Relax at in Thailand

Yasothon Province Yasothon was separated from the province of Ubon Ratchatani and declared a province in 1972. It is around 530 km from Bangkok. The name Yasothon is taken from the Sanskrit "Yaoshara", which means 'the keeper of glory'. The province is well known for its annual Bang Fai, or Rocket Festival, which is held around mid - May.

Places of Attraction

Wat MahathatThis temple is located in the centre of town. It enshrines the ashes of Phra Ananda an eminent follower of the Lord Buddha. The complex also contains a carved wooden scripture hall, located in the middle of a pond, which contains the temple's old scriptures.

Ban Si ThanThis village is located about 20 km southeast of town, along route 202. The village is well known for its hand-made silk and cotton products, especially the mon khit, the traditional Isan triangular pillows.

That Kong Khao NoiThis ancient Khmer chedi is located at Tambon Tat Thong in Amphoe Muang. The Buddha image enshrined is made of brick and stucco and is ritually bathed during the 5th lunar month, to bring about rain.

Rocket FestivalThe famous Bun Bang Fai, or sky rocket festival, is held on the second weekend of May. The locals highly decorate their rockets and launch them during the festivities. The festival is at the end of the dry season and the rockets are launched to bring in the rain.

Udon Thani Province Udon Thani, along with Khon Kaen and several other northeast cities, 'boomed' during the Vietnam War. The influx of the US servicemen into the area helped the city to develop and prosper. Although the legacy of the Vietnam War has left its mark in the region, the legacy of a much earlier era has been revealed.In the 60's, a discovery in the countryside by a young anthropology student would reveal the details of the region's pre-history: throwing into doubt the academics accepted agreement on the origins and development of the bronze age.

Places of Attraction

Ban Chiang Historical ParkThe accidental discovery of broken pieces of pottery by Stephen Young in 1966 would lead to the excavation of the area by archaeological experts. The findings have been the most important to be discovered in Southeast Asia.The bronzeware discovered at the site has been dated to 3600 BC, 500 years earlier than that found at the Euphrates and Tigris basin, where scholars believed that bronze metallurgy had developed.The digs also discovered distinctive clay pottery, pots and vases which are associated with the burial sites that were found. Many of the jars contained infant skeletons. A national museum has been set up at the site, with an excellent collection of the artefacts discovered, including extensive information about the site.

Nong PrajakA pleasant place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This man-made lake and park is located in the north-western part of town.

Phu Phra Phutthabat Historical ParkThe park is located in Ban Pheu district, about 40 km to the northwest of Udon. The park has a mixture of caves with pre-historic paintings, peculiar geological formations and Buddhist shrines. The area seems to have been inhabited ever since pre-historic times: remnants of Dvaravati, Lopburi and Lang Chan religious artefacts are all located within the park's cave temples.At the entrance to the park is Wat Phra That Phuttha Bua Bok, a 40m tall pagoda which houses a Buddha footprint. The temple is the scene of festivities from March 11-15, when the people from Udon come to pay their respects.

Ubon Ratchathani Province The province of Ubon Ratchathani is tucked in the southeast corner of the northeast region, bordering with Laos and Cambodia. It is more prosperous than most provinces in the northeast and is surrounded by a more verdant landscape. The provincial capital, known simply as Ubon, is located on the banks of the Mun River - Thailand's second longest river. The city was once dominated by Dvaravati and Khmer kingdoms, before being settled by Lao people in the late 18th century.Along with Udon Thani and Korat, it became a US air base during the Vietnam war. The province benefited from the arrival of the US forces, who set up the infrastructure for the present day city. Up until recently the border region with Cambodia was not considered a safe place to travel; due to the activities of the Khmer Rouge along the border.

Places of Attraction

Ubon National Museum The museum is situated on Kheuen Thani Rd, near the TAT offices. It was once a palace of King Rama VI. It houses many objects from the Dvaravati and Khmer periods, along with general information on Ubon history. One of the rooms concentrates on the pre-history of Ubon, with a collection of stone and bronze utensils, pottery and burial urns similar to that found at Ban Chiang.

Wat Thung Si MeuangSituated in the centre of town, off Luang Rd. The wat was built during the reign of King Rama III (1824-1851). The most outstanding feature of the compound is the wooden tripitaka library, or hor trai, which is built on stilts in the middle of a small pond.

Wat Phra That Nong BuaThis temple is located on the northern outskirts of town, just off Chayankun Rd, travelling towards Nakhon Phanom. The angular chedi is based on the Mahabodhi stupa in Bodhgaya, India. The niches on the four-sided chedi contain standing Buddhas, in closed robes. The outside of the chedi is also decorated with fine Jataka reliefs.

Wat SupatanaramThis riverside temple was built in 1853, in a mixture of Thai, Khmer and European styles. The stone bot is surrounded by fine lintels, one of which is believed to date from the 7th century. In front of the bot is a large wooden gong, the largest in the country.

Wat Nong Pa PhongLocated about 8 km south of Ubon, in Warin Chamrap district. This forested temple and meditation centre was founded by the much revered monk, the late Acharn Cha.Acharn Cha also founded many other temples in the area, and even one in Sussex, England. Many westerners have studied here over the years: some have been ordained as monks and have remained here.

Hat Khu DeuaTake a break from the heat and visit the 'beach'. On the northern banks of the Mun River there are several shaded spots perfect for a picnic, or a quiet little snooze.

Hat Wat TaiThis river 'island' is a large sandbank in the middle of the Mun River. Locals come here to picnic and there are several foodstalls that set up in the evenings.


Pha TaemThis sandstone cliff overlooks the Mekong River in Khong Chiam district, about 95km northeast of Ubon. The cliff face features prehistoric paintings of elephants, fish, turtles and geometric designs that are 3,000 years old. A trail leads from the cliff top, down past platforms to view the paintings, to the base. From the top of the cliff you can get a good view of Laos.

Surin Province
Surin is a province located in the south of the Isan region, roughly 450 km from Bangkok. It is a major silk weaving area, but is also famous for its annual elephant roundup. The residents are a cultural mixture of Lao, Central Thai, Khmer and Suay peoples, resulting in an interesting blend of dialects and customs. The famous elephant roundup occurs in the third week of November and is performed by the local Suay people. The Suay have for centuries been experts in this field, since the days that domesticated elephants were very much in demand. The show highlights the work carried out by these massive beasts and includes tricks performed by the elephant and his mahout. As is usual in the northeastern region, there are plenty of ruins from the Khmer period of the 11th and 12th centuries to be found scattered around the province.

Places of Attraction

Prasat Sikhoraphum This temple is situated 34 km to the northeast of town, along Route 226 towards Si Saket. The taller central prang stands at 32 m-high and has doorways that are finely decorated with Hindu deities. Dating from the 12th century, and built in the Angkor Wat style, it was initially a Hindu shrine. It was converted to a Buddhist temple in the 16th century.

Prasat PluangHead south from town, along route 214 to Prasat. At about 2km past Prasat, cross route 24 and turn to the left. The sanctuary is placed on a high laterite platform and is believed to date from the late 11th century. In the 1970's, excavations by the Fine Arts Department revealed that the temple was never completed.

Prasat Ta Muan ThomThis temple is located 60 km south of town, in the Kab Choeng District, on the Thai-Cambodian border. It was built in the 11th century, during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. This was once an important place, situated along the road that linked Phimai to Angkor in Cambodia. There is a 30m long staircase that leads down into Cambodian territory.

Elephant VillageThe elephant has very much been part of Thailand's history: from the days when kingdoms where fought over by elephant-mounted soldiers, to the necessary agricultural and logging work they were trained for.However, today the numbers of these animals has dwindled. No longer used in military actions and seldom used in agriculture, the importance of the pachyderms has declined. At the village of Ban Tha Klang, about 40 km north of Surin, a programme has been set up to take care of these massive beasts. With the help from conservationist agencies, a natural environment has been created for them.

Si Sa Ket Province
The province of Si Sa Ket is located in the south of the Isan region, bordering with Cambodia. It wa once an integral part of the Khmer Empire that once ruled over the region: which can be noted in the vast number of ruins of Khmer style temples that can be found scattered around the province.Si Sa Ket became a city in 1759, during the Ayutthaya period. Although there is little of significance in Si Sa Ket, it is one of the best places for travelling to the many Khmer ruins scattered around the southern Isan region.

Places of Attraction

Princess Mother's ParkThe park is situated about 1 km from the centre of town, along Kasikam Rd. It is located in the grounds of Si Saket Agricultural College. It was built to honour the Princess' Mother on her 80th birthday.

Prasat Hin Wat Sa Kampang YaiThis sandstone temple was built on a slope at the edge of Ban Sa Kampang, about 2 km from the centre. The structure was believed to have been built around the 10th century when the area was under control of the Khmers, under King Suriyaworaram. The main entrance gate in inscribed with Khmer lettering, while the walls have many carved scenes.

Prasat Khao Phra ViharnThis magnificent Khmer sanctuary is located on a 500m cliff overlooking the jungle in Cambodia once controlled by the Khmer-Rouge. Now safely opened for the general public, this enchanting site is a great example of the Khmer heritage.The site was dedicated to the Hindu god, Shiva, and was believed to have been built during the time of King Suryavarman I (1002-1050). The walkway leading to the central sanctuary is over 850m long with pavilions and courtyards along the way.

Sakon Nakhon Province The province of Sakon Nakhon is approximately 650 km from Bangkok. It is situated in the far northeast region and borders with Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan (which all border with Laos), Udon Thani and Kalasin. Historically the area was under the control of the Khmers, when it was an important provincial centre. The second most revered Lao-style stupa, Phrathat Choeng Chum, is to be found in Sakon Nakhon. On the edges of the town of Sakon Nakhon is Nong Han, the largest natural lake to be found in Thailand. The province is also known for two of the most famous Buddhist monks in Thai history; Acharn Man and his student Acharn Fan Ajaro, who were known to have mastered the Buddhist meditation, vipassana.

