Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park covers the areas of Sanpatong District, Chomthong District, Mae Chaem District, Mae Wang District, and Toi Lor Sub-district of Chiang Mai Province within an approximate area of 482 square kilometers. The National Park consists of high mountains, including Doi Inthanon, which is the highest mountaintop in Thailand and the source of many rivers such as Ping River, where the Bhumipol Dam is situated and generating the electrical power. The National Park has beautiful natural scenery such as waterfalls, particularly Mae Ya Waterfall, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand.

Historically, the mountain of Doi Inthanon was refered to as Doi Ang Ka. Prince Intharawichayanon, the last ruler of Chiang Mai, realized the importance of the country’s forests, especially in the north, where the forest serve as the watershed for the country. He was interested in helping and supporting people who were investigating the history in his area. So he requested that his body must be placed on the summit of Doi Ang Ka. After his death, the mountain was renamed Inthanon, a short version of his name. Today, visitors can see the Inthanon Wichayanon stupa on the summit of Doi Ang Ka.

Topography

The geographical features of the National Park consists of high mountains, including Doi Inthanon, which is the highest mountaintop in Thailand (2,565 meters above the sea level), followed by Doi Huamodluang (2,330 meters above the sea level). Doi Inthanon is the source of many rivers including Mae Klang, Mae Pakong, Mae Pon, Mae Hoi, Mae Ya, Mae Chaem, Mae Khan, and being part of Ping River, where the Bhumipol Dam is situated and generating the electrical power.

Climate

Since the National Park is located at 2,565 meters above the sea level, it has cold weather and high humidity throughout the year, particularly on the top of the National Park. In winter, the temperature at the National Park is below 0„ac. And in summer, despite hot weather in central Chiang Mai and nearby districts, it is still freezing on the top of Doi Inthanon and tourists should be prepared with thick clothes.

Flora and Fauna

The forest in the park is one of the country’s very significance and valuable heritage. Forests include Moist Evergreen Forest, Pine forest and Mixed Deciduous Forest, worth in economic like teak and mountain pine. Dipterocarp spp. Xylia xylocarpa, Pterocarpus, macrocapus Terminalia sp. and Lagerstroemia sp. to name a few. In addition to these, there are many beautiful flowers including vanda orchid, phycastylis and rhododendron. Sphagnum Moss and osmanda fern are found at higher levels in the park. fifty years ago, the mountain peaks were home of hill tribe people. The biggest village was Ban Khun Klang, whose agriculture method was often destructive to the forest ecosystem. Currently the several Royal Projects, assists the villagers in growing cold-climate fruit such as strawberries, grapes and apples as well as flowers. The number of wild animals in the park is decreasing the encroachment. The animals are hunted and their habitats are destroyed for agriculture. The remaining animals include serpent, gibbons, tigers, deer, wild boars, Siamese hares and Red Jungle fowls.

Because of its broad altitudinal range and the cool climate of its upper reaches, the park supports the largest number of bird species of any site in Thailand. The Center for Wildlife Research at Mahidol University records a present total of 362 species and expects addition many at the summit are migrants from northern Asia. Species restricted to Doi Inthanon are Ashy-throated Warbler and an endemic race of the Green-tailed Sunbird; the park is the only site where the Chestnut-bellied Rock-Thrush and the Yellow-bellied Flower pecker are known to over summer and probably breed.

Doi Phahompok National Park (Mae Fang)

General InformationMae Fang National Park, located in Amphur Mae Eye, Amphur Fang, Amphur Chai Prakarn of Chiang Mai Province, consists of complicated geography which is a part of a watershed called Dan Lao Mountain Range. It is the productive forest which not only has a great number of plants and animals but also beautiful natures, for examples, Huai Bond Cave, Hot-mineral Water Pond, Hot Spring and Mae Jai Stream. It is an importantly traveling place of Chiangmai Province. Traveler can take convenient ways to get there. It is 524 square kilometers, and has been declared a national park since September 4, 2000.

Flora and FaunaThe forest is productive and consists of semi-evergreen forest, montane forest, pine forest (coniferous forest), mixed forest and deciduous forest which have many kinds of economically valuable plants such as Malabar ironwood, wild Euphorbiaceae, Yang, Burmese ebony, Lagerstroemia, Teak wood, wild champak and emblic myrabolan etc. And more importantly, there are rare floras such as Impatiens jurpioides T. Shimizu and Rhododendronwhich which can be normally found in Doi Pha Hhom Bhog.

The forest of Mae Fang National Park is on complicated mountain and in contact with the forest of Myanmar so that makes many kinds of wild animal migrating into this area regularly. And because it is the productive forest so that makes it have a number of animals, for examples, mammals such as barking deer, deer, bear, wild bore, loris and mountain goat—a reserve animal of Thailand, birds such as turtledove and purple cochoa--found only in Northern Thailand, and nearly extinct butterfly such as Imperial Butterfly, Kaiser Butterfly and Phutan Butterfly.

