Travel Thailand – Unknown Thailand

Naga Raja Dharma Park

8 May 2026 by ut2541

Naga Raja Dharma Park

This incredible Naga Raja Dharma Park (see below all about Nagas) is part of an ongoing development at Wat Don Yai that has recently become a social media sensation gaining a lot of attention, and attracting hordes of visitors.

Guardian Serpents Everywhere
We went there more than a year ago when construction was in it’s early stages, but now it looks a lot more advanced, and thrilling, with over 50% of construction work completed, which includes caves, a cliff with chedi along the top and waterfalls dropping over dozens of fierce Nagas, with many more huge, long serpents curled and guarding a large standing Buddha.

A long entrance way, also guarded by two large imposing Nagas, is lined with flower displays and made up of silver arches of Nagas leading to the main Naga area, with a number of rest areas (or photo op spaces) on each side. There are three cartoon style Nagas, called Chao Nang Noi, Chao Khun Noi, and Chao Sua Noi. Unfortunately they look completely out of place but no doubt there for selfies with children.

The park is not actually at Wat Don Yai, but if you arrive there by whatever means they have a fleet of free shuttle buses to get you to the park about 800 meters away on the other side of Klong 8 Road. Entrance is free but there are donation boxes and ways to aid the temple with this massive project.

It can get hot very quickly, although there are umbrellas free to use. There’s also a couple of stalls selling drinks and snacks, so make sure to keep hydrated. Carry a bottle of water if you can.

About Wat Don Yai
Founded in 1910 by local residents next to Lamlukka Klong 8 as a fairly modest country temple surrounded by rice fields, it remained that way for well over 100 years. In more recent years it has been transformed from a quiet place of meditation and worship into a spiritual tourism center.

It really began with the completion around 2018 of an astonishingly eye catching Silver Chapel (Ubosot Ngern): This is arguably the temple’s most famous feature. It is the only silver chapel in Pathumthani, designed to represent purity. It is often referred to as the “Silver Chapel in Pathum Thong.” as it rests on a giant golden lotus. You can see the sun glinting off the silver roof from a considerable distance on a clear day.

Inside the silver chapel sits a massive, beautiful and unusually all white Buddha statue in a meditation posture, called Somdet Phra Suwannapatum. Locals often call him Luang Pho Jai Dee Mang Mee Sri Suk, and many visit specifically to pray for success and fulfillment. This interior for quite a while was uncluttered with little decoration, just illuminated for easy medication without distractions. Now there’s been a lot of large objects placed inside which detract from the serenity it used to have.

There’s a quieter area behind the Ubosot, monks quarters, and other buildings, next to Lamlukka Klong 8, although it’s not very picturesque.

Nagas In Culture And Religion
The relationship between the Phaya Nak (Naga) and Buddhism in Thailand is a profound blend of ancient animism, Hindu mythology, and Buddhist scripture. In Thailand, the Naga is not just a mythical serpent; it is considered the Guardian of the Dhamma.

The most famous link comes from the life of the Buddha. It is said that during the sixth week after his enlightenment, a great storm broke out. The Naga King Mucalinda emerged from the earth and coiled his body beneath the Buddha, lifting him above the floodwaters, and spread his multi-headed hood like a canopy to shield him from the rain. This is a common image in temples and shrines.

In Thai architecture, Nagas are almost always the guardians of the entrance to the Ubosot (ordination hall).

Naga bodies often form the handrails of temple stairs. This symbolizes the Naga acting as a bridge between the human realm and the divine realm (the temple), mirroring the belief that Nagas can travel between the underworld and the heavens.

Ubosot and Naga serpents — Ubosot guarded by Nagas

The “Nak” (Naga) in Ordination
One of the most unique cultural links is the term for a monk-to-be: “Nak.” Before a man is ordained as a monk, he is called a Nak and wears white robes.

Myth says a Naga once transformed into a human to ordain as a monk because it loved the Buddha’s teachings. However, while sleeping, it reverted to its serpent form. The Buddha explained that only humans could ordain. Heartbroken, the Naga asked that all future candidates for the monkhood be named “Nak” in its honour.

Spiritually, the Naga represents the unrefined energy of the earth and the subconscious. By serving the Buddha, the Naga symbolizes the “taming” of wild nature through the path of Dhamma. It represents a being that is not yet enlightened but is a devoted “Protector of the Faith.”

Getting There: For Google Maps search “Wat Don Yai Lamlukka” or “วัดดอนใหญ่ ลำลูกกา”, it’s easier if you have your own transport, or coming from Bangkok take the BTS Sukhumvit Line going north to the end of the line at Khu Khot station, then get a taxi or call a Grab or Lineman car – it’s still quite ride from the station.
Wat Don Yai is on Klong 8 Road, Lamlukka District, Pathumthani in a semi rural location.