Places of Attraction

Phrathat Choeng ChumThis highly revered Lao-style temple is situated on Reuang Sawat Rd, in the centre of town. The chedi, standing at a height of 25m, was built over the remains of a Khmer style prang during the Ayutthaya period.

Phrathat Narai Cheng WengThis temple is located about 5km from the town, in the village of Ban That. The five tiered sandstone prang was originally part of a Khmer Hindu complex dating from the 11th century.

Wat Pa SutthawatThis temple, situated in the southwest of town holds the remains of the famous Phra Achan Man. There is a bronze image of the monk as well as articles linked to the monk on display.

Nong HanThe lake has an area of 32 sq km and contains many small islands. One of the most pleasant is Don Sawan, which is very popular at weekends and holidays and can easily be reached by a hired boat.

Wax Castle FestivalThe festival is held at the end of the Buddhist Lent. The local people make well detailed castles from bees wax and parade them through the streets in a merit-making event.

Roi Et Province The northeastern province of Roi Et is one of the poorest in the Kingdom of Thailand. The province is encompassed by the Tung Kula Rong Hai, a large infertile plain. The poor agricultural soil has led to the impoverishment of the area, although the government has gone to great lengths to make the land more fertile and productive.

Places of Attraction

Bung Phlan ChaiThe city of Roi Et is built around the lake of Bung Phlan Chai. In the centre of the lake is a small island, which is linked by footbridges, containing the city pillar or lak muang.

Wat NeuaThis temple is situated in the northwest of town. The chedi dates back to the Dvaravati period and has an unusual four cornered bell-shape, rarely seen in Thailand

Wat Klang Ming Muang This temple is situated on Charoenhanit Rd in the northeast part of town. It is believed to have been built before the founding of the city, with the bot added in the 18th century

Wat BuraphaphiramThis temple is situated in the northeastern part of town. It enshrines the largest standing Buddha image in Thailand, Phra Phutta Ratana Mongkhon Maha, standing at over 67 m tall.

Nong Khai Province
Nong Khai province is situated along the mighty Mekong River, the natural border that separates Thailand And Laos. The area was once part of the ancient Vientiane kingdom before coming part of Monthon Lao Phuan, during the reign of Rama V. The Monthon covered a large part of the northeast region and Vientiane. In the late 19th century when French colonialists took control over Vientiane, the Monthon capital was moved to nearby Udon Thani.
The city of Nong Khai is situated about 2km east of the Friendship Bridge, which spans the Mekong between Ban Jommani and Tha Na Laeng (20km southeast of Vientiane). The bridge was built to link landlocked Laos with Highway 2, thus opening the area for trading and to port facilities in Thailand.

Places of Attraction

Wat Pho ChaiThe wat is located off Prajak Rd, in the east-central part of town. The temple is famous for its exquisite Lang Xang style sitting Buddha image, Luang Pho Phra Sai. The image has a solid gold head, with the usnisa (wisdom 'bump' on the head) decorated with rubies, while the body is bronze.The inside of the bot is lined with murals depicting the dramatic journey of the image from Laos. The image sunk while being transported across the Mekong in 1550. It remained on the riverbed until 1575, when it was retrieved and placed in Wat Pradit Thammakhun. It was later moved to Wat Pho Sai during the reign of King Mongkut (1852-1868). During the annual Songkran Festival in April, the highly revered image is led on a procession around the town.

Prap Haw Monument The monument was raised in 1886 to commemorate the victory over Chiin Haw (Yunnanese) tribesmen who invaded the region in the late 1800's. The monument is in front of the city hall. The monument contains the remains of top officials who lost their lives in crushing the rebellion.

Phra That Nong KhaiThis temple is better known as Phra That Klang Nam. The Laos style chedi has slipped away from the river bank and is placed in the middle of the river. The top of the chedi is only revealed during the dry-season; when it is immediately adorned with religious decorations by the locals. The chedi is located about 2.5km east of town.

Wat Hin Mak Peng
This temple is located in Si Chiang Mai district. Situated on the banks of the Mekong River, this tranquil meditation centre is a great place to view the Laotian landscape. The grounds of the temple are tended to by Mae Chii, Buddhist nuns.

Nong Bua Lamphu Province
The province of Nong Bua Lamphun is located north of the Isan plateau and is bordered with the provinces of Udon Thani, Khon Kaen and Loei. It is a relatively new province, having being from Amphoe status in Udon Thani in 1993.
The province is very mountainous and has many beautiful lakeside scenes. The foot of the mountains are the location for a large cave network and many pre-historic archaeological sites have been discovered in the province.

Places of Attraction

King Naresuan the Great StatueThe statue of King Naresuan is located in the centre of town. It was erected to commemorate the King and his army stopped here on their way to attack Vientiane in 1574.

Wat Tham SuwannakhuhaThis temple is located in Amphoe Suwannakhuha, about 50 km from Nong Bua Lam Phu. Commonly called simply Wat Tham, it was built in 1572 by a king of Vientiane.

Wat Tham Klong PhenThe temple is located at the foot of the Phu Phan mountain range, about 13km from the township. It was formerly the meditation centre for Phra Achan Luang Pu Khao Analayo, who is well known and respected by Thais nationwide. In the grounds is a small museum that has a statue of Luang Pu Khao and a collection of his utensils.

Erawan CaveThe cave is approached by the 107 steps that ascend to the cave mouth. The inside of the cave is very large and contains many beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. The opening of the cave has a large seated Buddha overlooking the wonderful setting below.

Nakhon Ratchasima Province
Nakhon Ratchasima or "Korat" as it is better known, sits on the SW edge of the NE region, over 250 km from Bangkok. It is Thailand's largest province, covering an area of over 20,500 sq km. Korat is the principal city in the area and is quite prosperous compared to the rest of the northeast region.
The city was established in the 17th century, during the reign of King Narai. At the founding of the city there was two older settlements, Sema and Khorakpura, that were merged together to populate the city. The remains of the old town walls and moat are still in evidence today, as are the rebuilt town gates.
Today the city is the main transportation hub to the northeast region. The railway from Bangkok splits here to follow on to Ubon Ratchatani in the lower northeast and to Nong Khai at the Thai-Laos border. By road the city is linked to Bangkok by Highway 2, which also leads to the Thai-Laos border.

Places of Attraction

Mahawirawong National MuseumThe museum is situated in the grounds of Wat Sutchinda on Rachdamnern Rd. It houses a good collection of Khmer artifacts, as well as art objects from other periods.

Thao Suranari ShrineThis bronze monument is located in the centre of town, opposite the Chumpon Gate. It was erected in 1934 in commemoration of Khunying Mo, the wife of a Deputy Governor, who dispelled an invading Laotian army in 1826. She has become a regional heroine, with people coming from all over the district to pay their respects to the monument. In March each year there is a 10 day-long festival in honour of Khunying Mo, with plenty of local entertainment and folk singing around the monument.

Wat Sala LoiLocated in the northeastern part of town, on the banks of the Lam Thakong River. This is a modern Buddhist temple, built in 1973. The bot is shaped like an old Chinese junk, to symbolize a boat taking the faithful to Nirvana.

Pak Thong ChaiThis village is situated 30 km south on Route 304. It is a silk weaving village and a major supplier to the silk shops in Bangkok. There are many small factories to visit, where the various processes of production can be observed. High quality silk products are also sold here, though not necessarily cheaper than in Bangkok.

Prasat Hin Phanom WanLocated on the outskirts of town, on the way to Phimai. This historical Khmer shrine has indications that it was originally built as a Hindu shrine before being converted to a Buddhist temple. Experts are unsure of when it was actually built, though some believe that construction had started in the early 10th century. Some restoration work, though limited, has been carried out on the shrine.

Ban Dan KwaiThe village is located 15 km to the southeast of Korat, on Route 204. Dan Kwai is well known for the distinctive rust-coloured pottery that is produced there. The clay is gathered from the local river, then shaped into beautiful vases, pots, wind chimes and many other fine objects, including jewellery. Several stalls situated along the main road can be found selling the finished wares.

PHIMAI
Phimai is a small ancient town, 52 km to the northeast of Korat. The town is known for the splendid Khmer sanctuary, Prasat Hin Phimai. It once played an important role for the Khmers, as it marked the western reaches of the kingdom.

Prasat Hin PhimaiThe building of this magnificent Hindu and Mahayana Buddhist Angkor period Khmer monument was begun by King Jayavarman V towards the end of the 10th century and was not completed until the early part of the 11th century by King Suriyavarman.Inside the walled compound, which is accessed at the Victory Gate or Pratu chai, are three prangs: Prang Prathon, the largest, is made of white sandstone, the laterite Prang Phromothat and the red sandstone Prang Hin Daeng.Although dedicated to Mahayana Buddhism the complex shows many Hindu influences. Some scholars believe that Prasat Hin Phimai was the basis for the design of Angkor Wat.

Phimai National MuseumThis new museum has many fine exhibits; mainly focussing on sculptures from the Isaan region. It has on display a large collection of lintels and statues from Phimai, Phanom Rung and many of the other Khmer sites in Thailand. The chief exhibit is a stone sculpture of King Jayavarman VII of Angkor.

Nakhon Phanom Province
The province of Nakhon Phanom lies along the mighty Mekong river in the northeast of Thailand, just over 700 km from Bangkok. The provincial capital sits on the banks of the river with splendid views over the river of Laos, especially the mountains beyond the Laos town of Tha Khaek. The city was given the name Nakhon Phanom, meaning "City of Mountains" due to the geographical area surrounding it. A promenade has been built along the river front, for people to enjoy the wonderful view.
The stream of Lao and other ethnic groups that have crossed the river over the centuries has brought distinct differences in the local customs, dialects and cuisine. Visitors with a valid visa for travelling to Laos are now permitted to cross the river by ferry at Nakhon Phanom.
There is even talk of a bridge being built here, which would link a route all the way to the Gulf of Tonkin in Vietnam.

