Open in the Shades

Wat Phumin, Nan Art & Craft While “The Whisper” - the legendary ancient mural - is the main draw at this mossy 400-year-old temple in Nan province, it is merely a part of the famed ancient Burmese-style painting art genre depicting 19th century daily life. The ensemble was painted by a Thai Lu artist named ”Thit Buaphan” who, through his labour, declared his pure and beautiful love to his wife. 06.00 - 18.00 hrs. Mueang District, Nan. +66 5471 0935 Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok Indulge in the world’s longest Ramayana mural paintings in the gallery of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha where the main ubosot’s four walls of galleries intricately narrate 178 episodes of the ancient epic. 08.00 - 16.00 hrs. Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok. +66 2623 5500 49

Art & Craft Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, Street Art, Old Town Phuket Phetchabun A UNESCO designated ‘City of Gastronomy’, The bright and vivacious layers of mosaics at Phuket is known for its flavoursome food and Wat Pha Sorn Kaew provide a stark contrast to vibrant art scenes. The famed street the wild and peaceful greenery of the premise’s art that stretches from the main hilly surroundings. Browse through the beautifully- streets to narrow alleys narrate inlaid riddle-filled galleries that adorn the entire the local quaint cultures place. From the staircases to the perched and culinary tidbits pagoda, the assembly hall, the pillars and all the so vividly, as if they walls, they are a whole ensemble that makes the are alive. A true entire pagoda looks like it is floating in heaven. radiant spirit of the city centre. 08.00 - 17.00 hrs. Khao Kho District, Phetchabun. Thalang, Phuket and Yaowarat +66 8 4494 1262 Roads, Mueang District, Phuket www.phasornkaew.org www.tourismthailand.org/phuket 50

Art & Craft Street Art, Old Town Bukruk Urban Arts, Bangkok Songkhla The hustle and bustle of Bangkok and its The charming old town of Songkhla is adorned perpetual clusters of buildings are livened up with lines of street art that have somehow with live wall paintings in the Bukruk become a new landmark. The colourful Urban Arts Festival organised by the portrayals of the old days reawaken the European Union. More than 50 artists from nostalgic comprehension of yonder while 10 countries made the giant walls their illuminating the actual life of Songkhla and its centre stages, creating visually stunning wall- people of the present time. covered art that now has become a favourite urban inspection of an artsy type. Nang Ngam, Nakhon Nai, and Nakhon Nok Roads, Mueang Charoen Krung, Song Wat, Decho and District, Songkhla Surawong Roads, Bangkok. www.tourismthailand.org/hatyai www.tourismthailand.org 51

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Art & Craft Traditional Thai Puppet, Khlong Bang Luang, Bangkok Thai puppetry is an ancient art that has been around for more than three centuries. Unlike the typical Western-style puppets, Thai puppets have a full torso with arms and legs, and some are made into the intricate Khon troupe or Thai masked performance. At Baan Silapin near Khlong Bang Luang, a museum of Thai puppetry and performance has been established along with extra services; such as, Thai meals, snacks and drinks for a full-day happy artistic escapade. 10.00-18.00 hrs. (performance at 14.00 hrs. daily, except for Wednesdays) Near Wat Kuhasawan, Phasi Charoen District, Bangkok. +66 2868 5279 www.facebook.com/Baansilapin 53

Art & Craft Nang Talung Shadow Puppet Museum, Nang Yai Wat Khanon, Nakhon Si Thammarat Ratchaburi The late Thai national artist Suchart Considered to be a high-class Thai traditional Subsin dedicated his own home into a entertainment, the ancient grand ‘shadow’ living museum, doing his best to preserve performance or ‘Nang Yai’ has its roots originating the exquisite traditional arts of Nang back to the Sukhothai Era. The performance Talung. Originated in the South of combines complex artistic skills in handicrafts, Thailand, Nang Talung combines the music, theatre and orating. At Wat Khanon, Thai arts and crafts with Malay and well-preserved shadow figures, depicting all nine Muslim influences. Nang Talung’s episodes of the saga, are a permanent exhibition. puppets are flat and handcrafted from Recognised by UNESCO for outstanding cultural leather. In the performance, it is the preservation, Wat Khanon still preserves the puppeteer’s intrinsic arts of narrating, tradition with a regular Nang Yai performance on singing and pulling the actions of the Saturday. puppets that make the story brilliant. Nang Talung can also be bawdy with The museum is open daily from contemporary twists to keep up with the 08.30-17.00 hrs. Nang Yai shadow performance younger generation. is available on Saturdays from 10.00-11.00 hrs. Photharam District, Ratchaburi House of the National Artist, +66 8 9555 4195 Suchart Subsin, Mueang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat. 54 +66 7534 6394, +66 7534 6515-6

