishes, Sai Nam Pai Restaurant also offers many other local dishes which provides genuine local taste. All ingredients used in this restaurant are carefully selected. A wide range of taste starting from mild to spicy is to be expected from different dishes, all of which are wallet friendly. Visitors can try many dishes without having to worry about the cost. The restaurant itself is also big and spacious enough to host families and friends. During the evening, the liveliness from live music will surely increase your appetite. Recommended dishes: Wallago catfish fried in fish sauce, Redtail catfish Tom Yum soup, Rita catfish Tom Yum soup, garlic-fried Giant Barp, boiled Pai river fishes, Pad Cha fishes and Stir fried fern in oyster sauce. MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Dek Doi Coffee at Jabo The fresh smell of coffee passing through your nose and a greenery view in front of your eyes, will surely make you smile here at Dek Doi Coffee at Jabo. Sip a cup of coffee made by the kids who were born and raised here at Ban Jabo. The café itself is a traditional northern style building. Once you stepped inside, fresh smell of coffee will surely makes you happy. The interior of this café is decorated in vintage style. Film cameras and old photographs are hanged on the wall, telling stories which will make you feel cozy. Photo corners are available with cool breeze. All of the elements in this coffee shop are ready to recharge your positive energy. Ban Jabo 69/1 Moo 4, Pang Mapha, Pang Mapha, Mae Hong Son 58150 09-7948-8346 Dekdoi coffee Jabo Everyday เวลา 7.00 - 18.00

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Fern Restaurant This Mae Hong Son’s landmark restaurant has been opening its doors for more than 30 years. Many delicious dishes from genuine northern, Chinese or Western cuisine could be found here at this restaurant. It became one of the most popular restaurant in Mae Hong Son due to its long history and accessible location, which is not too far from the walking street. Fern Restaurant building is a giant wooden house, with Lanna architecture, resembling an old couple’s house. The spacious interior is decorated with Lanna style items. Mild yellow lights provide a warm, peaceful and private feeling, which is suitable for family or close friends who would like to talk over a meal. Folk music also helps increase appetite as well. Recommended dishes are: Spicy fern salad, Cabbage and pork ribs Jo soup, Mhoo Nok Kork and Oob Kai Kang Kluk Klak, which has a similar look as curry, but does not contain curry or coconut milk. Food here is not expensive, yet has big portions that will make you full after you have finished. And if you have any questions about the menu, the restaurant staffs are ready to provide you with further information. You will surely receive an impressive service and enjoy delicious dishes here at Fern Restaurant.

Khun Lumprapas Rd., Mueang Mae Hong Son, Mae Hong Son 58000 0-5361-1374 Everyday 10.30 – 22.00

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Mae La Luang loves you coffee

If sipping coffee and enjoying the view is not enough, Mae La Luang loves you coffee also has a camping area, which is especially attractive during winter, when you can enjoy the morning fog with a warm cup of coffee waiting to say a good morning, bringing happiness to you like no other places.

This hidden café is located in a small hut surrounded by nature and blue sky. Once visitors take a seat inside, they will be greeted by the view in front, which took hundreds of years to perfect. Ozone wind from the forest and mountains will wonderfully heal your exhaustion from work. The smile on Hmong staffs’ face and their eagerness to serve you while you enjoy the cup of coffee they made would surely bring you joy and relaxation. For people who would like to try on Hmong outfits, they are available here for you to try on. This coffee shop also has local products for sale. Buying products here is a favor to the community.

No. 108, Mae La Luang, Mae La Noi, Mae Hong Son 58120 08-6327-2776 (Khun Lek) Everyday 08.00 – 17.00 MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Phu Pai Art Resort

92 Moo 1, Mae Na Toeng, Pai, Mae Hong Son 58130 0-5306-5111

Phu Pai Art Resort was built under the consideration of Pai as a destination for artists with genuine love for art, because Pai is a city filled with art and culture. This inspires many art workshops available in this art resort, which were well accepted by various prominent Thai artists. As for tourists who are seeking peace from the busy working days. Staying at Phu Pai Art Resort is like pausing time, allowing you to live peacefully with one of the best sceneries any resort could offer. Green rice fields and mountains with beautiful gardens provides everything any nature lovers would want as their view. This is truly a resort for anyone who would like to have a worry-free vacation. The architecture of this resort is carefully designed with a mix of Northern and Contemporary styles. Together with beautiful landscape, you will feel like you are resting in a kingdom away from the busy world. However, although this resort is remote, it comes with all of modern facilities that you will need.

www.phupai.com Phu Pai Art Resort MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

Hern Tai Resort Hern Tai Resort are a couple of houses that hides in the green nature. A view from your guest room is the beautiful rice fields, leaning on the mountains standing tall in the front. The architecture of Hern Tai Resort is suggested in its name; a Tai Yai home mixed with modern style by the owner who is partly Tai Yai. The interior decoration is filled with Tai Yai art to preserve their artistic spirit. However, facilities are available to give you the comfortable stay you need. Here at Hern Tai Resort, apart from finding the atmosphere that is not available in big cities, activities are also available for you to be closer to nature. Bicycles are available for you to ride around and discover the surrounding area. If the best therapy anyone can get is from nature, Hern Tai Resort will surely give you that therapy you need.

420 Moo 1, Mae La Noi, Mae La Noi, Mae Hong Son 58120 0-5368-9033 เฮินไต รีสอร์ท

MAE HONG SON

HEALTHY HARMONY

THE DAWN OF HAPPINESS

The Dawn of Happiness Sukhothai – Phitsanulok

The kingdom of sunrise where happiness never sets. There was a saying suggesting that, in order to measure a kingdom’s stability and happiness, a look at their Buddhism art and Buddha images are good indicators. This is one of the reasons why people believed that Sukhothai Kingdom was a kingdom of Dharma, where the souls of the people are pure with happiness. From the legends of a speaking Buddha image in Wat Sri Chum to the construction of Phra Phutta Chinnarat, the most beautiful Buddha image in Thailand and various artistic creations such as gold making, Sangkhalok ceramic ware or other ancient toys such like Phra Ruang kite, all of these arts reflect the happiness and peace in the mind of people in this ancient kingdom. And although time has passed, visitors will still be able to feel the happiness DNA that has been passed down to people in different communities of Sukhothai and Phitsanulok.

Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat (also known as Wat Yai or Wat Phra Si) is royal temple where one of the finest and most revered Buddha image in Thailand, Phra Phuttha Chinnarat, is being kept. On the left of Phra Phutta Chinnarat, there is a bronze statue of squatting Thao Wessuwan with his right hand holding a baton and his left hand touching his knee. On the right side, a bronze statue of kneeling Awaka Yak with two hands holding objects on his head. There is no evidence of when this temple was built. However, it is believed that this temple was built before Sukhothai Period, and has long been a royal temple. It has been a spiritual center for Thais and foreigners. Attractions in this temple include: the royal ordination hall, Phra Phutta Chinnarat, Phra Leua (a Maravijaya attitude Buddha image built of leftover bronze) and Phra Prang Prathan, the main stupa located in the center of the temple, where Sarira and Phra Attarot are located. The doors into the ordination hall are also very beau-

tiful as they are decorated with pearls. Last but not least, Wihan Glab, the Buddha achieving Nippan is an old artifact from Ayutthaya period, which is likely to be one of its kind. 92/3 Phutthabucha Rd., Nai Mueang, Mueang Phitsanulok, Phitsanulok 65000 0-5525-1649, 0-5525-8966

Everyday 06.30 – 18.00

PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

THE DAWN OF HAPPINESS

Wat Nang Phaya

Ja Kan Bun Rd., Nai Mueang, Mueang Phitsanulok, Phitsanulok 65000 0-5525-8446

Everday 07.00 – 17.00

Wat Nang Phaya is located near Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat. It is an ancient temple built in Sukhothai Period. The temple was later renovated by Phra Wisutkasat, queen consort of King Maha Thammarachathirat, mother of King Naresuan the Great. The famous Phra Nang Phaya amulets found in the area are also believed to be created by the queen as well. The amulet revered as one of five most sacred amulets in Thailand. Inside the ordination hall, the main Buddha image ‘Somdej Nang Phaya Ruen Kaew’, which is similar in style to Phra Phutta Chinnarat can be found. After paying homage to the sacred Buddha images, visitors are recommended to visit the Naresuan Pavilion, which keeps the statues of five royals, including King Maha Thammarachathirat, Queen Wisutkasat, Queen Suphankanlaya, King Naresuan and King Ekathotsarot. The pavilion was modeled after an old throne hall, providing a warm feeling, which was an intention of the builder, who wished the five royals to stay here together as long as time. PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

THE DAWN OF HAPPINESS

Ban Pha Rang Mee The people of Pha Rang Mee firstly migrated from Saraburi and Pichit. The first 4 households have settled in the area in 1964. Then in 1969, more people from both provinces migrated to the area. Once there are more households, Pha Rang Mee community was separated into 10 groups, each with a group leader looking after group members’ well-being. Ban Pha Rang me is a lovely community. Groups of houses stood together along the main road. Each house is separated with an edible fence (fence with planted vegetables or fruits). Most of the people are happy and healthy, rarely addicted to alcohol or cigarettes. The community have developed programs in order to become more self-reliant, for example, the women’s textile group has developed different signature textile patterns such as ‘Cho Ma Prang’, which is named after Amphoe Noen Maprang where the vil-

lage is located. Another pattern is ‘Mamuang Nam Dok Mai Si Thong’ (or Golden Barracuda Mango), which is a famous product of Tambon Sai Yoi. Moreover, there is a weaved sedge mat group which produced mats with traditional patterns such as ‘Lai Kho Yai’, ‘Lai Renu’, ‘Lai Dok Kaew’ and ‘Lai Kiaw Ma Tai’. For visitors who are attracted to the beautiful nature and people, Ban Pha Mee has a homestay where they could spend a night or two.

Moo 3, Sai Yoi, Noen Maprang, Phitsanulok 65190 08-1362-8532

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Ban Mung

Ban Mung, Noen Maprang, Phitsanulok 65190 08-5400-1727 E-Tak tractor rent costs 500 – 800 Baht/ 1.30 hours, depending on number of customers.

Ban Mung is known as a city of stone pillars and Thailand’s Guilin. This small community is located among 300 million years old limestone mountains. Visitors can have a look around this ancient mountains with corn fields and rice fields in the area. Another recommended activity is a sightseeing tour on E-Tak tractor. Visitors are assured to be impressed by the scenery and local way of life. Moreover, there are beautiful unseen caves not so far from Ban Mung, such as Tham Duan – Tham Dao, where visitors can find multiple beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Black and gray layer rocks can be found inside the cave, inserted with shale. In certain seasons, colonies of bats can be found flying in and out of the cave, providing a unique sight for visitors.

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Thung Salaeng Luang National Park Thung Salaeng Luang National Park’s area spread over Amphoe Wang Thong, Amohoe Nakhon Thai, Amphoe Noen Maprang in Phitsanulok and Amphoe Khao Kho, Amphoe Wang Pong in Phetchabun. This 789,000 Rai (approx. 311946 acre) national park has beautiful viewpoints and interesting natural features such as caves, waterfalls and meadows which are full of flora and faunas. The name of this national park possibly came from the name of a large meadow on the south of the park’s area, which was named after a tree called ‘Ton Salaeng Jai’, a big perennial plant. The fruit of this tree has orange color. Its seeds contain Strychninem, which has lethal effects. Many believed that there were a lot of Salang Jai trees in this area, hence the name ‘Thung Salaeng Luang’. Another possible origin of this national park’s name came from a manual on butterflies studies, which recorded the story of a senior hunter named ‘Ban Meesangwaew’ who told a story of people who violated the rules of the jungle, or do something that is ‘Salaeng Pa’ (strange for the forest), causing disasters unto themselves, hence the name. Another highlight of Thung Salaeng Luang

National Park is ‘Thung Nang Phaya’, a field located aprroximately 14 kilometers away from Nong Mae Na office. Other interesting attractions in the area includes Kaeng Sopha Waterfall, Kaeng Wang Nam Yen, Tham Duen – Tham Dao, Tham Phra Wang Daeng, Thung Non Son, Lam Nam Khek and Red Roses Waterfall.

Thung Salaeng Luang: Moo 9, Ban Yaeng, Nakhon Thai, Phitsanulok 65120

08-8756-4940 thung_s_l@hotmail.com

For Thais: 40 Baht/adult, 20 Baht/children For foreigners: 500 Baht/adult, 300 Baht/children

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Nakhon Chum Village Nakorn Chum Village is community with rich natural attractions and long history since before the founding of Sukhothai Kingdom. Tambon Nakhon Chum’s valley are among one of the best spots to watch the sea of fog in Thailand. The valley the location of a small village, which turns into a small misty city during winter. Anyone who would like to experience a rural life and local dishes are recommended to spend a night here at least once, because apart from being able to stay close to nature, go on a tractor sightseeing tour, get dirty planting rice in the fields, learn basketry, learn Thai desserts making, visit a museum with long history and get to know friendly locals, Nakhorn Chum Village also has a thousand year salt pit for visitors to study. Moreover, people who appreciate history would love to stay at the same place where the founder of Sukhothai Kingdom (first

kingdom of Thailand) have chosen to stay due to its geographical advantages during wartime.

Nakhon Chum, Nakhon Thai, Phitsanulok 65120 0-5509-9808, 08-0665-4723

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Khao Pok Lon Khao Pok Lon is a spot where visitors can enjoy beautiful sunrises, sunsets and the morning sea of fog. From the front side of the mountain, visitors can see the entire Nakhon Chum Village. From the back side, they will be able to see endless green fields. Adventure tourists would love Khao Pok Lon, as the journey up is full of challenges, steep climbing awaits to be conquered. Preparing your body and proper outdoor outfits and non-slippery shoes are recommended for the visit. The historical and moral significance of Khao Pol Lon to Nakhorn Chum people can be seen along the way up. Bo Suea Tok and Bo Nam Thong are two pools along the trail. Bo Nam Thong is considered a sacred pool, in which water seep out of rock all year round. It is said to be the pool where an ancient hero stepped in and turned gold. People in the area used to wash their faces and drink water from this pool, believing that water will cure their sickness. Every year on April 13th, there is a flag ceremony on the summit of Khao Pok Lon as well.

