'''Chaiyaphum''' (???????) is the provincial capital of Chaiyaphum Province.
Chaiyaphum is a province located at the ridge of the I-san plateau in the connecting area between the Central Region and the North. It is a land of beautiful Dok Krachiao (curcuma) fields and abundant waterfalls in the rainy season. It is one of the provinces possessing a large number of forested areas in Northeast Thailand. There are major mountain ranges such as Phu Phang Hoei, Phu Laen Kha, and Phu Phaya Fo, the origin of the Chi River.
Historically, Chaiyaphum is a place where many periods of civilization have overlapped one another from the Dvaravati and Khmer periods until the Laotian or Lan Chang influence. Many archaeological remains and objects were found in many areas in the province. Later, the province appeared as a border town during the reign of King Narai the Great of the Ayutthaya period. After that, the town was abandoned and appeared once more in the Rattanakosin era as a destination where the Vientiane people led by their leader called Lae, immigrated to. Then he was designated as the first governor of Chaiyaphum.
Chaiyaphum is approximately 330 kilometres from Bangkok, covering an area of 12,778.287 square kilometres. It consists of 16 districts; namely, Amphoe Mueang Chaiyaphum, Amphoe Ban Khwao, Amphoe Khon Sawan, Amphoe Kaset Sombun, Amphoe Nong Bua Daeng, Amphoe Chatturat, Amphoe Phu Khiao, Amphoe Bamnet Narong, Amphoe Ban Thaen, Amphoe Kaeng Khro, Amphoe Khon San, Amphoe Thep Sathit, Amphoe Nong Bua Rawe, Amphoe Phakdi Chumphon, Amphoe Noen Sa-nga and Amphoe Sap Yai.
The province comprises 16 amphoe:- Bamnet Narong; Ban Khwao; Ban Thaen; Chatturat; Kaeng Khro; Kaset Sombun; Khon San; Khon Sawan; Mueang Chaiyaphum; Noen Sa-nga; Nong Bua Daeng; Nong Bua Rawe; Phakdi Chumphon; Phu Khiao; Sap Yai; Thep Sathit.
'''Travelling from Chaiyaphum to other nearby provinces and districts.'''
There are buses provided from the Chaiyaphum Bus Terminal to Bangkok, Loei, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Phetchabun ? Lom Sak, Phitsanulok, Chum Phae, Bua Yai, Khon Sawan, Nong Bua Daeng, Kaset Sombun, Ban Khwao, Samo Thot, Khon San, Lam Narai and Ban Phai. For more information, please contact the Chaiyaphum Bus Terminal at Tel. 0 4481 1493.
'''''Distances from Amphoe Mueang Chaiyaphum to other districts.'''''
Take Highway No. 1 (Phahonyothin Road) from Bangkok to Saraburi. Turn right onto Highway No. 2 (Mittraphap Road) and turn left into Highway No. 201 at Sikhio District, passing Dan Khun Thot and Chatturat Districts into Chaiyaphum, being a total distance of 330 kilometres.
The other route is to take Phahonyothin Road from Bangkok, passing Saraburi. At the Phu Khae Intersection, enter Highway No. 21 to Chai Badan District. Then, take Highway No. 205, passing Thep Sathit and Chatturat Districts into Chaiyaphum province.
Buses from Bangkok to Chaiyaphum are provided daily. It takes approximately 5 ? hours. For more information, please contact the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) at Tel. 0 2936 2852-66, Chaiyaphum Bus Terminal at Tel. 0 4481 1493, Air Chaiyaphum Co., Ltd. at Tel. 0 4481 1556, Nakhonchai Air Co., Ltd. at Tel. 0 4481 1739, 0 4481 2522, Chaiyaphum Chong Charoen Co., Ltd. at Tel. 0 4481 1780 or Fax. 0 4481 1760, Chaiyaphum Tour Co.,Ltd. at Tel. 0 4481 6012 or at www.transport.co.th.
From the Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong Station), there are both rapid and express trains from Bangkok to Nong Khai provided everyday getting off at Bua Yai Station. After that, passengers can connect with a bus for a further 51 kilometres to Chaiyaphum. For more information, please contact the Travel Service Centre, the State Railway of Thailand, at Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4444, 0 2220 4334, 0 2621 8701 or at www.railway.co.th.
Thai Airways International Co., Ltd. has no flights to Chaiyaphum at present. However, visitors can take a plane to Khon Khaen and connect with a bus from Khon Kaen back to Chaiyaphum, a distance of 150 kilometres. Otherwise, take a plane to Nakhon Ratchasima and continue to Chaiyaphum by bus, a distance of 119 kilometres. For more information, please contact Tel. 1566, 0 2356 1111, 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000 or at www.thaiairways.com.