Siam Niramit Art & Craft With two locations - Bangkok and Phuket, Siam Niramit is a performance that includes everything Thai into its 80-minute show. The story begins seven centuries ago when Siam had already become a home of diverse culture, and a crossroads where civilisations meet. The show will then section into four of Thailand’s regions - North to South - with stories relating to Thai culture, beliefs and festivals. Nightly performance at 20.00 hrs. +66 2649 9222 www.siamniramit.com Muay Thai Live, Bangkok The ancient Thai martial arts are now turned into a stunning stage performance with a storyline linked by periods of historical backdrops where the combats were supposed to actually have happened. Light and sound and an exciting story plus taut-bodied warriors with perfectly-styled hair make this performance a one-of-a-kind and exciting. Tuesday-Sunday with one performance at 20.00-21.30 hrs. The Stage, Asiatique The Riverfront, Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok. +66 2108 5999, +66 2108 5929-30 www.muaythailive.com 55

Art & Craft Kaan Show, Pattaya Ladyboy Shows, Pattaya Welcome to a show of the 21st Since the 1980s, Cabaret shows featuring ladyboys century where traditional Thai or transvestites have become a must-see show in literature and figurative characters Pattaya where two theatres - Tiffany and are transformed into a three- Alcazar - share the unique industry. Transvestites dimensional theatrical performance - all with outstanding looks and voices - are the complete with movable stages centre stage with glittering costumes and and objects. Taking place at the spiralling hairpieces adding to the effect. world’s first ‘levitating theatre,’ this 75-minute spectacular show took Nightly at 18.00, 19.30 and 21.00 hrs. three years to develop and two more Pattaya in rehearsal. Behind the scenes are +66 3842 1700 over 300 performers. A grand www.tiffany-show.co.th and performance by all means. www.alcazarthailand.com Open: Tuesday-Sunday 17.30-18.45 56 hrs.; Saturday with an additional performance at 20.30-21.45 hrs. D’Luck Cinematic Theatre, Pattaya +66 2029 0092 www.kaanshow.com

Phuket FantaSea, Art & Craft Phuket Phuket’s very own and largest cultural theme park, Phuket FantaSea has been serving shows with everything big, bright and ornate plus a circus of baby elephants, souvenirs, T-shirts and all sorts of trinket shopping and buffet dining for decades. Among the highlights include floating ballet, magic shows, and the appearance of Siam twins. Nightly performance at 21.00 hrs. Kamala Beach, Phuket. +66 7638 5111, +66 7668 0888 www.phuket-fantasea.com 57

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Shades of Sanctuary Thai Culture • Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai • Woven Buddha, Wat Hiranyawat, Chiang Rai • Wat Rong Suea Ten, Chiang Rai • Wat Phra Phutthabat Pu Pha Daeng, Lampang • Wat Den Sali Si Mueang Kaen, Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai • Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, Phetchabun • Wat Niwet Thammaprawat Ratchaworawihan, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya • Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Phrao, Ubon Ratchathani • Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, Nakhon Si Thammarat Chiness Temple • Wat Tham Khao Rup Chang, Songkhla • Dragon Paradise Park, Suphan Buri Church • Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Chanthaburi • Nativity of Our Lady Cathedral, Samut Songkhram • Wat Songkhon - Martyrs of Songkhon, Mukdahan Hindu • Maha Uma Devi Temple, Bangkok Mosque • Pattani Central Mosque, Pattani • Songkhla Central Mosque, Songkhla Shades of Architecture • Mrigadayavan Palace, Phetchaburi • The Sanctuary of Truth, Chon Buri • Charoen Krung, Bangkok • Chinpracha House, Phuket • Vongburi House, Phrae • Chao Phya Abhaibhubejhr Building, Prachin Buri Shades of Thai Cultural Museums • The National Museum, Bangkok • Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, Bangkok • Museum Siam, Bangkok • Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, Bangkok • The Museum of Floral Culture, Bangkok • Ancient City, Samut Prakan • Lifestyle and Spirit of Thai Farmers Learning Center, Suphan Buri 59