Places of Attraction

Wat That Phanom
This highly revered temple is located about 50 km to the south of the town centre. The exact date of its construction is unknown, although experts reckon it is over 1500 years old. The Lao-style chedi stands at 52m high and the top is decorated with 110kg of gold. The temple is considered one of the most important in the northeast region and thousands flock to the temple during the annual fair, which is celebrated on the full moon of the 3rd lunar month.

Renu Nakhon
The village of Renu Nakhon is about 50 km from town. The village has a market selling cotton and silk materials produced locally. The village temple Wat Phra That Renu Nakhon is similar to that at That Phanom.

Mahasarakham Province

The province of Mahasarakham is situated right in the middle of the northeast region. The province has little in interest for most travellers, although the simple life of this agricultural area can be a pleasant and enjoyable place to visit. The town has an institution centre for the research into the northeastern arts and culture.

Places of Attraction

Wat Mahachai
Situated in the wat compound is the Northern Culture Museum, which houses a collection of literature and art from the region.

Mongkhon Standing Buddha
This is the main Buddha image in Mahasarakham, dating from the Dvaravati period. It is made of red sandstone and was cast around the same time as the Phra Phutta Ming Muang.

Phra Phutta Ming Muang
This sandstone image is enshrined in Wat Suwanmali in Amphoe Kantharawichai. The locals have a legend that since this image and the Mongkhon Standing Buddha have existed, plentiful rain has fallen on the province.

Prang Ku
The remains of this Khmer prang is amongst and old site that was on the edges of the Khmer Empire. A large reservoir nearby is the site of the annual Bun Bang Fai or Rocket Festival.

Loei Province
Loei province is located between the northern and northeastern regions. Its position has led to many influences from both regions through history: resulting in an interesting blend of dialects and customs. The mountainous geography of the area has more in common with the north, which made the province less approachable for advancing armies. The area has remained one of the most unspoiled areas in the country.The mountainous area of the region was also the home for the guerillas of the Communist Party of Thailand, until the early 1980's.

Places of Attraction

Phra That Si Song Rak
This temple is located on the banks of the River Man, about 1km from Amphoe Dan Sai. It was built in 1560 to commemorate the mutual agreements made between Krung Sri Ayutthaya and Krung Sri Satana Kanahut of Vientiane.

Kaeng Khut Khu
These rapids are in the middle of the Mekong River, about 4km downstream of Chiang Khan. There is a small park, with vendors selling the usual Isan food and beverages.

Phu Kradung National Park
The park is centred around the 1360m Phu Kradung, the highest peak in Loei. The park covers an area of over 350 sq km of lush and fertile land that is home to various forest animals and many wild plants.The park has over 50 km of marked trails that cover cliffs, waterfalls and meadows. Accommodation is available in the park, although only basic. Contact the Forest Division, Tel Bangkok 5790529.

Khon Kaen Province

Khon Kaen is a large commercial city, the most important in the northeast. It is the home of the largest university in the region and is also the administrative centre for the region. This is accredited to the government's effort to help develop the region in the 1960s. It also played an important role during the Vietnam war, with a nearby airbase facilitating the US Air Force.
At the turn of this millenium a small town had developed near Phra That Kham Kaen. The town never really flourished and was abandoned several times through the centuries. In 1789 a ruler from Suwwanaphum founded the present-day city and named it Kham Kaen, after the chedi. The name was later changed to Khon Kaen.
As it the centre hub of transportation in the area, most travellers will end up passing through here. Although it doesn't offer the same interests as the villages and towns of the region, it still has something for those wishing to stop over.

Places of Attraction

Khon Kaen National Museum
The museum is situated at the junction of Kasikhon and Lungsun Rachakhan roads. It has a superb collection of artefacts from the region, especially the archaeological finds from Ban Chiang in Udon Thani province. There are also collections from the Dvaravati and Lopburi(Khmer) periods of Thai history on show.

Phra That Kham Kaen
This 19 m-high chedi at Wat Chotiyaphun is located 30 km from the city centre. The chedi was built over the stump of a tamarind tree, that allegedly flowered after been dead for a long time. The spot was were a group of monks, carrying Buddha relics, stopped overnight. On their later return, the relics were enshrined in the chedi.

Non Muang
This archaeological site is located about 85km from Khon Kaen. The site was an ancient Chumpae habitat, believed to have been inhabited up until the 10th century. Excavators have found human skeletons and bronze tools from over 3,000 years ago.

Kalasin Province
The small province of Kalasin is located about 520 km from Bangkok. It is a relatively quiet province, with the provincial capital small and rather charming. Although it offers few attractions, there are the remains of a Dvaravati-period town located nearby at Muang Fa Daed.

Places of Attraction

Wat KlangThis temple is located on Kalasin Rd, in the centre of town. It houses an impressive black Buddha image, cast in bronze. The image is considered the most important in the province, and is usually held aloft during processions to bring rain. The temple also enshrines a sandstone footprint of the Buddha.

Phra Buddha Saiyat Phu Khao
This Reclining Buddha can be found about 6 km from the township. The image, carved into a stone cliff, is different to the usual style, in that the figure is leaning on the left side rather than the normal right. It was built around the end of the 17th century.

Muang Fa Daed
This ancient moated town probably dates back to around the 8th century AD. It is located about 20 km south of town.Archaeologists have found beautifully carved bei sema (boundary stones), along with clay pipes and other utensils.

Ban Phon
This village, about 70 km from Kalasin, is well known for its Phrae Wa. It is a hand crafted, patterned silk cloth, which is made by the local Phu Thai people who are the descendents of Vietnamese immigrants.

Chaiyaphum Province
Chaiyaphun is probably the least visited province in Thailand. The province is flanked by two mountain ranges; Dong Phaya Yen to the west and Khao Khiew to the north, which have resulted in its remoteness. The major roads and rail network have by-passed this small province, doing little to promote travel to the area. Although the road system has been up-graded, traversing the area in a four-wheel drive (especially during the rainy season) is recommended. Historically the province was ruled by the Khmers until the 13th century when their stronghold in the region started to wane. After the Khmers abandoned the area it remained un-populated until the late 18th century, when a large group of Laotians settled in the area. Although the community paid tribute to Vientiane, they also developed a relationship with Bangkok. In the early 19th century Prince Anou of Vientiane declared war on the Siamese. Wise to the knowledge that Anou's troops were no match for the military superiority of the Siamese troops, the Lao ruler of Chaiyaphun, Jao Phraya Lae, switched allegiance. He later died in battle in 1806.The Siamese sacked Vientiane in 1828, resulting in the Siamese controlling most of western Laos. The Thai's later conceded the territory to the French at the end of the century.

Places of Attraction

Prang Ku
This sandstone Khmer prang was built in the 12th century, during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. Inside the prang is a Buddha image, believed to be from the Dvaravati period.

Taat Ton National Park
This small park is situated about 20km to the northwest of town, at the edge of the Laen Da mountain range. The park contains three scenic waterfalls; Taat Tohn, Taat Klang and Phaa Phiang, of which Taat Tohn are the largest.Accommodation is available in the form of bungalows, priced between 400-800 Baht.

Ban Khwao
Located about 15km to the west of town, this village is renowned for its high quality and elaborately patterned hand-woven silk. Visitors can observe the processes of the production of the high quality silk; from the acquiring of the raw silk from the silkworms to the dyeing and weaving processes.

Buriram Province

Buriram was once an integral part of the ancient Khmer kingdom. During this period many fine monuments were constructed in the area. The most well known of these are the magnificent, laboriously restored ruins of Phanom Rung. The ruins are just one historical site in a province which boasts over 60.

Places of Attraction

Prasat Hin Khao Phanom Rung Historical Park
This magnificent Khmer sanctuary was built on the summit of an extinct volcanoe, Rainbow Hill. The building of the whole complex spanned over 200 years, between the 10th and early 13th centuries,and is constructed of sandstone and laterite. The central sanctuary was built in traditional Khmer style; a symmetrical cruciform plan. The approach to the central sanctuary starts over 400m away to the east and includes a 160m avenue made of laterite and sandstone blocks. At the end of the avenue is the first of three bridges adorned with the mythical Naga (dragon headed serpents). Then a walk up the monumental staircase leads into the sanctuary's eastern gallery.
A greater part of the construction work was completed during the reign of King Suriyavarman II (1113- 1150 AD) and was clearly originally built as a Hindu monument. The entrances to the central sanctuary and other main parts of the complex are decorated with Vaishnava and Shiva deities.The lintel of the eastern portico of the mondop is the famous Phra Narai, a relief of the Reclining Vishnu (Lord Narayana). The lintel disappeared, eventually turning up at the Art Institute of Chicago. Strong objections from the Thai government and sympathisers in the US led to the return of the lintel in late 1988.

Khao Kradung
This volcanic cone is located amidst the mountainous terrain, 8 km south-east of town. At the peak of the hill, at 300m, the crater has filled with rainwater, creating a small lake. Overlooking the volcano is a 20m high white Buddha image, Suphatra Borphit, along with an ancient stupa that contains a footprint of the Lord Buddha. The hilltop also offers a perfect vista of the surroundings.

Elephant Village
The elephant has long been a revered animal throughout the history of the Thai nation and long before. This elephant village at Ban Ta Klang, is supported by THAI which has also set-up a museum dedicated to the pachyderms, detailing the important roles they have played through the centuries. All the tools used from capturing the elephants and through their training are on display, along with the traditional dresses of the mahout. On Sundays from 09:30 to 11:00 an elephant show is performed.

Amnat Charoen Province Amnat Charoen is located in the far east of Thailand, where it is set along the River Mekong. It borders with the provinces of Mukdahan, Yasothon and Ubon Ratchathani. It was established as a province in 1993, when it was upgraded from Amphoe Amnat Charoen of Ubon Ratchathani province. The beautiful setting along the mighty Mekong River, is a pleasant spot for anyone to enjoy the peace and tranquility that the scenes allow.

Places of Attraction

Phra Mongkhon Ming Muang
This Buddha sanctuary is located about 3km from town, just off highway 211. The large image was designed by Chit Buabat and was cast in 1965.

