Phatthalung

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JOURNEY OF LOTUS FLOWER UDON THANI NAKHON PATHOM PHATTHALUNG Lotus flower represented something unearthly and enlightening for Eastern cultures which is why the flower is often seen alongside divine figures. Lotus flowers can be seen in all over the regions of Thailand, for instance in the central part of Thailand at Nakhon Pathom; in the Northeastern part of Thailand at Udon Thani and in the southern part of Thailand at Phatthalung. 2

LOTUS FLOWER call “BUA” in Thai The lotus or (Bua in Thai) is crucial in the daily life of the Thai people and is the traditional flower of Buddhism. It represents the path of life as it emerges from the mud (samsara), grows clean and pure through the water (purification), and produces a beautiful flower (enlightenment). Legend has it that when the Lord Buddha took his first steps, lotus blooms opened up to cushion the soles of his feet. With its roots in the mud, the plant rises above the dirty water to yield a flower of perfect beauty and purity. Indeed, for Buddhists, the flower stands for pureness of spirit and the flowers are widely used as offerings at shrines, in spirit houses and in the temple. 3

The aquatic flower, so central to Buddhist tradition, is also at the heart of many wonderful dishes. Besides having a spiritual meaning, the lotus has many other uses. The roots, petals and stamens of some varieties are used by herbalists to treat a variety of complaints from fainting attacks to acne, and from the lowering of blood cholesterol to stomach upsets. In fact, most of the lotus plant is edible. Some people will eat the raw seeds, others might boil up the dried seeds in syrup as a popular drink; moreover, the roots can be mixed with pork to make a delicious soup, and the leaves and stems of some species can be used in salads. The leaves are also used to wrap steamed rice, giving it a mild lotus fragrance; when fresh, the lotus leaves are useful as (biodegradable) wrappers. 4

Lotus flower in Thai symbolizes spirituality Lotus flower in Thai symbolizes spirituality Thai people and many other Southeast Asian countries namely Cambodia offer lotus flowers to Buddha statues because they believe that by offering nice things to Buddha they will accumulate merit and thus attract good fortune into their life. Some people also fold lotus petals in order to add to the beauty of the already beautiful flowers. Moreover, many believe that they will eventually attain enlightenment, just like how the lotus rises and blooms above the water. 5

Red Lotus Floating Market Na Bang Lane ,Nakhon Pathom Red Lotus Floating Market Na Bang Len It is the new recreation and shopping center for tourists on weekend. Staying home on weekend is not an idea but driving to the provinces takes some times. Go to Red Lotus Floating Market Na Bang Lane in Nakhon Pathom which take only one hour driving from Bangkok. Here visitors can a ride along the canal to see the closer look of the lotus flowers. 6

Talay Bua Daeng ,Udon Thani Talay Bua Daeng is ranked by CNN as one of the world's most beautiful lakes in the world. The yearly sprouting of thousands upon thousands of red lotus flowers completely transforms the surface of Lake Nong Harn into an 8,000-acre vision of buoyant blossoms. This aquatic garden begins to grow in October, just after the rainy season. When it reaches full bloom in December, nearby villagers, who trace the origins of the lake to a tragic love myth, take to boats to enjoy the miraculous scenery. The sea of red lotuses - Talay Bua Daeng, as the locals say - is best viewed during daylight hours before noon, when the flowers are fully opened, revealing their vibrant, pink color (not red, despite the name). The lake, which is located in the province of Udon Thani, 350 miles north of Bangkok, stays rosy until March. 7

Thale Noi Waterfowl Park, Phatthalung Thale Noi Waterfowl Park It has been selected to be the country’s significant wetland, which covers area in three provinces: Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. The attraction offers the following interesting activities: - Admire the largest red lotus sea in the Southern region. - Observe a variety of about 287 fowl species including endemic and migratory birds. - Experience the life of water buffalos. - Watch the sunrise at one of the most beautiful sunrise spots in Thailand, Khlong Pak Pra, in the morning at 6 a.m. and observe the way of fishnet lifting of the villagers. - Hua Lan Hua Lieo community is situated in Thale Noi Village. With the local-like atmosphere, the community offers authentic food and desserts, community-made products from Krachut or sedge in almost every household; such as, bags, mats, etc. Visitors can also observe the demonstration of their product making. - Watch the sunset at a beautiful spot at the 80th Birthday Anniversary Celebration 5th December, 2007 Bridge. 8