Nakhon Chum, Nakhon Thai, Phitsanulok 65120 0-5500-9808 Tour guide – 200 Baht/guide Tractor rental – 200 Baht/tractor (10 seats)

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Krua Nannum

Wang Chan Rd., Nai Mueang, Mueang Phitsanulok, Phitsanulok 65000

0-5523-0444

Krua Nannum is a popular restaurant in Phitsanulok notable for its European style decoration. Live music is played everyday from 19.00 – 22.00, making it a great place for dinner. Air conditioned dining rooms are available, same as a big open air space. The interior of the restaurant was also decorated in a European style. Various photo corners are available. A peaceful English garden outside will give you a relaxation after your meal. Moreover, there is a café for people who love café hopping during the day. As for the food, Thai and Indian cuisines are available here with various dishes for visitors to select. Recommended dishes are: Chicken Tikka, Indian grilled chicken; tender chicken meat mixed with curry and spicy seafood paste, a great dish to eat with Butter chicken; an Indian chicken soup and Spicy dry roasted pork ribs; soft pork ribs mixed with sweet and spicy sauce with basil sprinkled on top. Second visit seems to be unavoidable once you have tasted great food and enjoy the atmosphere of this restaurant.

Everyday 06.30 – 18.00 PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

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Sappraiwan Elephant House Lake View Café Sip a cup of coffee while looking at elephants at this recently opened forest-camp themed café on the way to Khao Kho. Enjoy the loveliness and intelligence of elephants here, as they live in their natural way of life. Visitors can also join in creative elephant activities available here. This chic café was built to be a cool and clear place. Photo corners are available for social media posts. Six elephants around the café will give you an astonishing sight, all while enjoying your coffee, Bringing elephants into the area came from the idea that old elephants should be looked after, not chained. During the day, the mahout would take his elephants for a stroll. Visitors can take their photos with the elephant. Moreover, there

is also a balcony where visitors can sip their coffee while looking at elephants playing in the pool. 1/79 Moo 2, Phitsanulok – Lomsak, Kaeng Sopha, Wang Thong, Phitsanulok 65220 08-1533-7288 Tuesday – Thursday 09.00 – 17.00 Weekends 10.00 – 18.00 Closed on Wednesday Elephant walking time: 13.30 – 16.00 Sappraiwan Elephant House Lake View Cafe

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Shinnabhura Historic Boutique Hotel Shinnabhura is a hotel with the scent of boutique history, which stems from the owner’s love of Thai history, especially during the early Ayutthaya period. The inspiration for this hotel came from the war between King Borommatrailokkanat of Ayutthaya and King Tilokaraj of Lanna. The hotel decoration then, is a mix between Lanna and Ayutthaya arts, which can be found in every corner, from architecture to interior design. Moreover, there is an art gallery containing ancient weapons, armours, carvings and beautiful sculptures for visitors to see. Shinnabura Historic Boutique Hotel is a museum where Thai history and arts are preserved. Some of the arts here can be found almost nowhere else.

59/59 Moo 10, Wat Chan, Mueang Phitsanulok, Phitsanulok 65000

0-5521-9888 www.shinnabhura.com โรงแรมชินะปุระ พิษณุโลก

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Wat Mahathat Wat Mahathat was built according to Indian’s ancient belief about the universe. It was an important temple during Sukhothai period. The area of the temple consists the main pagoda, the main hall, Mandapa, chapel and more than 200 surrounding pagodas. “There is a chapel, a Buddha image, a Mandapa, a big Buddha image and Phra Phuttha Anram…” according to the first part of Ramkamhaeng’s stele. Historians speculated that the golden Buddha image is Luang Pho Toh statue of people in the old town during early Rattanakosin period, which is kept at Wat Mahathat. Later, King Rama I have moved Luang Pho Toh image from Wat Mahathat to Wat Suthat in Bangkok. The Buddha im-

age was renamed during King Rama II’s reign as ‘Phra Sri Sakaya Muni”. The foundation of this Buddha image can still be found at Wat Mahathat. The main pagoda was built to resemble a shape of lotus, which shows Sukhothai’s outstanding architectural style. However, the first design of the pagoda is believed to be similar to the four surrounding pagoda, which was built

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on the same foundation. Around the main pagoda foundation, there are eight pagodas representing cardinal directions, of which four corner pagodas was built in Lanna style. Around the main pagoda, there are images of Buddha’s disciples. In the mandapa on each side, there is a The standing Buddha image is 18 Sok (9 meters) tall, located in the mandapa on both sides of the main pagoda. On the east of the royal ordination hall is a tall ordination hall. Moreover, there is another group of pagodas at the south of the main Buddha image. The center of this pagoda group is Chedi Ha Yod, the second largest pagoda in the temple, where King Maha Thammaracha I’s ashes are believed to be kept.

Sukhothai Historical Park, Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai, Sukhothai 64210

08-5214-7369 Monday – Sunday 06.30 – 19.30 (except Saturday) Saturday 06.30 – 21.00 PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

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Wat Si Chum Wat Si Chum is located outside the northwest corner of the city wall. The highlight feature of this temple is a roofless building with giant Buddha image inside. With a name that is believed to have come from the first King Ramkamhaeng’s Inscription, Phra Atchana (meaning: a person with integrity) is 11.30 meters wide Maravijaya Buddha image. The current image inside Wat Si Chum was renovated in 1953 – 1956. The name of Wat Si Chum came from two possible origins. The first one is the fusion between two Thai words: ‘Si’ and ‘Chum’. The word ‘Si’ is derived from the word ‘Sa-li’, which means the Bodhi tree. The word ‘Chum’ means many. Therefore, ‘Si Chum’ means ‘the area with many Bodhi trees’. Another possible origin of Wat Si Chum’s name appeared in the Royal chronicle of Ayutthaya period, which called the area ‘Rue-Si-Chum’, because it was a place where King Naresuan’s armies met before attacking Sawankhalok. Moreover, the second stone inscription which tells the story of Sukhothai Dynasty’s founding was dis-

covered in the the wall of Wat Si Chum’s mandapa. On that same wall, there are paintings depicting Jataka tales, or the lives of Buddha. Some of the paintings have similarities with Langka art. Each painting also has Sukhothai’s language description as well.

Sukhothai Historical Park, Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai, Sukhothai 64210

Everyday 06.00 – 21.00

20 Baht for Thais, 100 Baht for foreigners PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

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Suthep Sangkhalok

203/2 Moo 3, Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai, Sukhothai

08-4494-8890 ทุกวัน เวลา 8.00 น. - 17.00 น.

Sangkhalok is one of the finest type of ceramic wares. It was burned at high temperature in stoves with techniques that took hundreds of years to perfect from early Sukhothai Period to the end of Ayutthaya Period. Today, the ceramic stoves can still be found in Amphoe Mueang Sukhothai, Amphoe Sri Satchanalai in Sukhothai and near Noi River in Amphoe Bang Rachan in Sing Buri. Suthep Sangkhalok has preserved and developed on top of Sukhothai Sangkhalok. The shop made Sangkhalok ceramic wares for order. Their uniqueness is that they can produce fine coated ceramics, especially ‘Celadon’: a type of olive green ceramic wares with grain ivory stripes, exquisitely. They also keep producing works that show Sukhothai’s identity; mostly fish patterns, which are Sukhothai’s original ceramic patterns, suggesting that there are ‘fishes in the water, rice in the field.’ Apart from dishes and bows, other Sangkhalok ceramic wares are being made here, such as clay jars, clay bottles, clay pots, teapots, human and animal dolls, Ganesha images, Lions etc. The shop welcomes students and people who are interested in Sangkhalok ceramics. PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

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Banpraphim Luksamonart Banpraphim Luksamonart was founded in 2007. Beginning from a collection of molded Sukhothai amulets discovered in Sri Satchanalai and Old Sukhothai, the founder searched and matched the amulets to its origin temple, in order to collect and exchange historical knowledge. The motto is “Ancient arts are the foundation of a race.” Visitors will learn how to mold and burn terra cotta amulets from founders, who will tell the history and techniques used in creating molded amulets. Participating in this workshop is a way to preserve Buddhism. Visitors can take the amulets they’ve made back home on the next day after burning them in the stove (or on the same day if visitors’ time is limited). Moreover, visitors can also study the urban planning of Ancient Sukhothai Kingdom, have a look at old weapons and artifacts, such as ancient jars, old coins etc. Other activities at Banpraphim Luksamonart include traditional archery, making fire with stones (reservation before visiting).

51/7 Moo 8, Ban Phra Chetuphon, Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai, Sukhothai 64210

08-1197-0535, 08-9643-6219 ทุกวัน เวลา 8.00 น. - 17.00 น. Banpraphim luksamonart

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Ganesha Gallery Ganesha Gallery was founded by Santi Prompetch, who have studied Sangkhalok ceramic wares making from his father, one of the pioneers of Sukhothai Sangkhalok who founded his own workshop. Santi have constantly practice and develop his products. For example, in the past, fish patterns were originally drawn without scales. Santi started drawing small flicked scales onto fishes in order to increase details, while preserving the traditional painting style. Moreover, Santi utilize new techniques such as Japanese Raku ceramic coating, in order to create beautiful ceramic wares that are unique and durable. He also creates more contemporary ceramic wares by combining traditional Sukhothai ceramic with modern style, focusing on multiple functionalities such as interior and exterior decoration. The signature work of Ganesha Gallery is the Ganesha image, which is available in various varieties and became very popular among visitors. For anyone who is looking for creative Sangkhalok ceramic wares with unique features, Ganesha Gallery is a place for you to visit. A statue of a giant with abs is waiting for you. In this gallery, all products have Ganesha Gallery logo at the bottom. Workshop sessions are also available (preservation only).

Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai, Sukhothai 64210

08-9999-4402 ทุกวัน เวลา 9.00 น. - 17.00 น. กะเณชา สังคโลก กรุงสุโขทัย PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

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Agriculture Project at Sukhothai Airport With the purpose to create benefits for the society, certain areas around Sukhothai Airport were changed into green areas, starting from small organic rice farms. Farmers slowly studied and gather their experience before expanding the area, becoming the Agriculture Project at Sukhothai Airport as we know it today. The Agriculture Project at Sukhothai Airport has various organic products for sale, such as Khao Hom Dam Sukhothai 2, Khao Hom Dang Sukhothai 1, Pink half-polished rice, organic rice germ, organic vegetables including kale, Choy, morning glory, spinach, amaranth, asparagus, bamboo shoot, star gooseberry, organic fruits including Mahachanok

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mango, mango plum and Thai plango. Duck eggs from organic rice bran fed, naturally raised ducks are also available. Moreover there are exotic animals like giant rabbit, zebra, kangaroo, horse, giraffe and giant lizard to be seen at the farm as well. Tourists who are seeking to a fully organic farming experience are welcome to stay at their rice field house, which strongly shows Thai farmers’ way of life. Agricultural workshop sessions are available, from planting rice, collecting duck eggs, cultivating vegetables to selecting rice grains by hand. Visitors can enjoy a meal made from ingredients in the farm in provided farming costume. Please make a reservation in advance.

99/1-3 Moo 2, Khlong Krachong, Sawankhalok, Sukhothai 64110 (Located in Sukhothai Airport area)

0-5564-7290, 08-6398-5727, 08-6202-3757 09.00 – 17.00 โครงการเกษตรอินทรีย์ สนามบินสุโขทัย - Organic Agriculture Project na_sukhothai@hotmail.com

Adults – 900 Baht (Activities + Lunch) Children under 3 years old – free Children smaller than 120 centimeters – 450 Baht PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

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Ban Kook Pattana Ban Kook Pattana was separated from Ban Kook. It is a community with unique traditions and identity, especially traditions related to the Legend of Phra Ruang. The area was named after the tale of love between Phra Ruang and Nang Kam. Nang Kam and Phra Ruang were lovers, until one day, a misunderstanding caused her to fled from her lover. Phra Ruang hurried to search for her and stumbled onto a dead log lying in a place, which is now called ‘Ban Saen Tor’. Tired and desperate, Phra Ruang then knelt down at the place where Ban Kook Pattana is today. The word ‘Kook’ comes from ‘Kook Khao’, which means ‘to kneel down.’ Another tradition that originates from the

tales of Phra Ruang and became Ban Kook Pattana’s signature is Phra Ruang Kite making. Visitors can learn how to create Phra Ruang Kite and fly them over the fields from February to March, which is the cultivating season. A Kite competition is held every year here. Nowadays, Ban Kook Pattana is an open community for tourists to visit and learn Thai way of life. It is also a Sufficiency Economy learning center. Other activities include burning coal, making wood vinegar, making bio extracts, making pellet fertilizer, making bird cages, listening to the Legend of Phra Ruang at Wat Siriket, watch ‘Sukhothai Dance’ performance and singing folk songs.

Moo 12, San Chit, Si Satchanalai, Sukhothai 64130

08-9562-6230 PITSANULOK - SUKHOTHAI

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Ban Na Ton Chan

111 Moo 5, Ban Tuek, Si Satchanalai, Sukhothai 64130

From the settlement by 4 families from Yonok, Chiang Saen around 200 years ago in a village with a mountain in the middle and Ton Chan trees that provide more produces than other trees, comes the name Ban Na Ton Chan. The traditional way of life seen in this village is still beautiful without any decay. Visitors can feel the simple way of life hiding in this community. As the new dawn rises, watch the sea of clouds at Huai Ton Hi, a viewpoint discovered by the locals where you can plant forest with slingshot and seedballs. There are several activities not to be missed, such as a sightseeing rice field tour on E-Tak tractor especially during farming season (August – October), cycling to different highlighted areas, taste original Khao Perp recipe, visiting teakwood doll house. Various wooden toys are available for sale. You can also watch a mud dying cloth demonstration, visit fruit plantations, all before taking a well-earned rest at the village’s homestay.