Climate The temperature in this area is approximately 25 degrees Celsius all the year round; it is about 14 - 19 degrees Celsius on November to February, the highest temperature is 39 degree Celsius on April and heavy rain on May to September approximately 1,184 mm. of rain all the year round.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Pattaya

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, 163 Sukhumvit Road (15 minutes east of town centre); tel. +66-38429321, Beautiful gardens with waterfalls, elephant shows, “Cultural Extravaganza” performances 4 times a day, restaurants and so forth - enough to fill an entire day. Yet another place in Pattaya that thinks it is acceptable to charge foreigners more than Thais. 200 baht for locals, 400 baht for foreigners. This practice is illegal in Thailand but, strangely, nobody in authority is prepared to do something about it.

Khao Chi Chan, Pattaya

Khao Chi Chan features a sculptural image erected to honor His Majesty King erected to honor is Majesty King Bhumibol on te occasion of te 50th anniversary of his enthronenment. The image is a sitting figure called Pang Man Wichai and copied from Phra Phuttawarachabopit which combines both Sukhothai and Lanna arts. The images is 109 meters in eight and 70 meters and the figure is named Phra Phuttamaha Wachirauttamapat Satsada that means the Buddha who has brightness and sublimity like Mahawachira. There are many kinds of plant surrounding and huts for the visitors

Pattaya Elephant Village : Chonburi

Located on Phonpraphanimit Road, which is off of Highway No.3 at Km. 145, the Pattaya Elephant Village showcases daily life of elephants and their masters. It also offers stage shows, which demonstrate how to catch wild elephants, elephants-at-work in the jungle, elephants playing football, a grand war, and elephants’ parades. Elephant rides around the village are recommended. The one-hour-long elephant shows are held at 14.30 hrs. Contact the counter in the Tropicana Hotel, Tel: (038) 249145-7, 249818.

Elephant shows are also operated in other places. Most of them are located on Sukhumvit Road. These include Ban Chang Thai Tel: (038) 70628-91, Utthayan Chang Tel: (038) 716379, Thin Chang Thai Tel: (038) 756516, 756577, Suan Chang Tel: (038) 756517 and Farm Chang Thai Tel: (038) 237825.

Underwater World Pattaya : Chonburi

A new tourist attraction in town is the largest and most modern ocean aquarium in Asia, boasting a 100-meter-long, 6.4-centimeter-thick acrylic pedestrian tunnel through an underwater environment filled with dozens of marine species.

Located just 200 meters south of Tesco Lotus in South Pattaya, the new theme park covers a total area of 12-rai and is housed in a structure similar to a large circus tent.

The aquarium itself houses more than 4,000 marine animals, comprising more than 200 different species from the region as well as some rare creatures from overseas. Top in the Visitors must-see list is the rare shovelnose ray, a hybrid between a shark and a stingray.

Admission fee for adults is 500 baht and children is 300 baht. Open from 9.00 a.m. 6.00 p.m. For more information and booking, call (038) 756879, 09-9360272

Kanchanaburi Tours , Thailand

Kanchanburi Tour: Visit historical sites in Kanchanaburi including the world's renowned Bridge over the River Kwai, Built during World War II by prisoners of war and experience a train ride along the Death Railway. Be amazed with an extreme experience of a "Tiger Watch" in the Buddhist temple which keeps numerous animals, among them several tame tigers that walk around freely once a day and can be petted by tourists.

DAY TOUR :

1. Tiger Temple+Elephant Ride

Elephant Ride Take Soft Adventure Tour, drive to the elephant camp for an exciting elephant ride through the jungle (approx. 45 minutes), after that elephant ride in a typical thai village.

Tiger Temple, or Wat Pha Luang Ta Bua, is a Buddhist temple in Western Thailand which keeps numerous animals, among them several tame tigers that walk around freely once a day and can be petted by tourists.

The Theravada Buddhist temple is located in the Saiyok district of Thailand's Kanchanaburi province, not far from the border with Myanmar, along the 323 highway. It was founded in 1994 as a forest temple and sanctuary for numerous wild animals. In 1995, they received the Golden Jubilee Buddha Image, made of 80kg of gold.

In 1999 the temple received the first tiger cub; it had been found by villagers and died soon after. Several tiger cubs were later given to the temple, typically when the mothers had been killed by poachers. As of 2004, three cubs had been born at the temple and the total number of tigers was ten.

2.Bridge Over The River Kwai

Visit historical sites in Kanchanaburi including the Bridge over the River Kwai, War Museum, Allied War Cemeteries and enjoy Train ride on Death Railway through magnificent scenery, passing over the original wooden viaduct constructed by Allied POWs.

Ayutthay One Day Tours, Thailand

Visit Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is situated to the southeast and opposite to Ayutthaya city. A large Chedi of this Wat can be seen from a far distance. This monastery was built by King U-Thong in 1357 A .D. for the use of the monks who had returned from Ceylon after studying under Phra Vanarat Maha Thera.

Visit Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit . Phra Mongkhon Bophit, a large bronze cast Buddha image was originally enshrined in the open area outside the Grand Palace and later covered by a building in the reign of king Songtham. During the fall of Ayutthaya , the building was badly destroyed by fire. The one currently seen was reconstructed,but does not have as beautiful craftsmanship as the previous one. The open area east of the sanctuary was where the royal cremation ceremonies took place.

Visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet . This is the most important temple within the Royal Palace compound and the original from which the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok has been copied. Three outstanding Ceylonese style pagodas were built during the 15th century to enshrine the ashes of three Ayutthaya kings.

Visit Wat Maha That - The Heart and Soul of City From Artifacts and the style of the Pagoda, we believe that Wat Maha That was built before the Ayutthaya Period or around the 14th Century. One of the images which were excavated by the Fine Art Department was a Buddha Image in the Sitting Attitude (sitting with drop down legs). This image belonged to the Lopburi Period. The Pagodas are from the Bayon Style or Bayon Period (compared to Khmer culture) which are built with laterite.

Visit Wat Na Phra Mane Visit Wat Nah Phramane . See The Principal Buddha statue wearing The Royal Attire. This temple was once used by the Burmese as their headquarters when they besieged Ayutthaya in 1767. The Chapel Hall of Wat Na Phra Mane is one of the largest in Ayutthaya , which contains a total of 9 rooms (most Wats were only 3 or 5 rooms).

source : http://www.changthaitravel.com/

Ayutthay a Tours, Thailand

The ancient city of Ayuttaya The Thai capital for 417 years, it is one of Thailand's major tourist attraction. Many ancient ruins and art works can be seen in a city that was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong. During the period that Ayuttaya was the Thai capital, 33 kings of 5 dynasties ruled the kingdom until it was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767.

Ayuttaya is 76 kilometers north of Bangkok and boasts magnificent ruins. These numerous ruins indicate that Ayuttaya was one of Indo-China's most properous cities and larger than contemporary London.

Bang Pa-In Palace This famous attraction is located 18 kms. south of Ayutthaya. These include pavilions and halls constructed in Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles, a theatre, temples, and monuments.

Source : http://www.changthaitravel.com

Temple City Tour, Bangkok, Thailand

Your trip is not completed unless you have seen the subtle and intricate beauty of our temple.
1 Wat Trimit (The Temple of Solid Golden Buddha weight 5.5 tons).This temple houses an ancient solid gold seated Buddha image of the Sukhothai Period, three meters in height and weighing 5.5 tons.

2 Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha) This large and extensive temple neighbours the Grand Palace and contains a gigantic gold plated Reclining Buddha. The temple is also regarded as the first center of Thai Massage Education.

3 Wat Benchamabopit (The Marble Temple).This unique marble temple was constructed during the reign of King Rama V. It employs European ecclesiastic detail, such as stained glass windows and contains a superb cloister collection of bronze Buddha images.

Bangkok - Half Day tours , The Royal Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple

The Royal Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple

The Grand Palace adjoins Wat Phra Kaew in a common compound, and is where you will end up after exiting Wat Phra Kaew. Despite the proximity of the two, there's a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai Wat Phra Kaew and the more European inspired designs of the Grand Palace (the roof being the exception). The Grand Palace is nowadays used only for occasional ceremonial purposes and is no longer the royal residence. The present King Bhumibol (Rama IX) lives in Chitralada Palace (also closed to tourists), which is located not too far away in Bangkok's Dusit district. Though the interior of most of the buildings remain closed to the public

Highlights of it are :- Boromabiman Hall, built by King Rama VI and every king since has lived here at some time.- Amarinda Hall, the original residence of King Rama I and the Hall of Justice. Nowadays it's impressive interior is used for ceremonial occasions and coronations. It contains the antique throne, used before the Western style one presently in use.

- Grand Palace Hall / Chakri Maha Prasat. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European style reception room. This building has not been used for royal residence since the mysterious death of King Rama VIII (the older brother of the current King), found shot dead in his room in 1946. The reverence for the monarchy in Thailand means that, even today, this remains a completely taboo subject to talk publicly about in Thailand.

source : www.greatsiamtravel.com

Papaya Salad Som-Tum : Thailand food

Papaya Salad som tamOne of my favourite meals, which is definately in my Top 10, is Som Tam, otherwise known as Papaya Salad.The meal is quite simple to make. The main ingredients are shredded green papaya, chopped green beans, tomoato, dried prawns, unsalted roasted peanuts, chillies, garlic and lime juice. These are all pounded together in a mortar using a pestle. The sound it makes is "pok pok". Whenever I hear that sound while walking down the street I always turnaround to look for the som tam stall.The papaya salad is best served with sticky rice (khao neow) and grilled chicken. That is the way I like it. But you can have fish instead. There is also a recipe which has crab.When you come to buy Papaya Salad, it is nearly always prepared in front of you. This way you can tell them how many chillies you want! I like mine hot. Papaya Salad with sticky rice from a roadside stall will cost you about 20-25 baht.

Recipe:

1 medium dark green papaya4 garlic cloves (kratiem)6 green Thai chilies (prik khee noo)2 tomatoes, cut into wedges1/2 cup chopped green beans, in 1-in (2.5-cm) pieces2 tablespoons anchovy sauce1/2 teaspoon sauce1/4 cup (2 fl oz/60 ml) lime juice or tamarind juice (ma-kaam piag)

How to make:

1. Peel the papaya and rinse with running water to remove the acid. Remove the seeds and shred the papaya with a grater. Set aside.

