วันอังคารที่ 15 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2552

Krabi

Mu Ko Phi Phi (Phi Phi Islands)
Regarded by travelers from all walks of life as being among the most beautiful tropical islands of the world, Phi Phi Islands have become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand. In addition, the islands are famous as the location where the movie "The Beach" featuring Leonardo Di Caprio was shot. The islands, together with the nearby Noppharat
Thara Beach, a total area of 390 square kilometers, were recently established as a national park.


Phi Phi Islands are located just 40 kilometers away from both Krabi and Phuket. Thus, despite the fact that both Noppharat Thara Beach and Phi Phi administratively are a part of Krabi Province, most tourists think that Ko Phi Phi is part of Phuket Province.

The islands and the coastal hills are composed mainly of limestone and are an extension of the limestone mountain range in Phang-Nga Province. The main characteristics of these mountains and islands are their steep cliffs, large caves and dwarf trees growing out of the rock crevices, like those in Phang-Nga Bay.


Thale Waek (Separated Sea)

One of Thailand's unseen highlights, Thale Waek is situated along Ko Dam Khwan. As the tide recedes, the sea is gradually separated by the white sand and limestone beach that will appear to amazingly connect the two islands at low tide. The best time to visit Thale Waek is 5 days before and after the full moon from December to beginning of May.


Susan Hoi or Fossils Shell Beach
Susan Hoi features a slab formed from a huge number of embedded various types of mollusks which can be dated to approximately 40 million years ago. This shell graveyard at Ban Laem Pho was once a large freshwater swamp, the habitat of diverse mollusks. With changes on the surface of the earth, seawater flooded the freshwater swamp and the limestone elements in the seawater enveloped the submerged mollusks resulting in a homogenous layer of fossilized mollusk shells forty centimeters thick known as Shelley Limestone. With geographical upheavals, the limestone layer is now distributed in great broken sheets of impressive magnitude on the seashore. The site is located 17 kilometers from the town.


Ao Nang

Ao Nang is located approximately 6 kilometers from Hat Noppharat Thara and 20 kilometers from the town of Krabi. A large bay with scenic beaches and 83 small islands, Ao Nang has several famous beaches which include East Rai Le, West Rai Le and Tham Phra Nang (cave) which stretches to the foot of a prominent limestone range. A boat from Ao Nang Village can be hired for sightseeing excursions around Ao Nang, Hat Tham Phra Nang and Hat Nam Mao, all of which are only accessible by foot. Other offshore isles such as Ko Poda, Ko Kai, Ko Mo and Ko Thap, are popular destinations that can be reached by a rented boat from Ao Nang. An abundance of colorful coral reefs and lovely cartoon fishes make these islands ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Ao Nang has recently emerged as a 5-star tourist attraction due to its numerous 4-5 star hotels and boutique resorts complete with facilities such as diving shops and rental boats. Popular activities include sightseeing by canoe along the beachfront and paddling tours by inflatable canoes or kayaks of the coast and its mangrove forests, islands and semi-submerged caves.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park


Covering a total area of 152 square kilometres, Mu Ko Lanta National Park is located in Amphoe Ko Lanta and consists of many islands. Some major islands are Ko Lanta Yai, Ko Lanta Noi, Ko Taleng Beng, as well as, other surrounding islands like Mu Ko Ha, Mu Ko Rok, and Ko Ngai.


Sa Kaeo

Within the Sa Kaew compound in Khao Thong Sub-district forest plantation area are eight small natural ponds which is currently a major recreational area for the local residents. Sa Kaeo is 28 kilometers from town on the Krabi-Nai Sa route (Highway No. 4034).






Phuket

Hat Patong (Patong Beach)
This Beach is the most developed, most vibrant, most visited beach of Phuket that never fails to impress visitors. Located approximately 15 kilometers from the city, the beach has a wide range of accommodations and shopping arcades, and provides magnificent leisure activities and energetic night-time entertainment. It is a picture perfect postcard view of a 3-kilometer long white sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, lazing, and enjoying challenging water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing snorkeling, sailing, and parasailing.


Phuket Fantasea

Located on Kamala beach, Phuket Fantasea is dubbed as the ultimate nighttime cultural theme park of Phuket. It has won several awards from the TAT, among the distinctive ones are Best Attraction Thailand Tourism Award (for the years 2000 to 2003).

