Billed as the world's largest teakwood building, Vimanmek Mansion was built as a royal residence in the first few years of the 20 th century. It was only used for a few years before it fell into disuse and was practically forgotten until the early eighties. It was rediscovered by Her Majesty the Queen and turned into museum reflecting the Thai heritage from the dramatic reign of King Rama V.
From a single restored building in the 1980s, the Vimanmek Mansion Museum has grown to include more than 20 restored structures of the old Dusit Palace displaying everything from ancient artifacts of Thailand's pre-history to contemporary photographs donated by His Majesty the King. Its now become a large complex of museums where the buildings themselves form part of the "collection" on display.

Vimanmek is now on many main tourist trails. Large tour buses can be seen in the parking lot throughout the day, especially in the high season. However, most of the big groups will only tour the royal mansion and not leave time to visit even a few of the many other very interesting buildings.

If you want to visit the entire complex, its best to go on your own or engage a personal tour guide who can make things easy. If you want to see most of what the museum has to offer, allow at least half a day. You may want to get an early start to avoid the heat of the day. If your time is limited, or even if its not, its a good idea to plan out a visit to Vimanmek to make sure you see everything you want to see. We've thus made this package as complete as possible to help you decide what buildings and galleries will fit your interest. The navigation links at the bottom of the page will allow you to step through the buildings one-by-one, or you can jump to specific sights using the links at the bottom of the page. We've also got an online map of the complex to give you an idea of the arrangement of the buildings and plan your route

Program Itinerary

Pick up at the hotel in Bangkok downtown
Sightseeing as described with transportation
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees

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The Grand Palace (พระบรมมหาราชวัง) adjoins Wat Phra Kaew in a common compound, and is where you will end up after exiting Wat Phra Kaew. Despite the proximity of the two, there's a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai Wat Phra Kaew and the more European inspired designs of the Grand Palace (the roof being the exception). The Grand Palace is nowadays used only for occasional ceremonial purposes and is no longer the royal residence. The present King Bhumibol (Rama IX) lives in Chitralada Palace (also closed to tourists), which is located not too far away in Bangkok's Dusit district. Though the interior of most of the buildings remain closed to the public
Highlights of it are:
- Boromabiman Hall, built by King Rama VI and every king since has lived here at some time.
- Amarinda Hall, the original residence of King Rama I and the Hall of Justice. Nowadays it's impressive interior is used for ceremonial occasions and coronations. It contains the antique throne, used before the Western style one presently in use.
- Grand Palace Hall / Chakri Maha Prasat. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European style reception room. This building has not been used for royal residence since the mysterious death of King Rama VIII (the older brother of the current King), found shot dead in his room in 1946. The reverence for the monarchy in Thailand means that, even today, this remains a completely taboo subject to talk publicly about in Thailand.
- The impressive Dusit Hall, rated as perhaps the finest architectural building in this style.
- The Museum, which has information on the restoration of the Grand Palace, scale models of the Wat and Palace and numerous Buddha images. Labels are in Thai only, but there are free English tours available frequently. Entrance is 50B.
Details
The combined compound is open 8.30am to 3.30pm everyday. Cost is 200B (if you are Thai, it's free), and includes admission to Vimanmek Mansion and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, both in the Dusit area of the city, the Coin Museum in the compound, and so-so free guidebook. The entrance to the compound is on Na Phra Lan road, on the north side.
Don't listen to anyone on the street as you try to enter telling you it's closed for a 'Buddhist holiday', 'cleaning' etc, or asking if you want to see the 'Lucky Buddha' instead - it's all part of a sophisticated gem scam.
As Wat Phra Kaew is Thailand's most important temple, you are expected to dress appropriately or risk being turned away. Signs put up around the entrance show you are not permitted to enter wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, singlets or any form of open ended shoes. Sarongs and long trousers are usually available for loan should you forget.
Other attractions easy to reach from here are Wat Pho, Wat Arun, the National Museum, others sights in the Ko Rattanakosin area, and the Banglamphu district.
There's plenty of options for getting to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. Ordinary buses 44, 47 and 91 stop on Thaiwang road between Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew. Ordinary buses 1, 25, 44, 47, 82 and 91 also stop on Maharat road, on the west of Wat Phra Kaew. On nearby Sanam Luang, north of Wat Phra Kaew, ordinary buses 3, 15, 30, 32, 43, 44, 59, 64, 70, 80, 123 and 201 all stop, as well as aircon 6, 7, 12, 39 and 44. The Tha Chang river express boat stop is also very near. If you're staying in Banglamphu, it's possible to walk there via Sanam Luang. It's only about a 1 km walk, but involves crossing some large and busy roads which don't have any obvious crossing places.

source by www.into-asia.com

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Wat Pho (วัดโพธิ์), or Wat Phra Chetuphon (วัดพระเชตุพน) as it is generally known to the Thais, is mainly famous for the huge Reclining Buddha statue it houses. At 20 acres large, it is the largest Wat in Bangkok, and is technically the oldest too, as it was built around 200 years before Bangkok became Thailand's capital. However, today the Wat today bears virtually no resemblance to that originally constructed, as it was almost entirely rebuilt by Rama I when the capital was moved to Bangkok. It holds the dual honors of having both Thailand's largest reclining Buddha image and the most number of Buddha images in Thailand.

The highly impressive gold plated reclining Buddha is 46 meters long and 15 meters high, and is designed to illustrate the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The feet and the eyes are engraved with mother-of-pearl decoration, and the feet also show the 108 auspicious characteristics of the true Buddha.

