Udon Thani is a northeastern province covering an area of 15,589 square kilometres. The provincial capital is 562 kilometres northeast of Bangkok. Udon Thani is probably best known for its archaeological wonders, paramount among them the hamlet of theBan Chiang where the world's first Bronze Age civilisation is believed to have flourished more than 5,000 years ago

Attracrtions In Udon Thani
Prachak Silpakhom Lake
Known locally as Nong Prachak, this vast stretch of water is named after the founder of Udon Thani, and is decorated with colourful flowerring plants that lend the area much of its pleasant atmosphere.
Huai Luang Reservoir
This scenic spot, 25 kilometres from the provincial capital along the Udon Thani-Nong Bua Lam Phu route unit km. 15, and a further 10 kilometres by road, is ideal for fishing, rafting and cruising .

Na Yoong Nam Som Forest Park

Located some 100 kilometres northwest of the provincial capital, beyond Phu Phar Bat Historical Park, in Amphoe Nam Som, this park is best known for the 40-metre high Yung Thong Waterfall which cascades down a steep cliff in verdant surrounding from the Phu-Pan and Phu Ya U ridges.
Historical sites & Museums
Ban Chiang National Museum  Ban Chiang

   Located some 56 kilometres east of the provincial capital along Highway No. 22 (until Km. 50 and then along Highway No. 2225), this museum is currently open to the general public every day. Ancient artifacts, including tools, utensils, pottery and jewellery, between 4000 and 7000 years old, were unearthed in the immedite vicinity. the distinctive pottery, with its fingerprint whorl decorations, is belived to be the world's oldest decorative earthenware. Nearby burial pit, left as they were after excavation, in the compound of Wat Po Si Nai, show how valuables, including earthenwere pots, were buried with the dead. Evidence of primitive bronze casting technology was discovered in the aera, and in 1992 Ban Chiang was decalred a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
Phra Buddha Bat Bua Bok
Phra Buddha Bat Bua Bok    This stupa, local point of of the historical park, and probably constructed during the 1920s, shelters a Buddha footprint (Phra Buddha Bat in Thai), not far from the shrine many interesing caves and rock formation. The cave are belived to have been the homes of Stone Age human being who left 3,000-year-old rock paintings of hands, human, animals and geometric designs. 

Prince Prachak Silpakhom Statue
   This monument in the heart of the city commemorates the military governor who founded Udon Thani in 1894 as part of what was then referred 'The Northeast Province'.
Pu-ya Shrine
   As the chinese God and Goddess of Mercy, Pu-yu Shrine revered by poor people and those encountering personal problems, believing they will be grandted favours they seek, Two lakeside is located near the railway on the east of the provincial capital. Out-of-city Attraction

Wat Pa Ban Tad
   This forest monastery is located 16 kilometres south of the provincial capital via highway No. 2 towards khon kaen for 7 kilometres and a rigth trun at the Ban Dong Khen crossroads for a further 9 kilometres. the complex is situated on a densely wooded hilly area surrounded by rice paddise. the monastery precincts are defined by a concrete wall which prevent easy encroachment by abundant forest wildlife. The monastery is ideal for meditation and contemplation. The monastery is under the strict guidance of a disciple of Phra Acharn Man Phurithatto, a widely respected northeastern Buddhist ecclesiastic.
Phu Phra Bat Historical Park

   Located some 68 kilometers northwest of the provincial capital, in Amphoe Ban Phu, via Highway no. 2021 and 2348, this extensive area lies at the Phu-Pan mountain range and contains caves, natural rock formations, rock terraces and has an 'other-worldly' atmosphere that hints at ancient civilisations.

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  History and General Information about Yasothon Province
The emblem of YasothonAccording to historical chronicles of Muang Yasothon, Phra Chao Voravongsa, and his followers in 2340 B.E. were migrating to settle down with the governor of Champasak. Along the way, they stopped at Dong Phi Singh and decided to make their home there as it was found to be an approciate site which was later named Ban Ta Singh or Muang Ta Singh. In 2357 B.E. King Rama II issued an edict to upgrade the settlement into a town. Muang Ta Singh, reporting direct to Bangkok. The rank of Phra Rachavongsa was given to the governor. The town was subsequently elevated into a province under a Revolutionary Order No.70 on February 6,2515. The province was made up of the following districts, Yasothon, Kam Khuan Kaew, Maha Chaichana, Pa Tiew, Lerng Nok Tha and Kud Chum (all formerly in Ubon Ratchathani), and officially came into existence on March 1,215 (1972).

Tourist Attractions 
Wat Mahathat
   Located within in Muang municipality.It has existed ever since the beginning of the community of the original Ban Ta Singh, major ancient structures include the Phra Buddha Busayarat statue, the Phra That (holy relic) Yasothon and the Scripture Hall.festivities and events place there.

The Phra Buddha Busayarat
   Also known as Phra Kaew Yad Nam Kang, cast in the Chiang Saen style, is a statue in th Meditation posture, with a lap width of 1.9". It is an ancient symbol of Yasothon and was presented to the first governor of the town by King Rama III.

Phra That Kong Khao Noi

Phra That Kong Khao Noi    is an ancient chedi dating back to the Khorn Era. Located in a field in Tambon Tad Thong of Yasothon district. It can be reached by going out of town for about 8 kms. on Highway No.23 (Yasothon-Ubon Ratchathani). At about Km. marker 194, turn left and proceed on for another kilometer.at Ban Tat Thong is a distinctive brick pagoda dating back to the late Ayutthaya period (18th centry).

Phra That Yasothon (Phra That Anon)

   is one of the major and ancient Phra Thats in the Northeast. Square shaped with the top similar to the Phra That Phanom, the chedi enshrines the ashes of Phra Anon. The Phra That Phra Anonarchitecture reflects the influence of Laotian art popular reflects the influence of Laotian art popular during the Late Ayutthaya Period-Early Rattanakosin Period, which supports the belief that it was built around that period when Phra Vor and Phra Ta led immigrations to settle down in that vicinity. The Phra That has a square base, each side measuring 81 m. built of brick and mortar with a tapered waist in the form of face-up and face-down lotrses. The actual Chamber is located above. The four arches on the four compass points are adorned with standing Buddha statues. On the four sides top of the Phra That are smaller Pli Lek knots, while the central top is double-tiered. The general style is similar to the Phra That Kong Khao Noi. The Phra That Anon is celebrated in an annual fair during the month of March.
   Also known as Phra Kaew Yad Nam Kang, cast in the Chiang Saen style, is a statue in th Meditation posture, with a lap width of 1.9". It is an ancient symbol of Yasothon and was presented to the first governor of the town by King Rama III.