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Thai Culture Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai The all white and intricate features of Wat Rong Khun make it Chiang Rai’s top destination. Designed and constructed by Thailand’s national artist (Visual Art Category, 2011) Chalermchai Kositpipat, this elaborate temple is the result of the artist’s painstaking devotion to combine religion and spiritual arts. An other- worldly and fantasy-driven destination in temple form. Monday - Friday: 08.00 - 17.00 hrs. Saturday - Sunday: 08.00 - 17.30 hrs. Mueang District, Chiang Rai. +66 5367 3579 www.วดั รอ่ งขุน่ .com 61

Thai Culture Woven Buddha, Wat Hiranyawat, Chiang Rai Witness an old adage - that unity strengthens - materialised with your own eyes. More than 39,000 thinly whetted bamboo strips, each would be easily snapped and broken, were formed, hence strengthened into a humongous one-and-only woven and gold-lacquered Buddha image. Making it perhaps, a one-of-a-kind worth visiting. 08.30 – 16.30 hrs. Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai. Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chiang Rai, +66 5371 7433, +66 5374 4764-5. www.tourismthailand.org/ chiangrai Wat Rong Suea Ten, Chiang Rai The all-blue temple with intricate interior art pieces of Wat Rong Suea Ten is the work of the students of the famous national artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. The construction, or the complete restoration, was made on the existing site of a deserted archaic temple by the Kok River with the exquisite paintings and architecture that mirror modern religious expression. 07.00 – 20.00 hrs. Mueang District, Chiang Rai +66 8 2026 9038 62

Wat Phra Phutthabat Thai Culture Pu Pha Daeng, Lampang Rated as one of the best ‘adventurous’ and ‘unseen’ temples in Thailand, Wat Phra Phutthabat Pu Pha Daeng or Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phra Chomklao Rachanuson is set high on top of a group of jutting mountain peaks. Visitors will need to walk the trails and climb stairways that weave around the mountain to get to the top. 08.30 – 16.30 hrs. Chae Hom District, Lampang. Tourism Authority of Thailand, Lampang, +66 5422 2214 www.tourismthailand.org/ Lampang lampang.tourism/ Wat Den Sali Si Mueang Kaen, Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai Located on a slight slope, this temple is called ‘Wat Ban Den’. This temple features old-school Lanna architecture with traditional elements of the ordination hall, vihan, meditation hall, kuti or monk’s living quarters built with golden teak wood. The complex is also shaded with massive Bodhi trees making it serene and sacred at the same time. Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai. +66 5324 8604 63

Thai Culture Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, Phetchabun A perfect juxtaposition of devout man-made faithfulness and stunning natural panoramic hilltop views of Khao Kho, Phetchabun, Wat Pha Sorn Kaew’s main attraction is a quintet of layered Buddha statues sitting on the opened palms of lotus leaves. Perching on a high mountain peak, the temple is also adorned with multi-coloured tiles - the style that enhances its stark contrast to the surrounding misty hills. 08.00 - 17.00 hrs. Khao Kho District, Phetchabun. +66 8 4494 1262 (available during 13.00 - 16.30 Hrs.) www.phasornkaew.org 64

Thai Culture Wat Niwet Thammaprawat Ratchaworawihan, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya A royal temple that was built to reflect the ‘modernisation’ of Siam in the reign of King Rama V the Great, Wat Niwet Thammaprawat features a unique Gothic revival architecture of a Thai ubosot. Located within the grounds of Bang Pa-In Royal Palace as the functional royal temple while the King spent time at this palace, the interior of the ubosot features European-style stained glass and altar-inspired centrepiece that enshrines the main Buddha statue. 08.00 – 18.00 hrs. Bang Pa-In Palace, Ayutthaya. +66 3526 2139 Website: www.watniwet.com 65

Thai Culture Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Phrao, Ubon Ratchathani Also known as the ‘glowing temple on the hilltop,’ Wat Sirindhorn Wararam is yet another beautiful attraction in Ubon Ratchathani. The highlight is the ‘Tree of Life’ illuminated painting at the back of the main ubosot. The best time to see the tree glowing to life is between 18.00 - 20.00 hrs. 08.30 – 21.00 hrs. Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani Tourism Authority of Thailand, Ubon Ratchathani, +66 4524 3770, +66 4525 0714 66