The large grounds of Wat Pho contain more than 1000 Buddha images in total, most from the ruins of the former capitals Ayuthaya and Sukhothai. The grounds are split in two by Chetuphon road. The northern section is generally the only one most people go to, and it includes a large bot (temple hall), enclosed by 394 bronze Buddha images. Outside the bot, there are 152 marble slabs depicting the second half of the epic Ramakian story. Also near here are four chedis, constructed to honor the first three Chakri kings (two for King Rama III). There are also a massive 91 others Chedis of varying sizes arounds the grounds, along with chapels, rock gardens, an array of different types of statues, inscriptions, belltowers and resident fortune tellers. The library is nearby too, decorated impressively with figures and pagodas made of porcelain, in much the same way as Wat Arun across the river. The much less visited southern section has less of interest, but makes a good place to find a monk to chat to for a while. Most would welcome the chance to practice their English on visitors.

Massage - Wat Pho is also famous as Thailand's first university, and is center for traditional Thai masage - the rich, famous and powerful have all been known to come here. Inscribed on stone in the walls of Wat Pho are all that was known about Thai massage dating from the reign of King Rama III (most previous texts were lost when the Burmese destroyed Ayuthaya)
To get a traditional massage here costs 150B for 30 mins, 250B for an hour and herbal massages are available at 350B an hour. If you want to experience traditional Thai massage, this is probably the best place available and is highly recommended, though be aware that it's not exactly a gentle experience. A foot reflexology massage is also available at 250B for 45 minutes.
It is also possible to take courses to learn traditional Thai massage. These are for 30 hours and cost 4,500B. Courses can be spread over either 10 or 15 days. The massage center is situated at the back of the Wat, the opposite side from the entrance. To get a massage, simply turn up here and wait in line until a masseur is available - perhaps 10 or 20 minutes in the quieter periods in the early morning and late afternoon. Contact them on (+662) 221 2974 or (+662) 225 4771 if you need any more information about it.

Details
The entrance to Wat Pho is on Chetuphon road. Entrance is 20B. It's open every day, opening hours are from 08.00am to 5.00pm, with a break from 12.00pm to 1.00pm. Guides can be hired at the entrance for 150B for one person, 200B for two, 300B for three, but they're not really needed. On Sundays, you can see students being taught traditional Thai dance and music.
Don't listen to anyone on the street as you try to enter telling you it's closed for a 'Buddhist holiday', 'cleaning' etc, or asking if you want to see the 'Lucky Buddha' instead - it's all part of a sophisticated gem scam.
Aircon buses 6, 8 and 12 all stop close to Wat Pho, and the Tha Tien express boat pier is very near. Ordinary buses that go near Wat Pho are ordinary buses 1, 25, 44, 47, 62 and 91 which stop on Maharat road. 44, 47 and 91 all stop on Thaiwang road, on the north side of Wat Pho, south of Wat Phra Kaew. It's also just a short river crossing away from Wat Arun. It's within walking distance of Wat Phra Kaew / Grand Palace, and (if you're feeling energetic) the National Museum too.
source by www. into-asia.com

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Wat Phra Kaew (วัดพระแก้ว), the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the adjoining Grand Palace together form perhaps the greatest spectacle for the visitor to Bangkok. Despite the fact that the whole compound is so full of tourists you spend half the time trying to avoid getting in people's photos, it's still a pretty amazing place to visit.
It consists of over 100 brightly colored buildings, golden spires and glittering mosaics, and dates back to 1782, when Bangkok was founded. When you enter the compound, you first of all see Wat Phra Kaew and the nearby attractions, and then move on to the Grand Palace afterwards.
Wat Phra Kaew itself, generally known to the Thais as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram, is perhaps the main attraction. This is Thailand's most important and sacred temple, so you're expected to act with due respect inside it. It houses the tiny (between 60 and 75 cm) Emerald Buddha, which is located high above the heads of the worshippers and tourists. Not much is known for certain about the statue, except that it isn't actually made of emerald but rather of green jade or jasper. Getting a good look at it is difficult as photography is forbidden inside the temple, and it's perched so high up inside it's glass box that it's difficult to really see.
It's thought to have been made in the 15th century and was the cause of several wars before ending up for good in Bangkok in 1782. The image is considered a talisman and holds tremendous significance for Thailand and the Thais. The 'robe' that it wears is changed 3 times each year by the King himself, at the start of each season: A diamond encrusted gold robe during the hot season, a solid gold robe in the cool season and a gilded monk's robe in the rainy season.There are also many other Buddha images inside the temple.
Round the interior walls are murals depicting the jataka stories. These are located according to the typical Thai conventions inside temples. The ones facing the altar depict the victory of the Buddha over the evil demon Mara, as he subdues her and achieves enlightenment. As is normal for Thai temples, shoes must be taken off before entering into the temple.
Despite it's national importance, Wat Phra Kaew is the only temple in Thailand that doesn't have any resident monks, and so is not a seat of Buddhist learning in the same way as the likes of Wat Pho and Wat Mahathat.
A cloister surrounds the temple, and depicted along here is an extensive mural of the Ramakian, the Thai version of the famous Indian epic, the Ramayana. In total there are 178 sections, and although they date from the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV 1825-1850) they have since been restored on numerous occasions. The explanatory texts across from each were devised by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).
Also in the compound is:
- A miniature model of the famous Cambodian temple complex Angkor Wat, made during the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV) when the Thai empire extended over Cambodia.
- Two libraries, built to protect copies of important Buddhist literature. The Phra Mondop library is impressive, but almost always closed to the public. If not, it's well worth looking at.
- The impressive golden Phra Si Rattana Chedi, which it's claimed (somewhat improbably) houses ashes of the Buddha.
- The Royal Pantheon, with full size statues of the first seven kings of the reigning Chakri dynasty (Rama I - Rama VII). Only open on April 6th, the anniversary of the founding of this dynasty. Surrounding this are large statues of mythical guardians (pictured right), such as the kinaree, half human-half bird and the Hindu garuda bird. It contains the scared Buddhist scriptures, the Tripitaka.
After exiting Wat Phra Kaew, you enter the adjoining Grand Palace.
source form http://www.into-asia.com/