Dong Muang Toey
   near the village of Ban Song Puay in Kham Khuan Keao district is the site of a commuity beelieved to have originated around the 6th century. The ruins of a building at the site bear words which indicate it was a Brahman shrine.

Mae Nam Chee Beach
Buddha Image in Phu Tham Phra
       is a two-kms stretch of river bed along the banks of the Chee River. The area is exposed when the river recedes during the dry deason from December to May. During this time vendors set up food stalls and the "peach" becomes a recreation area. There a number of interesting caves in the scenic mountainous vicinity of Phu Tham Phra 16 km from Loeng Nok Tha district. The cave on Phu Tham Phra contains several Buddha images. Other notable caves include Kheng Ngu Chuang, Kliang and Phrom Butr.
Phu Thang Kwian
   is a rocky peak in the Phu Phan Mountains 24 km from Kut Chum district. It is worth a visit to see the surrounding landscape. Local people pay homage to a shrine while they are there.
The village of Ban Si Than Pa Tiu
   District 20 km east of Yasothon on Highway 202 is noted for making khid cloth and triangle-shaped mawn kwan pillows.

  Festival and Enent Interesting 
   Yasothon is most famous for its spectacular Rocket (Bung Fai) Festival, an event which draws visitors from all over the country. The festival, held as a rain-making and fertility rite, features large home-made rockets, fireworks displays, parades and beauty contests. This unique Isan tradition is hele in early May at the advent of the rainy season.

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  Kalasin is 519 kilometers from Bangkok and administratively divided into 14 Amphoes and 4 King Amphoes (Subdistricts), they are Amphoe Muang Kalasin, Amphoe Yang
  Talat, Amphoe Kamalasai, Amphoe Tha Khantho, Amphoe Khao Wong. Amphoe Huai Meg, Amphoe Sahassakhan, Amphoe Somdet, Amphoe Kuchinarai, Amphoe Kham Muong, Amphoe Nong Kungsi, Amphoe Namon, Amphoe Huai Phung, Amphoe Rong Kham King Amphoe No Koo, King Amphoe Sam Chai, King Amphoe Don Chan and King Amphoe Kong Chai, occupying an are of 7,055.07 square kilometers. The characteristics of the area are mountainous along the Phuphan Range in the upper part while the middle part is hilly area with the alteration of diciduous forest.

This center is located within the area of Thirawat Hospital. lt is a source to educate general interesed persons with data and knowledge on local arts and folk cultures of Kalasin. The center also exhibits ways of life of the local people and of the north - easterners as well as to sell the selected items of Kalasin local products such as Phrae Wa fabric, Ponglang (I-San xyloplane) a kind of local northeastern musical instruments. Those who desire to visit the center in group and also want to have a lecturer, please contact in advance at the Director of Thirawat Hospital, No. 269/3, Thanon Thanaphon, Amphoe Muang, Kalasin 46000, Tel. (043) 811757.
PHRAYA CHAIYASUNTHON MONUMENT (THAO SOMPHAMIT)
PHRAYA CHAIYASUNTHON MONUMENT (THAO SOMPHAMIT)   This monument is located in front of the  Post Telegraph Office of Kalasin. The monument is cast of bronze having human actual size and stands on a platform. The right hand holds a water kettle while the absalute power sword is in the left hand. The people of Kalasin from all walks of life donated their properties to help construct the monument expressing their gratitude towards the established of Muang Kalasin.

PHU PO BUDDHISTIC SIGNIFICANCE

PHU PO BUDDHISTIC SIGNIFICANCE   This spot is located in Tambon Phu Po, Amphoe Muang Kalasin, approximately 28 kilometres north of Kalasin township area along Highway No. 2319. lt houses two ancient Reclining Buddha images, one located at the entrance on the foot hill and another located on Phu Po. The two Reclining Buddha were carved on the cliffs by Dvaravati artisans. People of Kalasin and neighburing provinces highly pay their homage to these two images. Besides the image on top of Phu. Po, such area also has beautiful scenery which is suitable for relaxation. The local people celebrate the Reclining Buddha images in April of every year.

WAT KLANG
   

This monastery is situated in Amphoe Munag housing a Buddha image named Ong Dam which is  cast of bronze having the lap width of 20 inches. It has beautiful Buddhistic characteristics, and believed to be cast in the period of Phra Chao Khu Na Kham. Phra Chaiyasunthon (King) brought to be enshrined as an auspicious object of the town. It is regarded a sacred Buddha image and whenever there is a drought the people of Kalasin will invite him to lead a procession begging for rain. There are ancient Thai alphabets inscribed at the base of the platform.
WAT KLANG
   Besides Ong Dam Buddha Image, there is also a replica of Buddha Foot Prints, having the width of 50 centimetres and the length of 2 metres, in Wat Klang. The Foot Prints are made of sand stone and it is presumed that it was made in the period when this area was ruled by the Lawa tribe. The Foot Prints should originally be located on the bank of Lam Pao River near Sam Rong Rapid and it was celebrated every year until the bank denudation, occurred during the flood season of every year, caused the fear of damage to be happened to the foot prints. The people, then, moved the foot prints to be housed with Ong Dam Buddha lmage in the main shrine hall.
WAT SI BUNRUANG (WAT NUA)
   This is an ancient monastery in the vicinity of Muang Kalasin Municipality. The main shrine hall of this monastery is surrounded by a number of beautiful sema stones from Muang Fa Daet Song Yang. The outstanding one among those beautiful sema stones is the one featuring devines travelling in the air above the castle which is featured in two tiered crystal niches (Dhanaravadistyle of art.) and there are features of a king, a queen and the prince son at the lowest part.

