PHETCHABURI TOUR

aim to revive as well as develop the environment of the mangrove forest, beach forest, and mixed deciduous forest that provide a natural habitat for various kinds of fauna in the area back into its original fertility. It was also intended to be a centre of knowledge, publicity, and training of an international standard on the conservation of energy, natural resources and environment, as well as promotion of ecotourism in order to stimulate and implant public awareness in the significance of the conservation of energy and environment for sustainable development. The knowledge and experience gained can be applied in daily life. Spots of interest within the Park include:

Energy for Environment Centrepublicizes knowledge about energy and conservation of energy and the environment through a “Two Ways Communication” exhibition, which is divided into 8 stations. Each station features a different form of presentation; such as, model, replica, demonstration, and try-out. There are also other facilities like a learning centre with several learning media including printed and digital ones, small meeting room of 30 – 40 seats and conference hall of 200 – 300 seats, restaurant, souvenir shop, etc.

Energy and Environmental Conservation Camp and International Environment Camp feature activity camps for various organizations coming in groups and interested people who wish to learn about the conservation of energy, natural resources, environment and Thai wisdom. Accommodation is available in the forms of bungalow and dormitory, with an activity ground. The Park also provides a natural study room for visitors to study mangrove forest, beach and land forest, degraded soil inprovement, and resolution for eroded shores, bird watching tower, demonstration of water pumping using wind turbines and solar cells, etc.

Visiting groups should contact in advance at the Sirindhorn International Environment Park Foundation under Royal Patronage of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, Tel. 0 3250 8396, 0 3250 8352. Website : www.sirindhornpark.or.th

———————————————————————————————

The most extensive national park of Thailand, occupying a largely unexplored area of 2,915 square kilometers (1.7 million rai of land), Kaeng Krachan was declared a national park on 12 June 1981. The park is located 53.5 kilometers from the city and is 3 kilometers beyond Khuean Kaeng Krachan (Kaeng Krachan Dam).

———————————————————————————————

This beach, which is located approximately 15 kilometers from Phetchaburi Market, has a history that can be traced back to the Ayutthaya Era. The name Hat Chao Samran meaning Royal Leisure Beach was derived as a result of several visits for extended periods of time made by King Naresuan the Great and his brother, King Ekathotsarot.

In addition, the beach was the most popular one among other beaches in Thailand during the reign of King Rama VI when he ordered the construction of Hat Chao Samran Palace in 1918.

———————————————————————————————

This wide and long beach is popular among local tourists. It is 7 kilometers south of Hat Chao Samran.

———————————————————————————————

This white sandy beach, which stretches for 2 kilometers, is located 4 kilometers north of Hat Chao Samran and is crowded during weekends.

———————————————————————————————

The trip takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete, depending on the current. The route passes lush forests and a Karen hill tribe Village. The journey from Phetchaburi City to the starting point may take approximately 3 hours on a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Call 02 918 6067 or 034 410695 for more details.

———————————————————————————————

Situated 2 kilometers south of Khao Wang is the site of an ancient temple of the Ayutthaya Period Wat Khao Bandai It. This hill is 121 meters high and offers several stunning natural attractions (caves) such as Tham Prathum, Tham Phra Chao Sua, and Tham Phra Phuttha Saiyat.

———————————————————————————————

This cave is located on the hill, which is clearly visible from Highway No.4, behind the railway station of Khao Yoi District, approximately 22 kilometers north of Phetchaburi town. It was the place where King Rama VI practiced meditation while he was ordained. Today, it houses several Buddha images.

———————————————————————————————

The cave is located approximately five kilometers from Khao Wang. Smaller in size, the cave is regarded as the largest and most important in the province. This is due to the fact that it houses a Buddha image cast under the royal command of King Rama V as a dedication to King Rama III and King Rama IV. At the foot of Khao Luang Hill, a large monastery locally known asWat Tham Klaep or Wat Bun-thawi is located. Attractions within the compound are a large multi-purpose hall and a chapel laden with beautifully carved door panels.

———————————————————————————————

The descendents of Lao Song, whose ancestors have migrated from Laos, live in the villages of Ban Nong Prong and Ban Thap Khang. Their customs and traditions have been preserved and are still practiced. In April, they organize social events with entertainment and folk plays.

———————————————————————————————

BRG Adventure Park at Khao Yoi offers challenging sport activities including sliding, crossing a Tyrolean traverse, via ferrata, and abseiling 100 meters. All activities are under the supervision of well-trained staff. Contact 02 434 610002 435 5797 for more details.

———————————————————————————————