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The Ko Rattanakosin (เกาะรัตนโกสินทร์) area is the oldest part of Bangkok. Located by the river, this is where most of Bangkok's main historical attractions are, for example Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho. These impressive sights aren't the only things to do in Ko Rattanakosin however, and many of the other sights are within easy walking distance.
'Ko' is the Thai word for 'island', but this is no longer really an accurate term for this area. It was so named due to Bangkok's extensive canals in the late 18th century which surrounded the area but nowadays most are filled in and you'd be hard pressed to realize what there used to be while walking or driving around it.
Just to the north of Wat Phra Kaew is the large park known as Sanam Luang (สนามหลวง). For most of the year it's nothing special and barely worth a visit, though the spires of Wat Phra Kaew certainly provide it with an impressive backdrop. It's a somewhat more colorful place during February to April when it's a popular place for kite flying.
At the southeastern corner of Sanam Luang, and close to the northeastern point of the Wat Phra Kaew compound, is Saan Lak Meuang (ศาลหลักเมือง, below), the 'city shrine'. This is the official center point of Bangkok, and the point from which distances to and from Bangkok are measured. Thai tradition dictates that every city has a foundation stone, in which lives the city's guardian spirit, responsible for the power and well-being of the city. Although not especially interesting in itself, it is believed to grant peoples wishes and so receives large numbers of worshippers. There's always floral tributes piled up, and the smell of the burning incense fills the air inside. This is especially so in the couple of days leading up to the lottery draw.

Across Sanam Luang and a short way up Na Phra That road is Wat Mahathat (วัดมหาธาตุ), one of Bangkok's most important wats though it's not particularly inspiring to look at. It is famous as a meditation center, as the headquarters for the country's largest Buddhist sect, as a Buddhist university and for it's royal associations (King Mongkut, Rama IV, was a monk here). If you have an interest in Buddhism, weekly English seminars are given here and it's also possible to study here. In the grounds of Wat Mahathat, and more interesting for the average visitor, is the the large amulet market. Best visited on weekends and the occasional Buddhist holy day, when it extends to nearby Phra Chan road. Found here is a fascinating range of food, clothes, amulets, talisman, herbal remedies, Buddha images, and alms bowls and orange robes used by monks. There is also another, much smaller, amulet market near Tha Chang pier.
A little further north on Na Phra That road is the National Museum. Nearby is the National Theater (โรงละครแห่งชาติ), where genuinely authentic classical Thai dance and music can sometimes be seen, and the National Art Gallery where contemporary and traditional Thai art is on show. Silpakorn Fine Arts University (มหาวิทยาลัยศิลปากร), also near Tha Chang pier is another place for this.
Further north still on Na Phra That road is Thammasat University (มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), Thailand's second most prestigious after Chulalongkorn University (near Siam Square). It's notable for the radical reputation of it's students, and was founded in 1932 by Pridi Panomyang who orchestrated the bloodless coup which overthrew Thailand's absolute monarchy the same year. In another infamous incident, hundreds were killed or wounded here by a Thai military crackdown in 1976. Visitors are free to tour the grounds of the university.
Details
There is no entry charge for Wat Mahathat. The National Art Gallery is open 09.00am to 4.00pm, and costs 30B. The gallery at Silpakorn is open 08.00am - 7.00pm on weekdays, 08.00am - 4.00pm on weekends.
This whole area is a favourite haunt of con artists, so be very wary of friendly strangers who stop you on the street and ask where you're going - chances are it's part of a sophisticated gem scam.
Wat Pho, Wat Phra Kaew, and the National Museum are all located within Ko Rattanakosin, and hence are easy to reach from any of the sights here. The sights in the Banglamphu district are also not so far away.
It is easy to get to the sights in this area on the river, the Tha Maharat and Tha Chang express boat piers are both well located for these sights. Lots of buses stop in the area around Sanam Luang, including ordinary buses 3, 15, 30, 32, 43, 44, 59, 64, 70, 80, 123 and 201, as well as aircon 6, 7, 12, 39 and 44. All the sights can be reached on foot from Sanam Luang

Source By :::www.into-asia.com

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The feelings that Burma shares with visitors run unusually deep

The old, brown-robed monk in a conical peaked cap gently nudged me to the left, two steps, and there it was, in a brilliant white flash: the 4,351 diamonds at the topmost orb of the Shwedagon stupa.

Only a few tourist and locals were at the temple this late. Some places diminish in stature when you take away the crowds, but this site, one of Burma's holiest, becomes even more impressive.