2. Place the garlic cloves and the chilies in a mortar and mash with a pestle until crushed into chunks. Place the papaya and the remaining ingredients in the mortar and gently combine all ingredients by mixing with the pestle and a spoon. Serve cold.Source: "Thailand the Beautiful Cookbook" by Panurat Poladitmontr

Aticle source : http://www.enjoythaifood.com/somtam.php

Muay Thai History : Thailand

Muay Thai started way back in the medieval ages when wars were fought with bows and arrows, swords, and pikes. And in hand-to-hand combat arms, legs, knees, and elbows were also used as weapons. This sport which was included in military training was made famous by King Nareusan 1560 A.D. During one of the many battles between Burma and Siam he was captured. The Burmese knew of his prowess as the best unarmed fighter in the realm and gave him a chance to fight with their best for his freedom. Upon his return to Siam he was hailed as a hero and Siamese-style boxing, as it was called then, was soon recognized as a national sport. Boxing in this style reached its zenith of popularity about two hundred years ago, i.e., in the reign of Prachao Sua (King Tiger), when it was indulged in by all classes of the population.
From those days up until the early part of this century, the fighters, particularly those in provinces, used horsehide strips and later help in lieu of gloves. It was also a practice at one time to grind pieces of glass into the help if both contestants agreed. Since these practices were obviously dangerous to the fighters' health, regular boxing gloves were introduced about 50 years ago and have been used ever since.
To the Thais, Muay Thai is regarded as a prestigious national sport. Thai boys will in one or another way, intentionally or unintentionally, learn how to box Thai style. Even Thai girls will know enough of the basic principles and to be able to use it for self-defense when necessary.
Muay Thai, called Thai Boxing by foreigners, is our national sport and is now getting more popular in many countries, especially in Japan where a large numer of young Japanese are now being trained to fight professionally. But in Japan this fighting is called "Kick Boxing." At present "Kick Boxing" is internationally known as a Japanese martial art. Surely the true name, "Muay Thai" should be retained internationally as the Japanese terms Kendo, Judo, or Karate have been.
There is no [clear] evidence to show the time of origin of Thai-Style boxing. It can only be assumed that Thai boxing existed since the Thai emigrated from the South of China. [Further archaeological work needs to be done in this area, both in the Thai and English languages.]
The [Tai tribe] immigrants had to hide from attackers and met with resistance from local people. In short, they had to fight endlessly for their survival. By the time they managed to settle in the "Gold Promontory", the Thais had gone through to countless battles and many lives had been lost. The ancient weapons consisted only of spears, swords, pikes or bows and arrows. But in hand-to-hand combat weapons become clumsy, and elbows, knees, feet and fists became more practical. This must have been extremely successful, as it was then developed into a form of martial arts used in battle, and this was the origin of Muay Thai.
When the Thais finally settled down and built a city, and extended their territory to become a large country, there was a need for an army to defend the country. Soldiers in those days had to learn Muay Thai along with the use of traditional weapons. Thus there was also the need for Kru Muay, or teacher of Thai boxing. Various tactics for attack and defense were developed, called "boxing tactics". Later, laymen began to take up this form of fighting, as a form of self-defense, and as a handy qualification to become a soldier, which would also lead to further advancement depending on their ability and talent.
During the Ayudhya period, which was a period of consecutive fighting against the neighboring countries of Burma, Cambodia and Vietnam, history records state that King Sri San Petch or Khun Luang Sorasak known as Phra Chao Sua (The Tiger King) often boxed incognito in various up-country temple fairs. He is said to have been a skilled boxer, and enjoyed the sport so much that he often disguised himself thus in order to test his skill against villagers and thus became quite a legend in his own time.
When Ayudhya fell in 1767 A.D. many Thais became prisoners of War. In 1774 the King of Burma held a festival to celebrate the Chedi containing the Bhuddha's relics in Rangoon, with various forms of entertainment and festivities. This included a boxing display for the King by a Boxer named "Nai Khanom Tom" a prisoner of war from Ayudhya. Pit against Burmese boxers, Nai Khanom Tom defeated 10 Burmese opponents in a row, and also became quite a legend.
During the reign of King Tak Sin the Great, the King had a close aid-de-amp named "Phraya Pihai Dab Hak" who had studied the art of Muay Thai with many famous teachers and displayed his talent for the King. As a result, he was chosen to become a soldier, and was later promoted to the position of Chao Muang (governor) with his name recorded in history.
In the Ratanakosin Period, Muay Thai was still a national art form, with competitions in annual national festivities. Time-keeping was done by floating a pierced coconut shell. When the coconut sank, a drum would be beaten to signal the end of a round.
In 1788, during the reign of King Rama I, two french brothers arrived in Thailand by boat, having defeated many boxers across the Indo-China Penninsula. King Rama I consulted the Crown Prince, his brother, who offered to find boxers to fight against the Frenchmen. Phraya Phra Klang would accept the challenge, settling the bet at 50 chang (4,000 bhat). The Crown Prince chose a boxer named Muen Plan of the Royal Guards. The match was held in the grounds of the Grand Palace. Muen Plan wore full battle regalia--bare-chested, seeped in magic charms, cabalistic writing and oils to ensure invulnerability. When the fight began, the large French fighter tried to attack, aiming for the neck and collar-bone. Muen Plan defended himself with Muay Thai. The other Frenchman, seeing his brother making no progress became frustrated, and pushed Muen Plan's back to stop him from backing away. Members of the Royal Guards saw this break of boxing etiquette and proceeded to help Muen Plan tackle the two Frenchmen until they had to be carried back to the boat. They set sail the next day, with no thought of ever challenging a Thai Boxer again.
During the reign of King Rama V, Thai boxing matches were widely popular, boxing matches were held for the King's pleasure, ad skilled boxers received titles from the King, for example Muen Muay Mee Chue from Chaiya, Muen Muay Man Mudh from Lopburi, Muen Cha-ngad Cherng Chok from Korat. Also in this period boxing camps were established. Members of the royal family sent out talent scouts to recruit potential boxers from up-country and arranged matches between camps. Winners would receive money and valuable prizes. This period could be called the Golden Age of Muay Thai

