The Ko Lan
Group of Islands is comprised Ko Lan, Ko Khrok and Ko Sak.
Ko Lan
situated to the west of Pattaya Strait, about 7.7 kilometers from
the shore, covering an area of about 4 square kilometers. There
are beautiful beaches, clear water, and an abundance of coral,
Visitors can view the coral either from a glass-bottom boat or
by diving down directly. A well-known beach is at Ta Waen Beach
in the northern part of the island, a 750 meters stretch of
white sand with many stalls and shops. Sightseeing boats mostly
dock in this area. There are also Laem Thian Beach and Samae
Beach on the south-western side, each beach spanning a length of
700 and 100 meters respectively. Both are regarded as beautiful
and interesting spots, especially Laem Thian Beach which has
remained exceptionally clean and tranquil. There are now a few
stores servicing visitors. TaPan Beach on the western part of
the island is 500 meters in length with make-shift lodging
available. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, sightseeing boats
usually dock along this beach all the way to Laem Thian where
there is coral. On the southern part is Nuan Beach 450 meters in
length. On this beach is a hotel which accommodates a large
number of tourists. This is another good place for viewing
coral.
Apart from these beaches, there are also
Laem Hua Khon Beach on the back and front sides, Laem
Lamrae, etc., which are also interesting tourist spots. Popular
activities on Ko Lan include swimming, coral viewing,
Para-sailing, water-skiing, water scooter riding, etc.
Ko Krok
a small island covering an area of
0.05 square kilometers, approximately 8 kilometers from the
shore. The island comprises mostly rocks. Only one sandy-beach on
the east of the island is Ko Krok beach which is only 100 meters in
length. This is an ideal place tor coral viewing.
Ko Sak
some 10 kilometers west of Pattaya
Strait or 600 meters away from Ko Lan. Ko Sak is another small
island shaped like a horse shoe with an area of 0.05 square
kilometers. It has two beaches, one on the northern cover 250 meters
in length, an area in which boats usually stop for tourists to swim
and another one on the southern part of the island opposite the
first island, with a pathway linking the two beaches, a small beach
80 meters in length. A coral reef is found at the area in front of
the beach. Skin-diving is also possible in this vicinity.
Ko Phai Group of Islands
are comprised of Ko Phai, Ko
Manwichai, Ko Luam, Ko Klung Badan, and etc., Ko Phai being the
largest. The islands are presently under the supervision of the
Royal Navy. The Ko Phai group of islands are situated at a distance
about 13 kilometers from Pattaya and takes 2 hours to reach by boat.
There is a light house on top of a hill at Ko Phai. Visitors can
enjoy relaxing-moments, swimming, fishing and diving down to view
the coral.
Tourists interested in visiting all
the island mentioned here can arrange to hire boats from the
promenade or pier at South Pattaya. Large boats can carry between
20-80 passengers, speed boats carry 10-15 passengers. Rental fees
cost between 1,000-5,000 Baht, depending on the spot one intends to
visit as well as the size and type of boat.
Pattaya Beach
Some 4 kilometers long, this beach faces Pattaya Bay, the major
venue from where boats visit Pattaya's offshore islands. The beach
curves from the north to south and is largely paralleled by a
tree-lined promenade and beach road which is lined, in the northern
and central parts, by hotels and restaurants.
The northern section of the beach is largely tranquil, while the
central and southern parts become increasingly lively, thanks to a
juxtaposition of shops, department stores, boutiques. beauty salons,
supermarkets, bars, discotheques, restaurants and nightclubs.
The central area of the beach is a major shopping area, while the
southern end is one of Pattaya's major nightlife area.
Jomtien Beach
This 6-kilometres long, largely straight beach, some 4 kilometers
south of Pattaya, is the most notable of several beaches south of
the resort. The beach is popular with windsurfers and water sports
enthusiasts, largely because the area enjoys brisk and fresh breezes
sweeping inland from the Thai Gulf, and because the seas are less
congested with boats than is Pattaya Bay.
Jomtien is also a major residential area with beachside hotels,
bungalow complexes, condominiums and restaurants.
Wong Phrachan Beach
is on the northern side of Pattaya
Bay. The 1 kilometer beach shares the same entrance as the Central
Wong Amat Hotel. A quiet spot, the beach is ideal for swimming and
relaxation.
Khao Pattaya (Khao Phra Bat)
A small hill with an asphalt road leading to the top. From its
peak, one has a panoramic view of Pattaya City and Pattaya Bay.