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THAILAND'S northeastern region has seen civilizations come and go over the centuries. In the 1970's, an archeological excavations at Ban Chiang, 50 kms cast of Udon Thani, unearthed the remains of a Bronze Age civilization that flourished over 5,000-7,000 years ago. A thousand years ago, the area was also part of the ancient Khmer empire that gave birth to Angkor Wat. The Khmer ruins at Phimai and Phanom Rung are fine examples of this great civilization that preceded Sukhothai-Thailand's first established capital.

But even before human begins roamed the plateaus of "Isan", the region was once home to a more ancient species of animal-the dinosaur. The discovery of new dinosaur bones at the Phu Wiang National Park in Khon Kaen province has brought excitement to the world at large. Thai people are even more excited to learn that the fossils are the "grandfather" of all tyrannosaurs, the oldest example of the fierce, mcat-eating dinosaur ever found.

The discovery was reported by a team of Thai and French researchers. The report has just been published in the well-known science journal "Nature". Researchers have named this new species of dinosaur the Siamotyrannus isanensis. It is 20 million years older than earliest known Tyrannosaurus rex, the feared beast of the popular movie "Jurassic Park". The meat-eating dinosaur was first found at the Phu Wiang National Park in Phu Wiang district,Khon Kaen province in 1987. The study on its hip bones, spine and legs was completed early this year and published in the latest issue of the journal "Nature".
The Department of Mineral Resource says the new dinosaur found in Thailand is only 6.5 metres longs, about half the size of the Tyrannosaurus rex. The excavation and study on the fossils of this dinosaur were conducted through cooperation between Thailand's Department of Mineral Resources and the University of France. The project started in 1979, and a plant-eating dinosaur was discovered in Phu Wiang in 1984 . It was named Phuwiangosaurus sirindhornae in honuor of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
The new discovery of dinosaur fossils in Phu Wiang has made a name for Thailand. It may prove that this tyrannosaur evolved in Asia and spread to North America. The story of dinosaurs has always attracted people of all ages and nationalities. The first dinosaurs fossils were found about 175 years ago in Connecticut,USA. Since then, a great many others have been found in other parts of the world. These fossils are mainly dinosaur bones, teeth and eggs. Scientists can put the bones together into whole skeletons and from the skeletons they can tell what the dinosaurs actually looked like. By studying fossil teeth, scientists can tell whether a dinosaur ate plans or meat. Meat eater has pointed, sharp teeth for teaching meat. Dinosaurs that ate plants had flat, blunt teeth designed for chewing.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Department of Mineral Resources and other agencies concerned are joining hands in establishing a dinosaur museum will be completed by the year 2,000. When completed, the museum will become a tourism attraction in Khon Kean. It will also serve as a study centre for these who are interested in the ancient dinosaurs, which died out millions of years before the first humans appeared on Earth.
Information About Phu Wiang

Phu Wiang National Park
Phu wiang is a name of a mountain and Amphur in Khorn Kean. Royal Forest Department declared this national park on December 8,1991, becoming 71th national park of Thailand, covers an area of 325 km2 Dinosaurs' skeletons and steps are found in this park. Beside this, human sheletons, Iron equipment, the sleep Lord Bhuddha in Thawarawadee Period and also point in before history. The topography on the mountain is a big hold of a volcano peak, which covered by dipteracarp and dry evergreen forest.
Phu Wiang National Park
P.O.Box 1, Nai Muang Sub-district, 
Amphur Phu Wiang   Khorn Kaen
Thailand 40150
Tel. 08 5852 1771   E-mail reserve@dnp.go.th

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WITH the two coastlines stretching for hundreds of miles and some of the finest beaches to be found anywhere in Southeast Asia Thailand has become a major travel destination for lovers of all kinds of water sports. A number of excellent resorts offer a full range of equipment at reasonable rates for anyone who wants to spend a holiday exploring the pleasures of deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, water skiing , parasailine, scuba diving, or swimming in crystal-clear waters.
The earliest water-sport centre and still one of the most popular is Pattaya on the Gulf of Thailand. just two hours' drive from Bangkok which has a wide variety of ccommodations to meet almost any traveling budget. The main beach is located on a scenic bay. but facilities are available down the coastline for some 30 miles and there are also more than 30 picturesque off-shore islands with a wealth of coral and many types of tropical fish.

The best known centre for deep-sea fishing in the Pattaya area is Bang Saray from which it is possible to charter boats and go in search of marlin king mackerel, sharks and barracuda.
Scuha divers can organize daily trips from the resort to the off-shore islands of Ko Lan Ko Sak and Ko Krok all of which take only 45 minutes to reach; interesting coral formations and colorful fish are visible for up to 30 metres depending on the season in warm waters ranging in depth from 3 to 25 metres.
Many of Pattaya's diving schools have personnel trained by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) or by the National Association of Underwater Instructors (PADI), plus all kinds of equipment for hire. Among the languages spoken in these schools are English, German, Dutch, French and Japanese .
The other major water-sport centre is the southern island of Phuket on the Andaman Sea. Here on the west coast there are more than 14 magnificent white-sand beaches, all with warm clear waters as well as a Large number of nearby islands that hosts diving conditions to rival the best in the world. Most of the beaches have equipment for diving windsurfing, and other sports for rent.
The majority of diving destinations close to Phuket are located in Phang Nga Bay east of the island. The spectacular Phi Phi Islands near Phuket are also popular sites. True enthusiasts also hire larger boats excursions to the largely uninhabited Similan Islands. 80 kilometres northwest of Phuket. which has clear waters similar to those found in the Maldives. the Caribbean and the Great Barrier Reef of Australlia.
Contact TAT for a list of selected diving metres and schools.

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  Synopsis
Thailand Tourism Festival 2008 aims to promote tourism in Thailand as well as to show the uniqueness of Thai arts, culture and tradition. The event consists of exhibitions, sales booths, activities and performances to reach out to every group of potential tourists.
Principle
Promoting the tourism industry in Thailand is an important mission for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) especially that of encouraging Thai people to travel domestically.
TAT puts an emphasis on domestic projects in order to achieve the balance in tourism in two dimensions. First, the societal dimension focusing on preservation of the environment and culture in travel destinations. Second, the economic dimension focusing on distributing tourism industry income to other parts of the country and creating money supply within the country.