08-8495-7738, 08-9885-1639, 09-8273-4164

Bicycle rental – 30 Baht/bike with local guide

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Mai Klang Krung When in Sukhothai, one thing that must not be missed is eating ‘Kuai Tiao Sukhothai’. There are many restaurants for you to try, one of them is Mai Klang Krung, a small Thai style restaurant with great traditional taste. The atmosphere around the restaurant is pleasant with many plants. The interior was decorated with vintage items such as old lamps, Sangkhalok ceramic wares or terra cotta pottery. Even the restaurant staffs and owner are dressed in traditional Thai costume to make you feel like you are taking a journey into the past. The appetizer starts with dishes like Steamed pork in rice parcels, served with fresh coconut milk and sesame, providing a perfect blended flavor. The main dish that you cannot miss is ‘Kuai Tiao Sukhothai’, which is made with original recipe. You can eat it with or without soup. Seasonings are fresh, especially grounded nuts which are roasted and grounded in house everyday. Anyone who has a chance to eat here at Mai Klang Krung will surely have both their stomach and their soul fulfilled.

Recommended dishes: Kuai Tiao Haeng Sukhothai, Kuai Tiao Tom Yum, Pad Thai Sukhothai and Kao Greap Pak Mor.

193 Charot Withi Thong Rd., Thani, Mueang Sukhothai, Sukhothai 64000

0-5501-3519, 06-1495-4561 08.00 – 15.00

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Kao Perp Yai Kruang ‘Kao Perp Yai Kruang’, the legend of deliciousness that managed to preserve the local food identity and local wisdom, because a signature menu that no one else has, which is ‘Kao Perp’, the sound first uttered by Yai Kruang. Yai Kruang’s Kao Perp was first made more than 40 years ago. The recipe was made by covering vegetables with thin dough sheet, hence the name ‘Perp’, which means to fold. The folded dough is then poured on with pork broth, providing a tender flavor. Kao Perp Yai Kruang is located in a big Thai style home basement, making visitors feel like eating at home. A tall basement surrounded by trees allow cool breeze to flow inside, freshen you up while enjoying ‘Kao Perp Yai Kruang’.

Ban Tuek, Si Satchanalai, Sukhothai 64130

08-7036-0060 08.00 น. - 17.00 น.

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Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa is a 5-star historic boutique resort which was founded after an impression of peacefulness in the first capital city of Siam. This hotel is designed in Thai Lanna style. It is elegant, peaceful and private. Guests can see green fields touching Khao Luang (Ramkhamhaeng National Park), which is truly a beautiful and outstanding natural sight. Sriwilai Sukhothai aims to present the prosperous past during Sukhothai Period through unique architecture like Wat Chedi Sung, which is located in front of the resort. The interior of the resort is peaceful and romantic. The guestrooms, spa and swimming pool are designed to blend in with nature, providing calm and private feelings for guests.

214/4 Moo 2, Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai, Sukhothai 64210

0-5569-7445, 09-4194-4122 www.sriwilaisukhothai.com Sriwilai Sukhothai

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ISANâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;TREASURE

BURIRAM - SURIN

ISAN TREASURE

ISAN Treasure Buriram – Surin

The mixture between prosperous ancient Khom civilization and precious local traditions of South Isan people led to an interesting Isan heritage. Buriram and Surin…cities of castles and home of Apsara. Stories of cultural and local wisdom reservation happens here in this land. The impressive costume of Apsara were made into unique textile by local weavers for people of our time to own. These two provinces are also among the finest source of quality golden Yok Yor silk in Thailand and a high quality silverwares producer, which has exported accepted products overseas. As for many elephant lovers, tourist destinations in Surin will allow you to be close to the majestic creature, making you fall even deeper in love with them. Last but not least, football and motorsport fans must find your chance to support you teams in important matches and races at Buriram’s world-class facilities.

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Phanom Rung Historical Park Phanom Rung Historical Park was built on a dormant volcano as Shaivism a worshipping place dedicated to Shiva, one of the most sacred gods in Hinduism. Phamom Rung Mountain and the castle can be compared to Mount Kailash, which is Shiva’s heavenly dwelling and center of the universe. According to The Fine Arts Department, Phanom Rung Castle is an ancient castle which was influenced by Ancient Khmer Civilization. It is one of the most important landmark in Thailand. The buildings in the area were built in various era, from the 154th to 18th Buddhist Century. The name ‘Phanom Rung’, comes from ‘Wa-Nang-Rung’ a Khmer word that means ‘big mountain’. The word was found in an Khom inscription at the castle along with the builder’s name ‘Narentharatit’, who was related to

Suryavarman II, the king who built Angkor Wat. The important structures in Phanom Rung Complex are • The main temple – The most important structure in the complex, located in the middle of the inner palatial grounds. In front of the main temple is an exterior building. All of which were built on a two level foundation.

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• The Naga Bridges – The representation of the connection between heaven and earth. In Hinduism, the bridge between human and god is a rainbow. And in Indian and East Asian culture, rainbows are represented by Nagas, which were looking towards the sky or drinking from the ocean. In the middle of each Naga Bridge the remains of an eight petalled lotus carving can be seen. • The upper stairway – The upper stairway is 10 meters tall. It is divided into 5 sets with 52 steps in total. Each set has terraces on the sides with various height and width. • The inner court – a court supported by a foundation which was built to adjust the mountain terrain, allowing the castle to be built. The court is a small elevated floor with an X shape. It was built with laterite bricks. This X shaped structures created 4 walkways and gaps. • Two brick castles – Each of the two castles have pillars that support the entrance frames, which were made out of sandstone. Art historians estimated that the castles were built in the 15th Buddhist century, making them the oldest structures left in the area. • Phra Narai Lintel – A lintel of the Mandapa on the east of the main castle, depicting a relining Phra Narai above Ananta Nagaraj, which is laying on the top of a dragon in the Kshir Sagar. A lotus grew from Narai’s belly button with Bhrama sitting on it. Narai’s wife, Lakshmi, sat at the end of his foot. Next to Narai, there is also a Kala Face with a flower bunch in its mouth. On the top of Kala Face, a Garuda is holding a Naga on each of its claws. Moreover, other animals such as parrots, monkeys and Nok Hasadee are also appearing on the lintel as well. The Narai Lintel is accepted as the most beautiful Narai-depiction lintel in the world.

Moo 2 (Ban Don Nong Han), Ta Pek, Chaloem Phra Kiat, Buriram 31110 0-4466-6251 0-7475-0757 www.finearts.go.th/phanomrunghistoricalpark phnomrungoffice@yahoo.co.th Everyday 06.00 – 18.00 Entering Fees: For Thais: 20 Baht/person, For foreigners 100 Baht/person Vehicle Fees: Bicycles: 10 Baht Motorcycles or Tricycles: 20 Baht Three-wheel motorcycles: 30 Baht Cars: 50 Baht

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Charoen Suk Silk Village One of the Buriram priceless treasures is its abundant ground minerals from an inactive volcano which, helps plants in the area to grow. The soil on one side of ‘Khao Angkhan’, 1 of 6 dormant volcanoes in Buriram, is also a red soil full of useful minerals. The locals harnessed this red soil and use it with Burmese Padauk three bark as dying color for their cotton fibers. The bark provides sap that coats the color, making it more durable. The pink fibers were then made into the beautiful ‘Phu Akanee’ cloth. At Charoen Suk Silk Village, visitors should not miss the ‘Phu Akanee’ cloth making demonstration and shop for items dyed with volcanic soil, such as shirts, pants, scarfs etc., which is believe to be a lucky charm for anyone who wears them. Recommended activities: Cotton fermenting, Cotton dying, designing and weaving. Visitors are encouraged to make and 3 – 4 days advance reservation. The activities cost 1,500 Baht (no participant limit).

Moo 1, Charoen Suk, Chaloem Phra Kiat, Buriram 08-9526-6071, 08-5632-7629 (Somsri Thunnok)

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/ กลุ่มสตรีทอผ้าไหม-หมู่บ้านเจริญสุข-ผ้าฝ้ายภูเขาไฟ--7011

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Thai Silk Village Ban Sanuan Nok Ban Sanuan Nok is a great example of locally-developed tourist destinations. It is a silk weaving village which specializes in making Squirrel Tail silk, a signature silk pattern of South Isan region. The origin of Squirrel Tail silk came from the fact that Ban Sanuan Nok’s area used to be full of Kratie Rosewood, which served as habitats for squirrels. Locals then noticed that squirrel tails has a similarity to their weaving pattern and called that pattern Squirrel Tail silk. Tourists can visit a century old house, have a look at silk weaving demonstration or take a tour of silk-related activity bases. The locals here also provide homestay rooms for visitors to spend a night or two and learn the local wisdom, which has been passed down through many generations. Moreover, visitors will get to taste and make Isan’s signature snack ‘Kanom Tod Ma’.

Recommended activities: learn how to make Kanom Tod Ma and Kanom Kao Tom Dang, artificial flowers from silk cocoons, hats from coconut leaves, cowbells, birds made out of coconut shells, handheld fan and silk protein soap. Each activity costs from 30 – 100 Baht. And near the end of each month, visitors can participate in silk threading and weaving activities for free. Ban Sanuan Nok, Huai Rai, Buriram 08-7458-3235 (Pongsri Kaewphrom) Everyday

Homestay 350 Baht/night/person (Guests must prepare their own towels. The cost includes homemade breakfast.)

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Wat Khao Angkharn As stated in the legend of Angkharn Mountain, its former name was Phu Khao Loy (floating mountain). According to the Phra That Phanom history, in the year of 8 B.E., there were 5 kings who brought Buddha's breastbone and stored it in the Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom, along with Maha Kasyapa and other 500 Buddhist saints. At the same time, another group decided to store the bones in this place. Another legend noted that after the death of Buddha in Kushinagar and cremation, a town had asked for a piece of Buddha bone after the bone was already given away. A high-status Brahman spooned the remained ash with a golden ancient bowl. When they arrived at the Phu Khao Loy, they noticed that the shape of the mountain looked like a garuda lying on its stomach. They decided to build the temple to store the bone on the spot that supposed to be the left shoulder of garuda, then named it Phu Khao Phra Angkarn since then.Â BURIRAM - SURIN

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Wat Khao Angkharn is placed on an extinct volcanic crater, assumed that this place was the location of with the ruin from Dvaravati era. There are remained carved stone poles around the place. From the bird eye view, this place will be seen like garuda spanning its wings or lying on its stomach. The temple is beautifully decorated with Jataka stories mural and 15 Dvaravati basalt marker stones. There are no other places like this in Thailand as it was built back in the golden age of Khmer. Nowadays, the new building is built on top the ancient one. The contemporary temple was decorated beautifully and exotically. Inside the temple, Jataka stories mural is provided in English. Other holy buildings such as a temple with 3 towers, 8 pairs of marker stones stationed at all the 8 directions, a statue of single ivory Ganesha, 109 Buddha statues, holy chamber, the graven image of Khmer ruler, a Buddha statue with Naga Prok posture outside the temple, a model of Buddha's footprint (assumed to be built around the same time with Prasat Hin Phanom Rung,

or more than 2,000 years), Kan Dhararat Buddha statue, outdoor lying Buddha statue, and a cave for meditation are located around the area.

Wat Khao Angkharn Tam bon Charoen Suk, Amphoe Chaloem Phra Kiat, Buriram 31110 08-0002-4934 (K.Patiporn, Tourism Authority of Thailand in Buriram) https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/วัดเขา

อังคาร - ข้อมูลและวีดีโอท่องเที่ยว -- 3165 Everyday 08.00 - 17.00

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Chang Arena Stadium This is the place that revolutionizes the tourism in Buriram, and probably the key factor that makes tourism in Buriram getting more vigorous than ever in the past many years. The full name is I-Mobile Stadium, with an unofficial name “Thunder Castle Stadium”. This stadium belongs to Buriram United Football Club and officially opened in 2012. With 32,600 seats in the stadium, the construction budget (excluding the price of land) was over 500 million Baht. The construction materials include iron and fiber, and the total weight of stadium structure is as much as the weight of building stone of Prasat Hin Phanom Rung, the historical tourist attraction in Buriram. This is the first international-standard stadium in Thailand that was designed without running track,

letting the audiences to get as close as they can to the players. Importantly, this stadium is qualified by FIFA as a world class stadium, and by AFC to be an A class stadium. Moreover, this is stadium is known around the world as it is recorded in the Guinness book to be the shortest building time of FIFA's standard Football Stadium for only 265 days. Nowadays, this is one of the landmarks of Buriram. On the day without match, the Chang Arena area becomes the activity and exercise are of Buriram people. The area includes basketball court, futsal court, sepak takraw court, volleyball court, and other extreme sports. There is no entrance fee. And the souvenir stores selling football shirt, football, hat, key chain, etc., can be found around the stadium. Chang Arena, Tam bon Isan, Amphoe Mueang Buriram, Buriram 31000 0-4466-6499 www.buriramunited.co.th/ buriram_united@hotmail.com BURIRAM UNITED Everyday 09.00 - 16.00

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Chang International Circuit Chang International Circuit or Buriram International Circuit (BRIC) is designed by Hermann Tilke, an ace German circuit designer who designs world-class F1 and MotoGP circuits. Chang International Circuit is qualified by International Automobile Federation to be a FIA Grade 1 standard circuit, which is the circuit level that is capable for the F1 race. It is also acknowledged by Federation of International Motorcycling (FIM) as a FIM Grade A circuit which is capable for the MotoGP race. The circuit can be adapted for 6 race styles, supporting the various types or motor races such as formula racing, drag racing and curve racing, with high security standard for everyone in the circuit.

444/5 Moo 15 Buri Ram-Pra Khonchai Rd, Tam bon Isan, Amphoe Mueang Buriram, Buriram 31000 0-2235-6768 (Bangkok office), 0-4460-4200 (Buriram office) www.bric.co.th Chang International Circuit communication.bric@gmail.com Monday - Friday 09.00 - 17.00

Khu Muang Grilled Duck This is one of the must-not -miss restaurant in Buriram. With many branches, the one in the town is the original one which has opened for more than 50 years. The original recipes were created by the owner, Mr. Amnuay Leungprasert. The secret are to marinate duck and grill it; the crispy skin with tender meat. Quite chewy but not too sticky. The griller here has been well trained. Besides the duck itself, the dip served with the duck is also remarkably delicious. The recommended menus are grilled duck, grilled duck wings, fried duck’s intestine and grilled chicken bottom. There are also other Isan foods such as Laab, Namtok, spicy salad, papaya salad, ant eggs salad, etc. Tasty, spicy, not so pricy (around 80 - 100 Baht).