Wat Phra Mahathat Thai Culture Woramahawihan, Nakhon Si Thammarat The most sacred and most ancient temple in the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan - now in UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage nomination - is the most important temple in the south of Thailand. Its bell-shaped, gold-topped stupa, believed to house the Buddha’s relics, has been a spiritual centre since the 13th century. Legend has it that this stupa - inspired by Sri Lankan Buddhist art - was built as a tool to draw the community back together after the town was deserted completely due to an epidemic. 08.00 – 18.00 hrs. Mueang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat. +66 7534 3411 www.phramahathat-heritage.com 67

Thai Culture Wat Tham Khao Rup Chang, Songkhla An unconventional complex of various beliefs, Wat Tham Khao Rup Chang is a mixture of Indian-inspired all-white temples of layered marble, each carved into an array of Buddha reliefs in various positions. Inside the shady and serene complex also houses a reclining Buddha and Guan Yin Goddess. A popular spiritual spot for those living near the Thai-Malaysian border. 09.00 – 17.00 hrs. Sadao District, Songkhla. +66 7423 1055 68

Dragon Paradise Thai Culture Park, Suphan Buri The first thing you will see upon approaching the Park is its famous roaring dragon slathered in bright gold - perhaps Asia’s largest. Inside the Park is the ‘Dragon Descendants Museum’ that tells five centuries of Chinese history - from the Huang Di dynasty to the Qing dynasty. Although man-made, the complex is packed with intricate statues, Chinese-style pagodas and pavilions. A good spot to spend a day steeped in Chinese history. Wednesday - Sunday: (09.00 - 16.00 hrs on weekday and 10.00 -16.00 hrs. on weekend). Near the City Pillar Shrine, Suphan Buri. +66 3552 6211 – 2 +66 3552 1690 69

Thai Culture Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Chanthaburi A gorgeous, Gothic-style spiritual centre of Roman Catholic descendants of Chanthaburi, the Cathedral was located on an ancient missionary chapel believed to have been first built back in the 1700s. After being enlarged and rebuilt several times, the church that we see today was inaugurated in 1909 and has been Thailand’s largest Catholic church. The tall prominent spires of the Cathedral were said to have been taken down during World War II, so to make them less obvious for bombing navigation. The centrepiece of the Cathedral is the statue of the Virgin Mary surrounded by Catholic saints. Monday - Saturday: 08.30 - 12.00 hrs. and 13.00 - 16.30 hrs.; Sunday: 13.00 - 16.00 hrs. Mueang District, Chanthaburi +66 3931 1578 70

Nativity of Our Lady Thai Culture Cathedral, Samut Songkhram Built by French missionary Father Paolo Salmone back in 1890, this French-Gothic cathedral has been the holy centre for local Catholics for centuries. The distinctively dark colours of this church were from a charcoal mixture while the walls were coated with sugarcane molasses. The church’s interior showcases the glories of Catholic elements: the Virgin Mary, celestial paintings, stained glass windows, saints’ statues, candelabra, carvings, pulpit and holy water basin. Wednesday - Saturday: 08.00 - 16.00 hrs.; Sunday: 10.00 - 16.00 Hrs. Bang Khon Thi District, Samut Songkhram. Tourism Authority of Thailand, Samut Songkhram, +66 3475 2847-8 71

Thai Culture Wat Songkhon - Martyrs of Songkhon, Mukdahan The Martyrs of Songkhon in Mukdahan is also called the Seven Blessed Martyrs of Songkhon for the seven Thai Roman Catholics who sacrificed their lives for Christianity during the Franco-Thai War, and were beatified by Pope Jean Paul II in Rome on 22 October, 1989. Wat Songkhon is also one of Thailand’s largest Catholic churches, but its modern architecture and vast premises make it outstanding, resulting in an outstanding architecture award from the Association of Siamese Architects (ASA) in 1996. The seven martyrs along with their ashes inside wax figures are displayed in the church. 08.00 - 18.00 hrs. Wan Yai District, Mukdahan. Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nakhon Phanom, +66 4264 3522 www.tourismthailand.org/nakhonphanom 72

Maha Uma Devi Thai Culture Temple, Bangkok Bangkok’s famous Hindu temple that houses the sacred Maha Uma Devi Goddess was built out of devotion by Hindu immigrants to Thailand in the reign of King Rama V the Great. Inside the Temple’s strikingly florid architecture unique to South India are various gods and goddesses in different forms and sizes, with three shrines dedicated to Ganesh, Kartik and the main deity of Maha Mariamman. Monday - Thursday: 06.00 - 10.00 hrs.; Friday: 06.00 - 21.00 hrs.; Saturday - Sunday: 06.00 - 20.30 hrs. Silom, Bangkok. +66 2238 4077 www.facebook.com/ HinduMeeting.HM 73