On a prominent hill overlooking Rangoon, the temple complex dominates the city. In the 1400s Queen Shinsawbu donated her weight in gold to the temple. It was beaten into leaf to gild the first stupa, and the layering of gilt continues today - there are now 53 tonnes of gold covering the structure.

At mid-afternoon the spiritual reverence had been palpable. Streams of pilgrims wearing the traditional longyi (sarong) supplicated themselves before the main stupa and the smaller temples and shrines, some of which are said to house symbolic nats, or spirits.

The air was permeated with a feeling of spiritual devotion, but it was the surrounding light itself that cast the most poignant spell. To say the stupa is golden misses it entirely - the air around it is golden.

The air sparkles with a brilliance subtly enhanced by the 1,383 other gemstones embedded in the large stupa's surface, and especially by a single, radiant, 76-carat diamond at the very top of the diamond orb.

"It's nice - look!" the old monk prodded me. Earlier he'd walked me around the temple complex as passers-by paid him reverence. He was a jathei - a hermit monk - from a lineage of solitary wanderers, highly respected for their use of herbs and portents to treat physical and psychological ailments.

Jathei are homeless, roaming through rural Burma. Sometimes their small, round huts built from twigs and leaves can be spotted in the forest.

This monk's last retreat was near Taungbygone, north of Mandalay. He'd started walking toward Rangoon two months earlier to pay what he said would be his last visit to the temple. He planned to move deeper into the forest.

Nearby is a shrine to Thanga Min, king of the nats, which are believed capable of exercising good or evil power over a person or a place. It's said that the Burmese practise Buddhism in the interest of future lives while making offerings to the nats for help with problems in this one.

From the temple I hailed a taxi. I had promised myself a dinner at the Strand Hotel, an Asian legend. The driver, Htin Swe, was another of those citizens you frequently meet who describe themselves as university students. They are typically in their late 30s or 40s.

They explain that their studies are incomplete, through no fault of their own. Burmese universities are usually closed more often than they're open, a sign of the ruling junta's fear of students.

I asked Htin Swe what he studied. "I'm an English major," he said, though it quickly became clear that his mastery of English - the language and the literature - was limited.

Like most ordinary Burmese, he was a poignant mixture of sincerity and arrested development, emblematic of a people and country with great potential that have been trapped in a time-warp.

When the concierge swung open the high wooden doors of the Strand, built in 1901 by the Armenian Starkie brothers, I entered a world that was light-years away.

Recently remodelled, the hotel has retained its distinctive colonial-Asian charm, with a shiny, black grand piano dominating the lobby. The oak and rattan furniture was set off with white cushions. In the nearly empty dining room, leather-bound menus and heavy white parchment paper were stamped with the Burmese lion. A young woman played a lilting folk melody on a xylophone.

The menu listed barramundi over glass noodles, local venison, seared river prawns in green curry, sesame-coated tuna rolls, golden crab cakes, peanut biscuits and more.

Looking through the window at the boulevard that runs parallel to the Irrawaddy River, I saw fender-less trucks sputtering along, belching black smoke, stacked with freshly cut teak trees still oozing oil from the base. Men with bulging calf muscles strained at trishaw pedals. Schoolchildren in red skirts and white blouses walked home carrying plastic satchels.

Clearly Burma is a country of extremes - of haves and have-nots. The military junta owns the riches of the country, symbolised perhaps by the jewels in the Shwedagon Temple. Average citizens have little, and have been repressed for decades.

But the country is opening up to tourists. It's now possible to get a four-week visa with a simple application form and two photographs.

The feelings you take home are unusually deep, running an emotional gauntlet from awe to sorrow.

As I left the Strand, I thought of the old monk at the temple. I had tried to take his picture, but he wouldn't allow it. "I will remember you," he said. "You will remember me."

He was right.

Roy Hamric

Special to The Nation

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Bangkok was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty. It is now the country's spiritual, cultural, diplomatic, commercial and educational hub. It covers an area of more than 1,500 square kilometres, and it is home to approximatlely ten million people or more than 10% of the country's population.

Over the last few decades, Thailand's capital city, Bangkok, has changed into a modern, exciting and sophisticated city. It offers to visitors not only the cosmopolitan amenities they would expect from other big cities, but also a unique treasure trove of cultural attractions. Thailand, in the heart of Southeast Asia, was never colonised and thus kept its unique culture and heritage intact. Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpse of Thailand's gentle culture amidst the bustle of a great and dynamic metropolis. This great city has had astounding success in combining the ancient and modern world.

For tourists, Bangkok has a feast of attractions to offer. The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temples of great beauty and fascination, magnificent palaces, classical dance extravaganzas, numerous shopping centres and traditional ways of life, especially along the "Venice of the East" timeless canals and the Chao Phraya River of the "River of Kings" winding through the city. It is worth taking a trip along its waters before exploring further into different canals to take a glimpse of old Bangkok.