Wat Tham Saeng Phet
This hill top meditation sanctuary is located about 10km from town, off the Amnat Charoen-Khemmarat Road. Beautifully set amongst rocks, the temple was led by Phra Achan Cha Suphattho, the late abbot of Wat Nong Pa Phong in Ubon Ratchathani. Many monks from different countries come here to practice meditation.

Wat Phra Lao Thep Nimit
This old temple is located about 2km from Amphoe Phana centre. Considered to be over 200 years old, the temple enshrines an ancient Buddha image, Phra Lao Thep Nimit.

Uttaradit Province
Uttaradit is located in the north of Thailand surrounded by provinces Loei, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Phrae Nan and also borders with Laos to the east. The province was historically at the furthest edges of the Khmer empire around the 13th century. Later, when the emerging kingdom of Sukhothai led by King Ramkamhaeng started to take a stronghold in the region it became a central part of the empire.

Places of Attraction

Wat Tha Thanon
This temple is located in the heart of Uttaradit city centre. The viharn enshrines a highly revered Buddha image, the bronze sitting Buddha, Luang Pho Phet. The Chiang Saen period image has a lap span of 32..5 inches and a height of 41 inches.

Wat Phra Boromthat
This temple is also known as Wat That Thung Yang. It is located near the Thung Yung market, about 5 km west of town. This is an ancient temple, although many of the structures have been rebuilt.

Wat Phra Yun Buddha Bat Yukhon
This Chiang Saen period temple is located on a hill top about 6 km from town. The mondop is topped with a five layered roof, a style of the early Chaing Saen artisans and is rare to find in Thailand.

Sirikit Dam
The Sirikit dam is located about 60 km from town, in Amphoe Tha Pla. The dam is 169 m in height and 800m long. The dams construction begun in 1963 to improve flood control and generate power from the Maenam Nan, a tributary of the Chao Phraya.

Nam Phi Village
This village is well known for making iron swords that do not rust. The village is located about 25km from the centre of town, in Amphoe Thong Saen Khan.

Uthai Thani Province
Uthai Thani is situated in the lower north region of Thailand. It is bordered with provinces Nakhon Sawan, Chai Nat, Suphanburi, Kanchanaburi and Tak. Although it far from the main highway and thus rarely visited by people travelling north, it does have some natural attractions and places of interest for those making a sidetrack to this province.

Places of Attraction

Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri
This temple is situated at the foot of Khao Sakae Krang. The temple enshrines a bronze Buddha image, Phra Mongkhon Saksit. The image, which is in the attitude of Subduing Evil, is highly revered by the inhabitants of Uthai Thani.

Khao Sakae Krang Buddha Footprints
The footprints are housed on the summit of Khao Sakae Krang, near Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri. The mondop that covers the footprints was built in 1905 and later renovated in 1968. An annual fair celebrating the footprints takes place during the fourth lunar month.

Monument of Somdet Phra Pathom Borom Maha Chanok
This monument stands near the Buddha footprints. It was inaugurated in 1979 by Their Majesties the King and Queen, in memory of Somdet Phra Pathom who was the father of King Rama I, who was born in the town of Sakae Krang.

Bung Khok Chang
This site of this ancient city is located in Amphoe Sawang Arom. The remains found here are in good condition and include many various artefacts such as pottery, iron tools, jewellery and inscriptions .

Tak Province Tak province is situated on the border with Myanmar, with the River Moei acting as a natural boundary line for the two nations. Most of the province is forested, with mountainous regions that are excellent for trekking.
The region is the centre of the smuggling industry, where all sorts of illicit dealings have been going on, especially teak and opium brought over the border from Burma. Its location on the border has brought in a mixture of Burmese and Karen influences. Around the Mae Sot region there are many Karen refugee camps, its residents there to escape the fighting between the Karen and the Burmese government troops.
The city of Tak is situated on the eastern banks of the Ping River. Although the city centre itself is not very interesting, there is plenty to see in the environs. There is plenty of comfortable accommodation available for those travelling in the area and who may want to stop-over.

Places of Attraction

King Taksin the Great Shrine
In remembrance of the cities most illustrious son, General Taksin. This gilded statue of King who would re-unite and expand the Thai kingdom after the destruction of Ayutthaya in 1767 is set in a small pavilion surrounded by the models of horses.

Mani Banphot Swamp
This scenic area is located near to Wat Mani Banphot, in the centre of town. Enshrined Inside the temple is a Chiang Saen Buddha image dating from the 13th century.

Khao Tham
This 71m hill is located off Phahonyothin Rd. At the top of the hill are enshrined replicas of Lord Buddha's footprints. Many people in Tak come here to pay homage to the footprints, especially during the Songkran festivities in April.

Sukhothai Province

The much treasured old city of Sukhothai is 12 km from the 'new' city along Highway 12. It has its place in Thai history as being the capital of the first independent Thai Kingdom. From the middle of the 13th to the end of the 14th centuries the Sukhothai kingdom has been considered the 'Golden Age' of Thai civilisation. The ruins of this once great city, along with the architectural splendours surrounding it, were designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Between the 9th and 10th centuries Sukhothai was under Khmer sovereignty, which can be noted in the many Khmer style prangs located in the historical park. The Tai's moved into the area around the beginning of the 11th century, when they were believed to have migrated from states in Southern China. Later, in 1240, according to legend, the Tai King Indradit defeated the Khmer chief in a duel on elephant. King Indradit then built Wat Mahatat as the centre of this new kingdom.
King Ramkhamhaeng, the son of King Indratit and the most famous of the nine kings of the Sukhothai Dynasty, expanded the kingdom to almost the present day boundaries of Thailand. He invited monks from Ceylon to preach Theravada Buddhism, which became predominant and united the people. The city flourished, the people content and harmonious. This period gave the influence and inspiration to the artists and sculptors, who reflected it in the elegant styles of religious art and architecture labelled as Sukhothai style. Ramkhamhaeng is also credited to the development of the Thai script, which he derived from Mon and Khmer scripts.In 1378, the frontier city, Kamphaengphet, was taken over by King Borommaracha I (U-thong) of Ayutthaya. Eventually Sukhothai would become a vassal state of Ayutthaya.

Places of Attraction

Ramkhamhaeng Museum
For visitors to the Historical Park, a stop at this museum before wandering around the ruins is recommended. The museum holds a copy of the famous Ramkhamhaeng's stela inscription, as well as many artefacts from the Sukhothai and Khmer periods.

Wat Mahatat
This was the centre of the Sukhothai Kingdom, not only in the religious sense but also the political. The construction of the complex was started by King Indradit and finally completed by King Lo Thai around 1345. The whole complex, containing nearly 200 chedis, 10 viharns and a multitude of other structures, is enclosed by a moat and brick walls.

Wat Trapang Thong
Located next to the Ramkhamhaeng Museum, this active monastery is placed on an island in the middle of a large lotus-filled pond. The ruined Ceylonese-style laterite chedi is fronted by a mondop containing a Buddha footprint slab created by King Li Tai in 1390. An annual festival to worship the footprint coincides with the Loi Krathong festivities in November.

Wat Sra Sri
The wat sits on a small island to the west of the King Ramkhamhaeng Monument. The complex is dominated by a Ceylonese-style chedi. There is also a large seated Buddha image enclosed within the ruined columns of the viharn.

Wat Sri Sawai
Built in the time of Khmer dominance, the temple grounds contain three prangs, the largest of which is the central prang, standing at 20 m high. The prangs were decorated with stucco decorations during the 15th century. Originally it was a Hindu shrine before it was converted into a Buddhist shrine.

Wat Sri Chum
Situated in the north west of the old city. The large impressive mondop encloses a 15 m seated Buddha image, made from brick and stucco. The image, in the attitude of subduing Mara, is believed to be the Phra Atchana, mentioned in Ramkhamhaeng' famous inscription. A staircase leading to space behind the image's head, revealing line carvings of the Jataka tales (stories of Buddha's previous life episode), has now been blocked.

Wat Phra Pai Luang
This temple dates back to before the rise of the Sukhothai kingdom. Built during the reign of the Khmer King Jayavarman VII, it was probably the principal structure during the Khmer period. The site is interesting for the remains of the three prangs, of which the northern prang retains some of the original fine stucco work. The temple grounds also contain over 30 stupas of various styles.

Wat Saphan Hin
This temple is located to the west of the old city, perched on top of a hill overlooking the plain. The name means 'stone bridge', in reference to the slate path and staircase that leads to the temple and remains intact today. The remnants consist of a few chedis, a ruined viharn and a 12.5 m high standing Buddha image.

Si Satchanalai
Si Satchanalai, the twin city of Sukhothai, lies 50 km to the north of Sukhothai. The site was probably built on the former Khmer town of Chaliang. Located on the east bank of the Yom River and surrounded by a 10 metre deep moat and walls three rows thick, the site was heavily defended. The city was linked to Sukhothai by a 50km long road, the Phra Ruang highway. The city has become famous for the ceramics produced in the nearby villages of Ban Ha Yang and Ban Ko-Noi, to the north. These are said to be the finest produced in the kingdom, known as Sawankhalok ware. Along with Sukhothai it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Wat Chang Lom
This temple lies in the centre of the old city and is the most sacred in Si Satchanalai. The main chedi was built by King Ramkhamhaeng between 1285 and 1291. The chedi is said to hold sacred relics of Buddha, which -according to his famous Inscription No. 1- he dug up, worshipped them for a month and 6 days, then buried. The chedi was then built over them. The chedi - the first Ceylonese style chedi to be found in Thailand - has a base supported by 39 elephants and niches enshrining images in the attitude of subduing Mara.

Wat Chedi Jet Thaew
The wat contains the remnants of 34 chedis, which contain the ashes of the Si Satchanalai ruling family and was most likely built by King Li Thai. The 14th century mondop displays a mixture in architectural styles: from the Khmer and Sukhothai archway, to the Ceylonese bell and tower which crown it.

Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng
This temple is located on a small hill, to the north of town. The approach to the temple is by a laterite staircase, with a total of 144 steps. The ruins include a large seated Buddha and a Ceylonese-style chedi. Archaelogical excavations have revealed an animistic shrine, indicating that Si Satchanalai was inhabited before the Khmer period.

Wat Nang Phaya
This temple, in the southern part of the city, probably dates back to the 15th century. The site is dominated by a large Ceylonese-style chedi. On the western wall of the laterite viharn are beautiful stucco floral reliefs.

Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat
Located further along the Yom River at Chaliang. The large laterite prang probably dates back to the mid 15th century (during the reign of King Boromtrailokant), although it was believed to have been built over an earlier Khmer prasat. Amongst the ruins of the viharn, in front of the prang, is a large seated Sukhothai-style Buddha image and a smaller walking Buddha.

Wat Chao Chan
Located to the east of the fortified town, at Chaliang. The large Khmer-style prang is believed to have been built during the reign of the Khmer King Jayavarman VII (1181-1217).

Phrae Province
The province of Phrae is well known in Thailand for its seua maw hawm, an indigo-dyed cotton farmers shirt, worn by many Thais all over the country. It is also known for its teak industry, which thrived until the government ban on logging in 1989. Fine teak carvings can be found at Talaat Hua Dong, a market specialising in wooden carvings, in the Sung Men district.The provincial capital, Phrae, is an attractive city situated in a narrow valley along the banks of the Mae Yom River. Founded in the 12th century, it was known as Wiang Kosai or 'Silk Cloth City'. It was an independent Thai state up until the 16th century, when it was overtaken by an army from Ayutthaya. When the power of Ayutthaya started to diminish in the late 18th century it came under the rule of the Burmese.

Places of Attraction

Wat Luang
This wat was founded in the 12th century and is the oldest in the city. It has an interesting large Lanna style chedi, Phra That Luang Chang Kham, which is usually wrapped in Thai Lü silk. The wat compound also contains a museum, with a varied collection of fine exhibits, including valuable Buddha images, coins, swords, jewellery and ceramics.

Wat Chom Sawan
This temple is situated on the outskirts of the old city, on Ban Mai Rd. It was built earlier this century by Shans, in a distinct mixture of Shan and Burmese styles. The wooden viharn and bot are combined in a high, tiered, multi-roofed structure. The large chedi has lost some of its stucco work, revealing the artful brickwork underneath. The main viharn holds a rare tripitaka, 16 pages of ivory engraved in Burmese.

Phrathat Cho Hae
This pagoda is located in Tambon Pa Daeng, about 9km from town. Standing at a height of 33m it is coated with a thin gold sheet. The name cho hae is derived from the satin that is wrapped around the pagoda by the villagers as an offering.

Wat Phrathat Chom Chaeng
The wat is located 3km past Phrathat Cho Hae. It is believed to enshrine a Buddha hair. A small museum in the compound exhibits various artefacts from the area.

Ban Prathap Jai
Situated on the western outskirts of town, Ban Prathap Jai (impressive house) is also known as Ban Sao Roi Tan (hundred pillar house). This large teak house was built using the timber from nine old teak houses. The inside support pillars are decoratively carved.

Phrae Meuang Phii'
The City of Ghosts' is a geological phenomenon, located about 18 km north east of the city. The soil has eroded, leaving pillars of soil and rock with an almost uniform height.

Phitsanulok Province
Phitsanulok was the birthplace of one of the greatest heroes in Thai history - King Naresuan. As a young prince he was taken away by the Burmese, after they had defeated Ayutthaya, to guarantee the good behavior of his father, King Thammarat. On his return to Ayutthaya, aged 16, he was given the principality to govern by his father. He developed his military and political expertise, which helped him immensely when he took to the throne of Ayutthaya in 1590.During the reign of King Boromtrailokant of Ayutthaya (1448-1488), Phitsanulok became the capital of Siam for a short period of 25 years. Up until the Burmese ransacked Ayutthaya in 1767 it basically functioned as the kingdom's second city.The modern city doesn't really have anything to offer the traveller compared to the great cities of nearby Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai. However, it does have a good selection of western style hotels and can be a good resting point for those travelling to the north.

Places of Attraction

Wat Phra Sri Ratana Mahathat
The Monastery of the Great Relic. The locals call it simply Wat Yai, 'Big Wat'. The monastery was built on the eastern banks of the River Nan, in 1357, during the reign of King Phra Li Thai. The viharn houses one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images - Phra Buddha Chinarat. The image, cast in bronze, is a perfect example of Sukhothai style and is believed to have been made under the orders of King Li Thai in 1357. The image is housed in a three-tier viharn, built in a mixture of Ayutthayan and Lanna styles. Over the centuries, successive Thai kings have visited Phitsanulok to pay homage to the image.In a smaller viharn at the front of the main building, lies another significant image - The Remnant Buddha - cast from the remaining bronze after the original image had been cast. Also in the compound is the Buddha Chinarat National Museum which holds a small collection of Sukhothai Buddha images and an assortment of ceramics.

Wat Chulamani
The oldest historical monument in the region are the remains of this once impressive Khmer-style prang. The remnants indicate that it was once an elegantly constructed temple. Inscriptions on the ruined of the viharn tell the story of King Borom Trailokanat's ordination there as a monk. The prang is situated 5 km south of the city, along Borom Trailokanat Rd

Buddha Casting Foundry
Located on Wisut Kasat Rd, is this small factory where bronze Buddha images are cast. As well as being able to watch the craftsmen at work, there is a detailed photo collection of the processes involved in the lost wax method of casting.

Folk Museum
The museum is located near the foundry, on Wisut Kasat Rd. The museum was established by Dr Thawi, a respected authority on Northern Thai folklore, who also owns the foundry. The collection of various utensils used in daily life, from agricultural implements to cooking utensils and musical instruments, are from Dr Thawi's personal collection. The exhibits are well laid out and information on the pieces is included.

Phichit Province The province of Phichit is located in the centre of the lower north of Thailand. It covers an area of over 4500 sq km and borders with the provinces of Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Nakhon Sawan and Kamphaeng Phet.Phichit is believed to date back to 1058, when it was founded by a local lord, Phraya Khot Thabong. During the Sukhothai Period it was known as Sa Luang, and during the reign of King Chulalongkhorn it was recognised as a province.

Places of Attraction

Wat Tha Luang
This temple is located on Busaba Rd, overlooking the Mae Nam Nan River. This wat is to be noted for its fine bronze Buddha image, in the attitude of subduing evil, cast in the Chiang Saen style. The wat is also the site for Phichit's annual boat racing festival.

Wat Khao Rup Chang
This temple can be found about 15 km south of Phichit, along the Phichit-Taphan Hin Road. It enshrines a walking Buddha image and a replica of Buddha's footprints.

The Old City Park
About 10 km from the urbanised city of Phichit lies the old city, or 'Muang Kao'. The site is now a public garden and there are two important monastries situated nearby. Wat Nakhon Chum has a fine viharn, said to date from the Sukhothai period, housing an 800 year old Buddha image. A few hundred metres away lies Wat Mahathat, which is also believed to date from the Sukhothai period, which contains a ruined chedi and the remnants of various monastic buildings.

Phichit Annual Boat Race
The site of Wat Tha Luang is where this annual boat fair takes place, on the first Saturday and Sunday of September. the highlight of the festival are the competing boats which are finely decorated, as well as a beauty competition.

Phetchabun Province
Phetchabun province is located almost in the centre of the northern part of Thailand, in the border area separating the north and northeast of Thailand. It is situated about 350 km from Bangkok and covers an area of over 12,000 sq km. The provincial capital is situated at the confluence of five rivers; Pasak, Kao, Ku, Taluk and Sala.

Places of Attraction

Wat Traiphum
This temple is located in the centre of town, on Phetcharat Rd. The temple enshrines a Buddha image cast in the Lopburi style, Phra Buddha Maha Thammaracha. The image is said to have been found washed up on the banks of the Pasak River, from where it was retrieved and placed in the temple.The image later disappeared, only to be found in the same spot as before.

Phetchabun City Pillar
This stone pillar is located in the heart of the city. It was brought from Muang Si Thep by Prince Damrong Rachanuparp in 1804.

Si Thep Historical Park
This ancient city is located about 110 km from Phetchabun township. The city dates back to the Dvaravati period during the 6th-8th centuries. It was later part of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century. The inner part of the city was designed by Mon architects, with the later outer part of the city was added by the Khmers. The city covers an area 4 km by 1.5 km and is one of the largest archaeological sites in Thailand. Work is now under way to excavate and restore the ruined temples.

Phayao Province The province of Phayao is wedged between Chiang Rai and Nan provinces, in the far north of Thailand. It was first established as a state under the rule of the King of Chaing Saen, before becoming a part of Chaing Rai province in 1897 during the reign of King Rama V. In 1977, it was seperated from Chaing Rai and gained provincial status. The city of Phayao is relatively quiet and is set on a lake.

Places of Attraction

King Ngam Muang Monument
The monument was erected in honour of King Ngam Muang, the former ruler of Phu Kam Yao (phayao). It is situated in the public park at Kwan Phayao.

Wat Si Khom Khan
The temple, known locally as Phra Chao Ton Luang, is situated on the banks of Lake Phayao. The main image is a sitting Buddha with a lap span of 14m and a height of 17m. The annual Phayao fair takes place here every May.

Doi Chom Thong
This small hill is located on the banks of Kwan Phayao. It is accessed from a small road that branches off Phaholyothin Rd and leads to the hilltop.

Kwan Phayao
This natural lake covers an area of 10,600 rai. It is filled with clear and clean water and is a breeding ground for fresh water fishes. Along the edge of the lake food shops are located.

Phayao Fishery Office
This is where the first cultivation of the giant catfish took place. The Pla Buek is the worlds largest fresh water fish and can only be found in the Mekhong River. There is an exhibition room with various fish on display, as well as the methods that are used in their work.