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NAKHON PATHOM 1

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Along special lanes through the lotus flowers Thung Bua Daeng Floating Market or Red Lotus Floating Market, is located in Bang Len, Nakhon Pathom . is a floating market and recreational site amidst a swamp of two breeds of pinkish red water lilies that blossom at different times; the original breed red lotuses blossom in the morning and Mamiao breed red lotuses blossom all day from the late morning making an amazing scenic view and good atmosphere. The Market provides a paddle boat for closely viewing the beauty of the red lotuses, including stalls of Thai food and various beverages, particularly, food and beverages composed of red lotus; such as, hot lotus pollen tea, red lotus petals salad, and famous snacks wrapped in red lotus petals or “Miang Klib Bua”. Open daily between 9.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. It is the new recreation and shopping center for tourists on the weekend. Staying home on the weekend is not an idea but driving to the Red Lotus Floating Market, Bang Len in Nakhon Pathom takes only a one-hour drive from Bangkok. Here visitors can a ride along the canal to see the closer look of the lotus flowers. 3

Highlighted Activities ,Thung Bua Daeng Floating Market • Try the local Thai snack called \"Miang Klib Bua\" made from lotus petal. • Boating on the lotus pond. • Enjoy shopping for the local food, fruits, flowers, and souvenirs. 4

Wat Phra Pathom Chedi Wat Phra Pathom Chedi The temple houses the country’s largest pagoda, Phra Pathom Chedi enshrining the Buddha’s relics, which is presumed have been built in the reign of Ashoka the Great when the monastic agents were sent to propagate Buddhism in the land of Nakhon Pathom and constructed the bell-shaped pagoda. The highlight of the temple includes Phra Ruang Rotchanarit, a Buddha image in the standing posture of giving a pardon, installed in the niche of the wihan. The pagoda majestically stands out under the electric lights at night. The temple is open between 7.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m. 5

Phra Pathom Chedi Night Market Phra Pathom Chedi Night Market Is one of the delicious food centres of Nakhon Pathom. Every evening, the parking lot of Phra Pathom Chedi becomes a huge food court. It is well-known for a wide range of food offered by wheelbarrow vendors including main dishes, desserts, snacks, ice cream or fruits; other big claim to fame aside from its religious landmarks is a giant fruit known as pomelo. Foodies can sample this grapefruit sized delicacy as well as many more local dishes at the Phra Pathom Chedi Night Market found on the road between Wat Phra Pathom Chedi and the Nakhon Pathom Railway Station between 5.00 – 11.00 p.m. each night. 6

Sanam Chandra Palace Sanam Chandra Palace has some exciting buildings in a mixture of Thai and European architecture. It stands in a large area and is connected by a wide avenue to the west gate of the Palace. It is about a 1.5-2 hours drive from Bangkok. The Palace is open daily, from 9 a.m until 4 p.m. The majestic Sanam Chan Palace is meticulously kept and has interesting plant and rustic buildings. It was built by King Rama VI, when he was still a prince. The Palace is a suitable place for tourists interested in learning more about Thailand’s history, culture and architecture. 7

Don Wai Floating Market Don Wai Floating Market Wandering on land through Don Wai Floating Market, sampling delicious food from Innumerable shops The floating market at Wat Don Wai (near Wat Rai Khing) has become very popular for Thai and foreign tourists. It is located by the Tha Chin Riverbank, Nakhon Pathom province, and only about 30 kilometres from Bangkok. The Market includes products and food sold by vendors on boats. The farming product market fair is also open at Wat Don Wai between 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. on Monday to Friday, and between 7.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. on the weekend. Tourists can take a boat trip along the River which is very naturally beautiful while having lunch on the boat. The boat trip can be as short 1.5 hours. 8

Tha Na Market Tha Na Market has served as Nakhon Chaisi’s centre for at least a century and a half. The name translates roughly as “Farm Port Market” due to its proximity near a river pier, or ”Tha” in Thai, and within easy boating distance of countless agricultural fields, or na. Though the area is only some 40 kilometres west of Bangkok, it remains home to many rice, fruit and flower farms that have been handed down for generations. While the food is a major highlight at Tha Na, the atmospheric heritage shophouses are what make it truly special. Faded reddish-brown or off-white plank wood exteriors are punctuated by sun-faded sky-blue, lime-green and burnt-orange shutters. 9