'''Phraya Phakdi Chumphon (Lae) Monument (????????????????????????? (??))''' is located at Sun Ratchakan Roundabout on the way to the city. The people of Chaiyaphum built the monument in 1975, dedicated to the first governor of Chaiyaphum called _gChaopho Phraya Lae_h by the locals. According to history, in 1817 during the reign of King Rama II, Nai Lae, a court official of Chao Anuwong of Vientiane moved his family and followers crossing the Mekong River to settle at currently Ban Nam Khun, Sung Noen District, Nakhon Ratchasima province. Then, this community moved again to Non Nam Om, Ban Chilong, 6 kilometres from the centre of Chaiyaphum and paid tribute to Chao Anuwong of Vientiane. Later, the community migrated again to Ban Luang, within the compound of the present Amphoe Mueang and became a subject town of Nakhon Ratchasima and paid tribute to King Rama III, no longer under the authority of Chao Anuwong of Vientiane. The king, therefore, uplifted Ban Luang to become Mueang Chaiyaphum and appointed Khun Phakdi Chumphon (Lae) as the first governor.
In 1826, Chao Anuwong of Vientiane conducted a rebellion by leading an army to attack Nakhon Ratchasima. Khun Phakdi Chumphon together with governors of the nearby provinces led armies to join Khunying Mo to fight against Chao Anuwong and gained victory. Chao Anuwong was vengeful and returned to capture Khun Phakdi Chumphon, who was later executed under a tamarind tree by Pla Thao Swamp. To honour Khun Phakdi Chumphon_fs good deeds sacrificed to the Thai land, he was granted the title as Phraya Phakdi Chumphon (Lae).
'''Chaopho Phraya Lae Shrine (???????????????)''' is 4 kilometres from Mueang Chaiyaphum, along the Chaiyaphum ? Ban Khwao route (Highway No. 225). Turn right to Pla Thao Swamp, where the shrine, housing the spirit of Phraya Phakdi Chumphon (Lae), as well as, the centre of the people of Chaiyaphum_fs spirit is situated. Every year, a ceremony to pay respect to the shrine is organized during the 6th lunar month prior to Visakha Puja Day. Also, ceremonies to give propitiatory sacrifice to the spirit through a Phi Fa dance are conducted regularly.
'''Tat Ton National Park (????????????????????)''' covers the area of Na Fai, Tha Hin Ngom, Huai Ton, and Na Siao Sub-districts, Mueang District, Chaiyaphum. It is a part of the Phu Laen Kha mountain range with a total area of 135,737.50 rai or approximately 217 square kilometres, as well as, a part of significant sources of rivers of Chaiyaphum; namely, Lam Pathao and the Chi River. There are many beautiful waterfalls such as Namtok Tat Ton, Namtok Tat Fa, and Namtok Pha Iang. Due to the conditions of steep and complex mountains, a slope in the south, and a long mountain ridge from Prachin Buri, passing Khao Yai, Chaiyaphum to Loei, this national park is, therefore, located in a dry area with quite high temperatures. However, the general forest condition is still perfect, comprising deciduous dipterocarp forest and dry evergreen forest. The temperature of the national park is quite cool. Important plants consist of Teng, Rang, Phluang, Krabok, Kradon, Phayom, Rak, Pradu, Makha, Yang, Kraba, Takhian, etc. The undergrowth is mostly Ya Phek (Vietnamosasa pusilla), while wildlife are barking deer, wild boars, mongooses, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, red jungle fowls, and various kinds of birds. To get there: Take Highway No. 2159 and turn right into Highway No. 2051. The distance from the centre of the town to the Office of the National Park is approximately 21 kilometres. It is an asphalt road all the way.
''Attractions within the National Park are as follows:''
''To get there'': From the town, take Highway No. 2159 and turn right into Highway No. 2051, being a total distance of approximately 21 kilometres. Otherwise, take Highway No. 201, the similar way to Phu Khiao District, turn left and proceed for 21 kilometres to the Tat Ton Waterfall. Visitors travelling by bus are able to take the Chaiyaphum ? Tha Hin Ngom minibus and get off at the entrance fee checkpoint and walk further for 1 kilometre.
''To get there'': From the centre of town, take Highway No. 201 for 13 kilometres and turn left for 4 kilometres to Ban Na Wang School. Turn right and proceed further for 4 kilometres. When arriving at the parking lot, walk further for 300 metres.
''To get there'': From the centre of town, take Highway No. 2159 (Chaiyaphum ? Nong Bua Daeng) for approximately 27 kilometres. Turn right for 2 kilometres to the parking lot and walk further for 800 metres.
For information and reservations for accommodation within the Tat Ton National Park, please contact in advance at the Office of the National Park, the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department at Tel. 0 2562 0760 or at the Tourist Information Centre, Tat Ton National Park at the P.O. Box 22, Mueang District, Chaiyaphum 36000, Tel. 0 4485 3293, 0 4485 3333, or at www.dnp.go.th.
'''Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Faet (???????????????)''' is located in Na Siao Sub-district, 23 kilometres from the centre of town, the similar route to Wat Sila At Phu Phra. Take Highway No. 201 (Chaiyaphum ? Kaeng Khro) to the temple. It is a small rise with the Buddha_fs footprint on a stone similar to that in Saraburi. Along both sides at the temple_fs entrance stand shady trees.