This large-scale night time amusement center is spread out over an area of 140 acres near the village of Kamala Bay, or just 4 kilometers north of Patong. Attractions include the Culture-Illusion Stage Show, Fantasy of the Kingdom, a spectacular buffet restaurant Golden Kinnaree Restaurant, shopping village the enchanted Festive Village, Cultural Parade & Street Shows, Traditional Games and Carnivals, Handicraft Demonstrations & Live Performances (performed in Palace of the Elephants).

Phuket City and old buildings

Besides its beautiful nature, Phuket has the distinguish style of buildings located in town. Most of the buildings were built nearly 100 years ago. The houses are long and all the doors and the windows are carved in a unique style.

The construction was influenced by Chinese architecture. At that time, the one and two story row houses were very popular. The houses' walls are thick while rags, roofs, doors, and windows were designed in Chinese style. Later, the buildings style changed to Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Today the remaining Sino-Portuguese building can be seen along the old roads in Phuket town like Thalang, Dibuk, Phang Nga, Yaowaraj and Soi Rommane. These roads represent Phuket outstanding lifestyle and culture.



Hat Kata (Kata Beach)

Located approximately 17 kilometers from Phuket City are Kata Noi (Small Kata) and Kata Yai (Big Kata) Beaches. Both are renowned for snorkeling to see the coral, tropical fishes and the seas eco-system. Also worth visiting is Ko Pu, a small uninhabited island located off Laem Sai. Most visitors find snorkeling along the islands rich coral reef enjoyable. Diverse beach activities are available on both beaches. Accommodations on Hat Kata are set amidst tropical and cliff settings. Visitors can choose to stay in budget to top end accommodations according to their preference. Well known hotels located here are Club Med and the Boathouse.


Hat Karon (Karon Beach)

This Beach is the most developed, most vibrant, most visited beach of Phuket that never fails to impress visitors. Located approximately 15 kilometers from the city, the beach has a wide range of accommodations and shopping arcades, and provides magnificent leisure activities and energetic night-time entertainment. It is a picture perfect postcard view of a 3-kilometer long white sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, lazing, and enjoying challenging water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing snorkeling, sailing, and parasailing


วันอังคารที่ 8 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2552

Ko Chang

stretch of long white sandy beach dotted with coconut tree orchards is a common sight on Ko Chang the largest and busiest island in Trat and the second largest island in the country after Phuket.
Covering an area of 429 square kilometers, Ko Chang, boasts several amazing natural wonders that blend magnificently with the traditional way of life such as 70 percent undisturbed island rainforest, steep hills, cliffs, waterfalls, and notable wildlife, fine beaches, coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. In addition, numerous fruit orchards dot the island.
Most of the scenic beaches and bays are on the west side spreading from the north to the south they include Ao Khlong Son , Hat Sai Khao , Hat Khlong Phrao and Hat Kai Bae. A road cuts through the western shore almost reaching Hat Kai Bae where there is a nature trail passing through Ao Bai Lan and Ao Kruat and meandering through wet forestland to Ban Bang Bao, a fishing community on the foot of the hill in the south.

Ko Kut
This island is the farthest island from the coast of Trat. Its size ranks it as the fourth largest island in Thailand or the second largest island next to Ko Chang in Trat. The island, which is 25 kilometers long and 12 kilometers wide covers an area of approximately 105 square kilometers or 65,625 rai. Its natural features include mountains and plains where many streams originate and become waterfalls. One famous waterfall is Nam Tok Khlong Chao, which flows throughout the year and is an ideal place for swimming as it is comprised of 3 tiers; of which the upper two tiers are running streams and the lower one is a large pond. In 1911, King Rama VI paid a royal visit to this waterfall and named it 'Nam Tok Anam Kok' to commemorate Ong Chiang Su. In addition; there are beaches with crystal-clear seas which are popular among visitors such as Taphao Beach, Khlong Chao Beach, Khlong Hin Beach, Phrao Beach, etc. Accommodations with a private atmosphere is available for visitors at the inner sea of Ko Kut, and the other two islands, Ko Rat and Ko Mai Si, opposite to Ko Kut.

Ko Mak
This is a large island to the south of Ko Chang that is blessed with several beautiful bays and beaches and coral reefs nearby that are still in perfect condition. The islanders make their living by growing rubber and coconut trees. The best time to visit is from November until late April. There are a number of accommodations and tourist facilities available. A passenger boat departs Laem Ngob daily at 3.00 p.m. and returns from Ko Mak at 7.00 a.m., traveling time is 3.5 hours.
Ko Kradat
This island is situated to the northeast away from Ko Mak. In the past, the area had an abundance of Kradad trees (paper trees); hence, the name of the island. This island is notable for the fact that it is the only island in Thailand to be issued a land title deed during the period of King Rama V as a measure to protect the island from French colonization. Ko Kradad is famous for its white long sandy beach and wonderful coral reefs.