Aticle source : http://www.thaiboxing.com/history.php

The Most Popular Floating Market : Thailand

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located atDamnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi Province, about105 kms from Bangkok. According to history around1866 King Rama IV ordered that a 32 kms long canalbe dug at Damnoen Saduak.

This canal would connectthe Mae Klong River with the Tacheen River. The excellent quality soil beside the canal is very fertileand suitable for growing many kinds of fruits and vegetables.The area is famous for Malacca grape, Chinese grapefruit,mangoes, bananas, and coconut.

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a very attractiveplace for tourists to see the old style and traditional wayof selling and buying fruits, vegetables, etc., from smallboats. Tourists will also see traditional Thai houses, the way they live and travel by boats, and please try ridingon a small boat to experience the floating market and to see more. This is a worthwhile trip.

How To Get There :

Travel from Bangkok via Thonburi-Paktoh Highway to Samut Songkhram Town. Follow the sign to Damnoen Saduak (Highway No.325).

Aticle source : http://www.bangkoksite.com/Ratchaburi/FloatingMarket/FloatingMarket1.htm

Muay Thai : Thailand

Muay Thai, translated into English as Thai Boxing, is the national sport of Thailand and is a martial art with origins in the ancient battlefield tactics of the Siamese (or Thai) army. Hand-to-hand tactics of the Thai army. The early Muay Thai bouts pitted different companies within the Siamese army against each other with few rules and no weight divisions or time limits. They became quite popular and eventually were shown in stadia across the country. In the early 20th century, time limits, boxing gloves as well as a uniform set of rules were introduced. During the latter half of the 20th century Muay Thai was exported to many countries and is now practiced by hundreds of thousands of people all over the world.

Tuk-Tuk in Thailand

The vehicles known as Tuk-Tuk originated in Japan by Daihatsu and it was Thailand who subsequently went into production with these vehicles many years later.

Thailand built Tuk-Tuks cost between 95'000 Baht and 150'000 Baht. As far as we know, there are about five to six manufacturers of Tuk-Tuks in Thailand.

The original Thai Tuk-Tuk is found in many places in Thailand, mostly operating as an open air taxi. Named for the sound made by their small-capacity, two-cycle engines, tuk-tuks are often found in tourist areas, around markets, or cruising the streets for fares. It is common to see 4 or 5 people in one tuk-tuk, such as students heading home from school, or a single person riding a Tuk-Tuk full of boxes and bags being taken home from the market.

Visitors to Thailand are usually very interested and curious about the Tuk-Tuk, a locally made and designed three-wheeled vehicle. Tourists are often seen getting their picture taken with the open-air vehicle, and heard swapping tales of their experiences with the charming little machine.

Tuk-Tuks were invented in Thailand over 50 years ago, evolving as a motorized relative of the rickshaw. The Tuk-Tuk was given its name from the rather rough sound of the early models.

The single stroke motor powering the first three-wheelers had a distinctive hum when operating, and the "tuk-tuk-tuk-tuk-tuk" sound became a familiar sound to many in need of quick and convenient transportation in Bangkok. The Tuk-Tuk has improved its technology and quality over the years, while emerging as one of Thailand's most recognizable and identifiable symbols.

While Tuk-Tuks are most commonly used for transporting passengers, many industrial uses for the vehicle have been initiated with dramatic changes incorporated into new designs and models. The relatively small size of the Tuk-Tuk finds the vehicle navigating small alleys on delivery routes, and scooting around narrow factories taking advantage of its agility and slight turning radius.

Since the beginning, They can be modified to have automatic gears, doors, safety belts, air-conditioning, and much more depending on what the customer require.

as current models, powered by a 550 CC Japanese made engine, are able to carry a payload of 1000 kilograms. Customers have used Tuk-Tuks for hauling goods in factories, distributing goods and products in regions that have extremely narrow roads, and transporting guests around resort properties

Aticle source : http://www.thailandtuktuk.net/

Mae Hong Son

MAE HONG SON is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world. Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, the name refers to the fact that is terrain is highly suitable for the training of elephants.

Former governors of Chiang Mai used to organise the rounding up of wild elephants which were then trained before being sent to the capital for work. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the dream destinations for visitors. Daily flights into its small airport bring growing numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous hilltribe communities and soft adventure opportunities.