Thai Culture Pattani Central Mosque, Pattani One of the most exquisite mosques in Thailand, the Pattani Central Mosque was built in 1954 with a hint of Western architectural influence. The main dome hall is surrounded by four minarets with the two front minarets that used to be the actual drumming tower calling people in for prayer being higher than the ones at the back. The Mosque’s courtyard is vast enough for the town’s religious gathering. The interior also features Mihrab - another essential element in a mosque, which is a niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca. Mueang District, Pattani. www.masjidfathoni.com/index.php 74

Songkhla Central Thai Culture Mosque, Songkhla As the gathering place for prayer and the centre of study for Muslims, the Central Mosque of Songkhla province - or the Dinul Islam - is a holy and communal place. The architecture - symmetrical as it is - features a stately elegance with a main dome surrounded by four minarets. On the east side of the Mosque is a 200-metre-long pond that provides a reflective serenity while giving this mosque a similarity to the Taj Mahal. Hat Yai District, Songkhla. +66 7430 5300 75

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Mrigadayavan Palace, Thai Culture Phetchaburi The seaside summer palace of King Vajiravudh or Rama VI (1910-1925) - also known as the palace of love and hope - is one of the most exquisite palaces in the Kingdom. It consists of sixteen teak buildings raised on concrete pillars laid out in a parallel direction to the sea. Mrigadayavan had also been used as a theatre housing two major performances in previous times. Monday - Friday: 08.00 - 16.00 hrs.; weekend and public holiday: 08.30 - 16.00 hrs. (closed Wednesday). Cha-am District, Phetchaburi. +66 3250 8444-5 The Sanctuary of Truth, Chon Buri Lose yourself in this one-of-a-kind gigantic wooden structure that took decades to finish and is still a work- in-progress. Inspired by religious beliefs and fantasies and built by Thai ancient wood crafting ingenuity, the Sanctuary of Truth claims to use only wood in all of its entire construction. The building itself covers a vast area of over 2 rai (almost one acre) with its square layout covering roughly 10,000 square metres covered with carved wood, adorning elements and celestial figures. 08.00 – 17.00 hrs. Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri. +66 3836 7229-30 77

Thai Culture Charoen Krung, Bangkok Chinpracha House, Phuket Bangkok’s first paved road, Charoen Krung was once called ‘New Road’ for its being a Among the best places to relive novelty during the time when it was finished Phuket’s glorious past is this in 1864. It used to be the longest continuous 114-year-old ‘Ban Chinpracha’ or road in the capital, running from the Chinpracha Mansion, which is one of Rattanakosin area (Sanam Chai Road) a few remaining ‘Anglo-Portuguese’ all the way passing China Town to the area style mansions, originally built back in around Asiatique today. Now this century- the day when Phuket was at its and-a-half-old road is coming back to commercial peak during the reign of the forefront as real retro-glam. Colonial King Rama V the Great, just before architecture and original Chinese-style World War II. Browse through the shophouses aside, Charoen Krung Road is house’s eclectic personal collections becoming the place for art lovers, foodies of antique furniture, mostly exquisite and those hungry for history, for this strip Chinese-style mother-of-pearl sets has it all. Rotating activities are being that are built with intricate woodwork organised by the locals and art aficionados. and auspiciously in a pair of two. A very nice place to take a leisurely stroll. 08.00 - 16.00 hrs. Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok. Mueang District, Phuket, www.tourismthailand.org +66 7621 1281 78

Vongburi House, Phrae Chao Phya Abhaibhubejhr Thai Culture Building, Prachin Buri Phrae was once the teak trading hub of Thailand, and visiting Vongburi House This colonial-style, early 20th century will transport you back to the time when historic mansion is easily one of the forests still flourished. This exquisite Thailand’s best classic functional teak house was built for the newly-weds - buildings of all time. Built in 1909 by the daughter of Phrae’s last Governor - Chao Phya Abhaibhubejhr as a hence the pink as the original colour as it residence for King Rama V the Great was the bridal home. The mansion - or the on his royal visit to Prachin Buri, the house as the owner prefers to call it - is an building is a two-storey structure with a elaborate European colonial architecture, front porch featuring a central dome and adorned with ornately carved open floral designs adorning the outer walls, clerestory and shutters. This is a private doors and windows. Now, the lower floor residence with real living quarters still of the building has been turned into a used by the family. The house was Thai medicinal museum. awarded the Architectural Conservation Award by the Association of Siamese 08.30 – 17.00 hrs. Architects in 1993. Mueang District, Prachin Buri. +66 3721 1088 09.00 - 17.00 hrs. Mueang District, Phrae. 79