In order to achieve this goal, TAT organizes the Thailand Tourism Festival 2007, which is another project our organization has been intent on supporting. Its aim is to express the cultures and traditions of each region, stimulate domestic tourism and present the progress of Thai tourism industry in the forms of various travel activities which are scenic and attractive. In addition, the festival brings together quality tourism products and services, which would inspire visitors to travel to these travel destinations.

Objectives
1. To show the unique culture and traditions of Thailand, to instill pride in the nation and to encourage tourism, a vital part of life and learning.
2. To show the potential of tourism in Thailand which is has always been progressing and has now reached an international standard.
3. To promote as well as increase tourist destinations in a larger circle, to reach both big and small cities. To encourage more money supply in the economic system and distribute income to every region.
4. To encourage the tourism industry to share their knowledge and create an understanding of the impact of tourism on Thailand, as well as to promote TAT’s campaigns and programs.

Target Groups
Every group of tourists, as well as government and private sectors.

Concept and Form of Event
This festival focuses on shows depicting Thai culture, traditions and uniqueness which demonstrate the progress of tourism in Thailand. This event includes products and services associated with tourism and also a variety of tourism activities such as Cultural and Community Life Tourism, Ecotourism, Adventure Tourism, Health Tourism and Tourism Along His Majesty The King’s Teachings. There is also a main stage for cultural performances from each region and from neighboring countries as well as exhibitions from the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s projects and associated government projects and an academic talk on tourism.
The venue is divided into:
1. Booths for tourism-related business owners and SMEs as well as government sectors and organizations associated to tourism. Products and services, travel agents, airlines, hotels, resorts, arts and crafts from everywhere in the country can also be found here as well.
2. TAT’s section for tourism activities
Cultural and Community Life Tourism divides its space into 3 parts:
- “Culture and Lifestyle In The Golden Land” comprising of exhibitions and folk lifestyles on show.
- “A Thousand and One Things Thai” comprising of products from each community which reflects their culture and lifestyle.
- “Markets of the 4 Regions” is a mock-up of Thai markets and floating markets
Adventure Tourism: Adventurous activities in Thailand on show
Ecotourism: Demonstrations and activities to show that ecotourism can help reduce greenhouse gases and preserve nature comprising of:
- Mock-ups of ecotourism destinations such as forests, waterfalls and rivers with the use of technology and multimedia.
- Award-winning business owners’ environmental projects.
Health Tourism with activities such as:
- Six Sense: Demonstrations of Thai massages in various styles
- Health Check-up: Offers check-up services from hospitals and modern treatments
- Wellness Package Promotion: Health tourism from the 4 regions
Products and Services: Demonstrations of products and services from award-winning communities
Crafts and Souvenirs: See and enjoy shopping for the best arts and crafts and also join in activities such as:
- Auction for award-winning crafts from all over Thailand
- An exhibition of the details of crafts and where they were made
- Crafts games and prizes
Tourism Seminar led by experienced speakers from TAT’s marketing division and famous lecturers with a variety of interesting topics.
Activities on the Main Stage
- A spectacular cultural parade from every region every day throughout the event from 10 am to 9 pm such as dances from the College of Dramatic Arts in every
region (13 schools in all), dances from China,Vietnam, Myanmar, fashion shows and games
- Thai classical mask performances
Exhibitions on a variety of topics
- An exhibition of old photographs depicting the history of TAT and TAT in each campaign in the past
- “48 Best Travel Destinations in Thailand” Exhibition
- “Travel the Thai Way: Reduce Global Warming” Exhibition
- Screenings of Thai travel films from every province, all day every day throughout the event
Communication Technology for Tourism
- Using online media to promote tourism
- Encourage online community participation to develop tourism in Thailand

Time and Venue
5-8 June 2007, Challenger Hall, Impact, Muangthong Thani

Organization Responsible
North Eastern Region Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand

Results
1. A money supply of more than 100 million baht in the festival.
2. A money supply of more than 150 million baht in the economic system, both directly and indirectly due to this festival.
3. At least 150,000 people participating at the festival
4. At least 250 business owners in Thailand, tourism-related businesses, clubs, associations and government organizations participating in the festival.

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Date 2 Apr 2008 - 4 Apr 2008
Place Prasat Phanom Rung,  Burirum ProvinceA splash of sunlight penetrating an ancient temple cloister signals a distinctive celebration at Prasat Phanom Rung.
Knowing the exact moment to witness a spectacular sunrise through the doorway of an ancient Hindu temple requires a detailed calculation.
The most auspicious day is 3 April; the time, 0602.32 at sunrise, as the amber sun is perfectly aligned in the centre of the main doorway to a temple standing on a former volcanic mountain in northeast Thailand.

Actually, the sun rays pass straight through 15  perfectly aligned doorways of Prasat Phanom Rung, a revered and ancient Hindu monastery, just four times a year -– two  sets of sunrises, in April and September, and two sets of sunsets, in March and October.

 
These spectacular solar-related events, that also bear religious significance in the Hindu faithful, span just three days –- 2, 3 and 4 April. The second day is considered the most auspicious as the sun is visible dead centre of the outer doorway of this Khmer Hindu temple. Sun rays cast light through 15 aligned doorways that span 75 metres of the temple’s inner courtyard illuminating a revered lingam deep in the main sanctuary. On the other two days, the sun passes one of the corners of these doorways.

Located about 120 km east of Nakhon Ratchasima, the gateway to the northeast region, Prasat Phanom Rung presents a picturesque setting high above the surrounding countryside. A series of steps lead to this ancient monument that stands on the peak of an extinct volcano offering panoramic views of rice fields and hazy mountains on the border with Cambodia.

While photographers will not want to miss the opportunity to capture the  3 April sunrise perfectly aligned within the lintels of the doorways, most visitors will settle for the evening festivals and a colourful light and sound show organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand performing nightly from 2 to 4 April.

Officially known as the  “Ascent of the Mountain Annual Festival” or the “Festival Of The Thousand Year Miracle of the Phanom Rung Grand Shrine” the celebrations start with the religious significance of the sunrises, but continue with community festivities on each of the three days, well into the night.