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What’s Under Our Feet

6 May 20264 May 2026 by ut2541

What’s Under Our Feet

Hidden Archaeological Treasures

When you first arrive in Thailand, it’s natural to gaze upward at the shimmering temples, the rugged mountains, the endless palm-fringed skylines. But beneath your feet lies a deeper story, one of dinosaur bones scattered across ancient wetlands, prehistoric villages humming with early farmers, lost civilizations rising and falling, and entire cities layered one atop another like forgotten manuscripts.

These places don’t announce themselves. You have to seek them out, and when you do, Thailand transforms from a postcard paradise into a living puzzle you’re piecing together.

Rice Field Revelation
The Latest Thrill: Phetchaburi’s Rice Field Revelation (February 2026)
Just months ago, in a humble rice paddy in Ban Don Phlap, Phetchaburi, farmers stumbled upon something extraordinary beneath them – two bronze war drums called klong mohorathuek, alongside the remains of a high-status individual from 1,500 to 2,000 years ago wearing a gold bracelet.

How the drums could have looked (AI Re-creation)

These aren’t ordinary finds; the drums, cast using the intricate lost-wax method with frog motifs and rope-handled grips, represent the province’s first link to distant Dong Son cultures which flourished in what is now Vietnam, and also links to similar finds in Ratchaburi. The burial, dug 120 centimeters deep and surrounded by bronze vessels and seven pottery jars, speaks of a respected and important local leader.

Too New To Tell: As this is a brand new find, there’s no knowing what else might be found, or how big the site might end up being. The Fine Arts Department in Ratchaburi, alongside Phetchaburi Rajabhat University and local villagers, is carefully excavating this thrilling site, but public access remains limited for now.

Venture from Phetchaburi’s Ban Lat district office on foot, and chat with locals who guard these secrets, then you could extend your day into Kaeng Krachan National Park’s elephant trails and misty waterfalls. Dry season (November to April) is ideal for this as in the rainy months paths turn into slick mud.

Dinosaur Echoes In Isaan
Travel to Isaan (The North-east region of Thailand), and you’re stepping into a world millions of years old where vast wetlands once teemed with long-necked giants, and long before humans walked on the earth. Kalasin and Khon Kaen provinces are littered with signs of these ancient monsters.

The Sirindhorn Dinosaur Museum in Kalasin isn’t your dusty relic hall – it’s a sleek, interactive hub blending real prehistoric skeletons with life-sized mockups, all built around active excavation zones. Peer through a massive window into the adjacent research lab, where experts meticulously restore bones unearthed nearby, like those of the raptor Phuwiangvenator yaemniyomi, which was first discovered here.

From there a short drive leads to Phu Wiang National Park, where quiet trails wind past 16 fossil sites, red sandstone stamped with sauropod footprints – simple signs marking the digs amid whispering scrub, and making you feel the reality of the past.

Red sandstone slabs with footprints of sauropods (AI image for illustration only)

Era of Humans
In 2025, PrachuapkhiriKhan’s Samroiyod caves yielded Thailand’s oldest human remains at 29,000 years old, early migrants whose replicas now sit in the local cultural center.

At this mountainous National Park you can also paddle through mangrove tunnel and scramble along monkey-haunted cliffs for that raw connection, but don’t be found there in 29,000 years time by some intrigued archeologists.

Ban Chiang: A Prehistoric Village Frozen in Time
Ban Chiang, near Udon Thani, must be the most famous prehistoric site in Thailand but it greets you modestly – an initially uninspiring cluster of low mounds and thatched displays, but linger and its power soon unfolds. This UNESCO gem reveals a sophisticated society from 5,000 years ago: red-spiral pottery from rice-farming innovators, early bronze tools predating Europe’s, and over 200 burials in pit houses that whisper of daily life. It should be on your bucket list.

(AI image of ancient burial pit for illustration only)

Hands-on workshops let you fire pottery together with local villagers, bridging millennia and giving you a hint of life in times long passed. Nearby Hoabinhian (10000-2000 BCE) shelters add layers of hunter-gatherer mystery, as very little is known about them.

Mysteries in Stone: Rock Art and Cliff Carvings
Phu Phrabat Historical Park in Udon Thani feels like a prehistoric playground – massive mushroom rocks sheltering faint red ochre paintings of animals and handprints from 6,000 years ago, best spotted in the soft glow of golden hour as you weave between boulders. It was a site also known to have had a religious significance to the Dvaravati people, who later built Hindu and Buddhist shrines there.