Lam Phaya Floating Market Lam Phaya Floating Market is situated in front of Wat Lam Phaya, on the Tha Chin River. It is a centre of trade for fruits and vegetables as well as agricultural produce including rattan ware, woven cotton, dyed cotton and inexpensive food; such as, noodles with beef, Thai desserts and steamed curried fish patties. Cruise services along the Tha Chin River are also available. Several types of boats cater to the needs of visitors, which include ancient rowing boats, towed boats and passenger boats. The Market open on the weekends and public holidays between 8.00 a.m. – 3.00 p.m. 10

Khlong Maha Sawat Khlong Maha Sawat, is a canal that starts from Bangkok (Khlong Bangkok Noi) to Nakhon Pathom ( Tha Chin River), which stretches for 28 kilometres. Nowadays, this canal is still a popular transit route for villagers and is also a famous tourist attraction in itself. Take a leisurely boat ride and be immersed in the local lifestyle of Khlong Maha Sawat villagers and their agricultural way of life. Agro-tourism : Rural Farm Tour (1 day trip) Enjoy shopping, tasting the local flavours, and learning about the local culture. Attractions include; • Tourist Centre (Baan Phu Yai Manoon) • Lotus Farm Tour (Na Bua Lung Jam) • Baan Sala Din Tour (Learning how to do rice processing) • Learning how to make Gac fruit juice • Tour Orchard (Baan Paa Jaew) • Tour Orchid Garden 11

Woodland Mueang Mai Woodland Mueang Mai. The 100-rai Woodland Project in Nakhon Pathom is also home to a beautiful, privately- owned museum known as Woodland Muang Mai. Based on the \"woodmen tales\" portrayed in thousands of intricate woodcarvings taken from the collection of owner Narong Thewphaingarm and his ancestors, the museum promises a spiritual and religious journey. Aside from the large collection of impeccably carved aged wood, is divided into different zones; such as, Mueang Mai tales, Mueang Mai Village, Christian Cathedral, and an ancient stone garden. It also features the Thai Village offering fresh coffee and delicious food in the atmosphere of the Nakhon Chai Si Riverside including a souvenir shop that sells artworks and woodcarving products. Open daily between 9.30 a.m.-5.00 p.m. 12

Air Orchids Supermarket Air Orchids Supermarket is an orchid farm occupying 120 rai (192,000 square metres) with facilities; such as, a laboratory for orchid tissue culture and orchid nursery house. The farm grows orchids for exporting and domestic distribution at reasonable price. Interested people are able to visit and buy some orchids using the cart, as same as in supermarket. That is why this place is called the orchid supermarket. 13

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PHATTHALUNG 1

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Thale Noi Waterfowl Park Thale Noi Waterfowl Park It has been selected to be the country’s significant wetland, which covers an area in three provinces: Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. The attraction offers the following interesting activities: • Admire the largest red lotus sea in the Southern region. • Observe a variety of about 287 fowl species including endemic and migratory birds. • Experience the life of water buffalos. • Watch the sunrise at one of the most beautiful spots in Thailand, Khlong Pak Pra, in the morning at 6 a.m. and observe the way of fishnet lifting of the villagers. • Hua Lan Hua Lieo community is situated in Ban Thale Noi. With the local-like atmosphere, the community offers authentic food and desserts, community-made products from Krachut or sedge in almost every household; such as, bags, mats, etc. Visitors can also observe the demonstration of their product making. • Watch the sunset at a beautiful spot at the 80th Birthday Anniversary Celebration 5th December, 2007 Bridge. 3