Suvarnabhumi Airport is accessible by 5 routes. from the north via the new Bangkok-Chon Buri Highway, an 8-lane elevated highway from the northwest via a 6-lane road links to the Rom Klao elevated highway and King Kaew Flyover from the South via a 4-lane road links the airport to Bang Na-Trat highway from the northeast via a 4-lane road connecting to Onnuj Road Road from the west via a 4-lane road linking King Kaew Road

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

Airport Shuttle Buses – Free of Charge Airport Shuttle Buses operate between the Passenger Terminal Complex and the Public Transportation Centre, where limousines and public buses are parked. The Airport Shuttle Bus service serves points of interest in Suvarnabhumi Airport by 2 routes (Ordinary and Express), providing Free of Charge services for passengers and staff on duty at the airport. The routes are serviced by low-floor typed Bus powered by NGV (natural gas). PARKING Private cars can be parked at the parking building after dropping off passengers at the 4th floor of the terminal complex. Pick-up points are on the 2nd floor. Parking garages are fully automated. TAXIS Taxis drop off passengers at the 4th floor of the terminal complex and leave the area immediately. For arriving passengers, there is a Taxi Stand on Level 1 of the Passenger Terminal Complex. To maintain between 20 to 25 taxis at all times, supervisors will radio for taxis. Public taxis will charge a 50 baht service fee on top of the metre charge for the transfer from either the passenger terminal or remote taxi ranks. ASIA TRAVEL'S PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFER SERVICE CAR RENTAL SERVICE Two categories of car rental services providers operate at Suvarnabhumi Airport — well-known international brands and a local operator The Car Rental Centre is located at the Public Transportation Centre. To rent a car, contact the car rental service counter at the arrival hall and take the Airport Shuttle Bus (express route) from the MTB to pick up the car at Car Rental Centre. After use, the car is dropped off at the Car Rental Centre. AIRPORT EXPRESS SERVICE Airport express service will be operating between the airport, hotels and various important places in Bangkok and the suburbs. Pick up area: at the arrival (level 2) outer curb Drop off area: at the departure (Level 4) outer curb Public air-conditioned bus services are available on six routes. Group 1 Bangkok and Neighbouring area to Suvarnabhumi Airport Departure from the Bus Terminal at the public transportation centre There are 6 routes. 1. Number 549 SA. – Minburi 2. Number 550 SA. – Happy Land 3. Number 551 SA.– Victory Monument (Express Way) 4. Number 552 SA.– On Nuch BTS station 5. Number 553 SA. – Samut Prakan 6. Number 554 SA. – Bangkok International Airport(Express Way ) Group 2 Public bus services between Bangkok and tourist destination spots All bus services operating along these routes will drop off airport passengers at the Public Transportation Centre. Trains by the State Railway of Thailand will be in service between Suvarnabhumi Airport and major places in Bangkok and the suburbs. Suvarnabhumi Airport City Rail Link Construction of a 28-km overhead city rail link between downtown Bangkok and the airport is underway. Travelling time between the airport and the city centre will take only 15 minutes. Scheduled to be completed in December 2007, the electric train service will connect Suvarnabhumi Airport with city air terminals along the East rail track serving eight city air terminals: Phayathai, Ratchaprarop, Makkasan/Asoke, Ramkamhaeng, Huamak, Bantubchang, Ladkrabung and Suvarnabhumi. PRIVATE BUSES Private Buses are required to stand by at the bus parking lots at the Public Transportation Centre. Pick up area: at the Arrival (level 1) inner curb Park condition: only if passengers are waiting at the spot Drop off area: at the departure (Level 4) outer curb source::::www.asiatravel.com/

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(May - June 2007:Chanthaburi and Rayong) Note: Event dates and programme details may be subject to change. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.
Thailand has a vast selection of fresh fruits are available all year round. However for a taste of the very best of Thai fruits, the height of the summer in May and June is the peak season.During this time of the year, a delightful assortment of exotic Thai fruits come into season. Crispy and crunchy raw mango or ripe mangos juicy and full of flavour; rich, creamy durians; tangy thirst-quenching mangosteens; sweet rambutans, longans and jackfruit with thick, fleshy pulp.Refreshing and nutritious choices abound.
As succulent fruits ripen on the trees and are ready for harvest, fruit orchards in many of the eastern provinces of Thailand such as Chanthaburi, Rayong and Trat are open to visitors, presenting wonderful opportunities for private tours of the orchards and plantations, and agrotourism. Several offer fresh fruit buffets and 'all-you can eat and pick' at irresistible prices.
The eastern provinces of Chanthaburi, Rayong and Trat, are reputed to be the finest producers of such exotic tropical fruits as durian - 'king of tropical fruits', mangosteen - 'queen of tropical fruits', rambutan, pomelo and zalacca.
With a ready supply of freshly-picked fruits from the nearby orchards throughout the summer months from May to July, annual provincial fruit fairs and festivals held from May to June each year present the ideal opportunity to savour the very best of a great variety of fresh Thai fruits, as well as locally processed fruit.
Colourful entertainment presents an added plus. In addition to contests such as the "Best Decorated Fruit Stall", "Best fruits", "Best Processed Fruits", fruit-eating contests and the ever-popular beauty contest, other highlights include demonstrations of food-processing, folk entertainment, stage performances other attractions. The fairs also feature a vast array of quality local produce.