Nan Province
Nan is one of Thailand's most isolated provinces, covered in thick forested mountains and endowed with rich river valleys. The province is sandwiched between Chiang Rai and Phrae provinces to the west and Laos to the east. Most of the inhabitants are involved in agriculture, growing beans, corn, sticky rice and tobacco in the fertile river plains. Ethnic tribes dwell on the hillside around the Nan River valley; predominately Mien, with smaller groups of Hmong. There is also a presence of lesser known hill tribes that only reside in this region, like the Thai Lü, Khamu and Htin and a small nomadic group known as 'The People of the Yellow Leaves' who move on when their huts made of green leaves turn yellow.
The provincial capital of Nan is situated on the banks of the River Nan - the third longest river in Thailand at 627 km. It was once the centre of an independent kingdom that had little association with its neighbours. In the mid 13th century, gathered together with several other small states, the more powerful Nanthaburi was formed. An association with the Sukhothai kingdom was formed, but its remoteness allowed the state a considerable amount of independence. In the latter part of the 14th century it became a principality of the northern Lanna Thai kingdom and continued to flourish through to the 15th century. However, in 1587 the Burmese wrestled control of the kingdom, transporting many of the inhabitants to Burma to become slaves. Nan became barren and all but abandoned up until the end of the 18th century.
The historic figure of King Taksin, who re-trouped the Thai army and reclaimed the northern lands after the destruction of Ayutthaya, also wrestled the kingdom from the Burmese. Although it then came under the control of the Thai kingdom, it once again had more or less full independence. It was not until 1931 that it came under complete compliance with Bangkok rule. This was stretched in the 1970's when the region became a bastion for the communist insurgents.

Places of Attraction

Wat Phumin
The most famous temple in Nan, it is noted for its unusual cruciform bot/viharn, which is surrounded by bei sema (boundary stones marking consecrated ground) and acts as both bot and viharn. It was constructed in 1596, but was restored extensively between 1865 and 1873. The interior walls of the viharn are adorned with interesting murals, depicting the Khatta Kumara and Nimi jatakas, along with scenes of the lifestyle of the period, painted by Thai Lü artists during restoration.

Wat Phra
That Chae HaengThe temple is situated 2km southeast of town, just beyond the bridge spanning the river. Perfectly poised on a hill overlooking Nan, it was built in 1355 and is the most revered in Nan. The bot has an interesting Thai Lü influenced tripled-tier roof with beautifully carved wooden eaves. Next to the bot is a Lanna style gilded chedi standing 55 m high. An annual celebration takes place here on the full moon day of the first lunar month, with processions and a firework display.

Wat Phrathat Chang Kham
The founding date of this temple has not been established, but is believed to have been around the same time as the 14th century chedi. The chedi is supported by elephant buttresses, seven on each side, in the Sukhothai style. The viharn, which was built in 1547, contains three Sukhothai style Buddha images - two walking and one standing.

National Museum
This building on Phakong Rd was once the home of Nan's royal family. Opened in 1973, the museum has an impressive collection, with many items having a labelled description in English. The ground floor is a collection of silverware, utensils, textiles and tribal costumes covering the ethnic groups that can be found in the region. The second floor is allocated to exhibits on Nan history, archaeological finds, royal regalia and religious art.

Wat Hua Khuang
This small wat is located on the corner of Mahaphrom and Phakong roads. The Lanna/Lan Xang style chedi contains four Buddha images, all in the attitude of vanquishing Mara. There is an impressive two-storey tripitaka library and the bot has a Luang Prabang style wooden verandah.

Wat Suan Tan
Located in the north west of the city along Phakong Rd. The wat features a 15th century chedi with prang and Sukhothai style lotus bud motifs. The viharn contains a 15th century bronze sitting Buddha image named Phra Chao Thong Thit.

Nakhon Sawan Province

Nakhon Sawan is regarded as the gateway between the northern central plains and the north. The provincial city of Nakhon Sawan was built at the confluence of four rivers; Ping, Wang, Yom and Nan, where they meet to form the Chao Praya River. It was once an important centre for the teak industry, where logs coming from the northern forests were floated down to the south. However as Thailand's teak forests were being eaten up the Government intervened and banned logging in the Kingdom in 1989.

Places of Attraction

Wat Chom Kiri Nak Proth

This temple dating back to the Sukhothai period, stands on a hill near the Dejavitong Bridge (the first bridge to be built across the Chao Praya). It contains a seated Buddha image from the Ayutthaya Period and a footprint of the Buddha.

Bung Boraphet

This area of swampland, covering over 22,000 ha, is situated about 10 km from the city. It is famous for the Sua fish which abound in the swamp and are considered a delicacy.

Mae Hong Sorn Province Mae Hong Sorn is set in the north-western corner of Thailand. The province is bordered with Myanmar to the north and west, which explains the strong Burmese influence that can be noted in the capital's temples and buildings. Its positioning also lead to frequent power struggles between various Tai and Burmese kingdoms over the years.The early 19th century saw a great influx of the Shan people into the region, from north Burma where they had formed the Shan states. Originally from the Nanzhao Kingdom in southern China, a culmination of war and oppression had finally led them over the Loi Lar mountain range, where they first settled at Ban Pong Mu in 1831. Having settled in the area, the increasing numbers then founded what was to become Mae Hong Sorn. Deeply involved in the principles of Theravada Buddhism, they also had their own monarchy: the famous Wat Phra Norn was built by the first king of Mae Hong Sorn, Phaka Toekshan. The Shan are known locally as Thai Yai (Big Thai) and make up almost half of the local population.
The capital is sheltered by several mountains, keeping it cooler during the summer months and allowing the temperature to drop to only 2ºC during January. The mountains have long been home to various migrant hilltribes; Hmong, Lisu, Lahu and the predominant Karen. The area is also home to opium smugglers and illegal loggers, which have sadly brought the hilltribes into their illicit activities.The region's many natural attractions have brought increasing numbers of visitors over the recent years. All coming to a region which provides great opportunities for adventures; on its twisting roads, sweeping rivers and in the mountainous forested region, passing through villages with Burmese/Shan style temples. Waterfalls, not only pleasing to the eye, but also fill small pools which are a perfect treat at the end of long treks through the forests. The region is also well known for its multitude of caves: archaeologists have discovered some 67 in the province. The 400m long cave at Tham Lod, about 80km to the northwest of Mae Hong Sorn is just one of these fine caves.

Places of Attraction

Wat Phrathat Doi Kong Mu
This hilltop temple was built by the first Mae Hong Sorn king, Phraya Singhanatracha, in the mid 19th century. Set at an altitude of 1500m on Doi Kong Mu it offers a wonderful view of the city and the encompassing mountains and valleys. At the foot of the windy road that leads to this temple is another, Wat Phra Non, the first to be built in the city, containing a huge Burmese style reclining Buddha. The ashes of the Mae Hong Sorn's kings are housed in the temple, which has two giant stone lions standing guard at the base of the staircase.

Wat Hua Wiang
Situated at the junction of roads Phanit Wattana and Khunlum Praphat, this temple enshrines a brass Buddha image, Phra Chao Phara La Khaeng, a replica of the one in Myanmar.

Wat Jong Klang
The site started out as a rest pavilion for monks on pilgrimage. The wat was added later in the 19th century by Shans living in the area. Inside there is a collection of Burmese carved wooden dolls - tukata, depicting characters from the Jataka tales (stories of Buddha's previous life episode). There are also beautiful glass paintings, depicting aspects of Buddhism and simple local activities.

Wat Jong Kham
This temple is situated in the same compound as Wat Jong Klang. At the northern edge of the complex there is a colonial style building housing a large seated Buddha. The two temples are situated in front of the pond Nong Chong Kham, which acts as a public park and is a great resting place.

Lamphun Province This small province is situated to the south east of Chiang Mai. The province is mainly dominated by the town of Lamphun, once the capital of the Haripunchai kingdom (660-1281 A.D.) and one of the oldest preserved towns in Thailand.
The city was originally ruled by the Mon princess, Chama Devi, who was the founder of the Haripunchai kingdom. Even though the Dvaravati kingdom dwindled from existence at the surge of the Khmers by the 12th Century, Lamphun managed to retain the independence of the Mon culture until the late 13th century.In 1281, King Mengrai, head of the Lanna Thai Kingdom succeeded in capturing the city, thus putting an end to the Chama Devi dynasty and the last vestige of the Mon culture.

Places of Attraction

Wat Phrathat Haripunchai
This temple was built on the site of Queen Chama Thevi's palace in 1044. The compound contains an assortment of structures built in various styles. The 50m tall chedi is topped with a nine-tiered, pure gold umbrella tier, weighing 6.5kg. The main viharn houses many Buddha images, all in the attitude of subduing Mara. Also in the compound, housed in a pavilion, is the world's largest bronze gong.

Wat Chama Thevi
Lying just 1.5 km west of town, along Chama Devi Rd, this temple is more popularly known as Wat Kukut and was built in 775 AD by the Mon people. The chedi was constructed with a rare stepped-pyramid style base, five squared layers with niches containing Buddha images. Each of the Dvaravati style images are in the standing posture and in an attitude of dispelling fear. The top of the chedi was once encased in gold, but was later removed, giving to the name Wat Kukut (Temple without roof). The ashes of Queen Chama Thevi, the founder of the Haripunchai Kingdom, are enshrined in the chedi.

Lamphun National Museum
Located just across the street from Wat Phra That Haripunchai. The museum contains a small display of artefacts from the Dvaravati, Haripunchai and Lanna kingdoms, as well as various Buddha images.