Currently, Khao Pattaya has been developed and is now the site
of the Naval Sor Tor Ror radio station. A sacred Buddha image is
also enshrined on the hilltop.
Suan
Chaloemphrakiat (Fitness Park)
is at foot of Pattaya
hill on Phratani'uk Road. This small park, covering a large area,
was dedicated to commemorate His Majesty the King's sixtieth
birthday on December 5, 1988. The gardens of the park boast a wide
variety of flowering plants. There are also multipurpose grounds and
winding trails for walking or jogging and standard exercise
facilities. On any given day, a large number of people will relax,
jog, exercise or simple enjoy the scenery of Pattaya in this park.
Mini
Siam
is on the left hand side at kilometer 143 on Sukhumvit Highway.
This miniature city offers replicas of 80 sacred places and
important historical sites around Thailand at a scale of 1 to
25. Some examples are the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat
Sisanphet, Anantasamakhom Throne Hill, Phra Phutthayotfa Bridge,
the Bridge over the River Khwae, the Golden Stupa and Phimai
Khmer Sancturary. Replicas of places of world significance are
also displayed in the "mini-world" area such as the Eiffel
Tower, the Statue of Liberty, Tower Bridge, Trevi Fountain. Open
daily from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. There is also a Mini Race Course
(Go-karts) for visitors wishing to try their hand at racing fast
cars. Additional information may be obtained by calling (038)
421628, 424232 (Pattaya) or 271-1896, 616-1533 (Bangkok).
Phanaraks Park
situated on Pornprapanimitr Road
turning left on Sukhumvit Road at Kilometer 145 for about 5
kilometers. A privately-owned resort, the garden has maintained a
natural atmosphere with fish ponds. and fishing equipment available
for rent. A swimming pool and accommodation in the form of tents and
bungalows are on hand to serve visitors.
Additional information may be
obtained and reservations made by calling (038)259156 or the Bangkok
office Tel: 5210763
Elephant Village
Situated on Pornprapanimitr Road on
the same directions as Phanaraks Park and Siam Country Club Golf
Course. The elephant village is a popular tourist spot for Thai and
foreign guests alike. Daily performances by elephants and wild
elephant round-up shows are held at 2.30 p.m. Shows last about 1
hour. Elephant jungle rides are also available. Additional
information may be obtained by calling 01-2123225 or from the front
desk at the Tropicana Hotel, Tel: (038) 428645-6, 428516
The Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm
is at number 22/2 Mu 1, Tambon Nong Pta Lai, Bang Lamung.
From Sukhumvit, one turns left at kilometer 140 close to
the pedestrian bridge in front of Wat Sawangfa along
Chaiyaphonwithi Road (State Highway 3024) in the same direction
as Mapprachan Reservoir for another 5 kilometers. This is
an other popular attraction with Thai and foreign tourists.
Covering a large area, the compound comprises rock gardens and a
botanical of rare plants and beautifully landscaped grounds.
Interesting sights include, for example, fossilized plants over
a million years in age, 200-year-old Thai style
bonsai, crocodile pools and a collection of rare animals such as
albino bears, elephants and horses. Crocodile round-ups,
magic and animal performances are also a major attraction. Daily
admission from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Additional information may be
obtained by calling (038)249347-9 (Pattaya) or Bangkok office,
Tel: 579-5033, 941-3251-3 .
Pattaya Water Park
is on Thapphraya Road, Jomtien
Beach. Pattaya Park offers an amusement park, a Jacuzzi and a
gigantic slide. It is an ideal outlet for family relaxation. Pattaya
Park Tower the first highest seaside tower and revolving restaurant.
About 240 meters height that you can see Pattaya view, hotel and
bungalow accommodation are also available.
Call (038) 251201-8 for more information.
Siriporn Orchid Farm
Located
at 235/ 14 Mu 5, Tambon Nong Pru, turn left off Sukhumvit
adjacent to the traffic light intersection at Central Pattaya
for 800 meters on to Noen-phlup-wan Road, the farm is on the
right hand side. The farm offers a wide array of orchids such as
catteleyas, vandas, daedrovium, escosanda, pompadours. Visitors
can also purchase cut flowers or plants. Open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Call (038) 29013 for more
information.
Bhira Interanational Circuit Race Course
is an international car and
motorcycle race course. It is situated on State Highway 36 (Pattaya-Rayong)
about 15 kilometers from Pattaya City. Races take place regularly on
Saturdays and Sundays. Additional information may be obtained by
calling (01) 323-0616.