'''Wat Sa Hong (??????????)''' is situated in Na Siao Sub-district, 12 kilometres from the centre of town. Take Highway No. 2051 and turn at the crossroads to the similar way to the Cho Raka Reservoir. The temple is situated on a stone rise. There is a natural rock in a swan - Hong or Hamsa - shape. Behind the temple_fs hall is an ancient pond with a width of approximately 10 metres, full of water all year round.
'''Wat Sila At Phu Phra (???????????? ?????)''' is located at Ban Na Kai Sao, Na Siao Sub-district. Within the compound of the temple is a rock shelter where the bas-relief Buddha images were engraved. It is the source of the name Phu Phra and has been respected among the locals for a long period of time. At present, there is a roof covering the bas-reliefs, comprising of a large Buddha image, sitting in the meditation posture with the width at its lap of 1.52 metres and the height of 2.13 metres. Its right palm is placed on his lap, while his left one is on his shank (the opposite of the subduing Mara posture). The large image is called Phrachao Ong Tue. Moreover, there is a small 17- centimetre high sandstone Buddha image in the similar posture at its front, while nearby are situated another 7 images around a sandstone column, 5 in the meditation posture and 2 in the same posture as Phrachao Ong Tue. These images possess the same characteristics as those of the U Thong style during the 13-14th century or at the beginning of the Ayutthaya period. There are ceremonies to pay respect to the images at Phu Phra twice a year and 3 days a time, on the 1st day of the waxing moon in the 3rd lunar month and the 13th day of the waxing moon in the 5th lunar month.
''To get there'': From the centre of Mueang Chaiyaphum, take Highway No. 201 (Chaiyaphum ? Kaeng Khro) for approximately 15 kilometres. Turn left along the Na Siao ? Huai Chan route for 5 kilometres and turn left for 1 kilometre into the temple.
'''Prang Ku (?????????)''' is located at Ban Nong Bua, Nai Mueang Sub-district. Prang Ku is a stone sanctuary from the Khmer period with a plan characteristic to the Arogayasala or nursing home constructed in the 12th -13th century. There is a main Prang located at the centre, a Wihan (Vihara) or Bannalai (Library) at its front surrounded by a laterite wall. Outside the wall at the northeastern corner lies a pond. The main Prang is in a 15-metre wide square shape with 12-recessed corners. At its front is an entrance constructed as an antechamber, while the other 3 sides of the wall are false doors. Above the one in the north is a lintel of a bas-relief Buddha image in the meditation posture sitting on the Kala holding the garlands with both hands. At the front is also located a lintel but its engraving is very worn out. The niche of the false door in the north enshrines a stone Buddha image in the meditation posture of the Dvaravati style with a height of 1.75 metres. The image was moved from another place, but it is highly revered by the people of Chaiyaphum. There is an annual fair in the 5th lunar month of each year.
''To get there'': From the centre of town, take Highway No. 202 (Chaiyaphum ? Bua Yai) for approximately 1 kilometre and turn right and continue along Highway No. 2158 for 2 kilometres to Prang Ku.
'''Bai Sema Ban Kut Ngong (?????????????????)''' is stored within the compound of Wat Kut Ngong School, Kut Tum Sub-district. They are sandstone boundary markers in the Dvaravati style of approximately the 7th ? 8th century discovered around the village. They were collected and neatly kept in a building. Most of them are big with a bas-relief in the front, while some were also inscribed on their back as well. The bas-reliefs present the Buddhist stories of former incarnations (Jatakas) of the Buddha or idols such as the Bodhisattva standing on a lotus, the Buddha image sitting on a throne under the Bodhi Tree, considered as the most beautiful ones of Northeastern Thailand. Ancient Pallava scripts of Southern India were also found inscribed on some markers.
''To get there'': From the centre of Chaiyaphum, take Highway No. 202 for approximately 12 kilometres and turn right for 3 kilometres to Ban Kut Tum then turn right into Kut Tum ? Bung Khla and go further for 4 kilometres.
'''Phu Laen Kha National Park (?????????????????????)''' covers an area of 148 square kilometres and 4 districts; namely, Mueang District, Ban Khwao, Nong Bua Daeng and Kaset Sombun. The geographic condition of this area is a complex mountain range with both dense jungle and timber forest which are the watershed of streams that run into the Chi River. There are various natural distinguished points such as cliff, mountain ridge, stone terrace, and rocks in strange shapes, as well as, interesting plants appropriate for a visit during May ? December. The National Park has arranged a natural study route passing various tourist attractions within the park as follows:
'''Pa Hin Ngam Chan Daeng (??????????????????)''' It is a large stone terrace with many rocks in bizarre shapes. There are distinguished and unique Chan Daeng (Dracaena loureiri Gagnep.) trees growing on a large boulder. Visitors will have to walk. It takes a lot of time to get there.