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The National Thai Culture Museum, Bangkok Housing the largest collection of Thailand’s cultural and arts treasures and historical archives, the National Museum in Bangkok was the country’s first museum when it was inaugurated in 1859. The Museum’s vast collection includes more than a hundred thousand artefacts, covering Thai history back to Neolithic times. Inside the Museum’s grounds are also the exquisite Buddaisawan Chapel that houses the sacred Phra Buddha Sihing, image exquisite Thai traditional pavilions and the Royal Funeral Chariot Hall. (closed Monday - Tuesday and public holiday) 09.00 - 16.00 hrs. Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok. +66 2224 1370, +66 2224 1333 81

Thai Culture Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, Bangkok Museum Siam, Bangkok The story of Rattanakosin - since it was founded in 1782 with Bangkok as the Bangkok’s very own ‘discovery’ museum where new capital city of Siam - is told in angles of our cultures, traditions or even point of multimedia chapters strung together views are regularly explored, questioned and with rhymed words all named after exhibited. Although the themes vary from time previous gems. The building of the and trends, the heart of it is still Thai and local Exhibition Hall is also an important cultures. Multimedia and creative panels are architectural artefact of the era. always part of the colourful shows that have Located on the corner of the historic become the signature of this museum. Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue, the building has a sweeping view of the ‘Old Tuesday - Sunday: 10.00 - 18.00 hrs. Town’ - the other name of Rattanakosin (closed Monday) often referred by later generations and Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok. visitors. +66 2225 2777 www.museumsiam.org (except Monday): 10.00 - 19.00 hrs. www.facebook.com/museumsiamfan Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok. +66 2621 0044, +66 2226 5047-48 82 www.nitasrattanakosin.com/

Queen Sirikit Museum Thai Culture of Textiles, Bangkok Her Majesty Queen Sirikit is the champion for Thai silk and textiles. In 2003, she initiated the idea of preserving the Thai wearble treasure. The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles is now Thailand’s first dedicated textile conservation laboratory with exhibitions including Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s Creations by Balmain, her day and night ensembles, embroidery, brocade, Thai traditional dresses, and so on. 09.00 - 16.30 hrs. Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok. +66 2225 9420 www.qsmtthailand.org www.facebook.com/qsmtthailand The Museum of Floral Culture, Bangkok A uniquely scented and arranged place with flowers as the main theme, this museum is the brainchild of renowned Thai floral artist ‘Sakul Intakul.’ The exhibits focus on portraying how flowers are intertwined in tropical cultures, especially Thailand and civilisations across Asia; such as, India, China, Indonesia and Lao PDR., too. You can also opt for the Director’s Tour led by Sakul himself. Tuesday - Sunday: 10.30 - 18.00 hrs. (closed Monday) Dusit District, Bangkok. +66 2669 3633-4. www.floralmuseum.com 83

Thai Culture Ancient City, Samut Prakan One of Thailand’s pioneering ‘theme’ parks, but this one has a real, true theme - of showing only and strictly heritage architecture found throughout the Kingdom. Everything, from the Grand Palace in Bangkok to Wat Maha That in Sukhothai, is built to scale complete with distinct details, but only smaller. With a collection of almost 120 art pieces scattered around its vast 237 acres, the Ancient City is the place one can enjoy the highlighted collections of Thai traditional buildings in one day. 09.00 - 19.00 hrs. Mueang District, Samut Prakan. +66 2323 4094-9. www.ancientcitygroup.net 84

Lifestyle and Spirit of Thai Farmers Learning Thai Culture Center, Suphan Buri As a rice-producing and exporting country, Thailand has a strong rice paddy culture but somehow the strength of that culture has faded along with time. At this rice farming exhibition, located in the rice growing province of Suphan Buri, visitors will get to see real rice paddies with 12 popular rice strains in the fields. The exhibits also showcase the evidence (or lifestyle) that many of our traditional cultures were in fact derived from the old-school rice culture. For example, the fact that most of us are taught to revere the rice goddess and always finish our plates. 08.00 - 18.00 hrs. Mueang District, Suphan Buri. +66 9 2626 1515 www.herechai.com 85