Ko Kham
This island is located near Ko Mak and is endowed with natural wonders such as crystal clear seas, chie sandy beaches, coral reefs and most importantly, tranquility and privacy. Ideal for swimming and diving, the trip to Ko Kham from Laem Ngob takes 2.5 hours.

วันเสาร์ที่ 5 กันยายน พ.ศ. 2552

ChonburiPattaya











Pattaya A Travelers Paradise

Pattaya is nestled along a picturesque bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. From a fishing village in the 1960’s, Pattaya has emerged as the favorite Southeast Asian vacation center. A fascinating escape where tourists, holiday makers and vacationers from around the world unfold an incomparable array of possibilities to unwind during an exotic holiday beach vacation.

Ko Lan
Lying about 7.5 kilometers off of Pattaya by a 45-minute ferry or 15 minutes by speed boat ride, the island measures 2 kilometers by 5 kilometers and offers several white sandy beaches, notably Hat Ta Waen, Hat Laem Thian and Hat Thong Long, the latter facing coral reefs. Visitors can choose either snorkeling or viewing the coral from glass bottom boats. Ferries to the island leave South Pattaya pier daily from 10.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Cruises by sailing junks, with lunch provided are also available.

The Bottle Museum
As the name implies, this is the place where you can find elaborate bottle creations, including the usual vessels. Located at Km. 145, off of Highway No. 3, the museum features the work of the Dutch master Peter Bedelais. Open daily from 10.a.m. until 10 p.m.

Sanctuary of Truth (Prasat Satchatham)
The compound, which covers an area of more than two rais, is situated by the sea at Laem Ratchawet on Na Klua Road, North Pattaya. Within the compound is a gigantic temple-like structure entirely made of wood that is 105 meters high at the highest point which was constructed to withstand wind and sunshine on the seashore. With exquisite architectural features, the sanctuary was conceived out of the vision that human civilization has been achieved and nurtured by religious and philosophical truths.

Mini Siam
Located at Km. 143 on Highway No. 3 is a wonderland of miniature replicas of such outstanding architectural works as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Democracy Monument, the Bridge over the River Kwai, Prasat Hin Phimai, etc. Replicas of places of world significance are also displayed in the miniworld area. These include the Tower Bridge, Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty and Trevi Fountain. It is open daily from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Cabaret Shows
Alcazar on Pattaya II Road offers three shows daily at 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9.30 p.m. with an extra show on Saturdays at 11 p.m. Admission fee is 500/600 baht. Call (038) 410225 for more information.
Tiffany on Pattaya II Road provides three shows daily at 7 p.m., 8.30 p.m. and 10.00 p.m. Admission fee is 500/600 baht. Call (038) 429642, 421700-5 for more information.




Baan Sukhawadee
A European style mansion by the sea houses a statue of Kuan Yin and other sculptures that express the philosophy of living. Buildings in the compound include The Buddha Dome, a restuarant and sourvenir shop.








Thai Alangkarn Theatre
Located at Km. 155 marker on Sukhumvit Road Chomthian, Pattaya. With an area of 80 rais, the entire project includes a prototype Hexa Stage Theatre, Cultural Rostrum and a Restaurant. ALANGKARN is aiming towards a new concept of presenting Thai Culture to tourists from all walks of life, instead of the standard Thai traditional dances that could easily be founded elsewhere. The Extravaganza Show Pattaya open daily except Wednesday , The regular show start at 18.00 hrs. and restaurant opens at 16.45-20.00 hrs.

The Si Racha Tiger Farm
The farm, which is situated at Km. 20 marker on highway No. 36, raises a large number of Bengal tigers, as well as large crocodiles. Visitors will be amazed to witness tigers, pigs and dogs living together in the same quarters. The farm opens daily from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.

The Khao Khiao Open Zoo
Covering a vast tract of forest land, the zoo is located approximately 20 kilometers south of Chon Buri from Sukhumvit Road. To get there, take a left turn at Bang Phra, and follow the clearly posted signs. Operated by the Zoological Garden Organization, the zoo has more than 200 species of domestic and imported wildlife living in their natural habitat. Open daily from 8.00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m., the zoo also puts on shows of well-trained animals and birds. A new feature is the Night Safari Tour by auto-trams.