'''Phu Khi (????)''' is an area of the Phu Laen Kha National Park connecting Kaset Sombun District and Phu Khiao District, Chaiyaphum, located at 1,038 metres above sea level. It is the highest summit of the national park where the scenery and surroundings of Phu Yuak, Phu Taphao, Phu Khiao Range, Kaset Sombun District, and Phu Khiao District, Chaiyaphum, can be seen. It is cold all year and is a habitat of various kinds of flora and fauna.
'''Phu Kaset (???????)''' is also within the area of Phu Laen Kha National Park, located at 966 metres above sea level. It is the second highest summit after Phu Khi in this same national park. From Phu Kaset, the scenery and atmosphere of Phu Khi, Phu Om, Phu Khlo, Phu Klang, Phu Khiao Range, Kaset Sombun District, and Nong Bua Daeng District, Chaiyaphum, can be seen. Geographically, it is cold and dry because of deforestation and shifting cultivation, leaving behind a large abandoned field on the Phu Laen Kha mountain range.
'''Dok Krachiao Field in Pa Hin Ngam Thung Khlong Chang (??????????????????????????????????????????)''' is a deciduous dipterocarp forest where Krachiao - curcuma - bulbs with pink and white blossoms grow on a rocky terrain together with various types of plants. There is also a large rock similar to an elephant. It is suitable for a visit during May ? July.
'''Mo Hin Khao (????????)''' is a plateau of large rocks scattered in strange and rare shapes similar to mushrooms, boats, elephants, turtles and Chedis. Moreover, there are large stone columns lining up. Mo Hin Khao is considered as a beautiful viewpoint of Chaiyaphum.
'''Viewpoint of Lan Hin Rong Kla (??????????????????????)''' is a large stone plateau with various deep cracks and distinguished cliffs. It is approximately 700 - 800 metres above sea level.
'''Viewpoint of Pa Hin Prasat (????????????????????)''' is a location of the unique large rock similar to a Prasat and a nature sightseeing spot.
'''Pha Phae (????)''' is a stone cliff occurred from the lifting of stone layers and movement of ores. Therefore, the colours of the ores_f pigments are obviously different. Also, the surrounding areas are covered with various kinds of plants. Walking is the only way to reach the place.
'''Pratu Khlong (Natural Stone Archway)(?????????(????????????????????))''' is a large stone similar to a gate (Pratu) whereas in the surrounding area are located many stones in bizarre shapes alternating with deciduous dipterocarp forest.
'''Pha Kluaimai or Orchid Cliffs (??????????)''' are high cliffs of many heights stretching horizontally and connecting to one another. There are many kinds of rare orchids scattered on the cliffs.
'''Tham Phra and Tham Kluea (?????????????????)''' are white sandstone caves created by the water erosion running through the stone crevices, causing a chemical reaction over a long period of time, as well as, the alteration and natural change of the sandstone layers, causing large holes which visitors are able to walk into. Each cave has its unique characteristics due to the altered conditions.
'''Namtok Tat Ton Noi (???????????????)''' is a waterfall created from the joining of flows from small and big creeks originating from the Phu Kaset mountain range. There is water in the Tat Ton Noi Waterfall throughout the year.
'''Khao Khat and the Chi River (?????????????????)''' is a natural characteristic of the mountain range created from the sinking and uplifting of the Phu Laen Kha and Phang Hoei mountain ranges, causing a pass through the mountains and creating many legends that have been passed on for a long time. Moreover, the Chi River is Chaiyaphum_fs main river flowing through some areas of the Phu Laen Kha National Park, creating a natural scenic atmosphere and surroundings along both sides of the river.
Besides, there are many areas where strange shapes of rocks lie such as Pa Hin Ngam Prasat, Pa Hin Ngam Hong Fa, and a cliff which is a beautiful sightseeing point. The national park provides accommodation and camping site for visitors. For more information, please contact the Phu Laen Kha National Park, Huai Ton Sub-district, Mueang District, Chaiyaphum, at Tel. 0 4481 0902-3, or the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department at Tel. 0 2562 0760, or at www.dnp.go.th.
''To get there'': From the centre of Chaiyaphum, take Highway No. 2051 for approximately 6 kilometres and turn left into Highway No. 2159 toward Nong Bua Daeng for 26 kilometres. The Office of the National Park is on the left side of the road. There are Chaiyaphum ? Nong Bua Daeng minibuses passing in front of the Office of the National Park.
'''Pha Koeng (???????)''' is a part of the Phu Laen Kha. Take the Chaiyaphum ? Nong Bua Daeng route, visitors will see a high cliff, similar to a crescent moon stretching out. Therefore, the locals call it _gPha Koeng_h meaning a moon cliff in I-san language. On the cliff lies Wat Pha Koeng or Wat Chaiyaphum Phithak where the Chaiyaphum Phithak Buddha image is enshrined. It is an image in the standing posture with a height of 17 metres. In front of the image is a panoramic sightseeing spot where the wide stretch of rice fields can be seen. Moreover, within the compound of the temple is situated the Phra Borommathat Pha Koeng and a museum collecting antiques. Pha Koeng is 36 kilometres from the centre of town on Highway No. 2159 (Chaiyaphum ? Nong Bua Daeng).