Miniature Racetrack (The Pattaya Cart Speedway)
situated on Thepprasit Road, which
links Sukhumvit Highway and Pattaya-Na Jomtien Road, approximately 5
kilometers to the South o Patlaya. Separate tracks have been
allotted for professional and amateur drivers. Open daily from
10a.rn.-7p.rn Tel: (038) 422044.
Lakeland Water Cable Ski
on Sukhumvit Highway, Kilometer
150.5, about 5 kilometers from Pattaya City. This is another venue
for amusement and recreational sports that Pattaya has to offer. It
comprises an enormous fresh water lake, with cable skis, a sport
that is fast-going popularity.
Open daily from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Admissions fees: 300 Baht per person (for around 2 hours).
Call (038) 232690-2 for more information.
The Bottle Art
contains an extensive collection of
more than 300 pieces of artwork contained in glass bottles in the
form of well-known tourist attractions, churches, temples, palaces,
ships both Thai and foreign. These creations result from the
tireless efforts of Dutch sculptor, Mr. Peter Bedelais who crafted
the various intricate parts and assembled them in glass bottles of
different shapes. Open daily from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Inquiries may be
directed to the Bottle Art 79/15 Mu 10, Sukhumvit Road (Kilometer
145.3) Tel: (038) 422957
Ripley's
Believe It Or Not Museum
situated on the third
floor of the Royal Garden Plaza, Beach Road. A display of Mr.
Ripley's collection of curious objects from every comer of the
world. Some of them being the actual item, others are replicas.
These extraordinary objects are divided into over 250 categories,
such as optical illusions, peculiar lifestyle of unusual people and
devices of human torture from ancient time, etc. Open daily from
10a.rn.-12 midnight. Further inquiries may be made by calling (038)
710294-8.
Bamrung Sailing and Paramotor Centre
located at Huai Sak
Nok Reservoir at Kilometer 150 on Sukhumvit Highway, turn left into
the lane next to the green Way Golf Driving Range, for about 4
kilometers, Look for a sign indicating the entrance. Different types
of aquatic sports are available and instructions are also offered
for windsurfing, sailing, paramotors, para-gliders by course or by
the hour. Certificates are conferred upon completion of the course
by the Royal Yacht Association (RYC), a renowned British
Institution. Restaurant facilities are offered and boats such as
canoes, catamarans and kayaks are available for rent.
The atmosphere of
the reservoir is relaxing and cool. Between the months of November
and February thousands of teals, swallows, and herons migrate to
this area. Those interested in these aquatic sports should call Khun
Burnmng Ruamsap at 01-354-4986 or 946-7859, for additional
information.
ATTRACTIONS AROUND
PATTAYA
AMPHOE SATTAHIP
Wat Yan Sangwararam
is
a Royal Temple, 15 kilometers south of Pattaya City, turning left
from Sukhumvit Highway at kilometer 160. The temple was dedicated to
Somdej Phra Yanasangworn, the present Supreme Patriarch in 1976 and
was later graciously admitted under the patronage of His Majesty the
King. The temple ground comprises a mondop (religious building with
rectangular roof) which enshrine a replica of the Buddha's
footprints, a large Pagoda where the relics of the Lord Buddha and
those of the Lord Buddha's disciple are enshrined. There are
international pavilions representing several countries that dot the
grounds, such Switzerland. There is also the Vihan Sian, a grand and
exquisite showcase of Chinese architecture.
Nongnooch Tropical Garden
is a tourist
attraction amidst natural surroundings. Nongnooch Village orchids
and gardens with flowering plants, mangoes, orchids, and other types
of flora. Thai style teak wood houses are available for rent. There
is also a zoo and Thai Cultural Center showcasing the art of Thai
performing art, martial arts, folk sports and performances by
elephants. Performances are held triple daily at 10.15 a.m., 3 p.m.
and 3.5 kilometers before reaching the destination.
Additional information may be obtained from the office in Pattaya
City on Central Pattaya Road, Tel: (038) 429321, 422958 or Bangkok
Office, Tel: 252-1768
Bang Saray
is a fishing village about 16
kilometers away from Pattaya City, turning left off Sukhumvit
Highway at kilometer 165 for about 2 kilometers. A deep-water bay
lies on the southern part of Bang Saray, and ideal place for fishing
especially for Pakarang fish. Towards the north, is a park with a
beautiful beach ideal for swimming. Boats may be rented for fishing
or diving for coral viewing.
Bang Saray offers a number of
excellent restaurants. It has become a popular place for relaxation
and for renting boats for excursions around the vicinity.