Nature 86

Shades of Natural Wonders Nature • Muko Similan, Phang-nga • Ko Panyi, Phang-nga • Ko Yao Noi, Phang-nga • Prasat Hin Phan Yot, Satun • Ko Mak, Trat • Ko Hong Lagoon, Krabi • Oceanic Safari, Ko Kradat, Trat • Bang Chan, Chanthaburi Shades of Wetlands • Emerald Pool, Khlong Thom, Krabi • Khlong Sang Ne River, Phang-nga • Rajjaprabha Dam (Chiao Lan Dam), Surat Thani • Khlong Roi Sai at the Tapi River, Surat Thani • Wonders of Net Fishing Rows, Khlong Pak Pra, Phatthalung • Song Kalia River, Sangkhla Buri, Kanchanaburi • Red Lotus Lake, Udon Thani Shades of Fields • Terraced Rice Fields, Pa Bong Piang, Chiang Mai • Boonrawd Farm and Tea Plantation, Chiang Rai • Choui Fong Tea Plantation, Chiang Rai • Mexican Sunflower Fields at Doi Mae U Kho, Mae Hong Son • Sunflower Fields, Lop Buri Shades of Sceneries • Samet Nang Chi Viewpoint, Phang-nga • Sam Phan Bok, Ubon Ratchathani • Phu Huai Isan, Nong Khai • Phu Sing, Bueng Kan • Phu Chi Fa, Chiang Rai • Kio Mae Pan Nature Trail, Chiang Mai • White Elephant Summit, Kanchanaburi 87

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Muko Similan, Nature Phang-nga A perfect place for a perfect sea escapade, Muko Similan is a cluster of nine islands, large and small, grouped together from north to south about 70 kilometres offshore of Phang- nga. It is part of a national marine park with accommodation and camping grounds available on two designated islands. To protect and restore the natural wonders - on and off the beach, above and under the sea - the islands are open only from November to May of each year. Day trips from Phuket are also available. Muko Similan National Park, Phang-nga. +66 7645 3272 www.park.dnp.go.th 89

Nature Ko Panyi, Phang-nga Ko Yao Noi, Phang-nga A floating community, Ko Panyi is in fact Ko Yao Noi is one of the most pristine islands an ancient maritime establishment in in Phang-nga Bay that has recently been open Thailand with descendants of the for visitors. A tight-knitted Muslim community, current generation being able to look Ko Yao Noi is self-sustained through local farming, back as long as 200 years of their fishing and rearing cattle. Also unique are the ancestral lines. This small island, mostly daily colourful culture of batik painting and local made of limestone cliffs and soaring food foraging that can be attractive to curious peaks, houses more than 300 Muslim visitors. families with all their homes connected with an expansive network of wooden Ko Yao Noi, Phang-nga. bridges. A full-sized football field +66 7648 1900-2 recently built for floating recreation www.tourismthailand.org/phangnga there just topped the island’s already impressive amazing factors. Ko Panyi, Phang-nga +66 7641 1136, +66 7641 2188 www.tourismthailand.org 90

Prasat Hin Phan Yot, Nature Satun A part of the Satun Geopark with a unique archaeological heritage harking back over 500 million years, Prasat Hin Phan Yot is categorised as Thailand’s out-of-this-world natural wonder and treasure. The jagged limestone peaks that look like a castle of thousand spires are in fact the remains of collapsed sinkholes of limestone that took different times to erode; hence, a dramatic formation all crafted by time and underground seawater. The whole ensemble is located on Ko Khao Yai and a kayak tour can be arranged with the locals. Muko Phetra National Park, Satun +66 7474 0272 (National Park), +66 8 1542 0071 (Bo chet Luk Community) www.park.dnp.go.th 91

Nature Ko Mak, Trat In 2014, Ko Mak became Thailand’s first ever low-carbon destination when resort owners and operators there collectively vowed to make the island a more ‘quality’ tourist destination. And with that, in return, should attract like-minded visitors from around the world. Environmentally-friendly, solar- powered accommodation, total trash management and leisure activities including cycling, kayaking and sailing are among the highlights, along with seafood sourced from the local fishermen. Ko Mak, Trat +66 3959 7259-60 www.tourismthailand.org Ko Hong Lagoon, Krabi Ko Hong means ‘room’ island in Thai and there is a perfect reason for it. A part of a marine national park, Ko Hong’s lagoon is completely surrounded by limestone cliffs and mangroves with their expansive roots. Located way out in the open sea, the Lagoon is perfectly sheltered and calm; hence, a super special and splendid place and a perfect place for small fish to take solace. Than Bok Khorani National Park, Krabi +66 7568 1071, +66 7568 2058 www.park.dnp.go.th 92