At Khao Phra Viharn National Park, near the Cambodian border, ancient carvings pre-dating the Khymer empire perch on the side of sheer 500-meter cliffs, reached by a nerve-testing iron walkway amid lingering geopolitical worries. In the current climate as this is written, it’s too close to the Cambodian border for comfort.

Prehistoric cave and rock paintings can be found in numerous areas of Isaan, some lesser known but quite significant places are pretty remote, including many spread across Sakon Nakhon province dating between 3000-5000 years ago.

Mueang Sing: Layers of Empires
Mueang Sing Historical Park in Kanchanaburi reveals its Khymer prangs rising from the surroundings, but dig deeper because beneath lie settlements from centuries earlier, moats and burials stacked like historical palimpsests. What you see isn’t the full story.

The visible ruins are from the Khymer period – but underneath that, archaeologists have found evidence using lidar scans of much older settlements and burial sites through from prehistoric times, the Dvaravati period, Mon, and finally to the Khymer Empire. The earth mounds surrounding the park are the remnants of Dvaravati defensive walls, now mostly overgrown or demolished in the past.

This happens a lot in Thailand. A good location stays a good location. So instead of moving, people just rebuild on top of what’s already there. Same ground, different era.

Dvaravati Whispers Near Bangkok
Dong Lakhon Ancient City in Nakhon Nayok preserves the subtle traces of Dvaravati life – earthen defensive ramparts, ancient moats outlining a vanished 6th-11th century city, reservoirs, holy wells, laterite paths. Only minor excavations have taken place here, next to the entrance, but out of an original city of 6sq kilometers, you can still wander freely over 2sq kilometers and imagine what life might have been like here.

In Ratchaburi’s Ku Bua village, glazed tiles and stucco Buddhas peek from quiet fields, echoing Phetchaburi’s drums, while large remains nearby of a Dvaravati brick and stone settlement sit impressively on the edge of the village. Very few foreign visitors get to see these historic places, which is sad considering how easy it is to get there.

Khmer Majesty on Ancient Ground
Phimai Historical Park’s 12th-century corridors, a ‘petite Angkor Wat’ in Nakhon Ratchasima, rise over Dvaravati ponds and is built partly on or near a well established Dvaravati settlement, while Buriram’s Phanom Rung perches on a volcanic ridge, its lintels capturing solstice sunrises and Vishnu tales.

Venturing Further: Thailand’s Wildest Hidden Layers
For the bold, Spirit Cave in Mae Hong Son cradles 12,000-year-old plant remains in its limestone embrace, you could make a 3-4 day trek from Pai, with hill tribe homestays en route – although most hill tribes these days are very much integrated with the greater local culture.

Tham Lod’s river cave, also in Mae Hong Son, shelters bamboo-spiked coffins and ancient petroglyphs, a flashlight-lit raft away, but it’s a ticket only ride so plan ahead.

Laem Pho in Surat Thani, half way down the country, hides a Dvaravati-Srivijaya port beneath mangroves, which can be kayaked to in gulf serenity. This was a major trading center even before the Dvaravati era, and also a Hindu culture that ultimately spread it’s beliefs to the Funan Empire, which included today’s Cambodia.

A Lasting Unearthing
These sites demand an effort, some along faint trails with an absence of signs, some with a sense of gentle neglect, forgotten even.
But that’s kind of the point – because once you start noticing what’s underneath it all, Thailand stops being just a place you visit, and starts feeling like a place you’re slowly uncovering. When you step out tomorrow, look down.

(Google and Wikipedia can give you more details about all these places and where they are.)

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Secrets of Wat Phra Si Arn

2 May 2026 by ut2541

Secrets of Wat Phra Si Arn

Here’s another gem (literally and figuratively) of a place we found while randomly driving around the back roads of rural Ratchaburi province, Wat Phra Si Arn. Surrounded by forests and rocky outcrops which are home to marauding monkeys, this temple is quiet, beautiful, and hiding something special.

Established during the Ayuddhya period in 1732, it’s tranquil location is perfect for meditation and practicing Dharma. The original buildings have almost entirely disappeared but some remains are visible at the end of a marble footpath in a wooded area close by. The temple offers the unparalleled essence of Thai culture and spirituality.

100 Million Baht and 37 Years Later
The awesome golden chapel (Bot) that you see today took 37 years to complete from the start in 1967, not surprising when you see the beautiful gold hand crafted decoration on the exterior up close – it’s known as the 100 million Baht temple!