'''Ban Khwao (?????????)''' is famous for silk weaving. It is particularly well known for its Mudmee silk that is popular among those who favour Thai traditional fabrics. There are both the original and newly created patterns offered as fabric and clothes at various silk shops in Ban Khwao District. Ban Khwao District is 13 kilometres from Mueang District of Chaiyaphum on Highway No. 225.
'''Ku Daeng (??????)''' is situated in Wat Kut Yang, Talat Raeng Sub-district. It is an ancient Khmer remain. At present, the remain is only a square base made of laterite with recessed corners and a staircase on each of its four sides. The wall is made of bricks but all are ruined, leaving only the door frames on 4 sides. There is also a lintel engraved into the picture of Krishna fighting with elephants. The north side was adjusted. The temple constructed a Buddha image in a sitting posture and a staircase over the original building. This remain is estimated from the pattern on its lintel to have been constructed in the 11th century in the period of the Baphuon art of the ancient Khmer Empire.
''To get there'': From the centre of Chaiyaphum, take Highway No. 225, passing Ban Khwao District until reaching Ban Lum Pho, approximately 30 kilometres, and turn right to Ban Kut Yang for a further 8 kilometres.
'''Sai Thong National Park (????????????????????)''' covers an area of the forest of the Phang Hoei mountain range in Nong Bua Rawe, Thep Sathit, Phakdi Chumphon, and Nong Bua Daeng Districts, being a total area of 319 square kilometres. It is the source of many rivers and creeks which are branches of the Chi River. It has deciduous dipterocarp and dry evergreen forests combining with the mixed deciduous forest. There are a large number of thorns-less bamboos or Phai Ruak. It is considered as a natural tourist attraction with abundance and beauty. Within the compound of the park lie interesting attractions as follows:
'''Namtok Sai Thong (???????????)''' is 1 kilometre along the road and continues for a further 400 metres by walking. It is a low waterfall with a height of 5 metres, and width of 80 metres. At its front is a large basin for swimmers called Wang Sai. Also, above the waterfall is a deep body of water called Wang Ngueak whose water runs along the crooked and steep stone plateau towards Namtok Sai Thong for a distance of 150 metres. From Namtok Sai Thong up to Namtok Chuan Chom is located a natural study route of 2 kilometres, where distinguished attractions such as Phim Chai Cliff, Bird_fs Nest Fern Forest, and Namtok Butsabakon can be found. It is a shady route with various kinds of attractive plants along the way.
'''Namtok Chuan Chom (??????????)''' is above Namtok Sai Thong along the natural study route for 2 kilometres. The 20-metre-high waterfall is surrounded by abundant trees.
'''Thung Bua Sawan or Thung Dok Krachiao (????????????? ???????????????????)''' is 10 kilometres from the Office of the National Park in the area of the western side of the Phang Hoei mountain ridge. From the end of June to mid-August, curcuma or Krachiao blossoms will bloom in the field in both pink and white colours.
'''Pha Pho Mueang (??????????)''' is approximately 10 kilometres from the Office of the National Park. It is a cliff along the west side of the Phang Hoei mountain ridge along the route leading upward to the Bua Sawan Field, being a total distance of approximately 3 kilometres and 700-908 metres above sea level. It overlooks Phakdi Chumphon District and Phaya Fo mountain range, standing between Chaiyaphum and Phetchabun provinces. There is a natural study route along the cliff with 4 distinguished sightseeing spots; namely, Phloen Chai, Athit Atsadong, Suan Sawan, and Ham Hot cliffs. The latter is believed as the most exciting one when sitting at the overhanging cliff and looking down.
'''Pha Ham Hot View Spot (???????????????????)''' is the summit of the Phang Hoei mountain range, 864 metres above sea level. It is cold throughout the year. A camping site is provided for visitors who admire the chilliness and cliff climbing.
The national park also provides accommodation and a camping site. For more information, please contact the Sai Thong National Park at P.O. Box 1, Nong Bua Rawe, Chaiyaphum 36250 at Tel. 08 1266 3781, 08 9282 3437, or at National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department at Tel. 0 2562 0760, or at www.dnp.go.th.
''To get there'': From the centre of Chaiyaphum, take Highway No. 225 (Chaiyaphum ? Nakhon Sawan) for 70 kilometres (37 kilometres from Nong Bua Rawe District). There is a direction sign. Turn right for 7 kilometres at Ban Tha Pong to the Office of the National Park.
'''Tham Kaeo (???????)''' is located within the compound of Wat Tham Kaeo. The cave is similar to a hall deep inside the mountain with the chilliness and humidity throughout the year. Electricity is utilised inside. From the entrance, there is a path leading to the lower ground where a Buddha image is enshrined. Also, the stalactites on the wall create a dazzling reflection of light.
''To get there'': From Phakdi Chumphon District, take Highway 2359 for 9 kilometres to the north. At Ban Sap Charoen, turn left and go further for 5 kilometres.