The 80-minute light and sound show, that start at 20:00, highlights the history of Prasat Phanom Rung and explains the significance of the sunrise and its alignment with the temple’s courtyard doors.
The show is described as an “extravagant outdoor Son et Lumiere performances led by a large cast of actors, dancers and acrobats.”
This evening spectacular, held within the temple complex, compliments the daytime activities that start with the sunrise ceremonies and are followed by colourful festivities throughout the day. In the afternoon there is almost a carnival spirit as visitors enjoy the local food specialities sold at stalls, the folk music and dances as well as handicraft displays.  Many visitors are tempted to stay on to admire the floodlight sanctuary, or slumber through night under the stars to ensure they have a prime spot to participate in the sunrise ceremonies on the following morning.
source from www.tourismthailand.org

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Songkran is a special time of the year in Chiangmai and one of the nicest parts of this festive holiday is the pouring of water. Traditionally, younger people pay respect to their elders by pouring water from silver bowls on the hands of older persons. This ceremony is known as "Rod Nahm Dum Hua." After the family pays respect the elders ask the younger ones to forgive them for speaking harshly during the past year and the elders give them a blessing and words of wisdom. This is much different from the fun-loving water throwing we see around Chiangmai at Songkran, and it is often accompanied by the tying of strings around the person's wrists. This activity is done in the home while the more vigorous water throwing is done outside.

Meanwhile, in the streets of Chiangmai throngs of people love to stand in rows, waiting with buckets and hoses to douse everyone going by. Whether you're on a motorbike or a bicycle, in a car or a truck or just walking, you cannot escape the fun of Songkran. The Chiangmai people always seem to find a way to make sure you have as much fun as they do.

 

Water throwing is one of the most humorous and enjoyable parts of the Songkran festival. It can happen anywhere, and while you're here during Songkran you can enjoy it as much as everyone else. If you're coming into Chiangmai by train you might want to dress appropriately; that is, you might want to dress for fun. The passenger, sitting comfortably in a railway car, can receive an accidental splash through the window from the frolicking festivities outside.     

    While all of this is going, on, lest we forget the moving water vehicles, be prepared for pickup trucks filled with splashers going by at every corner. This crowd tends to over do it and they don't quite seem to understand the concept of gravity ! That water can be very heavy coming down from above.

All of this is loads of fun, and as the Thais say, "It's Sanook-Dee", but there are cautions involved and one should be aware that accidents do happen during the Songkran Festival. Be aware, be smart, and have fun.

Source from http://www.chiangmai-chiangrai.com

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Date 13-15 April 2008
Place : All Place in Thailand
Participate in our water splash to celebrate Songkran. Pay homage to Phra Buddha Sihing. Visit our simulated temple fair. Watch Thai traditional sport activities. Enjoy all kinds of entertainment during the festival.
This traditional Thai custom of merry-making is the Kingdom's most 'sanuk' (fun-filled) festival, celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm, nation-wide, once a year. In most parts of the country, Songkran extends over a period of 3 days.

Known the world-over for its characteristic tradition of water-throwing ranging from a courteous sprinkle or a polite splash, to harmless water pistols and showers from garden hoses to the well-aimed bucket or water-cannon delivered in a festive spirit. Without a doubt, on the practical side, Songkran is a refreshing solution to "beating the heat" in the hottest season of the year. There is a however a much deeper significance to "Songkran".

Apart from marking a new beginning, Songkran is also a time for thanksgiving. It is an important time for individuals to reflect upon the many acts of kindness and thoughtfulness each has personally experienced and to remember how such acts of generosity and compassion bring peace, happiness and well-being. Songkran is also the time for reunions and family ties are renewed.
At the heart of each Thai custom and tradition, there is always a logical reason for its existence. The festive elements of the celebration, the cultural values, the social code of conduct and individual belief and practices are intertwined. Songkran embodies the traditional Thai cultural values.
The underlying significance of Songkran is the process of cleansing and purification - the purging of all ills, misfortune and evil and starting the New Year afresh with all that is good and pure. Water is symbolic of the cleaning process and signifies purity.
Contact: Tourism Authority of ThailandCall Center 1672
Website: www.songkran.net

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Date : 8 - 9  March, 2008
Venue : Rama VI camp, Cha - Am , Phetchaburi
Hi-light :
1. Thai Kites form 4 Regions, Kites from Rattanakosin Era
2. Chula and Pak - Pao Kites competition, The World Largest Chula Kite Show
3. Fast Kite Flying and exhibition workshop International Kite Show
4. Kite Show from more 16 countries with Giant 3D flying : Maple Kite train, Sexy
    Legs Kite, Giant Gecko Kite, Giant Octopus Kite, Free Willy Whale Kite, Smiling 
    Sun Kite, Teddy Bear Kite, Mermaid Kite, Banner Art Kite etc.
5. Night Kite Show

6. Stunt Kite Show, Activities and Workshop
7. THEOS Satellite Kite, Tetrahedron Kite Show, Science for Kids Activities by 
    Geo - Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency 
    (public Organization) (GISTDA)
8. Kite Stall Contest, Arts Activities, Kite Workshop, etc.
9. Parachuting Show
10. Remote-controlled Small Airplane show
11. Balloon Show
12. Visit the summer seaside palace of H.M. the King Rama VI
13. OTOP Fair, Food Fair
14. Safe Energy Global Warming Caravan

Programs
Friday 7 th March, 2008
16.00 - 17.00 hrs.  Kite Show for Press
Sunday 9 th March, 2008
10.00 - 11.00 hrs.  Parachuting Show
11.00 - 18.30 hrs.  International Kite Show, Stunt Kite Show with Music, Fast Kite Show, Thai Kite Show and Chula, Pak - Pao Show,Activities by Geo - I nformatics and SpaceTechnology Development Agency (GISTDA),Exhibition etc.
18.30 - 20.30 hrs.  Night Kite Show, Balloon Show
For any Further information :
TAT (Head Office) Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext. 3477
TAT Central Region 2 (Cha AM) Tel. 0 3247 1005 - 6
TAT Call Center : 1672
E - Mail : eprodiv@tat,or.th
www.tourismthailand.org  

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Now in its third year the Phuket International Blues Festival gets underway, 22 to 23 February, at the beachside Hilton Phuket Arcadia on the island’s west coast Karon Bay. It promises to be bigger than ever with at least 12 acts performing on stage during the two-night event. Now a firm fixture in Phuket’s annual entertainment calendar, the festival attracts top blues bands from around Thailand, while two popular bands from Australia and the US return once more. Bangkok’s popular blues bands take centre stage with performances from Cannonball, Georgia, Full House and Soi Dogs beating out the rhythm to a packed house of blues fans.