While the exterior might make your jaw drop, the absolutely mind boggling interior might make it drop off altogether. It’s like stepping into another dimension, and very few rural temples can come anywhere near the traditional breathtaking murals and intricate workmanship of every part of it.

Just as you go in, look up at the multi layered jigsaw of the roof over the doorway. That is just the first of so many wonderful sights here, including hand painted murals on the walls, elaborate pillars with fine detailing, and the sensational window frames.

So What Are The Secrets of Wat Phra Si Arn
That fact that such an amazing, beautifully decorated and costly temple is sitting virtually in the middle of nowhere, makes it a secret on its own, but before we tell you a bit more, let’s see some more of the interior.

The real Secrets of Wat Phra Si Arn are facing you at the far end of this incredible chapel. Amongst the numerous Buddha images that worshippers come to pay their respects to, are two unique and rare seated Buddhas, one in a glass case.

In the video above, you can see a white Buddha image above an elaborate gold Buddha image in a glass case. The white one is made from pure white Burmese jade, while the other is made from solid gold. Their value is unknown and must exceed many millions of Thai Baht, but the true value is what they mean to those that come to pay their respects, and make merit for their families and deceased relatives.

Getting There:
You’ll need your own transport to get here, but it’s worth it. The Google maps location is 139 PV6R+GC3 Ban Lueak, Photharam District, Ratchaburi. You could combine this with an evening visit to the incredible Na Satta Light Show in Photharam town for a memorable day out.
The temple has adequate parking but the toilets are better avoided.

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Khao Khalok Hidden in Plain Sight

1 May 2026 by ut2541

Khao Khalok Hidden In Plain Sight

Hi explorers! We found you another lovely place where you can fall asleep on a perfect beach to the sound of gentle waves lapping at your feet, and hike over a jungle covered mountain with stunning views, all in one gorgeous spot.

Khao Khalok Hidden In Plain Sight
An unexpected delight we came across while aimlessly driving from Paknampran village in Pranburi along the beach road south towards Samroiyod.

We often just jump into the car and decide which direction to go, and turn whenever we feel like it. No fixed plan, sometimes no particular destination. But we always end up finding somewhere memorable.

Anyway, we were feeling hungry, and saw a row of street food shops opposite a cliff, so we stopped and had an unexpectedly good meal at the weirdly named “Garfield”, a wooden open air place with lovely staff and great food.

While sitting there we realised that there was an entrance to a beach right next to the cliff, which we discovered was Khao Khalok, with the beach of the same name.
They’re both part of a National Forest Park which covers a much larger area.

Khao Khalok reaches out past the beach, jutting into the sea for about 200 meters. At the beach entrance (free) there were some trees which gave some shade, while the base of Khao Khalok had some small caves, which were a popular spot for selfies and Instagrammers, although one or two are considered unstable. The beach was spotless, with soft sand stretching back towards the north for quite a long way.

Why Go There
While there were plenty of people around (mostly Thais) it didn’t feel crowded, and a short walk would bring you to an area with almost no one around. It’s perfect for meditating on the meaning of life – that is, doing nothing and having a nap!

Walking a short way around the base of Khao Khalok, we found a trail up the mountain, steep and rough, which as you get higher splits into two. One trail leads you to one of those beautiful Instagram viewpoints, while the other goes right over the mountain and down the other side, where another surprise awaits.

I took the trail up to the viewpoint while my other half checked out the beach lol. It wasn’t a trail with smooth steps and the handrail (when there was one) was very rickety. You have to watch your step but if you’re halfway fit you can manage it.

Once at the viewpoint it was well worth it, with stunning vistas of the coast and the sea lit up by a burning hot sun. As is often the case, the walking or stumbling down the trail was a little bit more tricky than climbing up.

A Word To The Wise
If you’re going to Khao Khalok and it’s beach, you should pack a small backpack with a few bottles of water, some snacks, a hat, sunglasses, sun cream, maybe a pack of those wet baby wipes, towels to sit on, and a good pair of sport or trail shoes if you decide to tackle the mountain. Do not attempt it wearing flipflops!

Across the beach road, there is a row of street food eateries as well as a couple of shops selling some of those items I mentioned. On the beach there are no vendors and there is not much shade; and the sun, even during the so called ‘cool’ season, can get you dehydrated and roasted pretty quickly if you’re not careful.

Moving On
After a couple of hours, we decided to drive around Khao Khalok to the other side, to see what there was to see. We followed the road curving to the left around this huge jungle covered hunk of granite, then came to a sharp left-right curve.