'''Khao Phang Hoei Viewpoint (??????????????????????)''' is on Highway No. 225 (Chaiyaphum ? Nakhon Sawan) at Km. 70. It is a rest area and sightseeing spot for motorists. Along the road lie various shops offering local products. The panoramic view of the sunset from this point is admirable. Moreover, there is a trekking route for tourists who have limited time but would like to appreciate a small field of Bua Sawan ? a kind of curcuma, as well as, study the nature by themselves.
'''Bueng Waeng (??????)''' is a swamp in front of Khon Sawan District Office, covering an area of approximately 350 rai with a path around the swamp. It was declared a non-hunting area due to the migration of thousands of teals during winter from November to April. At dusk, the teals usually fly as a flock covering the sky, creating the splendid contrast of colours between the flock and the beam of sunset. High bird observatory towers stand around the swamp which is very suitable for relaxation.
''To get there'': Take Highway No. 202 (Chaiyaphum ? Bua Yai) to Ban Lat Yai. Turn left into Highway No. 2054 to Khon Sawan District. The total distance from the centre of the town is 38 kilometres. Otherwise, take Highway No. 201 (Chaiyaphum ? Kaeng Khro) for approximately 30 kilometres and turn right to Khon Sawan District for 14 kilometres.
'''The Grand Buddha Image of the Dvaravati Period (?????????????????????????)''' is situated at Wat Khon Sawan, 5 kilometres from Khon Sawan District. It is a laterite Buddha image in a standing posture, representing Dvaravati art. It was the Buddha image of the ancient Ka Long city with a height of 3 metres. Also, there are another 2 half-size ones from the same origin. It is assumed to have been constructed during the period when the Khmers were in power. It is called _gLuangpho Yai_h by the locals and enshrined in a small wihan which is open for the public to pay respect. Moreover, there are also many large sandstone boundary markers with bas-relief depicting the Jataka stories, as well as, the 9th century inscription in the Mon scripts. Outside lie many other boundary stones both with and without the bas-relief.
'''Ban Khae Topiary Centre (?????????????????????)''' is on Highway No. 201, 76 kilometres from the centre of Chaiyaphum or 1 kilometre prior to Phu Khaio District. Various styles and sizes of topiary, suitable for garden decoration are on sale on both sides of the road. Topiary is the occupation of the Ban Khae people. They usually bring Khoi or Siamese rough bush - Streblus asper Lour., Masang - Feroniella lucida (Scheff.) Swingle, and Tako - ebony, which are widely found in this area to cut and shape into beautiful forms and offer them at a moderate price.
'''Phrathat Nong Sam Muen (???????????????????)''' is situated in Ban Kaeng. It is an important and interesting ancient remain of Chaiyaphum. Phrathat Nong Sam Muen is named after a swamp in the northwestern part of the temple. It is a beautiful and perfect chedi. There is no evidence of its construction period. However, due to its architectural and fine arts characteristics, which present the combination of the arts of Lanna, Lan Chang and Ayutthaya, it is assumed to have been constructed around the 16th century in the reign of King Chai Chetthathirat of the Kingdom of Lan Chang.
Phrathat Nong Sam Muen is a chedi with recessed corners, located on a square base with a height of 45.30 metres and stairs on its 4 sides. Above the square base are both upward and downward lotus bases supporting the relic chamber. The niches on 4 directions enshrine Buddha images in the reflection and in walking postures, while inside the chedi enshrines the Buddha_fs relics. The aforementioned patterns can be compared with other Phrathat in Vientiane and in Thailand such as Phrathat Wat Thep Phon, Mueang Wiang Khuk, Nong Khai, Phrathat Si Mueang, Vientiane, etc.
In accordance with the archaeological evidence, this area was once a large ancient city in the Dvaravati period, approximately in the 7th ? 11th century. There are traces of a moat and mounds, as well as, mounds of many ancient remains. Moreover, important antiques discovered both inside and outside the city moat have been collected at the temple, such as sandstone boundary markers. Some were inscribed with the Pallava alphabet in Sanskrit language, dating around the 7th ? 9th century, while a piece of the boundary marker was selected to be settled as the city pillar of Phu Khiao District. Besides, there are another 2 worship sculptures. One of which was broken but looks similar to the top of the sitting Buddha image, canopied by a seven-headed Naga in the Bayon style of Khmer art in the 12th ? 13th century.
''To get there'': From the centre of Chaiyaphum, take Highway No. 201, passing Phu Khiao District to Ban Nong Song Hong for 80 kilometres. Turn left into Highway No. 2055 for 9 kilometres to Ban Kaeng. Turn left and continue for 5 kilometres to Wat Phrathat Nong Sam Muen.
'''Non Salao Khit Cloth Weaving Village (????????????????????????)''' is situated at Mu 6, Nong Tum Sub-district. It is the biggest source of Khit cloth weaving in Chaiyaphum. The locals of Non Salao have passed on the process of Khit weaving from their ancestors. Nearly every house uses their own hand-made fabric. A group of housewives was established in 1978 and has developed the patterns and colours of their products to respond to the market_fs demand. Products offered are Mudmee cotton, Khit silk, shawls, tablecloths, fabric bags, and Khit pillows.
