Joanna James
Although there are quite a few famous places in Thailand, and all of them make for great vacations, there are few that are as picturesque as the town of Chanthaburi. Set on the banks of the Chanthaburi River, it's a tranquil region that's deserving of any vacationer's attention. Culturally significant and naturally bountiful, there's much to see and do, involving places full of the rich history and culture that Thailand has become famous for.
If you choose to ask about the popularity of King Taksin in Thailand, chances are you'll receive a positive response - King Taksin, known as Taksin the Great, is a popular and respected figure amongst the populace. A symbol of bravery, a national hero who drove away invading forces to protect the country, his popularity was great enough to immortalize him in the form of a shrine - the Somdet Phra Chao Taksin, dedicated to him that depicts his likeness on a throne - along with plenty of golden Buddha statues around the courtyard of the shrine itself.
Constructed in the 18th Century, the Wat Phai Lom was once a great monastery in its time, with monks discussing and studying the history of Buddhism, as well as practising it in earnest. The highlight of this monastery is the large, golden reclining Buddha on its ornate pedestal, surrounded by other statues in various poses of reclining, or standing. The monastery itself is adorned with immaculate design and makes for a great stop-off from any reputable hotel in Chanthaburi.
One of the most beautiful churches in the whole of Thailand, its existence is a unique one - hardly believable and surprising, considering the mostly Buddhist nature of Thailand as a country. The church dates back to 300 years ago, in the dewy years of the 1700s, when the local Catholic community made its presence known and made their homes here. The church has exceedingly beautiful stained-glass windows, high ceilings, and ornate wooden pews that have come to be known as the hallmarks of any beautiful church. The highlight and pride of this church is probably the statue of St. Mary, decorated with gems and jewels, the primary trade of Chanthaburi town.
Aside from all the man-made constructs of Chanthaburi, the Namtok Philo National Park is a fine example of the natural and unblemished beauty of the province - filled with mountains, rushing waterfalls, and an interesting nature trail to undertake if you're so inclined, sure to be packed with fauna and flora enough to make a few weeks' worth of memories. Amongst these waterfalls, the Namtok Phliu waterfall is agreed to be the best and most visually impressive - with size and beauty enough to impress.
It's important to mention what Chanthaburi is most famous for - the glittering of gems. To that end, all those who search for precious rocks will end up finding themselves at the Chanthaburi Gem Market. Also known as the Talad Ploy, the market opens on the weekends to trade with the most intrepid and connected vendors from all over the world. This gem market is mostly known for its sapphires, traded in abundance and with trust. There is also a gemological lab for identification, reports for which can be gotten in a few hours. So if you've an hour or two to spare from your accommodation like the Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi, make sure to go ahead and grab a few pieces for yourself!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