Lampang Province

Lampang is located about 100 km southeast of Chiang Mai. It was established in the 7th century, during the Dvaravati period, and later played an important role in the Hariphunchai kingdom. The local belief is that the town was founded by the son of Queen Chama Devi, the ruler of the Hariphunchai kingdom. In common with the older cities in the north, Lampang was built within a walled rectangle by the side of a river, in this case the River Wang.At the beginning of this century, Lampang flourished in the highly profitable teak trade. Many of the fine temples around the town were sponsored by the timber merchants, who made vast fortunes from the hardwood. The highly sought hardwood was also the main building material used for the magnificent Wat Phra That Lampang Luan, thought to be the oldest wooden building still standing in Thailand.One of the more pleasurable sights in Lampang are its horse-drawn carts. Although the more modern modes of transport have overwhelmed the streets of most cities, these equine-driven carts are still a form of public transport around town.

Places of Attraction

Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao

This wat, situated on the northern side of the Wang River, once housed the famous Emerald Buddha. The Buddha (now enclosed in Wat Phra Kaeo in Bangkok) was enshrined here for 32 years, from 1436 to 1468. The columns and ceiling of the viharn are to be admired for their intricately inlaid porcelain and enamel. The Burmese-style chapel (mondop) is decorated with glass mosaic.

Wat Sri Chum

This temple was built over 200 years ago and has been registered with the Fine Arts Department as a national treasure. It is considered one of the finest Burmese style temples in Thailand. Unfortunately, the beautifully carved wooden viharn was damaged by fire in 1993, leaving only the carved arch of the entrance.

Wat Chedi Sao

Located about 6 km to the north east of town, towards Jao Hom. The temple derives its name from the group of twenty Lanna style chedis contained within the compound - sao means 20 in the Northern Thai language. The main image is a solid gold seated Buddha, from the 15th century. It weighs over 1.5kg and is said to hold a piece of the Lord Buddha's skull. The image is enclosed in a pavilion built on a small pond.

Wat Prathat Lampang Luang

This marvellous collection of religious buildings are considered to be of the finest found in Thailand. The whole complex can be admired for its distinctive Lanna-style architecture. The most outstanding structure in the complex is the open-sided Viharn Luang, believed to have been built in 1476. The triple-tiered roof of the viharn is supported by teak pillars that have been finely decorated. Behind the viharn is the principle chedi, standing 45m high and made from stone, covered with copper and brass plates. The chedi was erected in 1449 and later restored in 1496. The oldest of the buildings is the Viharn Phra Phut, thought to date back to the 13th century.

Kamphaeng Phet Province
Located just 80 km to the south of Sukhothai and its sister city of Si Satchanalai are the undisturbed ruins of the once important city of Kamphaeng Phet. Along with the other two, it has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, although it remains rather less known and visited.Kamphaeng Phet (Diamond Wall), established in the mid 14th century by King Li Thai, played the role of a defensive town for Sukhothai during a threat of conflict with neighbouring states. A 6m high defensive wall and accompanying moat laid the last line of defence for the enclosed city.To the north of the old city, the serene forested region of Arunyk was reserved as a place for meditation. Monks from Sri Lanka resided in the forest retreat and their influences can be seen in many of the forest's temples. Having been seemingly ignored by tourists, who have flocked to the more legendary sites at Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, Kamphaeng Phet has lacked the attention it somewhat deserves. The unkempt ruins covered in moss and surrounded with flowers and weeds, unlike well-manicured Sukhothai, accentuate the attractiveness of the historical park.

Places of Attraction

Wat Phra Kaeo
One of two temples located within the old city walls, it was originally built in the Sukhothai style but was later remodelled during the Ayutthayan Period. The wat is enclosed by laterite walls and contains a Ceylonese-style Chedi surrounded with weather-beaten Buddha images failing to hide their once greatness and beauty.

Wat Chang Rob
Situated in the forested area of Arunyk, this temple shows the distinct architectural style of the Lanka Wongsa sect from Ceylon. The remains of the tall laterite chedi, with the base surrounded by 68 elephant caryatids, was designed to represent Mount Meru.

Wat Phra Non
This monastery dates back to the 15th-16th century. Laterite walls surround the remains of monk quarters and a ruined viharn. Behind the viharn is a large eight-sided laterite stupa.

Wat Phra Si Iriyaboth
The wat is known locally as Wat Yeun and is noted for the four Buddha images that adorn the walls of the large mondop. The images are in each of the four postures; walking, sitting, reclining and standing. The slightly restored standing image is a fine example of Sukhothai sculpture.

Kamphaeng Phet Museum
Also situated within the old city walls, about 100m down from Wat Phra Kaeo. The ground floor is dedicated to the various periods of Thai arts, while the first floor is dedicated to artefacts from the Kamphaeng Phet area.

Chiang Rai Province

Chiang Rai, Thailand's most northern province, is almost 800 km from Bangkok. The northern border of the province separates Thailand from both Laos and Myanmar. The Mae Mok River, flowing for over over 130 km is the major river that cuts through the rugged mountainous topography of the region. The mountains in turn being home to nearly a dozen different hilltribes that have migrated from such places as Tibet, South China and Burma.

The mountains and jungles, with their abundance of flora and fauna, are a perfect place for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The many flowing rivers offer an exciting way to pass through the natural beauty of the landscape.

The city of Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 by King Mengrai, who later moved the capital of his Lanna Kingdom from Chiang Saen to Chiang Rai. It was the capital for a brief time before threats of invasion led to the laying of the foundations of Chiang Mai, which would eventually replace Chiang Rai as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Later, in 1786, when King Ramatobodi (Rama I) was consolidating the country after the destruction of Ayutthaya, it became part of Thai territory and was later proclaimed a province in 1910 by King Rama VI.

Places of Attraction

Monument of King Mengrai the Great
This monument is situated just off Phahonyothin Road, at the eastern edge of town, in honour of the illustrious king who founded Chiang Rai in 1262.

Ku Phra Chao Mengrai
The home to the ashes and the relics of King Mengrai, the stupa is situated in Wat Ngam Muang, which is perched on top of a small hill overlooking the town and countryside.

Wat Phra Singh
This teaching monastery, dating from 1385, is located on Singhaklai Rd to the north of town. The temple buildings are wooden and built in the typical northern style. The main viharn holds a reproduction of Chiang Mai's Phra Singh Buddha, a Buddha image from the Sukhothai period. There is also a stone Buddha footprint inscribed with Khmer script, said to date from during the reign of King Mengrai.

Wat Phra Kaew
This is the city's most revered Buddhist temple. The date of its founding is unknown, but was probably in the 14th century when it was known as Wat Paa Yai. There is a legend that says the octagonal stupa was struck by lightning in 1434, revealing the famous Emerald Buddha (now housed in Bangkok's Temple of the Emerald Buddha). In 1990 a replica of the image was commissioned to be sculptured. A Chinese artist carved the almost exact replica from Canadian jade and it now sits in Phra Kaeo Shrine behind the bot.

Mae Sai
Mae Sai, the most northerly point of Thai territory, sits on the banks of the River Sai opposite the Burmese town of Tachilek. Its position has made it a bustling market place with a wide range of Burmese and Thai jewellery, handicrafts and other goods hawked around the main road. Accommodation in Mae Sai is quite comfortable, with pleasant riverside guesthouses or mid-range hotels to choose from. For visitors wishing to travel further into Myanmar, travel is now possible.

Wat Phrathat Doi Wao
Set on the hill to the west of town, it was supposedly built in memory of thousands of Burmese soldiers killed during fighting with the KMT here in 1965. The temple offers superb views over Mae Sai and Myanmar.

Thanam Luang (Great Cave)
This impressive cave is located about 6 km from Mae Sai, just off Route 110 to Chiang Mai. The huge cave has a series of chambers and tunnels that lead for kilometeres into the hills. Gas lanterns and guides can be hired at the entrance and are recommended.

Wat Phrathat Doi Tung
The village can be reached by taking Route 110, 22 km south from Mae Sai to Huai Klai. Then take Route 1149 along an interesting background of hill-tribe villages and former poppy fields for 24 km to reach the temple located in this hill-top village.
Doi Tung (Flag Peak) inherited its name in the early 10th century, when King Achutarat ordered a large flag to be flown above the peak. The flag was to mark the spot of the two chedis that still exist there. The Lanna-style chedis, erected in 911 AD, are in the compound of Phra That Doi Thung and are said to contain the left collar-bone of Buddha. They were renovated earlier this century by a monk from Chiang Mai, Khruba Siwichai. The temple's compound is home to a vast array of Buddha images from all periods of Thai history in their distinct and various styles. One of the most interesting is the large Chinese-style Buddha image with its large belly having an opening in the navel. Many people line up to throw their good-luck charms into the navel, wishing for good luck to fall upon themselves and their families. The temple walls offer a perfect vista of the long meandering road leading to the hill top and the surrounding countryside.

Chiang Saen
The town of Chiang Saen was once the ancient capital of the Chiang Saen Kingdom. It was established in 1328 by King Saen Phu, the grandson of King Mengrai. It was later captured by the Burmese in the 16th century, before being recaptured by King Rama I in 1803. The town was then destroyed to ensure it was not used in future attacks by the Burmese. The town then remained almost deserted until King Mongkut ordered it to be re-populated in the late 19th Century.These days Chiang Saen is a quiet little town, with its architectural remnants devoid of the attention of many tourists, but very much still there in evidence.

Wat Phrathat Chedi Luang
The temple was built in 1331 by King Saen Phu and was established as the city's main monastery. Further extensions were added in 1515. Laying amongst the ruins are an octagonal Lanna-style chedi, standing 58 m high.

National Museum
This small museum contains many artefacts from the Lanna period, including Buddha images with distinct rounded faces and slender bodies. The museum also houses a small display of handicrafts from hill tribes, including clothing and musical instruments.

Wat Pa Sak
The unusual chedi is the main attraction in Chaeng Saen, built in an interesting variety of styles - blending Pagan, Dvaravati, Sukhothai and Srivajayan influences. The temple was founded during the reign of King Ramkamhaeng in 1295.

Wat Phrathat Chom Kitti
About 2.5 km north of Wat Pa Sak, lies this temple which is said to date from the 10th century. The temple, which is approached by 383 laterite steps, offers a splendid view over the surrounding area.