Temple at Khao Khalok — Unusual Wat Khao Khalok

There, partially hidden by trees, appeared an unusual but beautiful temple on the right-hand side. Directly opposite the temple was a small reservoir, and the end of the trail that goes right across Khao Khalok from the beach we’d been on a few minutes ago. It’s known to most people as Wat Khao Khalok because of where it is, but it’s proper name is Wat Sumanavas.

The temple has an overall golden colour with two ‘Yuk’ (mythical giant) guarding the entrance to the main chapel, which houses an image of the temple’s first abbot, and Prince Chumphon, the father of the revered King Rama V. The unusual architecture is said to be influenced by both Thai and Khymer styles. This temple is well worth seeing as it’s only a few minutes drive from Khao Khalok beach.

From here we continued to follow the beach road south, but that’s another story for another day…

Getting There
Khao Khalok is on the beach road in Paknampran Subdistrict of Pranburi district, in Prachuapkirikhan province. It’s shown on Google Maps but search ‘Khao Khalok Pranburi’ to find it. From Huahin it’s an easy pleasant drive if you have access to a car, or go on a tour.

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Thai Wake Park

28 April 2026 by ut2541

Thai Wake Park

Chills, Thrills, and Coffee: Why Thai Wake Park is my favourite hideout.
If you think you need to travel to a tropical island to find a slice of paradise, think again. Just a short hop outside the chaotic energy of Bangkok, tucked away in Lamlukka, Pathumthani, lies a little gem called Thai Wake Park.

Whether you are a adrenaline junkie looking to fly across the water or someone who just wants to sip a cold coffee and watch others try (and fail) to stand up on a board, this place has something for everyone.

The Weekend Hustle vs. The Midweek Chill
Like many great spots, Thai Wake Park has two personalities. On weekends, it transforms into a buzzing hub of energy, packed with a younger crowd eager to show off their skills. The music is up, the splashes are frequent, and the atmosphere is electric.

But here is the secret: Come on a weekday. The crowds thin out, the water calms down, and the whole place feels like your own private playground. It’s the perfect time to take a lesson without feeling rushed or to simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

More Than Just a Sport
What truly sets Thai Wake Park apart is how welcoming it is. It isn’t just for the athletic elite; it is genuinely disabled-friendly. They have special boards and equipment designed to ensure everyone can experience the thrill of wakeboarding, regardless of their physical abilities. It’s a beautiful reminder that fun has no barriers.

Everything You Need (and then some)
One of the best things about this place is that you don’t need to bring much.

Gear Up: Stuck without a wetsuit? Their on-site shop rents and sells everything from wakeboarding clothes to the boards themselves.
Learn to Fly: Never tried wakeboarding before? No problem. They offer lessons for total newbies, so you can go from “wobbly beginner” to “cool trick master” in no time.

The Spectator Sport
Now, let’s be honest: sometimes the best part of wakeboarding is just sitting back and watching. The park features a lovely waterside café where you can relax with a drink or snack and enjoy the show. There is nothing quite like the entertainment value of watching a friend confidently stride onto the water, only to immediately splash into the lake with a dramatic “belly flop.”

But don’t worry, it’s not all falls! You’ll also see some incredibly cool tricks that will leave you wondering how gravity works for some people. Whether you are cheering on a pro or laughing at a newbie’s tumble, the vibe is always friendly and fun.

A Hidden Gem Worth Finding
Thai Wake Park is one of those wonderful hidden-away places that feels like a secret. It’s a place where you can push your limits, learn a new skill, or just laze around in the shade with a coffee, and admission is free.

So, if you are in the Bangkok area and need a break from the city noise, head out to Lamlukka. Grab your friends, rent a board, or just bring your camera and your appetite for good vibes. And hey, if you fall in… well, at least the water is refreshing!

Thai Wake Park Ride n Lazy hotel — Ride n Lazy hotel

Stay The Night
If the fun gets you hooked, they even have their own hotel right there called Hotel RIDE ‘n Lazy! It’s just a minute’s walk from the starting dock, so you can wake up, grab a coffee, and hit the water without ever leaving the property. They have a nice selection of rooms from economy to suites, so there’s something for every budget.

Here’s a video I made about Thai Wake Park

Getting There:
Google maps location code is XPMP+7J, It’s at the end of Soi Sudsawas, off the road alongside Lamlukka Klong 6, in Bungkhamproi Subdistrict, Lamlukka District, Pathumthani province, just a very short distance north of Bangkok.
My advice would be to take the BTS Sukhumvit Line to the final station called Khu Khot which is on Lamlukka Road, then get a taxi.