AN INTRODUCTION TO THAI FRUITSPlease click to view
FRUITS FAIRS AND FESTIVALS EVENT CALENDAR
May - June 2007DURIAN FESTIVAL From King Taksin the Great Memorial to Chanthaburi Sports Stadium, Chanthaburi city centre
Highlights- Fruit-related contests such as the 'Best Floating Raft', creatively decorated with fruit, 'Best Fruits' , 'Best Processed Fruits' , fruit-eating contests, durian 'som tam' contest- Sales of freshly-picked produce from the orchards- Ornamental plants fair- Sales of unique products from each of the sub-districts (tambon) featured in the "OTOP - One Tambon One Product" promotional campaign- 'Food Street'- Agricultural exhibitions- Beauty contests- Folk song concert, folk song contest and cultural performances - Other highlights include demonstrations of food-processing, gemstone cutting, jewellery manufacturing, the making of sedge mats and other attractions.
The festival also features a vast array of quality local produce considered to be "Chantaburi's Best". The dazzling gemstones of Chanthaburi are yet another irresistible buy.
May - June 2007RAYONG FRUIT FESTIVALTapang Central Market for Agriculture, Rayong city centre
Highlights- Fruit Festival Parade featuring a procession of floats decorated with fruit- Beauty contests- Fruit-related contests including the 'Best Fruit' and quality product contests, fruit-eating contests, fruit som tam contests, sales of freshly-picked fruit and sales of village crafts and products from the sub-districts (tambon) under the OTOP - One Tambon One Product promotional campaign

According to local connoisseurs, durian, pomelo, zalacca, mangosteen and rambutan grown in the eastern provinces of Chanthaburi, Rayong and Trat, are ?the best' in the country. The province of Rayong has thus made a name for itself as a treasure trove of exotic tropical fruits. To promote the sales of fresh fruits from the surrounding orchards, processed food items and other local products, Rayong province hosts an annual Rayong Fruit Festival.
In addition to fruit contests, displays of agricultural and horticultural produce and sales of local handicrafts and products from each of the villages promoted under the OTOP - One Tambon One Product theme, a procession of colourful floats decorated with fruit and flowers paraded through the streets, beauty pageants, cultural performances and folk entertainment add to the festive ambience of the event.
Contact information:TAT Central Region Office - Region 4E-mail: tatryong@tat.or.thTel: +66 (0) 3865 5420 - 1Fax: +66 (0) 3865 5422
Rayong Tourism Promotion Association Tel: +66 (0) 3861 7151, (0) 3861 7110

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Duration: 1 June – 31 August, 2007 at leading department stores and shopping complexes in major tourism venues of Thailand; namely, Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Hat Yai.

How to Join the Activities
1. Contact your local travel agent or Thai Airways International Office or visit the website: http://www.thaiairways.com/. for specialized holidays and valuable saving on holiday package in Thailand

2. Privileges to use the customs counters (Fast Track Immigration Service) reserved for passengers who make a reservation of the airlines or agents participating in the programme.

3. Get a chance to win 10 tour packages to travel in Thailand during the period of the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2007 in July-August, 2007 by making a registration through the website: www.tourismthailand.org from 20 April to 31 May, 2007. Each prize comprises:

- Round-trip economic class air tickets from Royal Orchid Holidays, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited.

- 3 days / 2 nights hotel accommodation in the Ratchaprasong area.

- Visa debit card within the amount of 25,000 Baht.

Activities in the Programme

Leading department stores and shopping complexes throughout the country will organize a discount campaign from 10-80% :

Note: Tourists who purchase items for a total of every 10,000 Baht with a Visa Card at the participating department stores will get a spa set for free.

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale Fair 2007.

The fair is organised by the N.C.C. Exhibition Organiser Company Limited, sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The event will take place during 21 - 24 June, 2007, at 10.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m., at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.

In the event, there will be a variety of quality products, services, and tourist attractions with 10-50% off, categorised into zones as follows:
Grand Sale Zone, comprising clothes, accessories, leather products, and brand names for shopping admirers who prefer quality products at special prices.
- Grand Service Zone for travellers. A variety of accommodation, tourist attractions, airlines, as well as, both domestic and international tour packages is lined up to be chosen.
- Lifestyle and Leisure Zone with the highlight activities to create colourful travelling. It is to respond to the tourism lifestyles of the new generation who have their own unique travelling choices and styles.
- As a result of the “Celebrations on the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary 5th December 2007”, the “Follow the Royal Family’s Project” will be organised. It consists of exhibitions on a variety of royal projects which have created benefits in many aspects to the people of Thailand, as well as, the gracious duties, lifestyles and manners of H.M. the King which can be excellent examples for the Thai people. Moreover, there will be a sale of various products from the royal projects offered to the people participating in the event.


Source::::www.tourismthailand.org

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You're welcome. to , Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya , today , will induce amphur Nakhon Luang ,

Prasat Nakhon Luang Situated on the east bank of Pa Sak River, Tambon Nakhon Luang, it was used as the royal accommodation during trips to the Buddha?s Footprint Shrine and Lopburi. It is assumed to have been constructed during the reign of King Songtham, but was improved to be a brick and plaster accommodation during the reign of King Prasat Thong

How to get there

Distance from Ayutthaya city to nearby provinces : Bangkok 76 kms.Ang Thong 31 kms.Saraburi 63 kms.Suphanburi 53 kms.
TrainTrains leave Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lam Phong) Rama IV Road, Tel. 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020) daily every hour starting from 06.40 - 22.00 hrs.
Busa) Direct air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok every half an hour from the Northern Bus Terminal on Phahonyothin Road. (Tel. 537 - 8055 - 6 ) starting 05.30 - 19.20 hrs.b) And non air-conditioned buses (Tel. 0 272 5761 - 5 ext. 117) leave for Bang Pa - In, Bang Sai, and Ayutthaya many times daily from 05.30 - 19.20 hrs.
Boat
Ayutthaya by Mekhala Cruise - Legendary River Cruises
Ayutthaya Cruise Tour
Manohra Cruise