Suan Nong Nooch (Nong Nooch Garden)
Located approximately 18 kilometers south of Pattaya, the Garden can be reached by taking a left turn from Sukhumvit Road at the Km. 163 marker. The Garden is a sprawling recreation park in a typical Thai setting. A group of traditional Thai pavilions and gardens of different flowering plants are positioned around the beautifully landscaped site. Daily cultural and elephant shows are available for tourists with show times at 10.15 a.m. and 3.45 p.m.







Khao Sam Muk
A low hillock situated between Ang Sila and Bang Saen on the road that runs along the seashore is Khao Sam Muk a place known by most Thais for its tragic love story. According to the legend, two lovers jumped off of the cliff to declare their eternal love after facing parental objection to their marriage. A panoramic view of Bang Saen beach can be seen from the hilltop. Good quality Thai and Chinese seafood restaurants are located at the foot of the hills providing reasonably priced sumptuous dishes.


Bang Saen
This ever popular seaside town is situated approximately 14 kilometers from the city. To get to Bang Saen from Sukhumvit Road, take a right turn at Km. 104 and proceed for another 3 kilometers. Bang Saen is especially popular amongst Thai visitors who enjoy strolling along the long white sandy beach and tasting the delicious seafood available from vendors along the pavement. Unlike weekdays, weekends are always particularly crowded. A wide range of hotels and bungalows are located by the sea and recreational gear and bicycles for rent are available in shops nearby. For budget travelers, several buses depart daily from Ekkamai Bus Terminal throughout the day. In addition, there are local ''Song taew'' or local transport services connecting Chon Buri town-Nong Mon Market-Bang Saen.

Bangkok














The Grand Palace
Every visitor to Bangkok should see the magnificent buildings within the Grand Palace compound to get a feeling of the grandeur architectural style.

Wat Arun
Make sure you set aside one late afternoon to see and photograph this imposing sight at sunset with the Chao Phraya River in the foreground. These photographs will bring back beautiful memories of Bangkok. Wat Arun, often called The Temple of Dawn, is one of the most remarkable visual identities of Bangkok. The imposing Khmer-style prang or tower is 67 metres tall and decorated with bits of porcelain that was used as ballast by boats coming from China. It is surrounded by four smaller prangs. Construction of the prangs were started by King Rama II and completed by King Rama II.Each year at the end of the three-month lent period for Buddhist monks, H. M. The King or his appointed representative travels down river in a Royal Barge Procession to present new robes to the monks. This ceremony is called Royal Tod Kathin.

Wat Pho
This is possibly the most interesting temple in Thailand as it combines history, medical science and is a center for meditaion and traditional massage training. Its official name is Wat Phrachetuphon Vimon Mangkararam Ratchaworamahawihan, although it is commonly called Wat Po.
** In 2008, the historic marble inscriptions in Wat Pho have been registered with UNESCO’s Memory of the World (MOW) as MOW documentary heritage for Asia and Pacific Region

Vimanmek Palace
An outstanding example of 19th century architecture. While admiring the craftsmanship of the carpenters, you will travel back through time to gain a rare insight into the lifestyle of royalty.

Vimanmek Mansion, the principal building in the palace compound, was built for King Rama V on land he named The Dusit Garden located between Padung Krungkasem and Samsen canals. The completion was celebrated on March 27, 1901 and King RamaV took up residence until 1906. The mansion was originally his Summer Palace, the Munthaturaltanaroj Residence, on Sri Chang Island. It was dismantled and re-built at the present location under the supervision of HRH Prince Narissaranuwaddhiwongse.

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing
A visit to Wat Suthat Thep Wararam, situated almost in the center of old Bangkok, gives you an opportunity to see both the Giant Swing and one of the first-class Royal temples. The surrounding area is also worth exploring as there are many shops selling religious items.
The building of the temple was commissioned by King Rama I, the founder of Bangkok, in 1807. Its location in the center of Rattanakosin Island. This was in keeping with the Buddhist belief that it is like Mount Phra Sumeru being the center of the universe. Phra Sri Sakayamunee, the principal Buddha image, was moved from Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai to be placed in Phra Wihan Luang in Wat Suthat in 1808.
There are four pavilions (sala) within the compound that are elevated to the height of the temples walls. These are used for various royal functions and for viewing the previous functions at the Giant Swing in front of the temple.