357 Moo 19 Tam bon Khu Mueang, Amphoe Khu Mueang, Buriram, 31190

0-4469-9230, 08-3554-7126 (K.Jade Leungprasert) 07.00 - 17.00 closed every Monday. BURIRAM - SURIN

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CLASS Café Buriram This Bangkok-like chic cafe in town with the loft modern style is mostly painted with black, with metal and cement structure. The beautiful modern exterior will make the taken photo perfect from every angle. The cafe provides reading and working areas. Also, every coffee menu is made from high quality coffee beans as the cafe has its own coffee roaster for its special menu, guaranteeing the fine taste. This must-go place is calling for the coffee lovers. The recommended menus are premium coffee such as Iced Royal Cappuccino, Americano cheese, Even Mini Brownie is worth to try.

141 แยกเสนศิริอนุสรณ์ ถนนบุรีรัมย์ - นางรอง ตำ�บลอิสาน เทศบาลเมืองบุรีรัมย์ จังหวัดบุรีรัมย์ 31000 0-4416-3910 CLASS Café Buriram วันอังคาร - อาทิตย์ เวลา 7.00 น. - 17.00 น. (หยุดวันจันทร์)

ไก่ย่างสีดา For anyone who loves spicy, yummy papaya salad, you must not miss this place: a very warm welcome place with deliciousness in every dishes. A must-order signature menu is Kai Yang Sida (Sida grilled chicken), a spice well marinated chicken. Others menu that you can’t miss are fried pickled fish, Laab Namtok and Laab Moo. Try steamed fish eggs curry in banana leaves, relishing the chewiness of fish eggs with red shallot. Salted grilled fish served with vegetables and sauce will let you experience the richness of herbs. And don’t forget to order spareribs spicy soup.

303/9 Suntornthep Rd., Tam Bon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Buriram, Buriram, 31000

08-9720-4297 (K.Sida Pairoh) ไก่ย่างสีดา Everyday 9.00 - 15.00 BURIRAM - SURIN

ISAN TREASURE

Lookchin Yuen Kin Do you believe that Buriram train station is a place that will challenge you to have an eating experience that is more delicious and funnier than you have ever had. Just seeing the row of 10 meatball stalls alone can make you excited. Looking at each stall, you will find countless kinds of meatball: round meatball, fried sausage, crab stick, fried dumpling, etc. It is 3 Baht per each, or you can get 1 Baht discount when buying 7 sticks, making it pretty 20 Baht. While every stall provides familiar meatball, their unique dips will decide which one is the winner. Some stalls even provide various kinds of dip. The origin of Lookchin Yuen Kin is you have to eat while standing. Dip into the dips, relish it, count the sticks, then you pay it later. And you can have the unlimited fresh vegetables as a side dish.

â&#x20AC;&#x201A; Lookchin Yuen Kin is located in front of the Buriram train station.Â

every day from around 08.00, fully open at 10.00, until out of stock in the evening.

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Playlaploen Hotel This cute hotel is the place of countless kinds of colorful flower around the world. The attractive point of this hotel is the Playlaploen flower garden, which includes 6 greenhouses. Each has their own theme and exhibits different kinds of flowers and plants, rotated all around the whole year. The greenhouse will maintain the temperature to keep the beauty of flowers for the whole year. Here is also the learning center, as there are grape farm, mulberry farm, rice farm, tea farm, etc. There is also organic effective microorganisms workshop and traditional Thai house. The house will exhibit the model of each room in the King Rama V era. There are also floating market with noodles boat-stall that will sell only on Saturday and Sunday. The hotel itself also provides many activities. You can visit the antique museum, watching sheep and pony (you can feed them too), join the water adventurous activities such as water tower jumping, rope walking (appointment needed), visiting insect museum, taking a tour at insect nursery center. You can also buy souvenir (OTOP local product). The rooms are decorated differently and have their own nature or flowery theme such as rose,

lily, and tulip. The hotel also offers coffee and gelato made from their grown fruits such as avocado. You can also enjoy many kinds of tea such as rose tea, butterfly pea tea, lavender tea, and chrysanthemum tea. This place is recommended for photo lovers, very family friendly and truly a place for everyone in every age. You can buy an additional adventure activities package when booking the room. The guest of the hotel can enter the park and museums for free. 252 Moo 7 Tam bon Nong Khaman, Amphoe Khu Mueang, Buriram, 31190 0-4463-4736 - 8, 08-7798-1039 0-4463-4739

08-7797-6425 (Events/Seminar)

08-7798-1039 (Room package/Hotel)

info@playlaploen.com www.playlaploen.com Play La Ploen BURIRAM - SURIN

ISAN TREASURE

BURIRAM - SURIN

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Ta Muen Thom Castle Ta Muen Thom Castle is a Shaivism Hindu shrine. It was built around the late of 16 B.E. These 3 huge castles were built in Baphuon style with sandstone and laterite. The room in the middle of the castle located the Hindu phallic symbol, which represents the Shiva in the Shaivism. The Hindu phallic symbol is different from the other Hindu phallic symbol shaped nature stone in that area. It is believed that this Hindu phallic symbol was formed by itself, called “Sawayamphuleunk” which is the most important Hindu phallic symbol in Shaivism. Some interesting buildings are also found around the Ta Muen Thom Castle such as minor castle, 2 Banalais and surrounding cloister. Moreover, there is a waterside created from sandstone outside the cloister around 10 meters away to the south. The pond is covered with laterite down to the bottom of the pond. The pond is located north-east side of the cloister. Now, the Ta Muen Thom Castle has been renovated by Fine Arts Department and some of the relics have been stored in the Surin National Museum. As the attraction is located near the border of Cambodia, the tourists must be accompanied by the officers and not go outside the border due to dangers.

Baan Nong Kanna Samakkee, Moo 8, Tam bon Ta Miang, Amphoe Phanom Dong Rak, Surin 0-4415-3054, 0-4415-3041 https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ ท่องเที่ยว/โบราณสถานกลุ่มปราสาทตาเมือน--3216 Everyday 08.00 - 17.00

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Huay Saneng Resevoir Huay Saneng is a reservoir of irrigation. This is the biggest fish nursery in the province. People in Surin would call this place Surin’s sea as it looks like a beach and has been a place for relax for people in Surin. The ridge is wide and point to the reservoir like a cape. This area was used as a location of royal residence for Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Boromarajajonani when she visited the Huay Saneng Reservoir. This is also the place for bird watching, since, according to the observation, there are 53 kinds of bird: 40 kinds of local bird, 11 kinds of migratory bird and 2 kinds of bird semi-local bird. The found birds, for example, are heron, little grebe, lesser whistling duck, cotton pygmy goose, brahminy kite, black-shouldered kite, grey heron, Chinese pond heron, great egret, little egret and purple swamphen.

Tam bon Chaniang, Amphoe Mueang Surin, Surin

0-4414-2580 https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว

/ห้วยเสนง--3198

โครงการชลประทานสุรินทร์ สำ�นักชลประทานที่แปด Everyday 09.00 - 17.00

Surin Elephant Village If you visit Surin, you should not miss elephant riding activity and elephant shows. There are many activities provided in the Surin Elephant Village such as elephant shows, drawing elephant, dancing elephant, hula hoop playing elephant, football playing elephant and basketball shooting elephant. For those who want to experience giving an elephant a bath, you can ask the locals for it too. You can fully see the cuteness of elephant here.

Surin Elephant Village Moo 9 and 13, Baan Ta Klang, Tam bon Krapho, Amphoe Tha Tum, Surin

0-4414-5050 08.30 - 17.00 Elephant show schedule - Everyday, 2 rounds per day: 10.00 - 11.00 and 14.00 - 15.00

Thai adult 50 Baht, children 20 Baht, young children 10 Baht, and foreigners 100 Baht. BURIRAM - SURIN

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Ban Khawao Sinnarin (Silverware) As Surin is quite close to Cambodia, it is normal that Cambodian arts and cultures will be transferred to this province. These include the traditional pounding gold ornaments and silver jewelries. Ban Khawao Sinnarin is well-known as a silverware crafting village. Many villagers are farmer, however, in the free time, they will gather up and craft the silverware with the traditional techniques. The silver ware will be crafted into the famous, local patterns like “Pra Geam Nguen” or “Ta Gao Nguen” which is the flower-shaped silverware. All of the pattern is a signature of Surin. The silverwares are usually used as women jewelries. The visitor of Ban Khawao Sinnarin will have a chance to see the silverwares of uncle Puan Juathong, the 6th generation who masters this folk wisdom and is known as the art teacher of the nation. You can observe the process from uncle Puan and other villagers; for example, how to pound the silver into shapes, crafting the pattern, pressing the pattern. You can also shop for the silverwares like silver belt, silver bracelet, and silver earrings.

Tabon Khwao Sinrin, Amphoe Khwao Sinrin, Surin 32000 0890436794 (K.Max Petcharat Juathong, ungle Puan’s daughter)

Everyday 08.00 - 17.00

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Sawai Community Most people in Sawai Community take weaving as their main career. They have done for generations, from grandmothers to granddaughters. Every household have one weaving machine, whether it’s old or new. If you have time, you might want to take a tour in the community and take a look in many aspects of their lives; from raising silkworm, drawing the silk, to weaving the beautiful textile. With this, Sawai community is known as the place having the most textile pattern in Thailand with 400 patterns. (There are 500 patterns in the whole Surin province.) There are markets under the house where people can buy textile right away from the household. They support each other; doing what they can do and help each other, making them to produce the textile faster Baan Swai Ja, Tam bon Sawai, Amphoe Mueang Surin, Surin from one sheet of fabric per month to one sheet per 0-4451-4447 - 8 (TAT Surin office) 0-4451-5839 (Community Development Office Mueang Surin) two weeks. The purchaser can buy and negotiate the price with the locals directly. The most famous types of TAT Surin office textiles in here are Mudmee silk and Hol silk, the queen of Surin silk. You can buy one roll of silk textile (2 meters) for 2,200 - 2,900 Baht. There are also homestays in this community which only cost 100 Baht per night, including breakfast, where you can stay with locals and get to know their life and weaving.

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Charm Fullicious Eatery Charm Fullicious Eatery is a white, wood, two story restaurant that will give you the friendly and warm atmosphere with a hint of Surin-ness through decorations and delicious foods. This restaurant brings the ethnicity in Surin and expresses it in the dishes. At the early history of this place, it serves mainly Cambodian food, then started infusing Thai food into the local dishes and created the new ones. The customer will have a chance to taste both local food and fusion food. Not only the unique restaurant, there is a cafe providing many drinks. The cafe has both air-conditioned area and outdoor area where you can see the river. This place will let you feel the Surin-ness to the core. Recommended menus is Thai-Cambodian menus such as mackerel steamed with coconut milk, steamed minnows with curry paste and herbs, crab curry with taro (Cambodian menu). There are also Thai-Laos menus such as pork in Om curry, Laos curry with pickled fish. Thai menus are fresh shrimp spicy salad and pork stew with Cha Muang leaves.

â&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;&#x201A; 203 Soi Sri Phatai Saman, Tam bon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Surin, Surin 32000 08-0064-5249

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Ban Tha Sawang Silk Weaving Village Ban Tha Sawang is famous with its traditional royal style gold weaved brocade. The fame started when the community used 1,415 heddles to wave a silk textile and gave to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother. And the textile was chosen to make clothes for the leaders attending the APEC by the end of 2003. In here, you can observe the unique weaving techniques, with more than hundreds of heddles. They need to dig the ground very deep to let the heddles hang from the loom. The weaver has to stay in the hole to insert the wooden heddles. This technique requires a lot of people; 2 - 3 people for lifting heddles, 1 person for inserting the wood, and 1 weaver. As it is very difficult and complex, only a few centimeters of textile will be produced per day. The pattern on the silk in Ban Tha Sawang reflects the technical arts, using traditional weaving techniques with the fine techniques of royal silk weaving. The used silk is thin and light weighted. It will be breached, boiled, and dyed with natural primary colors. Red is made from lac, yellow from the core of cockspur thorn, and blue from true indigo’s seed. The textile will be inserted with gold silk (silver metal string coated with gold), which is made from real silver and pressed into

a tiny string. Using the special point heddle to make a special pattern, the valuable silk textile is created. This advanced weaving techniques are still reserved and protected by the community, led by Weeradharm Trakulngoenthai--the national teacher of the arts of Thai brocade weaving and the leader of “Thai Silk Weaving Chan So Ma” group. For those who is interested in Ban Tha Sawang Thai brocade, the price will be around 330,000 Baht per sheet (3.2 meters) and there are 7-8 patterns to pick. It takes 3 months and a half for the weaving process, and another 7 months for pattern designing. The reservation is required. For those who interest in observing and learning, the village is opened every day. Thai Silk Weaving Chan So Ma group Baan Tha Sawang, Tam bon Tha Sawang, Amphoe Mueang Surin, Surin 08-9202-7009 (Weeradharm Trakulngoenthai)

0-4455-8489-90 (K.Sumalee Tidjaidee)

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/หมู่บ้านทอผ้า

ไหมบ้านท่าสว่าง--6897

Everyday 08.00-17.00

Free entry. BURIRAM - SURIN

ISAN TREASURE

Somtum Petchmanee Talking about Isan, papaya salad is one of the dishes everyone could think of. And, talking about Surin, Somtum Petchmanee will come in everyone’s mind. This is the number 1 papaya salad restaurant in Isan area. Despite its normal looking building, the order is so long that you will see the restaurant filled with the customer every time, guaranteeing the remarkable deliciousness. With the spicy taste of Isan food, the normal dishes will turn to an extraordinary meals. Recommended menus are grilled streaky pork, mixed papaya salad, and spicy soup. 69/2 Moon Sart Sathorn Rd, Tam bon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Surin, Surin 08-8442-8966, 08-5767-6399

ร้านส้มตำ�เพชรมณี - จังหวัดสุรินทร์

Everyday 08.00-17.00

SLIVE HOTEL Slive Hotel Surin is newly opened in the middle of Surin, which is near the elephant show park, hospital, department store and supermarket. With luxurious boutique decoration, the room will look bright and spacious with the warmness of earth-tone colors. There are many styles of room. Whether you visit with family or your partner, the hotel can provide the right room for you. Talking about amenities, the hotel also offers fitness and relax corner around the hotel, including public space in front of the hotel. SLIVE can meet all of the customer’s need very well. 169 Lak Mueang Rd., Tam bon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Surin, Surin 32000 0-4406-0322 www.slivehotel.com

Slive Hotel Surin BURIRAM - SURIN

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Sorin Boutique Hotel “The luxurious hotel based on identity of Surin.” is the definition of Sorin Boutique Hotel. It was built with modern boutique style with the sense of Surin, the land of rice. The story of Surin was told through symbolic designs like decorative silk in many spots of the hotel. Arts and cultural expression are also shown on the crafted wallpapers and decorations. The hotel also provides relax area, designed as a small garden on the third-floor rooftop, filling you with relaxation. You will be welcomed with warm smile, followed with excellent services. Under the words “Over-expected services”, Sorin Boutique Hotel is the place you can touch the identity of Surin, and have a good impression marked in your heart when you go home. 22/8 Tessaban 3 Rd., Tam bon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Surin, Surin 32000 0-4406-0188 www.sorinhotel.com Sorin Hotel

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101

IMMORTAL THAI WAYS

Immortalâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; Thaiâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; Ways

Suphanburi - Singburi - Angthong Bring back to the traditional Thai lifestyles that are still alive nowadays. Suphanburi, Singburi and Angthong are the source of food and culture. In SIngburi, the life of Bang Rachan villagers is still can be see and talked to. The traditional lifestyle of Thai farmers is still reserved in Suphanburi for the younger generations to see and learn from. The 100 years market is still lively like yesterday, welcoming you to see and shop. People in Angthong had been making Thai desserts with the old secret recipes. And theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re kind enough to share them with you. These are the evidences showing that, no matter how long the time passed, the original happiness of Thai-ness is still there eternally. Because, as long as we respect the core of our cultures, it will keep growing through time.