source by http://www.asiatravel.com/

****next Entry I will induce to tour Bangkok by thai people

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Sukothai kingdom became unfortunately not long because king Ramkamhaengs followers on the throne didn´t get the same power as theirs predecessor and the state was shrinking more and more. In the south in the fertility valley of Chao Phraya-river a new great power was growing which was founded by king Ramathibodi in year 1350.
The kingdom was called Ayuttaya as their name of the capaital. After some time Sukhothai came under the new kingdom. From east the khmers did repetead attacking against Ayuttaya. As an answer his son Rasusuan take over Angchor twenty years later in year 1431. After that the khemrs moved their capital to east to Phon Penh by the Mekong river.
Ayutthaya became the capital in a glorious empire under many decades with autocrats kings.The capital became a big and important city with international connections. The portuguise was invited as the first european country and they begin with trade in 1500. At the same time the name for the country Siam was taken.


After the dead of king Ramathibodis II:s year 1529 a period of week kings, complots and scandals followed. This used the king of Burma to attack Ayutthaya several times ehich later was conquerd in year 1569 and Ayutthaya became a sattelite state to Burma. After fifteen years managed the sixteen year old prins Naresuan to take back his land. He had several years before been taking to the court of Burma and there been educated as a warrior. But he returned back to Ayutthaya and shaped an own army and after that he liberated his land. When Naresuan died in year 1605 Ayuttaya was on the top of their power and he leaved a kingdom that no enemy dared to atack for over 150 years.
In the mid and rest of 17 th centuruy Ayuttaya was a really cosmopolitic city. Historinas claims that the city was the biggest city in the world with over one miljon inhabitans, much bigger than Paris or London. Europeans likened Ayuttaya to Venice in Italy and called Ayuttaya the most beautiful city in the East. Under this period trading agreements had been made with Spain, Holland, England, Japan, Denmark and France. The trading was not made by the thais themselves, instead the buisines was lent over to indians and chines who have imigrated to the kingdom.
In the mid 18 th century the country once again got week kings and the power of Ayutayas was declining. The main enemy Burma had instead grown in power and was waiting for revenge. After 14 months of besiege Ayuttaya was falling year 1767 in the hands of Burma. Ayutthaya was burned down and destroyed. Thousands of people was killed or moved away as slaves. Only 10.000 people was left in the city after the catastrophe

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The ancient city of Ayutthaya, or Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was the Thai capital for 417 years. This old capital was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and was sacked by the Burmese in 1767. Thirty three kings of different dynasties ruled the kingdom.
Ayutthaya is located 76 kms. north of Bangkok. It was one of Indo-China's most prosperous cities and is one of Thailand's major historical attractions. The grandeur of Ayutthaya is reflected by numerous magnificent structures and ruins concentrated in and around the city island surrounded by the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak and Lop Buri Rivers. The area, well conserved as a historical park, has been included in UNESCO's list of World Heritage since 13 December 1991. Ayutthaya covers an area of 2,556 square kilometres.

Bang Sai Loi Krathong Festival This is held at the Bang Sai Royal Arts and Craft Centre in October or November. Celebrations include traditional float (Krathong) and beuaty contest, international boat races, handicraft demonstrations and exhibitions, and Krathong launching beneath the full moon.

Ayutthaya Word Heritage Site This is held in October or November to celebrate the glorious past of Ayutthaya. Celebrations include a historical exhibition, traditional cultural processions and performances, light and sound presentations around the city ruins, and numerous forms of entertainment.

Songkran Festival April 13
In Front of Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
The traditional Thai New Year is an occasion for merry making in Ayutthaya, with religious ceremonies as well as public festivities. Anyone who ventures out on the streets is likely to get a though soaking, but all in a spirit of fun and welcome at the peak of the hot season.

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Today , will advise 3 tourist attractions again , in Auphur Mueng


Wat Phananchoeng:
This monastery is located south of Phra Nakhon Si Ayuttaya, it existed before Ayuttaya was founded as the capital. The principal 19 metres high Buddha image in the Wihan called "Phrachao Phananchoeng" was built in A.D. 1325; it is made of stucco in the attitude of subduring evil; it is considered beautiful and is the most revered by the inhabitants of Ayuttaya. Open every day from 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.
19 metres high Buddha inside the temple, it's very huge. If you look carefully on the right, you will see a man standing there putting a cloth over the shoulder of the Buddha. It wasn't easy for me to take these pictures as the Buddha image is right by the door

Wat Yai Chaiyamongkol (Chai Mongkhon)
: This monastery, constructed during the reign of King U-Thong, is located outside the city to the southeast in the same direction as the railway station; one can see its large chedi from far away. King Naresuan the Great commanded the the chedi be built to celebrate the victory of his single-handed combat on the elephant's back.






This chedi here is one of the largest in Ayuttaya, was built by King Naresuan (1590-1605). There are many Buddha images and a beautiful garden behind this chedi. I think you can take very good photos here.







Wat Mahathat:
Located in front of the grand palace to the east near Pa Than Bridge. It was contructed in the reign of King Borom Rachathirat I. Wat Mahathat is open every day from 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.





Wide shot from above this temple which is very beautiful. Even monks come here to learn about Buddhist history, they walk around, looking at Buddha images, old chedi etc.




The famous thing in this temple is "The face of the Buddha" with a tree growing around it. The picture on the right shows a Buddha image. Even though the temple is in ruins, the Buddha images are still respected.