THAI YAI CULTURE

The Thai Yai can be seen along the northern border with Myanmar. They may at one time have been the most numerous of the ethnic Thai tribes that stretch across Southeast Asia. A large group settled in Mae Hong Son.

The Thai Yai culture has had a strong influence on the province, as can be seen in its architecture. Although a part of the Lanna region, the indigenous Thai Yai people living in Mae Hong Son are faced with very cold weather during winter and extremely hot weather in the summer, with mist or fog practically throughout the whole year. Not surprisingly they have had to adapt to the environment.

As a result, their architectural style has developed into something different from other Lanna communities. Their living quarters are usually built with tall floors and low roofs, the sizes differing according to ones social status and position. Homes of the ordinary folks are usually with one single level of roof, while those of the local aristocrats have two or more levels forming a castle-like shape. The space thus provided is believed to help air circulation. An interesting feature of the Thai Yai style is the perforated designs along the eaves which are an architectural identity of the area.

Article Source : http://www.tourismthailand.org/

ChiangRai

Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand is about 785 kilometers north of Bangkok. Situated on the Kok River basin, Chiang Rai covers an area of approximately 11,678 square meters with an average elevation of 580 meters above sea level. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China.

Chiang Rai, which was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai,was the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom (Kingdom of a million rice fields), which was later conquered by Burma. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became a Thai territory and was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.

Today, Chiang Rai is a travelers paradise endowed with abundant natural tourist attractions and antiquities; the province itself is evidence of past civilization. Attractions range from magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages as the province is also home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating lifestyles. For those interested in the natural side of Chiang Rai, jungle trekking is recommended along various trails.Chiang Rai which tends to be a little more 'laid back' now competes with Chiang Mai as a tourist attraction and is fast becoming a popular escape for tourists wanting to get away from the troubles they left behind.

Article Source : http://www.tourismthailand.org

Phitsanulok

Covering some 105,815 square kilometers, Phitsanulok is 377 kilometers north of Bangkok. It borders Uttaradit Province on the North, Phichit Province on the South, Loei and Phetchabun Provinces on the East, and Kamphaeng Phet and Sukhothai Provinces on the West. Situated on a strategic location dividing Thailands Central and Northern regions, and connecting to the Northeastern region, Phitsanulok is undeniably an important hub and an ideal base for travelers wishing to explore the lower North and western Northeast. Phitsanulok, however, is not just a stopover for tourists, but is a province with promising tourism opportunities.

Phitsanulok City spans the banks of Maenam Nan and has Maenam Kwae Noi running through it. Therefore, it is locally known and historically referred to as Song Kwae City (song means two and kwae means a river). Most of Phitsanulok's terrain is flatlands, with one third of the area being mountain ranges on the north and the east. Its unique natural endowments including natural parks and waterfalls make a trip to Phitsanulok worthwhile.

Apart from its exceptional natural charisma, Phitsanulok provides visitors with an opportunity to explore notable chapters of Thailand's history. For example, remains of an ancient community dating back between 2,000-4,000 years, including old stone axes, was found here. In addition, the old temple of Wat Chula Mani, situated 5 kilometers south of the city, was built even before the Sukhothai Kingdom burst into power.

Phitsanulok prospered along with the powerful Sukhothai (1238-1378) and Ayutthaya (1350 1767) Kingdoms. In particular, it played a strategic role in the Ayutthaya era when it had become the Kingdoms royal capital for 25 years during the reign of King Borom Trailokanat.

Phitsanulok is also the birthplace of King Naresuan the Great (reigned 1590-1605) the legendary King who declared Ayutthayas independence from Burma in 1584. King Naresuan the Great is known for his victorious and honorable single hand combat on elephant back Yutthahatti against a Burmese Crown Prince. His heroic power and strong dedication to expelling the invaders from his motherland saved the country, and truly united the Kingdom which later was known as Siam and currently known as Thailand.

Phitsanulok was also a strategic location for other Ayutthaya Kings as it was a major center for military recruitment and a training camp when Ayutthaya waged wars with Burma.

Article Source : http://www.tourismthailand.org/

Phichit

Situated in the Lower North some 345 kilometres from Bangkok, Pichit is accessible by both road and rail. Nurtured by two rivers, the Yom and the Nan running parallel to one another north to south, the land is agriculturally fertile. Once the site of an ancient town dating back almost a thousand years ago, Phichit has played in a major role in the history of both Sukhothai and Ayutthaya.

Known as the land of the crocodiles, it has been home to this ferocious reptile which has thrived in its waters. There are today several fresh-water crocodile farms. Phichit features in the Thai epic Krai Thong composed by King Rama II which tells of Chalawan.

Phichit is administratively divided into the following districts: Muang, Pho Prathap Chang, Taphan hin, Bang Mun Nak, Pho Thale, Sam Ngam, Wang Sai Phun, Thap Khlo, Sak Lek, Dong Charoen, Bueng Na Rang and Wachirabarami.