''To get there'': From Phu Khiao District, take Highway No. 2037, a similar way to Kaset Sombun for 8 kilometres. Turn right and continue further for 3 kilometres.
'''Chulabhorn Dam / Nam Phrom Dam (??????????????/ ????????????)''' is situated at Thung Phra Sub-district to obstruct the Phrom River on the Khun Phai mountain range in the area called Phu Yuak. It is a rockfill dam with a core of clay packed with stones and pebbles. The ridge of the dam is 700 metres long, while the height from its base is 70 metres and the width of 8 metres. It is a multi-purpose dam under the supervision of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). It is aimed to generate electrical power for irrigation and agricultural purposes during the dry season. Its reservoir is also a breeding source of fresh-water fish.
Within the area of the dam is beautiful scenery with cool weather throughout the year. It is an interesting attraction of Chaiyaphum. Accommodation and restaurants are also provided for tourists. There are boats for cruising in the reservoir, as well as, a sightseeing point above the dam. The Temperate Plants Experimental Centre and observatory are also located here. For information of the accommodation of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, please contact Tel. 0 4486 1668-9. For reservations of the accommodation within the Chulabhorn Dam_fs Experiment and Training Station (Khon Kaen University), please contact Tel. 0 4338 4969 ext: 2787.
''Tourist Attractions within the Chulabhorn Dam are as follows:''
''To get there'': From the centre of Chaiyaphum, take the Chaiyaphum ? Chum Phae Road (Highway No. 201) to the Nong Song Hong Intersection. Turn left into Highway No. 2055 (Khon San District), being a total distance of 120 kilometres. Otherwise, take the Lom Sak ? Chum Phae route (Highway No. 12). At Khon San District, there is a crossroad to Chulabhorn Dam, being a distance of 40 kilometres.
'''Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve (?????????????????????????????)''' covers the forested area in Khon San, Kaset Sombun, and Nong Bua Daeng Districts, a total area of 1,125,000 rai. It is to preserve, breed and propagate wildlife such as Siamese firebacks, peacocks, barking deer, deer, and hogdeer. They are let free in this natural habitat and are able to conduct their own reproduction. A nature study route is organised for those who are interested in the close study of nature. Interesting destinations within the reserve are as follows:
Educational tours in the reserve area can be conducted in 2 aspects. For those interested in a one-day trip, can ask permission from officials at the Pang Muang checkpoint. The admission fee is 200 Baht a person, 30 Baht a car, 10 Baht a bicycle, 20 Baht a motorcycle, and 100 Baht for a 6-wheel vehicle.
As for camping, a letter should be submitted 15-30 days in advance to the Chief of the Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve, P.O. Box 3, Chum Phae Provincial Post Office, Chum Phae District, Khon Kaen, 40130, or the Director of Wildlife Preservation Office, National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Phahonyothin Road, Bangkok 10900. For more information, please contact Tel. 0 2561 4292-3 ext: 711.
''To get there'': Take the similar route to the Chulabhorn Dam. 3 kilometres prior to the Dam is the Pang Muang Checkpoint. Turn left for 24 kilometres to the Wildlife Reserve Office.
'''The Phu Khiao Wildlife Breeding Research Station (??????????????????????????????)''' is 8 kilometres on the left side prior to the Chulabhorn Dam. There are many kinds of wildlife to see particularly sambar deer and brown-antlered deer. It is open daily from 8.00 a.m. ? 4.00 p.m.
'''Pa Hin Ngam National Park (???????????????????????)''' is located on Phang Hoei mountain range comprising undulating hills with a height of 300-846 metres above sea level, covering deciduous dipterocarp forest, dry evergreen forest and mixed deciduous forest, with a diversity of ecology. There are many kinds of wild flowers in the same species of Dusita, En A, and orchids, as well as, various species of wildlife, comprising more than 56 kinds of birds, 21 types of mammals, and 10 categories of reptiles. Tourist destinations within the national park are as follows:
'''Lan Hin Ngam (?????????)''' is a location where there are a lot of large rocks in strange shapes scattered in an area of more than 10 rai. It has occurred from the erosion of the soil and rocks into different shapes, which can be imagined as many kinds of objects and animals such as nails, radar, hens, etc.
'''Dok Krachiao or Bua Sawan Field (??????????????? ???? ?????????????)''' Krachiao ? a kind of curcuma - is an annual plant in the same species as ginger-galingale, scattered generally from Lan Hin Ngam to the Sut Phaendin viewpoint. It is suitable for travelling during the rainy season from June to August.
'''Sut Phaendin (??????????)''' is a steep cliff and is the highest point of Phang Hoei mountain range, 2 kilometres from the Office of the National Park and 846 metres above sea level. It is the cliff connecting between the Central and Northeastern regions. At this viewpoint, the panoramic view of a complex mountain range with a cool breeze throughout the day can be admired.