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Wat Prasrisanphet,Auphu Mueng

be important temple is whering build in royal public palace such as one , with the Temple of the Emerald Buddha , at Bangkok , or , relic of Buddha capital city Sukothai temple , in 1 His majesty Rama leader time uses to are the movable throne , later , the His majesty smokes three worlds ( heaven earth hell farm ) , shape builds fungus monk sees [ praise ] that go up new , already please give be , shrine border , for assemble , important ceremony is all , of the country , then a temple in royal palace border that has no the Buddhist priest keeps within a monastery , later in the time , 2 His Rama leader shape majesties build pagoda east monk , for pack ashes of the cremated dead monk of the His majesty smokes three worlds ( heaven earth hell farm monk fungus father ) , when , , 2035 Buddhist middle Eras pack ashes of the cremated dead monk s of , the His majesty smokes 3 monk elder brother fungus kings , in year , 2042 Buddhist shape Eras build temple monk , and in year next come to handsome image of Buddha shape stand 8 tall the wah , cover with 286 heavy golds weigh , ( , about 171 a kilogram ) , dedicate a monk , the noun is that , , " , glory monk culls Yada the perception " , which , later when , ( lose/go dead ) the capital city , 2310 Buddhist Burma Eras have burnt to copy the gold s go to are finished , and a monk is completely demolished , pagoda 3 next come to West side is the pagoda packs ashes of the cremated dead monk of the His majesty smokes 2 kings which , the His majesty smokes 4 son please kings establish ,

Wat Praram, Auphur Mueng
be outside royal palace border goes to of the east , His Ramase majesty , shape establishes straight that dedicate , fire dead body His majesty god cradle gold monk fungus father personified , this temple has large-sized swamp infront a temple , originally call that , , " , the stem borer is " , later change the name is , " , Rama swamp " , now be , " , public swamp Rama park " , which , use be at , for relax of member province in , the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and for source tourist visit as well ,

Wat Ratchaburana ,Auphur Mueng

stay bridge forest charcoal manner , opposite relic of Buddha temple , the His majesty smokes 2 emperors ( , three Phya god is ) , give establish , when , railing , 1967 Buddhist Eras at , that which , use cremate the god spreads out with , the god beats to fight on elephant's back until old pass away , and give built 2 pagodas , wear overlay the area where fight on elephant's back , now left just the base stays middle the roundabout infront a temple , remainder carcass stays show that , a temple and all part , of the this large many temples , pagoda remainder monk stays to are the arts , Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 1 time which , like as an example Cambodian that give pagoda monk is of the temple chairman , a time (s lose/go dead ) the capital city , this temple was burnt , be damaged be finished , although , pagoda big monk will still remain , but , get touch [ cheap ] the criminals steals to dig the valuables in the underground hiding place goes to one ( part ) , until , Fine Arts Department has dug the underground hiding place takes ancient , the material that is valuable go to heal in , National Museum , the three god is Phya , which , build by the donation , from votive tablet small-sized lead has that from underground hiding this place is a gift , when , year , a Buddhist Era is 2500 ,

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Amphur Mueng ,

Samphaya institute National museum ,

The image of Buddha affixes to sit hang the feet ,

be image of time Dhavaravati Kingdom Buddha has that to ever place in monk stupa bower , ancient monk crematorium temple , the Nakhon Pathom is which , Fine Arts Department , get try follow , the component differs , ++ , of scattered monk is going to at all , come to make be get completely , regard the image of Buddha that is valuable very one because , in the world has 6 only just ,

Image of Buddha head is accomplished cradle gold time ,
have very large-sized , get from Wat Thammiggarat , show arrive at the antiquity , of the temple , and casting material craftsmanship , large-sized in the ancient , besides , still have the antiques has that to dig meet a lot of especially again that from underground hiding Wat Ratchaborana fungus place s restore to collect in precious room s at , there is royal articles of gold bracelet arm night use , a long necklace for decorate , head decorations for a man and woman , sword sheath gold sword decorates color all gem , etc. , show the flame of , Ayudhya in the past keeps interesting attractively very , Sam Phaya National Museum opens to do something 09.00-16.00 from , Wednesday - , Sunday , close Monday , Tuesday and seasonal festival holiday , reaching fee sees [ praise ] , person Thai vacates 10 a baht , person foreigners vacates 30 a baht , the detail adds to contact with , the telephone is . (661-035) 241587 ,

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Ayutthaya province is home to Thailand's former capital, the golden city of Ayutthaya, center of an empire that dominated almost all of Southeast Asia and lasted 400 years, until it was destroyed and sacked by the Burmese in 1767. Despite the destruction, some impressive sights still remain. Mosts tourists visit the city on a day trip from Bangkok, even though it could well be worth a few days for anyone interested in ancient architecture.

In addition to Ayutthaya City , there are a couple of other very interesting places to take in. Nearest to Bangkok is the Bang Sai Royal Arts and Crafts Center . About halfway between Bang Sai and Ayutthaya City is the summer palace of Bang Pa In .

The town of Ayutthaya itself lies in the center of the province, on an island formed by the confluence of the Chaophraya, Lopburi and Pasak Rivers. The city was founded in 1351 and became the capital of the Siamese empire that ultimately became modern-day Thailand. The Ayutthaya period was definitely Thailand's "Golden Age." Although sacked and destroyed by the Burmese in 1767, there's still a bit to see

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wellcome to thailand blog this blogs is tourist travel and shopping in thailand and near area
ha ha ha wellcome to Thailand land of Smile

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