Wat Pa Lelai Worawihan Wat Pa Lelai Worawihan is one of the oldest temples in Thailand, assumed to be around 1,200 years old and built in the glorious era of Suphanburi. There are many interesting spots around the temple. Let’s start with “Naa Ban” or Thai tympanum of the great crown seal between two gear wheels. It is a historical evidence showing how this temple related to the King Rama IV: the king traveled to this temple when he was a monk and renovated it once he reigned. When you enter the temple, you will see “Luang Por To”, a respectable Buddha statue of Suphanburi since the old time. It is a huge Buddha statue in the Parileyyaka posture. Many sages said that Luang Por To might use to be a style of Buddha in the posture of giving a sermon in the past and was built outdoor like any other statue in Wat Phanan Choeng in the early era. It was found that many huge Buddha statues SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

IMMORTAL THAI WAYS

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249 Moo 2, Tam bon Rua Yai, Amphoe Mueang Suphan Buri, Suphanburi 11120 0-3552-5867, 0-3552-5880 Everyday 08.00 - 17.00

built during the pre-Ayutthaya and the early of Ayutthaya era were mainly built outdoor to make it be spotted easily. Inside the statue contains the Buddha’s bones, assumed to be provided from 36 Lelai monks. Each year the temple will hold the celebration and invites a Lelai venerable monk on 7-9th Night of the 5th and 12th Lunar Month. If you visit during this period, you might experience extraordinary festive atmosphere. At the back of the temple, there is a “Khum Khun Chang” built according to the Thai literature called Khun Chang Khun Phaen, the folklore in Suphanburi. Khum Khun Chang is a big traditional Thai house, which each room is decorated along the folklore. There are cabinets showing tools used back then such as screen and crockery. This is the place people who love literature should not miss. SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

IMMORTAL THAI WAYS

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Lifestyle and Spirit of Thai Farmers Learning Center Lifestyle and Spirit of Thai Farmers Learning Center, or as known by locals as “Naa Here Chai” includes: Ruan Soon Ruam Jai Thai Thang Chart will present you the picture of countless projects of the King Rama IX, and the pictures of King Rama I to IX. Ruan Mae Phosop--inside the building you will see carved wood of Phosop, the goddess of rice, in many styles in different eras (from the early Rattanakosin Era). The famous types of rice in the double-crop field are also shown as an exhibition. Ruan of His majesty’s projects book and Ruen of rice book are Thai pattern of Thai construction of common houses without the gable which looks like a school in the old time. It keeps the books of the King Rama IX’s projects and the books about rice. Ruan traditional Thai farmer are four traditional Thai houses exhibiting tools, mills, and farming equipment in the past. There are also fishery tools, carpentry tools, and buffalo stall.

Demonstration rice field which grows 12 famous types of rice in the double-crop field is a show for farmers and those who are interested. You can exchange knowledge and conversation with the professional farmers. Farmer’s alarm tower is used for noticing farmer about the happening and upcoming disasters. It is also a sightseeing spot to look around the learning center. Local grocery store demonstrates the atmosphere in the past by storing vintage products and tools. Visitors can buy the products to reminisce about the past here too. Moreover, there are many activities that visitors can join such as biking to see the demonstration rice field, experiencing transplanting rice seedlings along with the smiling professionals. 150/6 Moo 8 Tam bon Ban Pho, Amphoe Mueang Suphan Buri, Suphanburi 0-3544-6955, 09-2626-1515 Everyday 8:00 - 17:00 ศูนย์เรียนรู้วิถีชีวิตและจิตวิญญาณชาวนาไทย - นาเฮียใช้

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Samchuk Market “Samchuk Market--A hundred-year market--A living market--A breathing museum” Samchuk Market is an old market near the Suphanburi river (Tha Chin river) with over a hundred-year history. The wooden buildings align in the market, giving the atmosphere of traditional lifestyles near the river. The ancient house with the beautifully carved eaves is the house of Jumnong Jeenarak, the first tax collector and the owner of this market. Now it is opened museum which is still remains as it was in the past. Inside stored the pictures of Samchuk Market in the past, telling the stories of old lifestyles, and other traditional furniture. Not only the museum, there is also a market selling rare traditional food or gadgets. Some old lifestyles can be spotted in this place such as a gathering spot where the uncles enjoy playing the chess.

Samchuk Market is the place that still maintains traditional culture, the evidence of valuable lifestyles of people in Samchuk. It is also the learning center truly born from the community development. Visitors might experience the nostalgia of childhood and be marked with the smiles of people in Samchuk.

73 Moo 2 Soi Tessaban Soi 9, Tam bon Sam Chuk, Amphoe Sam Chuk, Suphanburi 72130 0-3557-1571 (Samchuk Market office) Everyday 9:00 - 16:30 SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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Kra Seaw Dam Kra Seaw Dam was built in 1980, the earth dam for reserving water along the Kra Seaw Stream. The length is 4,250 meters and the height is 32.5 meters, be able to restore water is 28,750 rai. Which is the longest earth dam in Thailand and a huge breeding ground. Kra Seaw Dam is one of the sightseeing spots where you can enjoy the most beautiful sunset in Suphanburi, especially in winter. The colors of the sky will slowly change. The picture of gigantic sun lingering behind the hills. The light reflects on the water and blowing cool air. Take a deep breath, and you will fully get fresh air.

Tam bon Dan Chang, Amphoe Dan Chang, Suphanburi 72180 0-3559-5120 Everyday 8.30 - 18.00

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Baan Rim Na Café

160/3 Tam bon Bang Ta Then, Amphoe Song Phi Nong, Suphanburi 73190 08-4117-5971 บ้านริมนา คาเฟ่ Everyday 11.00 – 22.00

If you love the green and simplicity of nature, you cannot miss the Baan Rim Na Café when you visit Suphanburi, even though the name of it makes you curious how a cafe could locate near the field. When talking about cafe, many might think about cute cafe decorated with warm tone lights and furniture, whether English styles or Japanese styles. However, Baan Rim Na Café is different from any other cafe you know; the cafe is placed inside the traditional Thai Resort, Thai style accommodations besides the field. Many have told that just coming here to enjoy the view is enough. But the food and desserts is very extraordinary. The rare recommended menus are tidbits wrapped in lotus petal, Thai traditional spring rolls, cracker and pandan custard. The beverages are Roselle juice and butterfly pea juice. For those who like outdoor place, they can choose to sit in the bamboo hut with porch to stretch your feet. You can enjoy seeing the endless of rice field. But if you do not like the heat, there is an indoor zone where you can enjoy food inside the modern Thai house and feel heat of sunlight. SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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Jay Noey Kung Pen Restaurant

39/5 Moo 1 Suphan - Chainat Rd., Tam bon Sam Chuk, Ampho Sam Chuk, Suphanburi 72130 0-3596-5891 , 09-8271-9933

Everyday 10:00 - 22:00

This is quite well-known restaurant in Suphanburi and has opened for over 10 years. This restaurant is located near Tha Chin River. With the open atmosphere, it is suitable to visit with family or friends and enjoy the meals. Inside the restaurant there are the river side zone and air condition room that you can choose as you like. The significant menus of Jay Noey Kung Pen Restaurant are the prawn dishes. Delicious grilled prawn is must-notmiss menu. Salt fried shrimp and fried prawn balls are also another famous menus, with crispy fried coat and tenderness of prawns. Another menu is fried prawns and rich tamarind sauce. Not only the prawns, but Jay Noey Kung Pen Restaurant also has other fine menu s such as Sheatfishes in spicy curry, stir-fried young sunflower.

เดิมบางวิลล่า รีสอร์ท Change your style of staying to the huge relax resort near the Tha Chin River and among the breathtaking view. There are many styles of resort house you can pick with full accommodations. Also, there is fruit garden in each house for the visitors to pick and try. For those who like Thai style house, they should try “Baan Thai Ma Kham”, the Thai traditional house with the touch of Thai-ness of Ayutthaya era. The building is surrounded with river. Or if you prefer something lively, you might want to try the orange Baan Ma Yong Chid, which you can see the river from the house as well. It is also surrounded with a beautiful garden. Or you can stay in the warm-feeling, yellow Bann Maprang. There are also Baan Ma Fah, Makok Muang, and others you can choose. Even though the resort is quite quiet and private, it contains full accommodations, so you do not have to worry. 5/2 Moo 8 Tam bon Doem Bang, Amphoe Doem Bang Nang Buat, Suphanburi 72120 08-3316-9557 www.doembangvilla.com

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Wat Phra Non Chakkrasi Worawihan Wat Phra Non Chakkrasi Worawihan, as assumed, was built before Ayutthaya era. Inside the temple locates a huge Buddha statue in the sleeping posture called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Prode Asurin Ra Huâ&#x20AC;? posture--the posture of Buddha giving a sermon to the giant called Asurin Ra Hu. The statue is created in Sukhothai style with the length of 47.24 meters, becoming the third biggest Buddha statue in Thailand. The most important thing of this temple is Phra Non Chakkrasi, the Buddha statue with gentle and graceful posture. According to the legend, it started with a man called Singphahu whose father was a leo. As he was embarrassed with this fact, he killed his father. Later on, he regretted with what he had done and was afraid of the sin, so he built a Buddha statue with a core made from 3 full hands of gold, each is 3 ropes long. Afterward, the statue had melted down into a mound. King U-thong who

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led the way for merchant carts found the mound and the golden core underneath it. He had known about the Singphahu’s story, and strongly believed in Buddhism, so he asked the merchants to build the Buddha statue with him, using the same golden core. Later in Ayutthaya era in 1754 and 1756, the king Borommakot started the renovation for this very temple and built the vihara, ubosot, and living places for monks. In the Rattanakosin Era in 1878 and 1901, the King Rama V came to pay respect and renovate the temple and built the vihara, ubosot, low wall surrounding a pagoda, and living places for monks. The King Rama VI also came to pay respect in 1916. And in October 9th 1976, the King Rama IX along with the royal family came to pay respect as well. Moreover, there is Phra Kal, a lacquered Buddha statue covered with gold, and an emerald Buddha in the meditation posture, built in the King Rama V era.

Tam bon Chaksi, Amphoe Mueang Singburi, Singburi 16000 0-3652-0251, 0-3654-3415 Everyday 06.00 - 17.00

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Bang Rachan Retro Market Talking about Bang Rachan, many might think about the mighty legend of Bang Rachan villagers, a war stories full of the love toward the country and unity of the villagers. To make a place for the younger generations to know about the story, people in Tam bon Bang Rachan built the retro market inside the Wat Pho Kao Ton in Tam bon Bang Rachan. This retro market demonstrates the traditional atmosphere of Bang Rachan, with a hint of battlefield atmosphere. There is a wooden fortress for taking pictures. Products and goods are made from natural materials, giving the feeling of being brought back in time. Highlight of this visiting is that you can dress up in the Thai traditional cloths to match the surroundings and merchants. The merchants here SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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are all dressed in the traditional clothes and speak in the ancient dialects like “welcome thyself”. If you cannot find the dress by yourself, you can rent one in here. Another highlight is the rare Thai food such as fried Thai pancake, wheels shape snack, Saam Kler snack, black sesame crisp rice, Giant Rice Crispy, and other desserts with the original tastes. There are also traditional recreation activities and shows in the water provided, presenting the fight scene. The show is presented 2 times a day, the first round is around 11.30 and 15.00 for the afternoon round. There is also a cart service carrying you around the site.

Moo 8 Tam bon Bang Rachan, Amphoe Khai Bang Rachan, Singburi 16150 09-1765-6556 Opened Saturday - Sunday 8.30 - 16.00

50 Baht.

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Saen Somboon Farm

11/3 Moo 9 Tam bon Thong En, Amphoe In Buri, Singburi 16110 09-2810-9462 ไร่แสนสมบูรณ์

(Lunch and activities) 550 Baht

Saen Somboon Farm is a place for natural tourism built on the 10 rai of land. The former owner was a rice farmer and was looking for a sustainable lifestyle, having enough fund to run the farm. He decided to make a pond and divided the land to grow vegetables such as cowpea, winged bean, cowslip creeper, butterfly pea and lotus farm. And he left his remained 5 rai for rice field. This is an organic farm. Later on, it is opened for those who are interested and becomes a natural tourist spot. Saen Somboon Farm is quite q famous destination among teenagers and family, especially young children who like playing in the field. You can join activities that they cannot find in the other places such as playing in the lotus pond, folding lotus petals, picking duck eggs, making pandanous salted egg, and other activities that the owner provided for the visitors. If you visit here, you will get the joy and local experiences back home with you. SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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Ban Thong En Desserts Community Enterprise Ban Thong En Desserts Community Enterprise was established to produce desserts from agricultural products such as peanuts, taro, sweet potato, pumpkin, banana and job's-tears. The enterprise make them in to sweet taro crisps, sweet potato crisps, sweet banana crisps, and other desserts, preserving the food with natural method without adding preservative. Then sell them in the market. Afterward, the enterprise was opened for visitors to observe and try making the desserts by themselves. They can make candy coated peanuts, sweet banana crisps, and heart-shaped banana fondue, salty taro crisp, and pumpkin custard. In here, you will experience and understand the life with traditional desserts. You can take you handmade dessert home too. Please contact the enterprise before making a visit.