Their website is Thai wake park

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Muang Sing Historical Park

22 April 202622 April 2026 by ut2541

Muang Sing Historical Park

Whispers in the Jungle:

Hi Fellow Explorers!
Imagine driving far away from the hustle of the busy tourist town of Kanchanaburi, winding through forest covered mountains until the noise fades into the chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves.

Then you find yourself at a place that feels so remote and forgotten by the rush of modern life, Muang Sing Historical Park.

There are no queues for a ticket here, although there is a very modest admission fee. No tour buses honking. Just you, the ancient stones, the gentle birdsongs, and the murmuring waters of the Kwae Noi River that forms part of the city defences.

As you drive through the main gate, the first thing you notice is the beautifully maintained woodland garden environment, the overgrown city walls, a good road (it’s a big place), and lots of pathways through the greenery.

Although you won’t see it immediately, the grand Khymer era Prasat standing tall amongst breeze blessed trees is literally the center point of this serene park.

It’s built in true Khmer style, reminiscent of the great temples of Angkor, with that same Bayon shape and weathered sandstone. It looks majestic, sturdy, and proud. But if you look closely, you’ll realize this tower is just the newest chapter in a much older book.

The Layers Beneath Your Feet:

As you wander the grounds, you’re walking on a timeline. The Khmer builders who raised that tower didn’t start from scratch. They stepped onto a city that was already centuries old.

Underneath the grass and the soil lies the footprint of an older Dvaravati settlement, a bustling town that existed on the site from the 6th to 11th centuries. A remnant of a powerful civilisation that covered much of present day Thailand.

While their wooden homes have long since turned to dust, the brick foundations remain, hiding in plain sight like secrets waiting to be found.

And if you go deeper still, to the quiet corners where the ground is marked by mounds, you’re stepping into the past of the very first people here.

Between 10,000-2,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period, families buried their loved ones with care on the banks of the Kwai Noi River. You can see some of the protected burial sites, enclosed and preserved. They feel a bit clinical, yes, but they hold the stories of the ancestors who first chose this valley as home.

The rest of those ancient burial mounds with hundreds of skeletons are off limits, and items buried with those bygone people are on show at the Ban Kao Museum about a 30 minute drive from the city.

The Beauty of the Unknown:

Part of the charm of Muang Sing Historical Park is what you can’t see. Some areas are outside the park and fenced off, guarded by archaeologists who are still piecing together the puzzle. It adds a sense of mystery.

You know there are more stories buried there, more pottery, more clues about how people lived, loved, and traded thousands of years ago in this remote corner of Thailand. It reminds you that history isn’t just what’s on display; it’s also what’s waiting to be discovered.

Why Visit?

In a world where every tourist spot feels crowded and commercialized, Muang Sing offers something rare: space to breathe. You’re unlikely to see many other people here, except perhaps on a weekend, as it’s a 100km very scenic drive from Kanchanaburi city.

It’s perfect for those who prefer a slow walk over a rushed checklist. You can sit on the steps of the ancient prang and watch the light change on the stones. You can imagine the monks who once walked these paths, or the traders who rested by the moat.

It’s not just about seeing ruins; it’s about feeling the weight of time in a place that hasn’t lost its soul. Whether you’re a history buff or just someone looking for a quiet afternoon in nature, Muang Sing welcomes you with open arms – and plenty of room to imagine the deep history this place emerged from.

The Dvaravati era stone walls around the city have crumbled and become overgrown, but are still visible as long high mounds.

Apart from the impressive Angkor style Prasat and fairly well preserved temple that goes with it, there are numerous other smaller ruins, all clearly marked on a numbered trail, which can be followed from a free map you get at the entrance.

Some archeologists suggest that as the Khymer Empire expanded, and Dvaravati era cities declined, that Muang Sing was the most western Khymer settlement in a strategic location as a buffer against the Burmese.

Opposite the stunning Prasat there’s a car park, clean toilets, a small cafe, and a wonderful display of stone artifacts, mainly from the Khymer era, that haven’t been hidden in a museum.

So, take a trip to Kanchanaburi, visit the bridge, and take the train ride. But to escape the typical tourist trails, drive away through the beautiful, quiet countryside to this gem of a place. Leave your worries behind, and let the jungle tell you its stories.

The park is open daily from 08.30-16.30, and come in the morning when it’s cooler to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this amazing piece of multilayered history.

(A note about the video above from @yoyofellini. At the time the video was made we were not aware of the full long term history of the site, so some commentary may not be totally accurate. We found the historical park purely by chance.)

Getting There:

There’s no regular reliable transport links from Kanchanaburi city to the historical park, but there are a few options.