Thale Noi Waterfowl Park This was the first non-hunting area ever founded in Thailand under the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plantation Conservation, Ministry of National Resources and Environment. The Khuan Khi Sian Peat Swamp in the area around Thale Noi was the first Ramsar site of Thailand. This non-hunting area covers an area of around 285,625 rai. It has been selected as a significant wetland area of the country, including areas in three provinces; namely, Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Its water area (Thale Noi) accounts for 17,500 rai. Most parts of the Thale Noi Non-hunting Area are lakeside plains consisting of rice fields, peat swamp forest, and grassland. Thale Noi is around 5 km wide and 6 km long, having aquatic plants growing on the lake’s surface; such as, hyacinth, Kong tree (Hanguana malayana), pale yellow-spiked rush, lotus, and floating plants. Its average depth is 1.25 m. Fauna inhabiting here comprises 287 species of waterfowls, 26 species of reptiles, and 6 species of mammals. The waterfowls are both resident and migratory; such as, painted stork, black-headed ibis, grey heron, purple heron, little cormorant, black-crowned night-heron, etc. Interesting things at the Thale Noi Waterfowl Park are the Thale Noi Palace, sea of blooming lotus in the morning, flocks of waterfowls, the nesting and egg-laying grounds of waterfowls at Ao Mo and those at Khuan Thale Mong, Khuan Khi Sian Ranger Station, and the Sala Nang Riam Viewpoint. The best time for a boat trip to see the red lotus flowers: Lotus flowers are in full bloom from December to February. Make sure you go in the morning, when the lotus flowers are most beautiful before 11.00 a.m. Bird-watching is a major activity in Thale Noi. While cruising the lake, visitors may spot many types of birds; such as, storks, purple herons, lesser whistling ducks, little grebes, black- winged stilts or cormorants. The high season to see migratory birds is from October to March. 4

Water buffaloes return to the wetlands A Land of Water Buffaloes due to the nearly year-round availability of water, which allows buffaloes to swim and dive to occasionally graze on grass underneath the water. Tending water buffaloes has been a career in Phatthalung for centuries, thanks to the province’s abundance of swamp grass and the failed palm oil plantation business that has left the area with more watercourses. 5

Amazing Sunrise Ban Pak Pra Phatthalung gets the first sunlight of the day. At Ban Pak Pra, fishermen here are still perpetuating the old-school ways of fishing using the hand-operated shoreline fishing frames “YO” in Thai. In the morning, the glimmering light shimmering over the surfaces of the water shining through those frames creates sketch-like pictures perfect for photography. This is a haven for those who love to capture memories in frames and then learn all about their unique culture. Ban Pak Pra is pristine with the surrounding natural wonder. This is an unspoiled land, and one of Thailand’s most important wildlife and waterfowl reserves. 6

Bridge of Happiness Bridge of Happiness: The Bridge of the 80th Anniversary Commemoration of December 5, B.E. 2550. This bridge was built to celebrate the King Rama IX the Great’s 80th Birthday. Watch the sunset at the Chaloem Phrakiat 80 Phansa Bridge, the longest bridge in Thailand. It starts from Thale Noi in Amphoe Kuan Khanun in Phatthalung province to Amphoe Ranot in Songkhla province. The total distance is 14 kilometres. There are many scenic points on the bridge. While driving, you can see Songkhla Lake at one side and Thale Noi on the other side. This is a unique beautiful scenery that you can’t find it at any other place. 7

Khao Ok Talu Khao Ok Talu It is a symbolic figure of Phatthalung, standing majestically to the east of the railway station, having a height of around 250 metres. There is a flight of stairs leading the way up to the mountaintop overlooking the city of Phatthalung. The distinctive feature is a hole near the top, where visitors can see through it. 8

Lan Koi Rafting Lan Koi Rafting Rafting in Amphoe Pa Phayom, Patthalung along Huai Nam Sai Stream started in about 2011. It is a very beautiful 5 kilometres stream that is very suitable for rafting, as the stream flows past a large number of river rocks. Rafting takes around 2-3 hours. This is the only spot for rafting that has high level of water in the dry season, while in the rainy season the water level not too high. Qualified life guards are on duty along the rafting route to ensure the safety of tourists. If rafting not your preference, visitors can enjoy a leisurely swim in the quiet stream. Accommodation is also available. 9

Khao Chaison Hot Spring & Cold Stream Khao Chaison Hot Spring & Cold Stream The Khao Chaison Subdistrict Administrative Organisation has developed the Khao Chaison area to be a tourist attraction that features a hot spring that locals believe to be a holy place. Accommodation has been built near the spring with places for hot baths, and easy access to the natural hot spring. Located about 700 metres to the north of the Hot Spring is Tham Phra (Buddha image cave) -- a cave with a natural underground pond that is present year-round. The pond is 1 metre deep, and the water is hot due to its underground source. At the north end of the cave is enshrined a reclining Buddha. Beautiful cave paintings can be seen on the cave wall. The Hot Spring comes from underground outlets that have unique structures. If there is a shock in the cave, the water temperature will rise. On average, though, the Hot Spring’s temperature is 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit). Many people believe that the Hot Spring can cure some diseases and conditions; such as, paresis and muscle pain. 10