We have now added California blues diva Shari Puorto to the great line-up of the 2008 festival. Described as "Janis Joplin meets Bonnie Raitt", Shari and her excellent band will give you a night to remember!

This year the festival will be huge - no less than twelve acts will take to the stage during the two nights. Thailand's finest - Cannonball, Georgia, Full House and Soi Dogs from Bangkok; The Blues Machine from Pattaya; The Fabulous Hepcats from Koh Samui; Boy Blues Band from Chiang Mai as well as Phuket's Groove Doctors w/Jimmy Fame and Bonnie Anderson - together with one of Australia's top blues bands, Salty Dog, will rock the stage until Rich Harper closes the show Friday night and Shari Puorto on Saturday. Please see Schedules page for details and get ready for some smokin, hot Blues, R&B and Rock AND Roll!

The internationally renowned Rich Harper Band from Los Angeles which has gathered strong following in Thailand over the past two years will return in 2008, to headline Friday night with their usual fiery style, helping to make this year’s festival a blues/rock extravaganza.

For more information: 
Hotline: 086-682 2639
International: +66 86682 2639
e-mail: info@phuketbluesfestival.com
phuketmusic@yahoo.com

www.phuketbluesfestival.com

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Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival
Date : 11 – 13 March 2008
Venue : Phaya Thaen Park, Mueang District, Yasothon
Annual ritual to ensure that the seasonal rains fall at the appropriate time in the planting cycle. In the process, Buddhist merit-making traditions are also observed and reinforced. The festival, which is held over a period of three days, strengthens community spirit. The first day known as “Wan Suk |Dip” features a ritual to play homage to Chao Pu, the spirit of the city pillar. The second day is the rocket procession day. Each is escorted by a colourful dance troupe. The rocket are finally launched on the third day in which various rockets and beauty contests are held. It is also a day for the ordination of novices with festive celebrations following merit-making rituals.

 

 

 

For this annual festival, villagers of the Northern fashion rockets of all kinds, some of them several metres long, the launching of which is believed to ensure plentiful rains in the coming rice-planting season. High-spirited revelry accompanies the event, with beauty parades, folk dancing, and stage shows.
Contact : TAT Northeastern Office : Region 2
Tel : 0 4524 3770-1
Yasothon Municipality Office
Tel : 0 4571 1397 Ext. : 112
Website : www.tat.or.th/festival

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1st – 3rd February 2008
Passport to Chiang Mai” PCM FAIR 2008

“Uniting all tourist NEEDS; Dinning, Traveling, Staying, Shopping and Spa”

The first collaboration of travel entrepreneurs

and exporters aims to provide a privilege for you with sincerity in the

Passport to Chiang Mai (PCM) Fair 2008

Between 1st – 3rd February 2008 at JJ Market Chiang Mai 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

For more information please call 053 808770, 081 530 5185
source from http://www.jjchiangmai.com

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New Zealand is asking Thai authorities to explain why it has refused to let a group of Kayan "long-necked" refugees from Burma to leave Thailand to start new lives.

New Zealand agreed two years ago to accept two families of Kayan people - whose women traditionally wear a number of brass rings around their unnaturally long necks - as refugees, but Thai authorities will not give them exit visas.

According to a BBC report from the area in Mae Hong Son province on Wednesday, it is suspected that the families are being kept in Thailand because of the central role they play in the local tourism industry.

The BBC said three Kayan villages close to the Burmese border were a major lure for foreign tourists and quoted a spokeswoman for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees as saying, "It's absolutely a human zoo."

Kitty McKinsey said some 20,000 other Burmese refugees had recently been allowed to move to third countries, but Thailand was not letting a group of 20 Kayans who had been accepted as refugees by New Zealand and Finland leave.

"We don't understand why these 20 are not allowed to start new lives," she told the BBC. "The Thai authorities are treating them in a special way."

The BBC quoted a 23-year-old woman called Zember as saying the UNHCR told her family in 2005 that they had been accepted by New Zealand.

"I was so happy," she said. "They tell me a house is already waiting for us in New Zealand."

The New Zealand foreign ministry spokeswoman told Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa: "we have raised our concerns with the Thai foreign ministry. We are waiting for a response." (dpa)
Source from bangkokpost.net

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Over the past eight years, Bumrungrad International has showcased some of Thailand’s best restaurants through its Great Chefs programme. For 2008, Bumrungrad International, in cooperation with the Royal Project Foundation, launched “Gourmets of the Garden”, a special promotion.

Participating chefs have been asked to design menus featuring healthy vegetables from The Royal Project Foundation in northern Thailand, source of the famous “The Royal Project” brand. These vegetables are nutritious and hygienic. They receive special care to retain their fresh flavor from farm to kitchen.

Under the Great Chefs programme, each restaurant works with hospital’s kitchen to design or adapt a healthy menu, which is then featured for a month. The special menus are available at no extra charge to patients, giving them the opportunity to sample dishes from some of Thailand’s best restaurants.

The Great Chefs programme is highlighted prominently throughout the hospital. It has also attracted local and international media attention. “This year we are privileged to have 12 premium hotels offering delicious and healthy dishes using healthy vegetables from The Royal Project to our patients and their guests. It is part of our commitment to serve our patients while promoting their health,” said Mr. Mack Banner, Bumrungrad International’s CEO.