Wat Sa Ket and The Golden Mount
This landmark, on the only hill in Bangkok, is of great significance for all followers of The Lord Buddha. 320 stairs take you up to the top for panoramic views of the Rattanakosin Island.
The Golden Mount is on a man-made hill with a diameter of 500 metres and soars 100 metres to the sky. There was a small chedi on this site and after it collapsed, King Rama III commissioned the constructed of a much larger one which was completed during the reign of King Rama V.

Wat Ratchanatdaram
Located on Mahachai Road, the temple was built in the reign of King Rama III in 1846. Loha Prasat, the temples main attraction, standing 36 metres high with 37 surrounding spires, is the only one of its kind left in the world. Next to the temple is the area for welcoming an important foreign guest and a memorial statue of King Rama III.


Siam Niramit
Situated on Thiam Ruammit Road off Ratchadaphisek Road, about 100 metres from the Thailand Culutral Center.
Siam Niramit is a one-of-a-kind cultural theme complex offerring a world-class spectacular performance in a 2000-seat theatre.
The 80-minute show features 3 stories of Thailand’s cultural heritage: Journey Back into History, Journey Beyond Imagination: The Three Realms and Journey Through Joyous Festivals, with the magic of state-of-the-art technology and special effects.
The show starts nightly at 8 pm. but visitors should arrive at 7 pm. to join a free guided tour to a Thai village in the compound. Restuarants and souvenir shops are also available.
Tickets cost 1,500 baht per person.

Suan Lum Night Bazaar

The Suan Lum Night Bazaar is a great place for an inexpensive night out that offers fabulous shopping, restaurant or food court dining, live entertainment and a superb choice of beers.
The shopping area is well laid out with neat streets lined on both sides with shops selling clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, and a myriad of other items. There are alleyways between the main streets, which are crammed with smaller stalls offering great bargains. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at what you might find here.Spread throughout the complex, are many restaurants and bars. The range of cuisine is quite extensive including Thai and Chinese seafood, Indian, Japanese and German.


Victory Monument
The monument is situated on Phahonyothin Road. It was constructed in 1941 under the premiership of Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkhram in order to praise the heroic deeds of soldiers, policemen and civilians who sacrificed their lives in a dispute between Thailand and France on the demarcation between Thailand and other Indochinese nations. The dispute ended with a compromise being agreed by the two parties, and 59 casualties. Victory Monument was, therefore, established as a memorial to their bravery.

Pratunam
Pratunam is one of the older shopping areas in Bangkok that has a highly-deserved reputation among bargain shoppers.
Passing through the area, you will see many shops on the main roads. But the real activity is in the market hidden behind the stalls and shops. Here youll find a huge variety of low cost clothes, fashion accessories, shoes, watches, electronic gadgets and all sorts of souvenirs. It is usually very congested as there are many eager shoppers looking for their bargains.
Pratunam is the location for Thailand's tallest building, the Baiyok Tower. This is the major wholesale center for the garment trade. It is very popular with minor and major international traders, particularly those from Africa. There is even an African restaurant nearby.
Bargain hunters looking for good deals on computers, accessories and software flock to Pantip Plaza, which is now known throughout the world for its low prices.


Shopping Street - Siam Square to Chidlom Bangkoks Fashion City

This is the major shopping area of Bangkok. It is very popular with tourists and Thais, particularly young, fashion-conscious Thai girls. The area started to develop around Siam Square in the late sixties when Chulalongkorn University utilized its land bank adjacent to the university.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
This is paradise for bargain hunters. Every Saturday and Sunday, 9,000 individual booths are open selling an infinite variety of goods.
It is just about impossible to go to Chatuchak Weekend Market and not buy anything. There is just about everything that bargain hunters, home makers, pet lovers or just browsers can imagine.


One rule for all shoppers to observe is bargain, bargain, bargain. This is part of the fun and also gets you the best prices.


Khao San Road
Where the worlds young travellers meet.Khao San Road is a favourite crossroads for the young travellers on a budget. It has evolved over the last two decades from just one small hostel providing low-budget accommodation become one of the worlds most well-known destinations. It has been featured in many movies and television documentaries.
During the day, Khao San Road is the scene for back-packers looking for a cheap room while others are arranging transport to their next destination in Thailand or overseas. Some will be just chatting with friends over a cup of coffee or a bowl of noodles.At night, it turns into a lively thoroughfare lined with street stalls selling cheap clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs and thousands of other items. The lights are on at the many bars where the travellers tell tales of the days adventures and discoveries and the plans for tomorrow. Khao San Road is not just for foreign travellers, many young Thai people like to hang out there, including members of the TV and film production industries.