Napokae Napokae Is located in Amphoe Khuan Khanun, this is a learning centre for the Phatthalung people’s traditional way of life. The name “Napokae” comprises the word “na” or paddy fields in Thai, and “pu kae” (old grandpa), which the Phatthalung people pronounce as “po kae.” The Centre was initiated by adopting King Rama IX the Great’s ideas to create jobs and careers. In particular, the King’s Sustainable Economy Philosophy has been applied in this edutourism attraction. Visitors learn about farm life, the traditional method of rice cultivation, and local food. 11

Bamboo forest creates happiness Talat Pa Phai Sang Suk Market ( Kwanjai Bamboo Garden) So, the whole meaning is the “bamboo forest creates happiness” or “create happiness from the bamboo forest”. Pa Phai Sang Suk in Amphoe Khuan Khanun is located in Ms. Kwanjai’s bamboo plantation. Originally, it was a propagated bamboo plantation, and practiced bamboo charcoal production. It has long been a learning centre and was opened as a tourist attraction in late January 2017. This was made possible by cooperation between Ms. Kwanjai’s bamboo plantation and the Kindee Meesuk Network in Phatthalung who created this market with a hip concept: “Eat till you’re full, be worry-free and happy from having enough. Pa Phai Sang Suk is divided into 5 zones: Pa Phai Sang Suk Market, the ‘chilling-out’ zone, the activity zone for children, the learning zone in Ms. Kwanjai’s bamboo plantation, and the lush green bamboo forest. The green Market sells local and rare food, fresh vegetables and fruits, and handmade products at reasonable price. It is open Saturdays 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. 12

Tai Nod Tai Nod One of the most must-visit places you have to go to is the Tai Nod Market. A local market project was initiated for people in the community to sell chemical-free products including local food under the concept of “Good Food Good Life”. The green market is held in a local atmosphere offering authentic desserts and food, cultural performances and entertainment by young people. Open every Sunday during 8.00 a.m. - 3 p.m. 13

Khao Pu-Khao Ya National Park Khao Pu-Khao Ya National Park Located in Amphoe Si Banphot, was named after the mountains in the national park area that is well-known among the Phatthalung people. Especially, Khao Puis believed to be a sacred mountain where the spirit of “Ta Pu”, a semi-god much revered by the local people and the general public is located. Situated in the complex BanthatRange, the Park is covered with lush evergreen forest all-yearround, so it is called the “virgin forest”. It provides two nature trails that are suitable for studying the nature, herbs, doing research on natural resources, etc. 14

Wat Khao Aor Wat Khao Aor Located in Amphoe Khuan Khanun. Before becoming a temple, it was considered to be a centre of learning, called the Thisa Pamok School that was similar to Takkasila in India, presumably founded before 857 by Brahmins from India during the age of “Dravidian Yatra”, which is the time that the Brahmins expanded the religious belief from India. This place was famous for supernaturalpowers and ancient medicine, especially, related to Wan, an herbal plant; later there was a Wandipping ritual and manyother forms of black magic until it became well-known nationwide as a place that had inherited the magic and spells for invulnerability until today. At present, the“Follow the path of the Lord Buddha, Follow a trace of the ritual of Khao O House” Festival takes place annually. 15

Local cuisine and souvenirs Local cuisine and souvenirs Products made from sedge and coconut shells, which are both sold locally and exported overseas. Krajude : a natural grass typically found in the peat swamp forests of Patthalung province. But now Traditional krajude products turn into new design with various uses such as decorations and furniture. Sangyod Rice, Queen of Brown rice of a local breed that has a world-class flavour and value. It helps anti-aging, prevents amnesia and heart disease, and nourishes the blood with high fibre that is good for digestion. It is a non-secret key that the Phatthalung people invite you to experience the tenderness of real Thai rice. 16

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UDON THANI Into the Pink Horizon 1