Chonburi : Pattaya

Pattaya

The half-moon-shaped Pattaya Beach is 4 kilometers long with a road running parallel to the beach. From the mid-section to the southern end of the area, there is a vast array of restaurants, bars, department stores, souvenir stores, as well as other places of entertainment. To the north of the beach are various mini-resorts and hotels in a quieter atmosphere.

It’s actually free to stroll along the beaches, but operators will charge you for the services they provide, i.e. the beach chair. A price s roughly $0.5 per chair, though bargaining is rather customary in Thailand.

Khao Pattaya or Khao Phra Bat

This is a small hill to the south of Pattaya Beach. It is accessible by an asphalt road, which leads up to the hilltop. Khao Pattaya is now the site of the Naval Radio Station where the monument of Krom Luang Chumphon Khet Udomsak, the Father of Royal Thai Navy, is situated. A sacred Buddha image is also enshrined on the hilltop. The viewpoint on the hilltop offers a panoramic view of Pattaya City and Pattaya Bay.

Chonburi : Ko Lan

Lying about 7.5 kilometers off of Pattaya by a 45-minute ferry or 15 minutes by speed boat ride, the island measures 2 kilometers by 5 kilometers and offers several white sandy beaches, notably Hat Ta Waen, Hat Laem Thian and Hat Thong Long, the latter facing coral reefs. Visitors can choose either snorkeling or viewing the coral from glass bottom boats. Ferries to the island leave South Pattaya pier daily from 10.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Cruises by sailing junks, with lunch provided are also available.

Chonburi : Bang Saen

This ever popular seaside town is situated approximately 14 kilometers from the city. To get to Bang Saen from Sukhumvit Road, take a right turn at Km. 104 and proceed for another 3 kilometers. Bang Saen is especially popular amongst Thai visitors who enjoy strolling along the long white sandy beach and tasting the delicious seafood available from vendors along the pavement. Unlike weekdays, weekends are always particularly crowded. A wide range of hotels and bungalows are located by the sea and recreational gear and bicycles for rent are available in shops nearby. For budget travelers, several buses depart daily from Ekkamai Bus Terminal throughout the day. In addition, there are local ''Song taew'' or local transport services connecting Chon Buri town-Nong Mon Market-Bang Saen.

Chonburi Thailand ชลบุรี

Chonburi, Bangkok’s nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometers from Bangkok. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local colors, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. This is a popular resort among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly schedules as Chon Buri has something for everyone. In addition, Chon Buri is the center of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.

Travel

By Car

Chon Buri is a one-hour drive from Bangkok along Highway No. 34 (Bang Na-Trat). Alternatively, taking the Motor Way (new Bangkok-Chon Buri Route) will reduce travel time.

By Bus

The 1.5-hour journey from Bangkok can be made on regular buses originating from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai). Air-conditioned buses leave Ekkamai every 40 minutes from 5.30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tel: 0 2391 9829 . Non air-conditioned buses leave Ekkamai every 30 minutes from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tel: 0 2391 2504 .

There are also air-conditioned buses leaving the Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road from 6.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Call: 0 2936 2852-66 for more information. In addition, Si Racha Tour,

Tel: 02- 936 4029 operates air-conditioned bus services to Chon Buri and Bang Saen.

ChiangMai : Getting Around

For relative short distance you can take a tricycle (Sam Lor). Short rides within the city cost between 20 and 30 baht. Longer rides may cost as much as 50 baht.

Tuk-Tuks (three-wheeled motorised taxis) are also popular for short and quick journeys. Fares must be bargained in advance. Minimum fares are approximately 20 baht.

The most common means of transport is a “See Lor” (literally “four wheel”) or “Song Theao”. They all are red-coloured and look like pick-up trucks but with a roof over the back. They pick up as many passengers as they can and drop them off as the drivers reach their destinations. To go by “See Lor”, simply tell the driver your destination. Fares range from 10-20 baht according to the distance.

Resource : http://www.asiatravel.com/north_info/chiangmai/shop.html#how

ChiangMai : How to get there..

Car

a) From Bangkok drive on Highway No.1 (Phahonyothin) to Highway No.32 passing the provinces of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, and Nakhon Sawan, then take Highway No. 117 to Phitsanulok and drive on to Highway No. 11 to Lampang, Lamphun and Chiang Mai. The route is 695 kilometres.

b) From Bangkok drive to Nakhon Sawan and then take Highway No. 1 passing Kamphaeng Phet, Tak, Lampang, and Chiang Mai. The route is 696 kilometres.

Bus

The 10-hour journey from Bangkok can be made on air-conditioned buses originating from the Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2), contact tel. 936 2852 for more information. Buses leave for Chiang Mai several times a day from 8.00 to 21.00 hrs.
There are services from Chaing Mai’s Chang Phuak Bus Terminal to various districts in Chiang Mai. Buses ply along the northern route (Highway No. 107) passing through Mae Rim, Mae Taeng, Chiang Dao, Chaiprakan, Fang and Mae Ai. Some buses continue to Tha Ton. Local city buses ply between Chiang Mai and Lamphun on Highway No. 106.

Train

The State Railways of Thailand operates daily services from Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong). Trains leave for Chiang Mai 6 times a day from 8.00-22.00 hrs. For more information, contact tel. 1690, 223 7010, 223 7020. Chiang Mai Railway Station, tel. (053) 242 094.