31/2 Moo 1 Tam bon Thong En, Amphoe In Buri, Singburi 16110 08-4712-8729, 0-3658-1960 ขนมหวานบ้านทองเอน 100 Baht per person

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Kung Pao Thong Chup

38 Sai Asia Rd., Tam bon Ban Mo, Amphoe Phrom Buri, Singburi 16120 0-3659-9709 Everyday 9.00 - 19.30

If you love river prawns, you cannot miss this restaurant that has opened for over 30 years--Kung Pao Thong Chup of Singburi. This local restaurant is placed in Tra Chu market near the Chao Praya river, giving the windy opened atmosphere. Menus in this restaurant are based on river prawns, with grilled river prawns as a must menu--the grilled huge prawns with well-done cooked meat and sweet scent and beautiful shades of cooked prawn fat. The menu will be served with a signature seafood dip. This absolute deliciousness will perish your stress from work. The restaurant also provides other menus such as fried acacia in spicy salad, sour raw-prawn salad, living shrimps spicy salad, grilled catfish with soy cause, and boeseman croaker in Tom Yam. For prawn lovers, once you visit this place, the second visiting is already guaranteed.

Baan Suan Mae La Ka Rong Talking about restaurant, the number one factor for considering a good restaurant must be the good taste, then thinking about the good atmosphere enhancing the eating and the time you spending with your love one. Baan Suan Mae La Ka Rong will meet every of your standards. The restaurant is surrounded with the nature and trees: a huge rain tree providing the shade and the astonishing rice field view and sky. There is also a bridge built for people to enjoy the peaceful nature. The signature dishes are grilled big snakehead fish, served with sweet sauce and spicy seafood sauce, sheatfishes in dried curry, snake-head fish in herbs salad, and shrimp in fish sauce. 1/3 Tam bon Mae La, Amphoe Bang Rachan, Singburi 0-3658-7077 Everyday 10.00 - 22.00 SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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Baan Khao Horm Homestay You might have driven by the rice fields and the beautiful view without really paying a visit for many times. You might have never experienced the local life filled with peace. But if you have sometimes, Baan Khao Horm Homestay is another interesting destination.

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Baan Khao Horm Homestay is a huge traditional Thai house providing relax sensation for resting, but not too rural. You will get the sense of green rice fields in the windy atmosphere. There is a hammock hung under the house for you to chill out and take a deep, fresh air. The unique spot of this homestays is that they provide the activities for the guests such as making

Thai food and desserts, observing organic farming, visiting the mill, riding a bicycle, and taking photos of a breathtaking view. Breakfast and dinners offered here are nothing simple, for both appearance and taste, with good quality ingredients. You can enjoy the taste you can find nowhere else. â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

159/1 Moo 9, Tam bon Hua Phai, Amphoe Mueang Singburi, Singburiâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; 16000

08-2724-0322 www.baankhaohomsingburi.com

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Wat Sang Kratai

Tam bon Sala Daeng, Amphoe Mueang Angthong, Angthong 14000 0-3561-3920 (Sala Dang Subdistrict Municipality) Everyday 8:00 - 17:00

Wat Sang Kratai is an ancient temple, around hundred years old or more. Now it looks like an abandoned temple, with no monks resides in it. In the past, this temple used to be called “Wat Saam Kratai” before changed into the current one. The temple is covered under four huge Bodhi Trees, with their roots burrowed under the temple. There are three rooms inside the temple: the first one is the room storing the a respectable monk statue, Luang Pho Gean, the second room storing the main Buddha statues, which are Luang Pho Wan Dee and two smaller statues which are Luang Pho Sri and Luang Pho Suk, and the last room is an empty room. Four Bodhi trees growing from four angles cover the temple, giving the miraculously beautiful scenario. These trees are also selected by the Ministry of Culture to be 1 of 65 most beautiful and important national trees in Thailand. SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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Into Farm Angthong This is the melon farm that put its heart in every farming progress, growing fresh and sweet melon. There is even a motto that “If you love someone, Give them a melon”. The melon from this farm is sold both in the market and online. In the harvesting period, that farm will open for visitors to pick and harvest the melon in the greenhouse by them self. Expand your experience by visiting this farm during holidays, enjoying fresh air, tasting melon, and trying melon menus such as melon dumplings in coconut milk, homemade melon ice cream. There are also restaurant, coffee shop, coffee garden, and recycled plastic weaving products. There are many picture spots that you cannot miss. Don’t forget to buy some souvenirs that the receivers won’t be disappointed. 5/2 Moo 1, Tam bon Si Phran, Amphoe Sawaeng Ha, Angthong 14150 09-2729-4433 Tuesday - Sunday 10.00 - 17.00. Closed every Monday

Ban Thung Angthong “Eat everything we grow, grow everything we eat.” is the lifestyles people in Ban Thung Angthong believe in. This is the tourist spot and sustainable economy learning center, providing activities such as transplanting rice seedlings, picking organic vegetables, picking fruits from the farm, picking eggs from the stall. You can learn how to make salted eggs, pandanous shredded coconut, soap from wood vinegar, growing straw mushroom in a basket, picking lotus, fishing from the natural pond. All the ingredients you took will become your local meals, and you can even join the cooking! Enjoy the meal together and watch the local show. 55 Moo 2, Tam bon Ban Hae, Amphoe Mueang Angthong, Angthong 14000 09-8830-4134 บ้านทุ่งอ่างทอง Ban Thung Angthong Everyday 09:00 - 18:00

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Viset Chaicharn Market The tale of old houses, the name of ancient drug store, well-known desserts, famous antique object, respectable Luang Pho Num, kind community, and a hundred year gold store. This is the motto of San Chao Rong Thong, or well-known as Viset Chaicharn Market, the famous location appeared in the drama or the movies with the save-the-nation theme. It is assumed that this market is the fortress, battlefield, marching path, and food supplies providing area of Ayutthaya. Later on, the geography and water flow had changed, so the community moved to Tam bon Baan Hae near the Wat Chai Songkram (Wat Kra Chao), which located at the right side (west side) of Chao Phraya river. The name was changed into “Mueang Angthong”. Mueang Viset Chaicharn remained as a town until 1896 before degraded to Amphoe, named Amphoe Phai Cham Sin, then changed the name into

Moo 2 Tam bon San Chao Rong Thong, Amphoe Wiset Chai Chan, Angthong 14110 0-3552-5867, 0-3552-5880 Everyday 08.00 – 16.00

Amphoe Viset Chaicharn. This information matches the words from local and historic evidence. According to the historic references, this market was formerly known as “Baan Phai Cham Sin market”, and was changed into “San Chao Rong Thong market” later on. San Chao Rong Thong market has been there since Ayutthaya era, the Thai-Chinese community, being a pier and commercial center. People usually stopped by this market before travelling back and forth between northern capitals and Bangkok. Now, the atmosphere remains the same, both the buildings and lifestyles. You can see the stores that have been passed on for generations such as drug stores, weaving products stores, Thai dessert stores. The famous dessert stores are Thai desserts from Song Nimit store, original coconut macaroon from Pa Pia store, Thai sweetmeat topped with prawnsม roast pancake wrap candied coconut, Ju Kuay dessert, black glutinous rice dumplings, and other traditional Thai desserts. SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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Niramit Restaurant If you are finding a restaurant providing central Thai food with outstanding quality and acceptable price in the perfect atmosphere, Niramit Restaurant is the answer you are looking for. This big restaurant is located in the San Chao Rong Thong market. This cool and pleasant restaurant is set near the river, offering outdoor zone and air-conditioned room. The special point of this restaurant is that it offers a countless kind of menu. The signature dishes are Niramit fried chicken, the crispy fried chicken served with delicious dip, or Pad Thai with fresh prawns, simmered crab meat, creamy Tom Yam Goong, fries prawn patty. There are also many famous fish dishes such as boeseman croaker in Tom Yam, featherback in green curry, silver sillago in green curry, and steamed featherback served with dip. Every dish is full with quality. Another special point in Niramit restaurant is there is a souvenir zone selling various kinds of dessert, so you can find a special gift before going back.

39/5 Moo 1 Tam bon San Chao Rong Thong, Amphoe Wiset Chai Chan, Angthong 14110 08-1852-4777, 08-4801-7599, 0-3563-1052 ร้านอาหารนิรมิต Everyday 09:00 - 20:00 SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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Makham Café Angthong Chill out with cool drinks and beautiful view of boundless green rice field. There are also unique 2 story wooden coffee shops with a huge tamarind tree. Those who like to sip a cool drink among the pleasant atmosphere must not miss this Makham Café. Not only the fine taste coffee, but the cafe provides many kinds of coffee from rich cocoa drink, sweet scent green tea or even desserts like grass jelly with fresh milk or toasted bread. There are many beautiful spots here to take pictures, as the scenarios consists of a refine traditional Thai house where you can sit under the house and enjoy the breeze and the green color of tree in the open area. In the middle of wide rice field, the 200 meters small bridge across the field will invite you for a walk and collect some pictures. 3195 Tam bon Phai Cham Sin, Amphoe Wiset Chai Chan, Angthong 14110 09-8830-4134 ร้าน “มะขาม คาเฟ่” 09.00 - 17.00 (Closed every Monday) SUPHANBURI - SINGBURI - ANGTHONG

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THE LEGEND OF EASTERN GEMS

The Legend of Eastern Gems Chanthaburi - Trat The eastern land where you can find the richness and treasure of natural resource, with the perfect geography and weather, Chanthaburi and Trat shines bright like a diamond before the world’s eyes. Many people around the world know that the world-famous Siam ruby is originally from Chanthaburi, the place of high quality gemstone and experienced jewelry makers. With the booming of being a jewelry trading province, different ethnic groups have flowed to Chanthaburi. Not only the jewelry, Chanthaburi is also well-known with its leading fruit farms. Trat is the easternmost land in Thailand, with its name marked on the Thai history back in Franco-Siamese War, especially Koh Mak that was once colonized by France. With the long history, Koh Mak holds the unique charm you can find nowhere else. Nowadays, Koh Mak becomes a remarkable model of environmental conservative tourist spot, letting the visitors to stop by and live truly like an islander.

Talad Ploy Community A lot of people think that once in their lives, they must come to visit Chanthaburi to get gems with good quality. More than that, it’s the opportunity to “feel the life, feel the city” and to get close to the atmosphere of gems-trading in the gems market that is the biggest one of the country and one of the biggest markets in the world. This place is filled with the vibes of gems-trading which both Thais and foreigners come to trade vigorously. It has been 60 years since gems-trading in Chanthaburi was started. The insight from the local people allow us to know that originally, the group that came into Chan town to trade gems, also known as “Gula”, was from Chan State and Mae Hong Son and came as a caravan. In the past, gems-traders would coat gems with aroma oil before pouring them in the trays to give them a nice eye-catching glowing look. Also, the nice scents would make the customers want to take more time on purchasing the gems. Bargains would be made by both outspokenly and secretly which was by covering hands with a cloth and touching each other’s fingers under that cloth to bargain. Each fingers would represent thousand or ten thousand Baht depending on the quality of the gems.

In the present day, gems-trading will be happening on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday on KraChang Alley SriJun Road. On Friday, offering and pricing will be made first. Later on, trade will be made on Saturday and Sunday. Moreover, for those who want gems with high quality, SriJun Road and Kra Chang Alley also have lots of lapidary shops and gems store available there. Sri Jun Road, Tam bon Wat Mai, Anphoe Mueang

Chanthaburi, Chanthaburi 22000

0-3948-0220 (Tourism Authority of Thailand,

Chanthaburi Branch) https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/ ถนนอัญมณี-ข้อมูลและวิดีโอท่องเที่ยว--2857

TALAD PLOY is opened on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 10.00 - 15.00

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Chanthaburi Gem and Jewelry Manufacturers Association Chanthaburi Gem and Jewelry Manufacturers Association is the center of trading in which the information about jewelry of Thailand are collected including their origins, production processes such as burning, grinding, processing gems into accessories, and the know-how of developing products quality to meet its standard as well. This center was created to be the center of trading and promoting jewelry and accessories business for Thailand. The surrounding area, which has picturesque views with variety of plants being decorated beautifully along with sculptures are made for being a tourists’ relaxing corner. Chanthaburi Gem and Jewelry Manufacturers Association is presented as Live Museum with exhibitions and demonstrations of gems production and grinding process. It also has modern video-tape rooms that tell the origins of making gems, digging gems, burning gems, and grinding gems. Gem Bank is available for checking jewelry’s authenticity, and, as well, places for interesting products exhibition.