If you’re staying in the city, you could rent a car or ask your hotel to book a tour. You’ll have more freedom with a car as you are sure to get distracted by other sights en route.

If you’re staying in the very beautiful area of Sai Yok, your resort should be able to organise a car and driver for you.

Muang Sing Historical Park lies someway off Highway 323 in Sing Subdistrict, Sai Yok district, Google Maps location code is 26QV+GCJ.

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Rattanakosin 244 Years Anniversary

21 April 202621 April 2026 by ut2541

Nano banana 2 create an image of King Rama 1 sitting on an antique but ornate throne declaring 0 (1)

Rattanakosin 244 Years Anniversary

Congratulations to the City of Bangkok on the 244th anniversary of the foundation of Rattanakosin as the capital of Siam!

Bangkok City Foundation Day 21 April

From an era of difficulty, to today’s vibrant modern city, Krungthepmahanakorn (Bangkok) has become one of the most impressive cities of the 21st Century.

In 1782, King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great (Rama I) performed a ceremony to erect the City Pillar and established Krung Rattanakosin as the royal capital, moving it from Thonburi to the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River.

History and Significance:

King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great (Rama I), became the first king of the Chakri Dynasty, and conferred the Royal Name on the city of “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit,” which means a vast and prosperous city.

Reason for the Move:

The Thonburi side of the river had a fragmented and cramped layout, so it was relocated to Rattanakosin island on the opposite bank, which offered superior strategic geography, and offered superior defences against the ongoing threat from Burmese forces.

On the day of the declaration, the Grand Palace was already under construction along with Wat Phra Kaew, which was built to house the sacred Emerald Buddha.

The Follow Up:

The following years emphasised building fortifications, cultural restoration, as well as wars to secure Siam’s territorial boundaries. This pushed Siam towards being a regional power.

The city authorities are holding a number of celebratory evening cultural and fun events across Phra Nakorn district open to all, running from 22-26 April.

As a side note, the long form name of the city, as declared on Foundation Day, is still the official name of the city, however for official and legal purposes it’s normally referred to as Krunthepmahanakorn, or informally as Krungthep.

(All images generated by AI)

Golden Pine Beach Resort

20 April 2026 by ut2541

Golden Pine Beach Resort

The Golden Pine Beach Resort was our hotel of choice in June 2025 when we made one of our regular adventure road trips around Thailand.

On this adventure we drove from our hotel in the village of Paknampran through Prachuapkirikhan province down to the provincial capital, also called Prachuapkirikhan, but more of that in another story.

Video with English subtitles courtesy @yoyofellini

But first this story is about our stay at the quiet and peaceful Bali style Golden Pine Beach Resort, located directly across (a hardly used) beach road from the sea.

On arrival, we found the resort car park in a back road, and first impressions were a bit uninspiring.

However as we saw the entrance to the hotel, our feelings changed immediately as we were ushered through the Balinese doorway, through a beautiful Bali style water garden to the open plan reception area.

The staff were lovely, chatty, and helpful so we were soon checked in. The reception area was beautifully decorated with both traditional Thai sculptures, and some foreign art work. Comfortable sofas and chairs made it a good spot to chill out.

The hotel’s main building has three floors, along with single storey beach villas, private villas, and family rooms on each side of the beautiful beach road entranceway up to the reception area.

We booked a sea view room on the third floor of the main building, but there’s no lift or wheelchair access to the upper floors.

The room was quite spacious and comfortable, nicely decorated although the hotel is aging a little. There was a spacious balcony with two chairs , with nice views above the other areas of the resort, and palm trees, to the sea.

The double bed was comfortable, there was a good sized closet, a TV, fast WiFi, perfect air conditioning, bedside cabinets, and plenty of electric outlets to charge the all-important pads and phones. There was also a long desk opposite the bed, which was ideal when we ordered room service.

The room was very clean, and so was the ensuite bathroom, which had a nice shower enclosure with good pressure, plus of course towels, shampoo, conditioner, and the other usual toiletries. There is a daily maid service.

Breakfast was included in the room rate, which was served in a cute open plan octagonal building with lovely garden views.

The breakfast selection was a little bit limited but the portions, as at every meal we had, were huge and very tasty, including both western and Thai dishes.

The restaurant served full meals, snacks, and drinks from 10am until late, after the breakfast service had ended. Room service was readily available too.

The big features were the spa (which we didn’t use), and the infinity swimming pool which appears to merge with the sea and was clean and a delight to use. As it was rainy season (June) the pool loungers were not in use but it didn’t stop our enjoyment.