Air

Air Andaman provides regular flight services from Chiang Mai to other northern provinces like Chiang Rai, Mae Sot, Nan and Phitsanulok.
Bangkok Airways has 2 daily flights connecting Chiang Mai with Bangkok. In addition, they have daily flights servicing the Chiang Mai-Sukhothai route.
Thai Airways has numerous daily flights servicing the Bangkok-Chiang Mai route. In addition, they have daily flights connecting Chiang Mai with Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai, and Phuket.

Resource : http://www.asiatravel.com/north_info/chiangmai/shop.html#how

ChiangMai Shop

Local Products : Chiang Mai is, quite simply, Thailand’s major centre for quality handicrafts. The visitor need merely visit the nearest city emporium or night market to purchase an extraordinary variety of antiques, silver jewellery, hilltribe opium pipes and embroidery, Thai silks and cottons, basketry, celadon, silverware, furniture, lacquerware, woodcarvings and parasols.

A major advantage of shopping in Chiang Mai is that the visitor may watch artisans working within the city and in several outlying villages, particularly along the Bo Sang-San Kamphaeng Road where, in genuine cottage industries, parasols, silk and cotton weaving, jewellery, woodcarving, silverware, celadon, and lacquerware are manufactured, and number among popular purchases. Major Chiang Mai products include:

Cottons & Silks - First-class Chiang Mai cottons and silks are of incomparable quality. Cottons and silks have innumerable fashion and furnishing applications. The largest possible selection is available in San Kamphaeng.

Umbrellas/ Parasols - These are inextricably associated with Bo Sang where villagers have been engaged in their manufacture for at least 200 years. All materials, silks, cottons, Sa paper (manufactured from the bark of the mulberry tree) and bamboo are produced or found locally. Visitors to Bo Sang will see literally hundreds of designs and sizes ranging from the miniature to the gigantic.

Silverware - The finest Thai silverware is exquisite, and is made in Chiang Mai, where certain families have practised their art for several generations. Traditional skills and a guaranteed content of at least 92.5% pure silver invest bowls, receptacles and decorative items with authentic value. Silver shops are concentrated on Wua Lai Road, where silverware artisans and their families live.

Lacquerware - Striking black and gold designs give lacquerware its visual appeal and sheen. This decorative are enhances items made of wood, bamboo, metal, paper and baked clay, in the form of receptacles, ornaments and various souvenirs.

Furniture/ Woodcarving - Chiang Mai’s Ban Thawai village in Hang Dong district, is a major centre of furniture making. Major woods and materials include teak, rosewood and rattan. Items may be unadorned or, especially with teak and rosewood, artfully carved in traditional or modern designs. Woodcarving is a traditional northern Thai art featured in numerous temples. In recent years, wood carving has increasingly embellished furniture, gracing screens, chairs, tables, beds, indeed anything bearing a wooden surface large enough to be carved. Carved elephants, figurines and tableware number among other popular purchases.

Hilltribe Products - These include silver ornaments, such as bracelets, necklace, pendants and pipes of intricate design, and embroidered items including tunics, jackets, bags, purses, caps and dress lengths.

Gold Plated Orchids & Butterflies - Orchids and butterflies are preserved and plated with 24-carat gold to create unusual gift items such as necklace pendants, hairpins and earrings.

Pottery - Chiang Mai is the major centre of Thailand’s pottery industry. Prized items include high-fired celadon which is produced in many forms, including dinner sets, lamp bases and decorative items.

resource : http://www.asiatravel.com/north_info/chiangmai/shop.html#how

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, with an altitude of approximately 310 meters above sea level, is situated approximately 700 kilometers from Bangkok on the Mae Ping River basin. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, the city covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometers and is the country's second largest province. Chiang Mai borders Myanmar on the north, Lamphun and Tak Provinces on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun Provinces on the east and Mae Hong Son Province on the west. The terrain is mainly comprised of jungles and mountains, which are home to the hill tribes. In addition, wildlife and exotic flora may be found in the national parks.

Most of Chiang Mai's mountains are oriented from north to south. Together they create a multitude of streams and tributaries including Mae Chaem, Mae Ngat and Mae Klang. One of Chiang Mai's distinctive features is Doi Inthanon, Thailands highest peak, which is 2,575 meters above sea level. In addition, the province boasts flat, fertile valleys, which spread along the banks of the largest and most important river in Chiang Mai Mae Nam Ping (Ping River) which originates from the Chiang Dao mountain range.

resource : http://www.asiatravel.com

Bangkok Dolls Museum

Address 85, Soi Ratchata Phan, Makkasan Bangkok 10400, Thailand

Bangkok Dolls have won several awards for their creations. A single-storey workshop and Doll Museum in the Chandavimol family compound at 85 Soi Ratchataphan (Soi Mo Leng) in Bangkoks Makkasan district is the magnet for several visitors who wish to inspect these miniature creations in all their wondrous variety.

Open : Mon - Sat from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission : Free

resource : http://coolbreak.thaitravelmart.com/cool_places/common/cool_placedetail.aspx?category=3&place_id=245