King Rama IX Park
Enhancing the quality of life King Rama IX Park is an expression of gratitude from the people of Bangkok to H.M. King Bumibol Adulyadej on the occasion of his 60th birthday in 1987.
The 200 acre park is Thailand's first comprehensive botanical garden, providing a relaxing environment. It has six distinct areas, each with its own specific theme.


Chiangrai

Wat Rong Khun
Wat Rong Khun is also known as the White Temple. Whereas most temples visited by tourists have a history going back many centuries, this magnificent place of worship was built only recently. It is the realization of a dream for Thailands noted artist, Mr Chalermchai Kositpipat, who designed and is supervising the construction of this beautiful white temple and its many statues of figures based on religious beliefs. The construction started in 1998 and is expected to be completed in 2008. In addition, there is a gallery nearby exhibiting his paintings. To get there from the city of Chiang Rai, drive north along Asia Highway.




Wat Phra Kaeo
Wat Phra Kaeo, which is located on Trairat Road on the northwest side of town, is the best known of the northern temples. It once housed the Emerald Buddha, Thailands most important Buddha statue which was discovered in 1444. The statue had been moved by various state rulers to be placed in their capitals including Lampang, Chiang Rai and Vientiane before finally being enshrined in Bangkok's royal Wat Phra Kaeo. There is now a green jade replica of the image on display. The temple also houses a 700-year bronze statue of Phra Chao Lan Thong, which is housed in the Chiang Saen style ubosot.





Doi Mae Salong

The village became well known for its enchanting scenery and tranquil atmosphere. Today it is a major tourist attraction with its small-town ambience, delicious native Chinese dishes, small hotels and guesthouses catering to visitors and tea, coffee and fruit tree plantations. The scenery is especially picturesque in December and January when sakuras are in full bloom. Scattered with many hill tribe villages, Doi Mae Salong is ideal for trekking.

Doi Tung
Doi Tung is located in Mae Fa Luang District and can be reached by taking Highway No.110 for about 48 kilometers and turning left onto Highway No. 1149, an asphalt road leading directly to Doi Tung. The route winds through beautiful scenery with many interesting sites including the Doi Tung Palace (Pra Tamnak Doi tung), the Mae Fa Luang Garden and Akha and Muser tribal villages. IN addition to scenic lookouts, the most notable attraction is the Phra That Doi Tung Holy Relic, an old religious site atop the mountain.
The main attraction for visitors to Phra Tamnak Doi Tung is 'Suan Mae Fa Luang', the beautiful landscaped gardens filled with hundreds of different kinds of plants and flowers, named in honor of the Princess Mother and the Doi Tung Development Project established by the late Princess Mother in 1987.
Chiang Saen
It is recorded that an ancient community was founded in the north of Chiang Rai Province more than 2000 years ago. This ancient town was named Yonok Nak Phan. According to legend, King Singhanawat founded the town, and the Nagas (mythical serpents) helped dig the town’s moat. Later, Yonok Nak Phan faced its unfortunate destiny; it collapsed and turned into a swamp. According to the geological evidence, it is believed that the town’s destruction was caused by an earthquake which turned it into present-day Chiang Saen Lake.

Kok River
The Kok River is one of the most scenic attractions in Chiang Rai. It runs from Thathon in northern Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai City and then flows on to meet the Maekhong River at Chiang Khong. From Baan Thathon boats, rafts and treks leave daily venturing into the surrounding mountains where the jungle dips into the river's cool waters. A long-tailed boat can be hired to ferry visitors up and down the river. Stops can be made at Akha or Iko, Lisu and Karen hill tribe villages. Alternatively stops can be made at the Buddha cave, a temple within a cavern; an elephant camp, for trekking; a hot spring; and a riverside Lahu village. Trips range from 300 bahts to 700 bahts ($7-$16), depending on the number of stops made. The ferry pier is beyond the bridge across from the Dusit Island Resort.

Mae Sai
Mae Sai which is about 62 kilometers from the provincial seat on Highway No. 110 is Thailand's northern-most district. Mae Sai borders on Myanmar's Tha Khi Lek marked by the Mae Sai River with a bridge spanning both sides. Foreign visitors are allowed to cross over to Tha Khi Lek market by presenting their passports and paying a fee at the Mae Sai immigration checkpoint. In addition, there are tour services to Chiang Tung in Myanmar, which is approximately 160 kilometers north by road.