Participants in the Great Chefs Programme

1. JW Marriott Bangkok - Executive Chef Dieter Ruckenbauer
2. Swissotel Le Concorde Bangkok - Chef Willment Leong
3. Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok - Chef Sarawut Im-sup
4. Banyan Tree Bangkok - Chef Vipawan Udomthanapipat
5. Grand Mercure Park Avenue - Chef Sakkajonh Thang-on
6. Sofitel Centara Grand Bangkok Hotel and Convention Centre (BCC) - Chef Jasvir Sanghera
7. Millennium Hilton Bangkok - Chef Supoj Suwanwong
8. Amari Boulevard - Chef Silvano Amolini
9. Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok - Executive Chef Sombat Lerkratanaphaisan
10. The Dusit Thani - Chef Thaneht Naovarat
11. InterContinental Bangkok - Chef Seksan Kerdyoo
12. Grand Sukhumvit by Sofitel - Executive Sous Chef Nitipat Panyajiravisit

The Royal Project Foundation
The Royal Hill-Tribes Development Programme, at present called The Royal Project, was inaugurated in 1969, following His Majesty the King's expressed desire to initiate the benefits of sedentary agricultural practice to the Hill-Tribes community with introduction of substituted cash crops that, in some cases, may fetch higher market prices than opium. During the early stages of the project, His Majesty encouraged the grafting of temperate climate peach scions to the stocks of local species of peach trees. The grafted trees bore fruits that were improved in texture and taste and were hardy enough to withstand long transportation journey to the markets. Other temperate climate fruit scions were also experimented with at different elevations at the Royal Project's Highland Agricultural Research Stations in various villages in Chiang Mai Province, Phui Village, Mae Chaem District, Khum Village, Fang District, Khun Wang Village, San Pa Tong District, Sam Mun Village, Chiang Dao District, and Mae Tho Village, Hot District.

Bumrungrad International
Bumrungrad International is Southeast Asia’s premier private hospital and a regional referral center for advanced care, offering 554 beds, 30 specialty centers, 940 medical specialists and over 800 nurses. It is Asia’s first JCI accredited hospital and serves more than one million patients yearly from 190 different countries.

Contact Information:
Bumrungrad International
Tel: +66 (0) 2667 1000
Fax: +66 (0) 2667 2525
E-mail: info@bumrungrad.com
Web site: www.bumrungrad.com

Source: Bumrungrad International release dated January 10, 2008

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Bangkok, Thailand, 7 January 2008 — Twelve contestants in the annual Czech beauty contest, along with organizers and accompanying media members, are visiting the kingdom as part of the efforts by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to generate publicity and attract more visitors from the new member countries of the European Union.

The group was welcomed this morning at the TAT Head office, by Mrs. Phornsiri Manoharn, Governor, TAT, Mrs. Juthaporn Rerngronasa, Deputy Governor for International Marketing and Mr. Suraphon Svetasreni, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communication.

The Miss Czech 2008 beauty contest is organised annually by the Czech National Television. The show is widely watched across the country, as the winner goes on to represent the Czech Republic in the annual Miss Universe Pageant.

This year’s Miss Czech contest will highlight Thailand as the backdrop destination for the various fashion and other film-shoots featured in the TV campaign. The contestants arrived in Thailand and will be here until 17 January.

Their visits in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket will include the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Grand Palace, Temple of Dawn, Siam Paragon, Duty-Free King Power, Siam Niramit, Ancient City, Nong Nooch Garden, Pattaya Beach, Tiffany Show, Laem Phromthep, Ko Panyee, Phuket Fantasea, Kata Beach, Karon Beach and Patong Beach, among other popular spots.

These shots will be broadcast in the final round of the Miss Czech 2008 Contest on 15 March, 2008, at 20.00 hrs on TV Nova, a well-known Czech Republic TV channel.

A member of the European Union since 2004, the Czech Republic has a population of ten million and a rapidly growing middle-class due to increased investments pouring into the country, especially from other EU member countries.

TAT Governor Mrs Phornsiri said, “We agreed to support this beauty contest because of the valuable exposure it will generate for Thai tourism destinations in a promising new source market in terms of visitor arrivals.

“As the Czech Republic and other new EU member countries become more economically integrated, it will certainly facilitate travel, initially within Europe and then of course beyond to long-haul destinations like Asia.”

Beside the TV promotions, the organisers have also agreed to publicise Thailand via billboards featuring Thai tourism destinations all over the capital city of Prague as well as advertising on a leading radio programme for three months and articles in the local daily newspaper and leading magazines.

TAT is taking care of the group’s travel expenditure in Thailand at a cost of roughly one million baht.

In 2006, visitor arrivals to Thailand from the Czech Republic totalled 13,128 up 27.26% over 2005. Repeat travellers totalled 7,329 or 55.83% of the total.

Visitor arrivals from the overall East Europe region totalled 95,312, up 46.53% over 2005. First-time travellers totalled 48,257 or 50.63% of the total while repeat travellers totalled 47,055 or 49.37%.

The average length of stay was 12.36 days and average expenditure per person per day 3,884 baht, generating tourism income of an estimated 4,576.36 million baht. Most of the expenditure was on shopping.

In January-November 2007, visitor arrivals from East Europe at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport totalled 108,845, up 32.69% over the same period of 2006.

Contact information:
International Public Relation Division
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2253 7419
E-mail: prdiv3@tat.or.th
Web site: www.tatnews.org

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Bor Sang, on highway 1006 heading east from Chiang Mai, appears to be a typical sleepy rural village, the kind the tour bus speeds by giving you just a fleeting glimpse of its two-storey wooden houses.  But hidden in the tiny lanes, villagers have perfected a craft that creates the country’s most famous umbrellas.

For more than 100 years, the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark.  According to local history, a monk travelled to neighbouring Myanmar, where he came across Saa paper umbrellas that offered protection against both the sun and rain. 

He returned with the production technique and introduced the umbrella to the elders of Bor Sang village, who added their own artistic skills to create a distinctive colourful, but very practical, umbrella. At first it was just a profitable hobby that supplemented the villagers’ earnings from the annual rice crop. However, with time production of the Saa paper umbrellas prospered, prompting villagers to establish a handicraft cooperative in 1941 that now organises the annual festival.

Using silk and cotton, weaved at neighbouring Sankampaeng, villagers eventually added a second line of umbrellas decorated with images of the north, its flowers and birds, all intricately hand-painted.
Today, Bor Sang village exports both Saa-paper and silk umbrellas.  They are seen at trade shows in a variety of sizes, from giant parasols that offer a shady canopy from the sun, to miniscule variations that adorn popular cocktail drinks.