Oceanic Safari, Ko Kradat, Bang Chan, Nature Trat Chanthaburi Ko Kradat which means paper island - after its Bang Chan in Khlung District, natural flat plateau - is among Thailand’s first Chanthaburi is dubbed the ‘No privately owned islands and a part of Land Village’ because every Ko Chang’s expansive archipelago. In the middle single house in this coastline of this particular place is a herd of deer community is built above sea roaming free on the native savanna fields, level on wooden stilts. This creating an oceanic safari experience unlike complex tidal swamp estuary others. Boat shuttles to this island can be with dense mangrove is a arranged from the nearby Ko Mak. convergence of three main waterways just off the Gulf of Ko Kradat, Ko Chang Thailand. When the water Archipelago, Trat. recedes, a magnificent black sand +66 3959 7259-60 dune will magically appear, www.tourismthailand.org/trat making it a perfect one-of-a-kind walk-on-the-beach experience. 93 Khlung District, Chanthaburi +66 3865 5420-1 www.tourismthailand.org

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Emerald Pool, Khlong Nature Thom, Krabi This natural reserve of deep underground thermal hot springs, the little hideaway Emerald Pool or the Blue Lagoon is a natural reserve in Khlong Thom District. The Emerald Pool - as green and as clear as a dream - has temperatures ranging between 30-50 degrees Celsius and is surrounded by lush native plantations typical to a rich tropical mangrove area. 09.00 – 17.00 hrs. Khlong Thom District, Krabi. Tourism Authority of Thailand, Krabi. +66 7562 2163, +66 7561 2811-2 www.tourismthailand.org/krabi 95

Nature Khlong Sang Ne River, Phang-nga Dubbed as the ‘Little Amazon,’ Khlong Sang Ne is a place where you can get lost in a journey through dense forest covered with banyan trees. The whole area exudes serenity and peace, and at the same time brims with excitement and mystery. The best way to enjoy the trail is joining a canoe guided tour to observe - from afar - various species of local reptiles deep in their slumber while wild birds chirp away their soothing melodies. 09.00 – 18.00 hrs. Takua Pa District, Phang-nga. Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phang-nga. +66 7648 1900-2 www.tourismthailand.org/ phangnga 96

Rajjaprabha Dam Nature (Chiao Lan Dam), Surat Thani A part of the Khao Sok National Park. The Dam is a multi-purpose project for hydro-electric power generation, flood control, irrigation and fishery. However, thanks to the dramatic backdrops of the jutting peaks of limestone cliffs that surround the area, the place offers a spectacular setting for visitors who can stay in the floating bungalows, canoeing or renting a boat cruise for half a day for sightseeing. Ban Ta Khun District, Surat Thani +66 7724 2560 Ext. 2512 Khlong Roi Sai at the Tapi River, Surat Thani Located at a tributary of the Tapi River - the main stream flowing into Surat Thani city, Khlong Roi Sai is where local Southern Thais live their traditional life of fishing, farming and having a home on stilted wooden houses on the shorelines. The pristine conditions of the tropical abundance is the main draw. Visitors can even stay at one of the homestay facilities available in the area and enjoy learning the real Tapi River lifestyle. Mueang District, Surat Thani. Tourism Authority of Thailand, Surat Thani. +66 7728 8817-9 www.tourismthailand.org/suratthani 97

Nature Wonders of Net Fishing Rows, Khlong Pak Pra, Phatthalung Enjoy a dreamy state with the view that is touted as one of the best in Thailand for the sunrise with sketches of net fishing frames as the famous backdrop. Endless rows of local shore-operated fishing nets, while being the lifeline of local fishermen, are the most photographed items in the area, showcasing local wisdom along with the richness of life in the Thale Noi area, which is also Thailand’s largest waterfowl reserve. Khuan Khanun District, Phatthalung. Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nakhon Si Thammarat. +66 7534 6515-6 www.tourismthailand.org/ nakhonsithammarat 98