1/29 Maharat road, Tam bon Talat, Amphoe Mueang Chanthaburi, Chanthaburi 22000

0-3930-3118

www.cga.or.th

Everyday 09.00 - 17.00

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Bo Ploy Lek Petch Community Learning Center

“When it rains, soil is washed, stones appear Enormous, golden-look, shining bright Vivid green, light green, ginger green Big as eggs, as a clam, there’re abound” This is the poem written (anonymously) about

gems in Jun town. It represents the fruitfulness in the resources of this town. In the past, the local people would be having fun in finding gems after the rain. Because the surface of the soil was washed away, gems and pebbles would appear. People back then used to say that Khao Ploy

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Waen, Bang Kacha, Bo Rai, Nong Bon, Na Wong, Tok Prom, Bo Welu, E lem were the locations to find a lot of gem stone. In the area around Khao Ploy Waen (Ploy Waen, Tha Mai), there were a lot of gem stone that with just a few tickle on the soil, gems could be found. Green sapphire, topaz, star gem, and sapphire were found. “Bo Ploy Lek Petch” is located in Tha Mai which is a famous source of gems in the past. The ancestors of this Bo Ploy Lek Petch’s owner’s family were digging gems along with doing agriculture as their jobs back then. Gae Ngeam and Tuad Pai were one of the first generation of the family that was the leader with experience in digging gems. They would bring their descendants to dig gems during the drought. In their land, there were Ploy Nam (a source of gems that water can access) and pebble gems (a source of gems that water cannot be found) in which they would be digging in the area that has a lot of those gems. This knowledge was inherited from generation to generation and cannot be found in any books. In the present day, Bo Ploy Lek Petch was found-

ed by Sukhon Lek Petch, and now Kook Sarawut Puengtrakool, the 4th generation heir, is in charge. This place is the only one in Thailand that is opened for tourists to come visit and see the traditional way to dig gems. The tourists will be able to explore the process of traditional gems digging by themselves, to get down to the hole that is used for gems digging which is about 4 meters deep, to dig, shovel and bring it to a bucket and separate them to find gem stone. The gem that the tourists usually found would be spinel, star gem, green sapphire, and rarely topaz and sapphire. In this place, they are kind enough to let the tourists bring those found gems back home as souvenirs. Even for those who want authentic gems, they are available with reasonable price. Besides, fruit season, tourist can also visit the farm which has mangos teen, southern Langsat, and durian. They can also try picking fruits in a Jun’s people way and get their stomach filled with variety of fruits.

11 Moo 8, Tam bon Si Phaya, Amphoe Tha Mai, Chanthaburi 2210

08-7822-9138 (Khun Kook)

Bo Ploy Lek Petch

Everyday (closed on Wednesday) 10.30 - 16.30

Free entry if joined the activities (digging gems, separating gems, washing gems and entering fruits farm) 100 Baht for each person and need to be reserved beforehand.

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The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception The Catholic Church Chanthaburi was built 300 years ago. The first time it was built was in 1711, on the west of Chanthaburi river by Hurth Tolentino and Vietnamese Catholics. Until 1834, it was relocated to the east of Chanthaburi river which is the location now as well. In 1903, the church was rebuilt to make it more enormous than the old one for the increasing Chirstians. The architecture was created with the western style called “Gothic Art”. It has high sharp towers for both sides in the beginning of the creation. Later on, in 1940, they were removed by the government since it could be a target for air bombing during the Second World War. From the top view of this tower, the view of Chanthaburi within the area of two kilometers can be seen. The Arts in this church was decorated beautifully for both interior and exterior. Containing the classic style, the outstanding pictures of saints made on stained glasses were hung over the pedestal and the windows both on the right and left side of this church. These

stained glasses are over 100 years old. Despite that, the color is still vivid. Its beauty is priceless. Moreover, the pedestal was decorated with Gothic style arts. The floors are made from marbles. Over the pedestal, there is cross sign with the picture of St.Mary Immaculate Conception. The principal of the temple is standing beautifully, including St. Joachim’s statue and St. Anna who are the parents of St. Mary Cathedral of Immaculate Conception was awarded for great building conservation of 1999 from the Association of Siamese Architects. For visiting, the visitors should be dressing politely. During the night time of the important events, the lamp will be lit as a decoration.

1110 Soi 1, Moo 10, Amphoe Mueang Chanthaburi, Chanthaburi

22000

0-3931-1578 https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/โบสถ์คาทอลิก - อาสนวิหารพระนางมารีอาปฏิสนธินิรมล--1086

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Chanthaburi

Monday - Friday from 09.00 - 12.00 and 13.00 - 15.00 Saturday 09.00 - 12.00 and 13.00 - 16.00 Sunday 11.00 - 16.00 CHANTHABUTI - TRAT

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Chanthaboon Waterfront Community Chanthaboon Waterfront Community has been located in Chanthaburi for more than 300 years since the age of King Narai the Great. At that time, this area was the trading center due to its location near the river bank which was suitable for consumer goods transportation. In the present day, the buildings along the roads nearby the Chanthaboon river including Baan Khun Bhurapha Pi Phol, Baan Luang Prakob Niti Sarn, Baan Luang Racha Maitree, Chino-Portuguese ancient building, St. Mary Cathedral of immaculate conception, and other shrines. Some of them were rebuilt to souvenir shops, restaurants, coffee shops, or even hotels and stylishly decorated hostels. Moreover, there are painted ancient walls as well which easily became a pho-

tographing spot. Also, don’t forget to visit Chanthaboon Waterfront learning center to get to know more about the glorious history of Chanthaburi.

Sukhaphiban road, Tam bon Wat Mai,Amphoe Mueang

Chanthaburi,Chanthaburi

0-3948-0220 (Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chanthaburi Branch) https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/ ชุมชนริมน้ำ�จันทบูร--6819

Everyday from 08.00 - 20.00

Issaree Organic Orchard&Thai Horse Farm

36/1 Moo 1, Tam bon Khao Baisi, Amphoe Tha Mai,

Chanthaburi 22120 0-3949-5046, 08-9990-9141 (Vaewsiri rittiyotee)

Issaree Organic Orchard & Thai Horse Farm

เปิดวันที่ 1 พฤษภาคม - กลางเดือนกรกฎาคม

Issaree Organic Orchard & Thai Horse Farm is a joint plantation in the 200 Rai-sized area. Enjoy horse riding here, or for those who don’t want to sweat but still want to see how beautiful this place is, there are jeep cars that will take you around the farm. Try eating delicious fruits which you can pick them from the trees or stepping by at the trees and take photos with them. The fruits are various which depend on seasons including durians (Monthong, Puangmanee, and Srinual), rambutans, south eastern Langsat, mangos teen, Brazilian grapes, and etc. These are photogenic for your pictures. Also, there are fruit buffets with the reasonable price and homestays with the nice and warm ambience for you to take a rest among the nature. The fresh air in the morning will wake you up and give you a fresh start.

Open from 1st May - Mid of July (Fruits are most

abundant during May) Buffet 450 Baht (reserve beforehand at least 5 days) CHANTHABUTI - TRAT

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Nern Nang Phaya

Moo 7, Tha Khlaeng, Tam bon Sanam Chai, Amphoe Na Yai

Am, Chanthaburi

Branch)

0-3948-0220 (Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chanthaburi

Nern Nang Phaya is a famous scenic point of Chanthaburi and was considered as the most beautiful scenic point in the east of Thailand. It has a nice indigo sea view which gives a relaxing feeling and freedom. The view crosses the green mountains and has leading lines from the distorted roads that gives a feeling of wavering. Therefore, this place is unique. Nern Nang Phaya is located between Ao Kung Wiman and Ao Kung Kra Ben on the road along the east coast or Chalerm Burapa Chonlathit road which connects Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat together. It’s over 100 kilometers and is the longest coastal road in Thailand. It’s also a paradise for those who like distance cycling. The rides can take a ride from Pak Nam Kra Sae, Rayong to this scenic point. Do not miss a chance to take a photo of a nice view of sunset here.

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว/จุดชมวิวเนิน นางพญา - ถนนเฉลิมบูรพาชลทิต--6902

Chedi Klang Nam at Ban Hua Laem Two hundred years ago, Nai Tok (unknown for the last name) was the one who built the pagoda on the rock around Ban Hua Laem which was around Pak Ao Kung Kraben. The reason of building was unknown but it has been believed that this place was built for encouraging fishermen. Since, there was no weather forecast in the past, those who want to sail would need to take a risk from the storms in the sea without knowing it, the fishermen would have pray for their safe journeys. To get to the pagoda, there is a wooden bridge and people can take a look at the nice view among the rocks in the middle of the sea as well. This place is one of the most famous places to see the sunset in Chanthaburi.

Moo7, Tam bon Sanam Chai, Amphoe Na Yai Am, Chanthaburi

0-3948-0220 (Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chanthaburi Branch)

https://thai.tourismthailand.org/แนะนำ�ไลฟ์สไตล์ท่องเที่ยว/เดินสะพานไม้กลางทะเล - ที่จุด

ชมวิวเจดีย์บ้านหัวแหลม-จ-จันทบุรี--497

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Baan Nam Prik Khao Suay If you ever get to visit Chanthaburi, do not miss a chance to visit Baan Naam Prik Khao Suay, a Thai restaurant that is outstanding by its food’s delicate decoration and looks. They are hard to resist taking a picture. More than that, the taste itself is unique, especially for Khao Klook Prik Kluea which they use fresh seafoods and Role Budsaba that is made of colorful edible petals. If you are exhausted, there is Taang Mo Pla Haeng which will refresh you immediately. Finally, Naam Ma Peed is a sweetsour drink that will energize you. 59/49, Phraya Trang Road, Tam bon Wat Mai, Amphoe Mueang Chanthaburi, Chanthaburi 22000 09-9552-9544 Baan Nam Prik Khao Suay restaurant Everyday 09.00 - 17.00

Tamajun Seaside Cuisine and Café If you dream dinner is good food among the nice and fresh air next to the river, surrounding yourself with the golden sunlight, Ta Ma Jun Restaurant is the place for you. Besides the classic environment with the vintage decoration nearby Chanthaboon River, the food is also famous including Chanthaburi’s unique food such as Khao Prik Kluea or a Chanthaburi’s original meal - Gaeng Moo Cha Muang which are well cook from this restaurant. There are many other foods that will impress you by serving by using zinc tiffin carrier with the banana leaf under. They will give you a vintage feeling along with delicacy in choosing the ingredients and well-cooking. With the warmth from the sun, the cold breeze that come along Chanthaboon river or even small details in this restaurant, Ta Ma Jun restaurant will be a good memory for the tourists. Recommended dishes are Gaeng Moo Cha Muang, Goong Foy Kua Kluea, Moo Tod Yum Apple, and Khai Jiao Horapa Pik Sod.

248 Sukhaphiban road, Tam bon Wat Mai, Amphoe Mueang Chanthaburi, Chanthaburi 22000 09-8968-6111, 09-8935-5588 Monday - Friday 16.00 - 23.00 Saturday - Sunday 12.00 - 24.00

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Tamajun Hotel Chanthaburi

248 Sukhaphiban road, Tam bon Wat Mai, Amphoe

Mueang Chanthaburi, Chanthaburi 22000 09-8968-6111, 09-8935-5588 www.tamajunhotel.com

Different types of rooms in this old Jun area next to the Chanthaboon river, it is Ta Ma Jun Hotel. The decorations are unique and different in terms of arts such as room designing which are meant to be different from each other, the rooms are located along two sides of the road. One side of it will be the Hip Hotel style which each room of them will be decorated differently including love, tourism, etc. The other side will be Tropical Thai style which will be the mix of Thai arts and contemporary arts. The rooms in this side have balconies that will allow you to see the Chanthaboon River. You can also get to feel the nice fresh air with the natural breeze due to its location among the local community. The transportation, thus, is safe and convenient with a lot of parking lots. Even for those who don’t have a car, it is still very convenient since it’s nearby the main roads. Your holiday in Ta Ma Jun will be absolutely impressive.

Baan Rim Ao

If you are looking for a place to stay next to the sea which has the sound of waves comes along with the morning breeze, Baan Rim Ao is the right choice for you. The decoration that was inspired by the nature and its various location among the nature and the river by the bay will heal your fatigue from work. This place is quiet and not chaotic which is suitable for you to rest. Each room is decorated with cute and clean decorations. The earth-tone color gives nice and warm feeling. The best thing you can get from this place is that no matter what type of room you decide to stay, you’ll get to see the very long view of the bay in every room. There are also other facilities such as the pool, fitness center or kayak boat. Another recommended activity which will impress you for a long time is taking a trip on a boat to see the flock of red hawk that will come to find food in the evening. You will get to see the sunset at the same time.

76 Moo 10, Tam bon Nong Bua, Amphoe Mueang Chan-

thaburi, Chanthaburi 22000 0-3948-0480, 08-1575-8339 Baan Rim Ao

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Koh Mak What do you think of when talking about Koh Mak? Island of natural conservation? Low carbon island? or the historical island that links to the Siam in hundreds of years ago. Koh Mak is located in the gulf of Thailand, between Koh Chang and Koh Kood and away from the shore around 38 kilometers and is granted as a Tam bon (subdistrict). The total area is 9.500 rai, mostly rubber trees and coconut farms since the King Rama V era (1904). The owners of Koh Mak are 5 siblings which are Tavetikul, Wongsiri, Suttitanakul, Chantasoot, and Suksatit families. Koh Mak had been through up and down during the colonial period. In 1903 (Franco-Siamese War), Thailand lost some parts of the land to France, from Amphoe Laem Sing in Chanthaburi to Koh Mak, Koh Kood and Koh Kong. In return, France had to retreat French army from Chantaburi. In 1906, the King Rama V decided to give Battambang and Serei Saophoan to take Trat and archipelago back in March 23rd, 1906. As the time passed, with the unity and love of people in the island, Koh Mak remains its beautiful rich nature. The overall atmosphere in Koh Mak is very peaceful, no entertainment venues or flashy tourist

spots. The island remains the same 100% with coconut trees, fruit farm, and rubber tree farm. The sea water is clear blue, which you can go swimming or diving to see the coral. Koh Mak is the place that truly respects the nature. There is “the charter of Koh Mak” which is the agreements among the locals, entrepreneurs, and tourists that they will comply with the charter. The main point of the charter is to make an eco-friendly tourist spot, under the brand “Koh Mak, low carbon destination.” This is known by locals and outsiders in order to indicate locals’ and tourists’ lifestyles for saving the environment and reducing global warming

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8 charters of Koh Mak • Ferry boats should not take the tourist’s vehicle to Koh Mak. • The number of rental motorbike should not be over 70% of the rooms available in the island • Products from foam or any other materials that are harmful to the food are not allowed. • Do not litter the garbage or left food in the public areas or into the water. • Chemicals that leave high volume of residue are prohibited. • Do not make loud noise or causing annoyance between 22.00 - 07.00 • Any sports or water sports requiring any motors causing annoyance is not allowed • Do not bring, consume, or sell any kind of illegal drugs. Recommended activities on the island are riding bicycle and DISC golf, a famous sport in U.S. and Europe. There are only two places to play the DISC golf in Thailand, and one of them is in Koh Mak. The game is similar to the general golf, same rules, but instead of putting golf ball into the hole, the players have to

throw the Frisbee into the basket. Moreover, there is boat sailing and picking garbage at the beach with locals are another interesting activities. If you are looking for a place for resting, you must not miss this place. The most suitable season to travel Koh Mak is between November and April, with the calm wave and clear sky. Tam bon Koh Mak, Amphoe Koh Kut, Trat 23120 0-3959-7259 (Tourism Authority of Thailand, Trat office) www.tourismthailand.org/trat

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Koh Mak Museum Koh Mak Museum is a white wooden 2 story building located at Nid bay. It is a traditional house belonged to Suttitanakul family. Inside the museum, there is an exhibition showing local lifestyle and unique tools people in the past used in Koh Mak, and also the history linked to the colonial period and the relationship with the royal family. Koh Mak used to be one of the King Rama V’s favorite resort. The royal family and elites tended to take a like to this place. Moreover, the museum also exhibits many interesting historical evidences and handicraft, the wisdom of local people in Koh Mak. This museum also uses electricity from solar panels. Nid bay, Tam bon Koh Mak, Amphoe Koh Kut, Trat 23120 09-0130-7655 (K.Akethanin Suttitanakul) Everyday 10.30 - 17.00 (Please make a call to make an appointment 3 days before visiting.