Wat Phrathat Pha Ngao
This restored temple sits on a hilltop, overlooking the river, about 4 km south of town. Enshrined in the temple is the large bust of a brick and plaster image. Located on the hill is a modern chedi that enshrines a Buddha image that was found buried in the ground in 1976.

SOP RUAK
This small village, set at the junction of the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, is more generally known as 'The Golden Triangle'. The name is associated with the opium trade that once flourished in this region. But with the intervention of the Thai government, the narcotic is no longer the economic mainstay of the area. Instead the locals now facilitate the intrigue of the flocks of tourists coming to sense the atmosphere of what was once one of the major opium producing regions of the world. The streets are littered with stalls, selling a range of Thai, Lao and Burmese clothing and handicrafts and a few restaurants to cater for the bus loads of tourists.

Opium Museum
This small museum has a display of implements relating to the narcotic. There are the tools used for planting, harvesting and for smoking the drug, along with weighing scales. There also old photographs and maps of the poppy plantations.

CHIANG KHONG
This small riverside town was once part of a small state called Juon, which over the centuries came under control of Chiang Rai, Chiang Saen and finally Nan before being incorporated into the Siamese nation in the late 19th century.
Its territory once stretched as far Yunnan in southern China, until French colonialists converted most of the eastern lands of the Mekong River into French Indochina in 1893.Nowadays the town is a crossing point to the Lao city of Huay Xia. Trading, whether it be legal or illegal, is the major activity here. The markets busily dealing in the wares of both sides of the river. About a kilometer south is the village of Ban Hat Khrai, famous for its plaa beuk (giant catfish), a delicacy and the largest fresh-water fish in the world.

MAE SALONG
Often called Thailand's 'Little Switzerland' the village of Mae Salong sits at an altitude of over 1200m, near to the border with Myanmar. Its setting on the mountain peak not only gives fantastic views over the region, but it can also be quite mystical when the mists surround it.It was originally populated with a rebel KMT(Kuomintan) army regiment that initially fled to Burma, after the communists forces took control in the 1949 Chinese revolution. After being dispelled from Myanmar in 1961, they were allowed the freedom to settle in this northern village, where they helped the government against communist infiltration. The community prospered and enlarged, taking up agriculture and farming and future generations taking up Thai citizenship.

Chiang Mai Province

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second largest city and the unofficial 'capital' of the northern region. It lies approximately 700 km by road and 761 km by rail north of Bangkok. With the openings to tourism across the borders in Laos and Burma along with the southern Chinese states, the city has become an important regional transportation hub.

The provincial capital of Chiang Mai is situated 305 metres above sea level, set in a wide valley divided by the River Ping. Its climate is cool and refreshing during the hot season, a welcoming break, especially from the heat and humidity of Bangkok.

Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai Maharat, the city's history is as old as the beginning of the first Thai states. Around the time of the Sukhothai period Mengrai was ruler of his own kingdom - Lan Na Thai. Chiang Rai was its capital, but under the threats of the all-conquering Mongol warlord Kublai Khan, Mengrai was forced to relocate. He sought help and managed to form an alliance with King Ramkamhaeng, the ruler of Sukhothai. The present site was decided on and the city, surrounded by a moat and wall, was built and named Nopphaburi Si Nakhonping, known as Chiang Mai or ‘new city’.

However, just a century later Sukhothai came under the control of Ayutthaya. Relations between the two became strained and this lead to intermittent warfare for the next four hundred years.

Ayutthaya crushed an invasion by Chiang Mai in the 16th century and from the mid 16th to mid 17th century its power started to wane. The Burmese invaded the Lanna kingdom in the early 18th century and fighting continued until 1775 when the Burmese were finally defeated. Exhausted and discouraged by the constant conflicts the inhabitants abandoned the city. The city remained deserted for over twenty years.

After the resurgence of the Thai's, under the leadership of King Taksin, Lanna nobles returned to Chiang Mai and started restoring the city to its former splendour. It was under the control of Taksin but remained a high degree of autonomy. It officially came part of the Thai nation in 1938.

Places of Attraction

Wat Suan Dok
This temple was built in 1383 and is home to a 500 year old, large bronze Buddha image named Phra Chao Kao Tu. The white-washed Chedis in the northwest corner of the compound contain the ashes of the Chiang Mai Royal family.

Wat Phra Singh
This temple dates back to 1345 when it was built by King Pha Yu to contain the ashes of his father, King Pha Kan Fu. Today it is the centre of focus for the Songkran festivities in April. Most notably it is home to Phra Buddha Singh considered Chiang Mai's most important and sacred Buddha image. In the temple ground is Lai Kaem chapel, which is to be admired for its Lanna style woodcarvings and murals.

Wat Chiang Man
The was the first temple to be constructed in Chiang Mai, around 1306. It was formerly the residence of King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai. The temple contains two famous Buddha images. The Buddha Sila, a marble bas-relief roughly 20-30 cms high, is said to have been brought from Sri Lanka or India by Sinhalese monks. The Crystal Buddha, or Phra Buddha Setangkhamani is believed to have come from Lopburi about 1800 years ago and stands just 10 cm high.

Wat Chedi Luang
The temple was built at the beginning of the 15th century. The large chedi was extensively enlarged under the directions of King Tiloka in 1475 and 1478. Sadly the 90m tall chedi was damaged by an earthquake in 1545. The highly revered Emerald Buddha, now residing in Wat Prakaew in Bangkok, was housed here for 84 years. The Lak Muang or 'city pillar' is located within the temple compound.

Wat Ku Tao
The chedi was built in 1613 and is distinguishable by the shape of its five chedis which represent the five Buddha Lords, and are said to be of Yunnanese design.

Wat Jed Yot
The temple is situated just off highway 11 in the north west of town, near to the National Museum. The temple was built to commemorate the 2000th year of Buddhism and was based on the designs of the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, India. The unusual square based chedi has seven spires, representing the seven weeks Buddha spent in Bodhgaya after achieving enlightenment. The temple holds the ashes of King Tilokaraja who had the temple built in 1455.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
This temple is located in the forested region 15 km to the northwest of town. It is situated at an altitude of over 3,500m and dates back to 1383. Access to the temple involves a long strenuous walk up the Naga-lined staircase with its 290 steps. For the less sturdy, a funicular railcar is in operation. The temple is regarded as an important religious place to the local people, of which many can be seen taking the longer and more arduous route to the hill-top to worship. The large golden chedi contains a sacred relic of the Lord Buddha and is surrounded by magnificently crafted golden ceremonial ornaments set in an enclosure.

Chiang Mai Zoo
The zoo first opened in 1977 and with the continuous assistance from the Zoological department it has transformed itself into a first rate modern zoo. The zoo has over 500 species of animals, all carefully looked after by the zoo's well trained staff. The addition of an enclosure that houses penguins was opened at the beginning of 1997.

San Kamphaeng
This cotton and silk weaving village is located about 13km east of town. The village is a major source of the cotton and silk produced in Chiang Mai. The locals still use the traditional looms for weaving the fabrics into their distinctive styles and patterns.

Bo Sarng Umbrella Village
This well-known village is located 9 km from town. The silk and cotton umbrellas are crafted by local women, which in turn are fashioned by hand with floral and animal designs. This process has continued in Bo Sarng families for more than 200 years.

Elephant Training Centre (Mae Sa)
The centre is located about 30 km from town, about 10 km along the Mae Rim-Samoeng route. Every morning between 09:00 and 11:00 the trained pachyderms show off their forestry skills which were once so highly valued. Visitors are given the chance to traverse through the jungle on the massive beasts, for about 2 hours, after the show has finished. Entrance to the camp is 80 Baht, with the jungle tour 250 Baht per person.

Wiang Khum Khan
The ruins of this former Mon city is located about 5km south of Chiang Mai.The city was established around the 12th and 13th centuries, before being abandoned in the 18th century. Archaeologists have been painstakingly uncovering the past of this site, which covers about 9 sq km and contains the ruins of more than 20 wats.The most complete of all the ruins is that of Wat Chang Kham, or as it was known in the Mon language, Wat Kan Thom. The most notable of the ruins is the Wat Chedi Si Liam, a stepped-pyramid which shows the distinct and unique style of Mon architecture.The most important discovery by archaeologists was an inscribed stone slab, which has cast doubts over the previous assumption that the Thai script was compiled by King Ramkamhaeng.

Chiang Dao Caves
This complex of interconnecting caves that cut into Doi Chang Dao is located 5km west of Route 107, about 70 km north of Chiang Mai, heading towards Tha Ton and Fang. The caves are believed to stretch for many kilometres into the limestone rock, although only a small part of the complex is possible to explore. They contain many Buddha and hermit images.

Thaton
The scenic town of Thaton is situated in Mae Ai district of Chiang Mai province, close to the border with Myanmar. Thaton lies on the Mae Kok, set in the fertile Fang Valley. The area offers plenty of trekking and cycling opportunities for visitors to enjoy. The mighty Mae Kok river itself is a great source of adventure for everybody to enjoy: from white water rafting in the rainy season to more leisurely paced drifting during the dry months. Accommodation at Thaton is not restricted to, but consists mainly of bamboo house-boats. Many of these offer three day river trips along the Mae Kok, visiting hill-tribe villages and hot springs, before arriving in Chiang Rai.

Ban Tawai
At one time the forests of northern Thailand were teeming with hardwood trees, especially teak. This abundance ultimately led to the use of the material in the arts and crafts produced by the populace. Throughout the centuries the skills of the craftsmen were passed to future generations. The village of Ban Tawai, close to the town of Hang dong, is a well known centre that has specialised in the preservation of the skills of wood carving. The crafted products are now spread around the world with the establishment of export companies in the village.

Mae Rim Orchid Farm
This orchid farm is situated on highway 1096, about 7 km from town. The vast array of the colourful plants, along with information on them, are on display. The change in the environment for the plants has led to the need of the nurseries to be established. Through the careful work of the nurseries, some of the rarer varieties that became almost extinct have been nurtured to continue the line. The technical mastery of the nurseries have also led to new species of hybrid orchids.