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Red Lotus Sea, Nong Han Kumphawapi The Red Lotus Sea Thale Bua Daeng is ranked by CNN as one of the world's most beautiful lakes. The yearly sprouting of thousands upon thousands of red lotus flowers completely transforms the surface of Nong Han Kumphawapi into an 36 square kilometres (8,000-acre) vision of buoyant blossoms. This aquatic garden begins to grow in October, just after the rainy season. When it reaches full bloom in December, nearby villagers, who trace the origins of the lake to a tragic love myth, take to boats to enjoy the miraculous scenery. The sea of red lotus - Thale Bua Daeng, as the locals say - is best viewed during the daylight hours before noon when the flowers are fully opened, revealing their vibrant, pink colour (not red, despite the name). The lake, which is located in the province of Udon Thani, 350 miles north of Bangkok, stays rosy until March. Beautiful lotus flower field at Nong Han Kumphawapi in Udon Thani, Thailand, is internationally well known as the Red Lotus Sea undoubtedly due to the vast amount of red and pink lotuses floating on the lake's surface. Nong Han Kumphawapi, aka Thale Bua Dang (“red lotus sea”), regularly ranks as one of the world’s most breathtaking lakes. It gets its name from the red lotus flowers that blossom from December-Febuary. Visit early in the morning before the flowers shut their petals around 11a.m. During peak season, 10-person tour boats operate from Ban Diem Pier from 6 a.m.-5 p.m. This lake is certainly less interesting but still a place with fishermen and a wide variety of birds and water plants. 3

Floating on the Lake with a Million Pink Lotus Flowers Beautiful lotus flower field Nong Han Lake, aka Talay Bua Dang (“red lotus sea”), regularly ranks as one of the world’s most breathtaking lakes. It gets its name from the red lotus flowers that blossom from Dec-Feb. Visit early in the morning, before the flowers shut their petals around 11am. During peak season, 10-person tour boats operate from Ban Diem Pier from 6am-5pm The best time to see the Red Lotus or Talay Bua Daeng is usually from late November/early December to February. And the optimum time to see them is in the morning (from around 6-11am) before the sun becomes too strong and the flowers start to close up again. 4

Kham Chanot Kham Chanot is located at Wat Siri Suttho in Tambon Wang Thong, this sacred place has gained respect from villagers in neighbouring areas. It is said to be an entrance to the water world; a legendary place concerning the great Naga (serpent) according to a belief among Lao and Isan villagers. Nowadays, the place is densely covered with chanot trees, which resemble a mixture of palm and coconut trees. Inside, there is a shrine of Chaopu Sisuttho and a sacred well for worshipping. Kham Chanot is a place of worship among the locals who believe in the Naga King. This is definitely a destination to visit when you are in Udon Thani. 5

Ban Chiang National Museum Ban Chiang National Museum Is located in Amphoe Nong Han, is one of the important Archaeological Site of Northeast Thailand and Southeast Asia. The evidence found revealed the pre-historical age of the site of around 5,600-1,800 years ago. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) registered the site as a World Heritage Site of history December 1992. 6

Wat Pa Phu Kon Wat Pa Phu Kon is one of the best temples for meditation in Udon Thani, are comprised the beauty of Buddhist art and tranquil architecture surrounded with plentifully forest. The temple is perched on top of a hill, partially surrounded by some other hills and the whole area is superbly lush and green. Inside the temple are enshrined relics of the Buddha. A reclining white marble Buddha is the highlight of this temple and attracts many tourists. 7

Wat Pa Phu Kon Wat Pa Phu Kon is reclining Buddha enshrined in the Wihan. The reclining Buddha is over 20 metres high, which has been carved from Italian Carrara marble. Moreover, there is the main Chedi named “Phra Pathom Rattana Buraphachan Maha Chedi” which is about 25 metres in height and can be reached via a staircase, which has about 200 stairs; the Chedi also houses relics of the Buddha. This is probably the most stunning temple in Isan; certainly the most striking with its aqua blue roof. 8

Khiri Wong Kot Community became an ecotourism village to welcome tourists through the community members cooperating together to provide tourism services. Within the community, there are homestays and camping to select from. There are also tour services to attractions in the village by mountain bicycle. The villagers still do agriculture in accordance with the Sufficiency Economy way and lead a simple life, as well as welcome visitors in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Highlighted Activites : • Riding a farm tractor cart through paddy fields and along the creek to visit the forest. • Have fun at the Huai Chang Plai Waterfall. • A bush meal-style buffet: papaya salad, roast chicken, grilled fish, etc., cooked in bamboo tubes. 9

Phu Foi Lom Phu Foi Lom is part of the Phu Phan Noi Mountain Range in the Pa Phan Don–Pakho National Forest Reserve, having an altitude of approximately 600 metres above sea level and year- round cool climate. This destination is perfect for those who want to participate in soft- adventure travel activities. Trekking is one of the best activities here, with plenty of flora and fauna to discover. 10