Speaking of the weather, we had overcast skies which matched a kind of grey looking sea, along with a few showers, for the first and second day, but after that and for the rest of our time there we were lucky enough to get endless dry sunny days.

As you will see in the video, the gardens were very pretty and well laid out, with many ornaments and statuettes adding to the Thai-Balinese feel, which matched very well.

The staff were wonderful, and while we didn’t have any complaints, nothing was too much for them. The maids serviced the rooms daily and did an excellent job too.

The Local Area
In front of the hotel beside the very quiet beach, were a jogging track and footpath, but there was little or no beach to be seen until a a few hundred meters to the south near the triple palm local landmark.

Also there was Pran’s Corner restaurant and bar, a place where we enjoyed a birthday dinner in a lovely atmosphere (the cocktails helped!), with a live band in the garden. It’s worth popping into as the food is pretty good, and there’s a big selection of drinks.

After dark, a small market opens on the side of the the road close to Pran’s Corner. They specialise in selling freshly cooked sea food to take away, with a few other items. It gets busy and makes you wonder where all the customers appeared from in such a small community.

Going in the other direction you’ll end up at a bare patch of land at the mouth of the Pran River. You can see colourful fishing boats moored there, but the village of Paknampran has little to offer.

We aimed to head south the next day along the beach road and it turned out to be a wonderful decision, but more about that in another post.

Getting from Bangkok to Pranburi

Ancient House By The River

20 April 202619 April 2026 by ut2541

Screenshot 2026 03 09 11 34 00 590 com.google.android.youtube~2

Ancient House By The River

A few months ago, we were out doing what we love to do, which is driving around exploring random side roads, to see what we could find.

This time we were on some narrow dusty trails in the wilds of Nakhon Nayok province when we spotted a broken wooden sign partly covered in weeds; “Ban Kong Yee Homestay”.

This seemed a very unlikely place to find a homestay, a few ramshackle houses, a barn or two, and unkempt rice fields. But we followed the sign along a tree lined track until we found the entrance.

At first it felt like it might be abandoned, as there was a large open sided barn as we drove in, filled with what looked like piles of old junk. But looking back we guessed that there must have been some very intriguing items there. Sad to say that we didn’t have the time to take a look.

But it soon became obvious that this was still an active place, with several traditional Thai buildings of varying ages and styles, and a rustic cafe next to the Nakhon Nayok River.

Take a look at our video which vividly shows you the whole place, and there’s a surprise which was fascinating, and a bit creepy too.

The Kong Yee (ถ๋งยี่) house was opened in 1931 and is at 44 Tambon Thasai, Amphur Muang Nakhonnayok district, and is listed on Google Maps.

It’s very much off the beaten track so you will need your own transport to get there. There’s plenty of parking, a cafe open 09.00 to 18.00, and some pretty gardens next to the Nakhon Nayok River.

The 50 Baht admission into the main house is great value as you could spend a couple of hours or more looking around at the thousands of antique and unusual items collected over the years.

Getting from Bangkok to Nakhon Nayok

Grand Palace and Angkor Wat

20 April 202618 April 2026 by ut2541

Grand Palace and Angkor Wat

What’s the connection between these two places from different eras and different countries?

Before we get into it, where ever you live, remember that empires and kingdoms have risen and fallen throughout history, and borders changed frequently as a consequence, and are still doing it in modern times.

So what’s the link between these two famous places, and what has this photo got to do with it?

The picture shows a scaled down model of Angkor Wat, an incredibly important historical temple complex which between 1794–1907 lay inside Siamese territory.

The model has been on display at the north side of Wat Phra Kaew’s main pavilion, within the Grand Palace complex, since it was carved during the reign of King Rama IV circa 1866-7.

What’s It’s Significance?

It was created as a representation of an important Siamese monument inside Siam’s most important Royal Palace, and was a kind of show of strength.
It could inspire citizens to take the long and tough journey to see the night and grandeur Angkor Wat, even though much of it was still overgrown.

After French Indochina took control of the area from Siam, any one from Siam (now Thailand) who wanted to visit Angkor Wat would have had their arduous journey seriously complicated by crossing a mountainous and unfriendly border.

The beautifully hand crafted replica meant that the people could now take a short journey to Wat Phra Kaew, and still marvel at the details of such a magnificent monument, despite the actual place being sadly lost to them.

It is an intricately crafted replica of the Angkor Wat temple with five spires, standing on a square base measuring 12.70 meters wide and 14.25 meters long, and remains there for all to view.

So, next time you plan to visit Bangkok’s beautiful Grand Palace complex, make sure you check out this historical gem.