 

To celebrate success the village hosts a three-day festival every January. Streets are illuminated by lanterns, while hundreds of umbrellas are hung from the rafters and beams of houses and shops.  Bands play, while villagers compete to design the year’s most attractive umbrella.  Concerts, a food festival and beauty contest all compete for the attention of the audience, a  mix of both tourists and residents, who gather here to celebrate Bor Sang’s innovative handicraft skills.

Throughout the year, tourists visit the village, a short 6 km drive from Chiang Mai, to buy umbrellas and study the process and skills that go into making a handicraft entirely from natural products.  But nothing quite compares with the buzz that permeates the village during this colourful three-day handicraft festival, every January. It is a scene that represents village hospitality and charm at its very best.
source from http://www.tourismthailand.org/

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  BANGKOK - AFC Asian Cup 2007 co-hosts Thailand won the King's Cup tournament for the 13th time courtesy of Narongchai Vachiraban's stunning second-half free-kick against reigning continental champions Iraq on Saturday.
The BEC Tero Sasana midfielder scored the only goal of the game in the 65th minute when he swept the ball past static Iraq keeper Dydar Hassan and into the top right corner of the net as the Thais won all their games in the four-team tournament that also featured fellow FIFA 2010 World Cup qualification hopefuls DPR Korea and Uzbekistan.

"Iraq were good as a team as well as individuals, but four wins from four against teams outside of South East Asia shows we are making the step up," said Thailand's head coach Chanvit Polchovin after the three-time ASEAN champions' second victory over Iraq this week.

Source from http://www.the-afc.com

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In the northeastern part of Thailand, at the confluence of three small tributary streams in Udon Thani province, lies the Bronze Age village and cemetery site of Ban Chiang.

As may things in life, the revelation of Ban Chiang started as a accident. In 1966 Steven Young was wandering around a small village in Northeastern Thailand when he tripped on a tree root and fell. On the ground he saw rings, which turned out to be pottery shards. Further investigation revealed more fragments which had been revealed by gradual erosion.

Legend has it that Ban Chiang was discovered by a clumsy American college student, who fell in the road of the present town of Ban Chiang, and found ceramics eroding out of the road bed. The first excavations at the site were conducted in 1967 by archaeologist Vidya Intakosai, and this and subsequent excavations by the Fine Arts Department in Bangkok and the University of Pennsylvania under the direction of Dr. Chester F. Gorman and Pisit Charoenwongsa have revealed evidence of prehistoric occupation beginning possibly as early as 3600 B.C. and continuing, probably intermittently, until about A.D. 200.
The Fine Arts Department of Thailand teamed with the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology to begin the excavation of the site. Major excavations in 1974 and 1975 turned up the evidence that made anthropologists rethink the development of human civilization in Southeast Asia.
Ban Chiang makes a nice day trip from Udorn Thani. A museum has tools, pottery, artifacts and human skeleton on display. Spend some time looking over the site and then take a walk around the village.
The discovery has commercialized Ban Chiang somewhat, but it is still a very pleasant part of rural Thailand.

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Surin is a big province on Mun River Basin in Lower Northeast of Thailand. It is well known, locally and international, for its elephant. The gigantic animal of Surin impresses everyone with loveliness, cleverness and creates unique character of the province. Surin people have long relationship with elephant which becomes icon of the province now. Plenty of Khmer Ruins, beautiful silk and famous jasmine rice make Surin a very interesting destination.

In historical aspect, Surin’s story can be dated back thousands of year B.C. when Suai or Kuai ethnic group migrated along Mekong River to settle around Dongrek Range. Kuai ethnic people, found in Thailand and Laos, is talent in catching and training elephant.  Some 2,000 years ago,during Khmer Era, Surin town was established. After the fall of Khmer Empire, the town was neglected until 1763, when Luang Surin Pakdi (Chiang Pum) headman of Mueang Thi Village, led his people to settle at Ban Khu Prathai, in present Surin City. He was promoted as the first mayor later.

Surin is some 457 kilometres from Bangkok. The province acquires total area of 8,124 square kilometres and it can be divided into 17 Amphoes namely Mueang Surin, Chumphon Buri, Tha Tum, Chom Phra, Prasat, Kap Choeng, Rattanaburi, Phanom, Si Khoraphum, Sangkha, Samrong Thap, Buachet, Lamduan, Si Narong, Phanom Dong Rak, Khwao Sinarin, and Non Narai.

Wat Burapharam

Wat Burapharam is on Krung Si Nai Road near the provincial hall. It houses Luang Pho Phra Chi, a sacred Buddha image of the city. This old image was built during the Thon Buri period at the same time Surin was founded.
Prasat Phumpon
This khmer sanctuary is at Tambon Dom, 10 kilometres from the district office on the Sangkha-Buachet road. This is one of the oldest Khmer sanctuaries in the Northeast and was built around the 12th-13th Buddhist century.
Prasat Ban Phlai
Ban Phlai sanctuary is at Tambon Chua Phloeng, 10 kilometres from the district office. This Khmer religious site consists of 3 brick buildings on the same laterite base with a moat surrounding them. The buildings were built around the 16th Buddhist century.
Prasat Ban Phluang

Built around the 16th-17th Buddhist century. This small sanctuary has very detailed designs. The site is 4 pagodas on a rectangular laterite base. Each pagoda is square and made of sandstone with floral and human figure designs. Ban Phluang sanctuary is at Km. 32 on the Surin-Prasat-Kap Choeng road.
Prasat Muang Thi
Prasat Muang Thi is 16 kilometres from Surin on the way to Si Khoraphum on Highway No. 226. Three square brick pagodas were part of five on the same base.
Prasat Yai Ngao
This is a Khmer sanctuary beside Highway No. 24, 4 kilometres from the district office.
Prasat Si Khoraphum 
 Si Khoraphum khmer sanctuary at Tambon Ra-ngaeng at Km. 34-35 on Highway No. 226 is 5 pagodas on the same base. Each is about 30 metres high. Designs adorn the door columns and lintels. The site was built around the 17th Buddhist century.
Ban Buthom Basketry Village
This Basketry Village is at Tambon Muang Thi on the Surin-Si Khoraphum road at Km. 14-15. When villagers are not harvesting, they make basketry from rattan to sell as household items and souvenirs.

More Information about Prasat Please visit to  http://www.tourismthailand.org

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