Chong Samaesan Village
is a tiny fishing village along the
Sattahip-Tha Rua Phanit Sattahip route, turning left just before one
reaches the Sattahip commercial pier. There is a small beach with
crystal clear waters. Accommodation is available. Chong Samaesan is
another ideal place for diving and fishing. Several islands dot the
area, such as Ko Samaesan, Ko Raet, Ko Chuang, and Ko Chan which all
come under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy. Daytime
sightseeing is permitted but overnight lodging is prohibited.
CHON BURI
Ang Sila
is a fishing village about 5
kilometers away from Chonburi. Ang Sila was formerly one of
the oldest seaside resorts. The village is famous for its
cottage industry, producing stone mortars and animal
sculptures, like elephants, horses and tigers. Ang Sila also
boasts a number of seafood restaurants. On the beach, one
can find villagers shelling fresh oysters, A wide array of
local handicraft are also available for sale to tourists.
Bang Saen Beach
is a famous beach that has
enjoyed lasting popularity. Approximately 13 kilometers from
the city ofChon Buri, it branches off to the right-hand side
from Sukhumvit Highway, at kilometers 104, for a distance of
3 kilometers. Stretching along the beachfront, is a 2.5
kilometer Road. Along the beach, one finds vendors offering
drinks and seafood snacks such as squid, mussels and spicy
steamed-fish-cakes for sale. One can rent deck chairs and
rubber rings for swimming. Fresh water bathing facilities
are also available. The many restaurants that line the beach
have recently been improved to become more neat and orderly.
Bang Saen is ideal for visitors with limited time who wish
to relax with their family and friends. It also offers
several hotels and bungalows for overnight lodging.
Khao Sam Muk
is a small hill in between Ang
Sila village and Bang Saen Beach, along the beachside road
from Ang Sila that winds up Sam Muk Hill. At the foot of the
hill, Chao Mae Khao Sam Muk) who is widely venerated by the
public. The cliff overlooking the sea has become a tourist
spot where legend has it that a couple tragically ended
their lives together after having vowed their eternal love
for each other. The Sam Muk Hill area is inhabited by a
larger number of wild monkeys and beautiful cactuses garden.
The Institute of Marine Science
situated on the campus
of Burapha University. The institute evolved from the Aquarium and
Museum of Salt Water Animals through the financial assistance
received from the Government of Japan. This institute aims to be the
center of studies on Marine Science, consisting of three parts: the
Marine Science Museum, Marine Animal Rearing Center and Marine Ocean
Research Laboratory. The public will be admitted on the following
days and times; Weekdays 8.30 a.m.-4 p.m. Government holidays 8.30
a.m.-5 p.m. (Closed on Mondays). Call (038)391671-3 for more
information.
Nong Mon Market
a market famous for
Chonburi's local handicraft and souvenirs about 1 kilometer from the
junction leading to Bang Saen. Among its well-known buys are
different types of dried seafood, Khao Lam or gluttonous rice baked
in bamboo, hor-mok (spicy steamed fish cakes), hoi-jor (deep fried
shrimp cakes), sweetened-banana and taro chips, and sweetened-fruit
preserves.
AMPHOE PHANAT
NIKHOM
Basketware Village
situated at Mu 1-11,
Tambon Railakthong but mostly a Mu 10 in the vicinity of Wat Ko Kaeo
Khiong Luang, about 4 kilometers from the district along the Phanat
Nikhum-Chachoengsao Road and continuing right for a distance of
another 4 kilometers.
Bamboo is woven into
such objects as ladies handbags, baskets, betel nut sets, and etc.
in various colors and design. They can be purchased at stalls
situated behind the Municipal Daily Market (Talat Kao).
AMPHOE SI
RACHA
Ko Loi Si Racha
is on Thesaban Road,
north of Si Racha Market. Ko Loi is a tiny island close to Si Racha
Beach, linked to the land by a bridge. On the island is a public
park and a Sea Turtle Garden, on lush grounds covering an area of
around 1 acre. On the southern side is a small hill with a temple on
it. The island is a superb place for relaxation where one can enjoy
the natural atmosphere and breathe the fresh sea air while
appreciating the scenic view. There is also a pier from which one
can board a boat to Ko Sichang as well.
Khao Keaw Open Zoo
is located at Tambon Bang
Phra. The zoo can be reached by either one of two
ways: first from Sukhumvit, one can follow the Bang Phra
Reservoir route passing the Bang Phra Golf Course for
another 19 kilometers or, second, one may follow the new
State Highway 36 (Chon Buri - Pattaya - Rayong) following
direction signs. The open zoo, operated by the Dusit Zoo
Authority (Khao Din Wana) in Bangkok, has a large number of
animals such as deer, bulls, monkeys, gibbons, hippopotami,
bears, kangaroos, elephants and peacocks, and etc.Visitors can stroll around the grounds and observe the
animals closely.