Koh Mak Resort Organic Garden

1 Moo 2 Tam bon Koh Mak, Amphoe Koh Kut, Trat 23120 09-8959-4634 (K. Oah)

Koh Mak Resort started organic farm on their own land, aiming to reduce purchasing vegetables and fruits from the mainland and cut down carbon emission. The organic vegetables grown here are salad vegetables, chili, tomato, cowpea, basil, banana, papaya, coconut, etc. And the food served to the visitors here is cooked with these organic products. If the products are left, they will be sold to the other resorts or restaurants in the island in an acceptable price. The visitors of Koh Mak will definitely have their meals with fresh, clean and organic vegetables and fruits. Here, the visitors are also allowed to take a walk and join the activities such as picking eggs, picking vegetables, growing rice, and cooking from picked ingredients by themselves.

www.kohmakresort.com KohMak_Resort CHANTHABUTI - TRAT

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Diving at Koh Rang When arriving at Koh Mak, the activities that nature-lover should not miss is diving and observing the beautiful corals at Koh Rang. Koh Mak will provide full service for the tourists. You can receive the full service in Koh Mak. This activities is supervised by Mu Koh Chang National Park. Koh Rang group is a small island group that still maintains its nature 100%, consisting of many islands such as Koh Yak Yai, Koh Yak Lek, Koh Ma Pling, San Chao beach, and national park office beach. In this trip, the officers will bring the visitors to 2 diving spots and 1 spot for sightseeing and playing in the beach. However, the diving spots that visitors can visit will vary depended on the weather and wave of the day. But you do not have to worry about the beauty of the islands, as they have their own one of a kind beauty. It

is guaranteed that the beauty under the sea you experience at Koh Rang will make you want to come back here again. Tam bon Koh Mak, Amphoe Koh Kut, Trat 23120 08-4111-9036 790 Baht for diving trip per person. The price includes the following fees • National park entrance fee (No charge for Thais, but, for the foreigners, the fee will cost 200 Baht).

• Transportation fee to the pier

• Boat, diving equipment and life jacket.

• Lunch (lunch box, fruits, and water)The diving trip may take around 5 hours (10.00 - 15.00)

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พิพิธภัณฑสถานเมืองตราด The Town of Trat National Museum is estab lished as a learning center about history, cul ture, and lifestyle of Trat people, and as a town museum. It was built from old city hall that was built in the King Rama VI era and appeared in colonial architecture. It was a wooden house with cement poles and lift ed space under the house and hip roof. In 2004, the fire accident destroyed the build ing, so the municipality of Trat apportioned the budget and let the Fine Arts Department repair the building in accordance with the old model, then turned it into a museum. There are 6 rooms for permanent exhibition which are: 1) National legacy and Trat culture. The exhibition shows the geography, weather, natural resource and culture of Trat.

2) People in Trat. It shows the ethnic groups in Trat such as Thai, Chinese, Khmer, Vietnamese and Chong. 3) Historical orders of Trat and its history. It presents the story of Trat since prehistoric era, at the early of historical age, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, and Rattanakosin Era (from the King Rama I to IV) 4) Important events in Chulalongkorn era, the King Rama V. It shows the stories of taking Trat back from France. The king also gave his royal sword for the town and visited here occasionally. 5) Naval battle in Koh Chang. It presents the stories of naval battle in the room decorated like a warship. 6) Trat market. This room shows market in Trat now and then. Santisuk road, Tam bon Bang Phra, Amphoe Mueang Trat, Trat 23000 0-3951-2291, 0-3951-1043 ต่อ 306, 08-6450-5263 0-3951-1951 tratmuseum@gmail.com พิพิธภัณฑสถานเมืองตราด จังหวัดตราด

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Baan Chang Tune Ecosystem Museum This environmental friendly village that takes the full benefit of its local natural resource is a new historical and cultural learning center of Chong people in Trat. They are the ethnic group running away from Cambodia, and now reside in the East part of Thailand around Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat. The unique point of this community is shifting gemstone in the Chong ancient style. The process is to shift the gemstone in the Ang canal, a branch canal from Trat river flowing from Bantad mountain. Moreover, there is an outstanding healthcare and spa technique here, the “white natural mud spa”: mixing the mud from Ang canal that has the gemstone mixed in it with herbs, then put on body and face. Another must-not-miss spa is “coop spa” or Spa de Chon, an original traditional Chon medication that steams many kinds of myrrh such as eagle wood oil, curcumin, cinnamomum inside the coop. With this technique, your skin will glow and improve your internal organs functioning. It also helps relieving your pain and ache. There are many signature dishes in Baan Chang Tune for you to taste such as chicken curry with banana, served with sweet sticky rice. Pai dessert, a sweet made from sticky rice flour and stuffed

with preserved coconut and palm sugar, then wrapped with bamban leaf. Yum Play dessert is a dessert that will be placed inside weaved balls in many shapes. The dessert is made from sticky rice, added a bit of salt, then steamed until done, served with cane sugar. Baan Nong Mai Hom, Tam bon Chang Thun, Amphoe Bo Rai, Trat 23140 08-4863-7267 (K. Authai) นิเวศพิพิธภัณฑ์บ้านช้างทูน The fee for shifting gemstone activity, white mud spa, coop spa, inhalant buffet, and weaving coconut leaves is 800 Baht per person. CHANTHABUTI - TRAT

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หาดทรายดำ�

Moo 1 and Moo 6, Tam bon Laem Ngop, Ampoe Laem Ngop, Trat 0-3951-0841, 0-3951-0962

Sai Dam Beach is the only tourist spot in Thailand and 1 of 5 places around the world--Taiwan, Malaysia, California, Hawaii, and Thailand--that the color of the sand in the beach is black. It is located in the national conserved forest, Pa Leam Makham, in Trat. The beach was surrounded with a wide mangrove forest, full with natural resource like seedlings and aquatic animals. In the past, this mangrove forest was very devastated. After the improvement by growing more trees in the forest area, the forest turned into an important place for the community, providing jobs for people in the community, being a relaxing place, and being an aquatic animals nursing place for black crab, crab, mangrove crab, many kinds of fish, and telescope creeper, etc. The official name of this black sand is Limonite, with a reddish brown or black color. This ore was born from disintegration of the mine and shell, mixed with silica, though there is no medical treatment effect from this sand. There is a tourist route for the visitor to explore the nature. The route is around 1 kilometer long. Visitors should check the rising tide and ebb tide before traveling for the best time to see the sand. CHANTHABUTI - TRAT

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ชุมชนบ้านสลักคอก Baan Salak Khok community is a small fisherman community located at the east side of Koh Chang. This small community hides itself in the straits among the huge water bend. The shape of the straits is familiar to a stall surrounded with mangrove forest, the workplace of people in the community. There is only one way out to the sea, and two sides of the entrance are very close together. At the entrance, there are islands in the shapes of lock and pin. So this area is called “Lock - stall bay”. When visiting this place, you will experience the original fisherman lifestyle that remains the same since the old time. Visitors can paddle kayaks along the river and mangrove forest by yourself, enjoying the view of various kinds of plants. Moreover, there is a sailing Mat boat activity, enjoying the sight of river and mangrove forest and observing the lifestyle of Salak Khok people. A Mat boat, known as Thai gondola is a small boat with a table and an umbrella in the middle. To experience the paddle technique of the locals, you can buy the sailing ticket at Baan Salak Khok Tour Guide Club.

Ban Salak Khok Tour Guide Club, Tam bon Ko Chang Tai, Amphoe Ko Chang, Trat 23170

08-7748-9497 (K. Aay)

Ban Salak Khok Tour Guide Club Ko Chang Tai

Mat sailing boat (gondola boat) for 40 minutes per round. 200 Baht per person if attend as a group (1 ship can contain 4-5 persons). 300 Baht per person if attend alone. 200 Baht for kayaks paddling for 1 hour per round (available for 2 persons) CHANTHABUTI - TRAT

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Tha Ranae Community Here is the place of the fantastic mangrove forest, with the area 2,000 rai and the age of 100 years old. There is an ancient cannonball mangrove covered field here, which is considered as a new Unseen tourist destinations in Trat. Back then, Tha Ranae was located in Tam bon Leam Hin, with a small bay to get away from the sea wind and tide. This place was suitable for parking the fishing boats and sailboat. Some parking boats are the damaged one requiring repairing, some just park there. As the time gone, the frame of the boat is devastated until there is only forefoot (Ranae) left. So the locals have called this place “Tha Ranae” until now. With the richness of mangrove forest, on the way to get inside the forest, the visitors will see the mangrove tree and a huge cannonball mangroves around the area. Some of them are over 200 years old, showing the flourishing scene. Riding on a boat among the forest of cannonball

mangroves and mangrove trees will make you feel like you are in the Amazon jungle or a fantasy ancient one. Now, here is an ecotourism spot, with the new management aiming to be a sustainable tourist destination of the community. There are also local activities that the visitors can join such as dying clothes from cannonball mangrove, riding a boat, and enjoy the astonishing sights and local food and dessert. Moo 2, Tam bon Nong Khan Song, Amphoe Mueang Trat, Trat 23000 08-1161-6694 (K.Saichol Sunate) http://golocal.tourismthailand.org/setlocal/detail/15

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Table Tales Cafe & Restaurant A small restaurant in Koh Mak, with a chill and loft style. The access to here is quite easy as the restaurant provides a shuttle car. Wherever you are staying in Koh Mak, the restaurant will send the car to pick you up. The restaurant is divided into front zone and garden zone. In the front zone locate the counter bar and barbeque corner. In the garden zone, there are 15 - 20 seats in the wide area, suitable for relaxing and feeling the breeze. The menus are mainly seafood, with daily selected seafood. The restaurant focuses on selecting the ingredients and the cooking process. The recommended menus are stir-fried squid with yellow chili, seerfish wrapped in leaf, shrimps in dried curry, and stir-fried soft shell crab with black pepper.

118 Moo 1, Tam bon Koh Mak, Amphoe Koh Kut, Trat 23000 09-4962-8995

table tale cafe & restaurant เกาะหมาก

Phu-Talay Seafood

salt and chili, crab egg dip, stir-fried crab with curry powder, fish dishes with herbs, and golden Trat pineapple. 4/2 หมู่ 4 ตำ�บลคลองพร้าว อำ�เภอเกาะช้าง จังหวัดตราด 23170 0-3955-1300, 08-1863-9213 ทุกวัน เวลา 10.00 น. - 22.00 น.

A small restaurant decorated with white-blue theme and cute decorations. The name “Phu-Talay” is given after the location, that there is a mountain at the left side and the sea at the right side. Those who visit the restaurant can enjoy the views of the sea and mountain at the same time. There is also breeze flowing through Phrao canal, building even more appetite. The main menus of the restaurant are seafood dishes. Carefully selected ingredients are cooked to please both Thai and foreigners. It is not a surprise why this is one of the restaurants people want to visit once they reach Koh Chang. The special activity provided by this restaurant is that they will let the visitors see the fireflies in the evening in Phrao canal. This is the place where the visitor can fill their stomach and heart in one stop. The recommended menus are steamed seafood served with seafood dip, stir-fried shrimps with CHANTHABUTI - TRAT

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AWA RESORT KOH CHANG If your dream holiday is being among the full option facilities and the beauty of nature, AWA Resort Koh Chang is definitely your dream destination. It is located the the north side of the “Kai Bae Beach”: a peaceful beach with white sand and clear water. The concept of this resort is modern oriental mixed with zen style under the tone of gray and white colors. The resort will present itself with spacious, simple yet elegant style. As the resort located near the sea, the breeze will flow through all day. The hotel provides the full option facilities you need such as the swimming pool, seaside restaurant, eating-room for breakfast, spa and cafe. The seaside zone is the most attractive zone, as visitors can chill out and enjoys the breeze and sunset. The room is wide, waiting for the exhausted visitors back from the adventure. The service is family-like welcoming with smiles and service minds. If you have a chance to stay at AWA Resort once, there will be the second visit any time soon. : 6/5/1 Tam bon Khlong Phrao, Amphoe Ko Chang, Trat 23170 0-3951-0761 www.awakohchang.com AWA Koh Chang

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Mira Montra The Beachfront Resort The luxurious villa located on the private beach at Phra bay, Koh Mak. It is decorated in tropical style along with the surrounding nature. There is a quiet space for you to relax. The white beach, clear sea water and warmness of the sun will be the first thing and last thing you see every day while staying here. You will be overwhelmed with the richness of nature. Moreover, the villa also provides many facilities for the visitors to enjoy such as kayak boat, Thai massage, and swimming pool. Also, don’t forget to chill out at the restaurant at the beach with the beautiful sight of the sea.

113 Moo 1 Tam bon Koh Mak, Amphoe Koh Kut, Trat 23000 06-4205-5554 www.miramontra.com Mira Montra, The Beachfront Resort Koh Mak

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