There is
also a large aviary with hundreds of
varieties of birds. The zoo is open
daily from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call (038)
298187-8 for more information.
Chantathen Waterfall
One follows the-same
route leading to Khao Khieo Open Zoo diverging left at the entrance
to Wat Khao Mai Daeng. A sign indicates the way to the waterfall
where on drives down an asphalt road for another 7 kilometers. A car
park masks the entrance and there is a 2 kilometers pathway leading
to the waterfall lined on both sides by refreshing greenery.
Chantathen Waterfall
has 5 levels in height with a distance totaling 1 kilometer. There
are two pathways leading up and down: the first is on that follows
along the waterfall itself or along the various levels of rocks, a
route that is very popular with visitors who wish to view the
waterfall very closely. The best time to visit is right after the
end of the rainy season whereas in the dry season water may be less
abundant hut visitors are able to track up and down the rock^. Chan
Ta Then Waterfall is under the supervision of Kho Khieo - Khao
Chomplui Wildlife Conservation District District and Khao Khieo
Nature and Wildlife Study Station. The station offers camping
activities for youth interested in learning more about nature and
wildlife.
Persons interested in the Youth Camp for Nature Conservation my
write to the Station Chief, P.O. Box 10, Tambon Bang Phra, Amphoe Si
Racha, Chonburi 20210
Si Racha Tiger Zoo and Resort
situated at 336 Mu 6, Tambon Surasak, Si Racha District. It
is accessible either from Sukhumvit Highway, turning at Si
Racha District and following the route passing Assurnplion
Si Racha School for around 7.5 kilometers or one can take
State Highway 36 at Kilometer 21, turn left and continue for
another 1.5 kilometers. It boasts Thailand's largest number
of Bengal tigers, bred successfully by the farm itself.
There is also large number of other animals such as
crocodiles, ostriches, single hump camels, kangaroos and an
aviary of exotic birds. The farm is open daily from 9 a.m.-6
p.m. Call (038) 296556-8 for additional information.
Ko Sichang
is a large island in the middle of the sea about 12 kilometers from
the Si Racha shore. What attract visitors to the island are its
beautiful natural .surroundings, tranquil atmosphere and fresh air
that have long made the island popular. Circling the island is a
narrow road, only a little over 1 meter in width, wide enough only
for a motorized tricycle.
Chinese pavilion is an ancient pavilion with dragon and peacock
motifs. The pavilion was used as a temporary place of lodging when
his Majesty King Rama the fifth visited the island.
Chakkraphong Cave
is close to the
Chinese Pavilion. A Buddha image is enshrined inside this cave.
There is also a duct from which one can climb up to the hilltop to
view the scenery of the island.
Chong Khao Khat
is on the southwestern side of the
island. Villagers call this area the "rear end" of the island. A
white sandy beach is found at Chong Khao Khat.
Chao Pho Khao Yai Cave
is on a hill close to Thewawong
pier. The large structure is Chinese in design. Inside the cave are
monuments devoted to Chinese deities such as Heng Jia, the Goddess
Kuan Im's Shrine and the Sakajayana Temple.
The Old Palace Grounds
are in a verdant area by the sea.
Built during the reign of King Rama the fifth, the palace was once a
hospice of royal princes and princesses to recuperate after their
illnesses. Several ponds, which are still in good condition, are
found in the palace garden. These ponds were bestowed with beautiful
names, such as Atsadang and Phirphlen ponds. There are also two
temples built at the behest of King Rama the Fifth: Wat Atsadang
Nimit with a European style ordinal 'on hall and pagoda, situated on
the topmost part of the hill and Wat Chuthathip Rajathammasupha
situated in the Bhanuransi Village area in the northern part of the
island.
The tourist attractions on Ko Sichang are quite distant from each
other. It is more convenient to rent a motorized tricycle from the
pier to visit those places. It takes a little over an hour to cover
the entire island. The rental should coast around 250 Baht or
whatever price you can negotiate.
Travelling to Ko Sichang can be
done by a ferry boat which operates daily from Si Racha. Crossing is
made every two hours starting from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Ferries leave from
piers at Ko Loi Si Racha or at Choem Chomphon pier (Tha Charin) with
in town of Si Racha, fares cost 20 baht each.