'''Namtok Thep Phana (???????????)''' is located 7 kilometres on the east side of the Office of the National Park. It is a medium-size waterfall originating from Huai Krachon flowing from the Phang Hoei mountain range. It can be divided into 3 different tiers. The highest one is 2-3 metres, the second one is 2-3 metres, and the lowest one is 6 metres. There is water only during the rainy season.
'''Namtok Thep Prathan (??????????????)''' is situated in Ban Rai Sub-district, 7 kilometres from the Office of the National Park. It is a medium-size waterfall but quite flat. There are different low tiers of large rock terraces and a steep highland with a large amount of water during the rainy season.
'''Phra Phutthabat Khao Yai Hom (???????????????????)''' is located at the rock terrace on the Phukhao Hom Summit, Phang Hoei mountain range, Dong Phaya Yen, within the compound of Wat Phra Phutthabat Khao Yai Hom, Na Yang Klak Sub-district. It is a red Buddha_fs left footprint, stamped onto the rock terrace with a width of 75 centimetres, length of 180 centimetres, and depth of 45 centimetres, surrounded by 3 holy ponds. Phra Phutthabat Khao Yai Hom is 65 kilometres from the District Administration Office on the northeast and 63 kilometres from the centre of Chaiyaphum on the southwestern side. However, from the Sap Yai Minor District, it is only 8 kilometres to the north.
Pa Hin Ngam National Park provides accommodation and a camping site for tourists. For more information, please contact the Pa Hin Ngam National Park, P.O. Box No. 2, Thep Sathit Provincial Post Office, Chaiyaphum 36230 at Tel. 0 4489 0105, or National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department at Tel. 0 2562 1760, or at www.dnp.go.th.
''To get there'': Pa Hin Ngam National Park is 270 kilometres from Bangkok. Take Highway No.1, pass Saraburi to Phu Khae T-junction. Take Highway No. 21 and take Highway No. 205 from Ban Lam Narai for approximately 48 kilometres. At 1 kilometre prior to Thep Sathit District Administration Office, turn left along Highway No. 2354 (into the way to Nong Bua Rawe District) for 15 kilometres. At the crossroads, turn left into Ban Rai for 14 kilometres to the Office of the National Park. Visitors can travel by bus Bangkok - Thep Sathit ? Chaiyaphum line and get off at Ban Rai crossroads. Then, rent a motorcycle to the Office of the National Park. Otherwise there is the Bangkok ? Chaiyaphum Bus line and Song Taeo (a minibus) provided for tourists at the entrance of Ban Wa Tabaek to the market near the Office of the National Park. During the Dok Krachiao Blooming Festival, there is a minibus provided for tourists along each tourist destination within the national park.
Souvenirs popular among tourists visiting Chaiyaphum are Mudmee silk, cotton cloth, Khit cloth, triangular pillows, and other woven cloth products. There are also delicate basketry and various local dishes such as Mam, Som Wua, fish cake, and I-san sausage which satisfy visitors.
'''Chaopho Phraya Lae Festival (???????????????????????????????)''' is held during 12-20 January every year in front of Chaiyaphum City Hall and the Chaopho Phraya Lae Monument Intersection. Highlights of the festival are an elephant offering procession and processions of various districts, including shops selling many products and exhibitions of many authorities, as well as, competitions of agricultural produce.
'''Chaopho Phraya Lae Worship Ceremony (?????????????????????????????)''' is held at the Nong Pla Thao Shrine on the first Monday of May every year (It lasts for 3 days and 3 nights). The locals will pay respect to Chaopho Phraya Lae_fs spirit and perform traditional dances in front of the old shrine. There is a contest of local food, folk sports competition, Bai Si procession contest, and sales of local products.
'''Candle Festival (????????????????)''' is a festival organised by the Chaiyaphum Municipal Office on the full moon day of the 8th lunar month (around July). There is a candle contest. This event is widely popular similarly to the candle procession of Ubon Ratchathani.
'''Ram Phi Fa Tradition (??????????????)''' is a ceremony to worship the sacred objects and Phrachao Ong Tue, a Buddha image engraved out of sandstone, with a height of 2 metres. The locals consider this Buddha image as very holy. Many people will participate in this ceremonial dance. The ceremony is organised twice a year on the 13th-15th day during the waxing moon of the 5th lunar month (in April) and the first day during the waning moon of the 3rd lunar month within the area of Khao Phu Phra, Ban Na Kai Sao, Na Siao Sub-district in Mueang District.
'''Bun Duean Si Festival (??????????????)''' is a festival of the people of Khon San, comprising merit-making on the dark moon day of the 4th lunar month (Duean Si) and Saba competition on the 1st ? 3rd day of the waxing moon during the 5th lunar month (around March). The Saba competition is challenged for the winner prize creating amusement within the compound of Wat Chedi, Khon San District. It is the only Saba competition performed in Northeastern Thailand.
'''Dok Krachiao Blooming Festival (????????????????????)''' is held at the end of June to July at Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Thep Sathit District. It is during the rainy season when the blossoms of the wild Krachiao flowers in purplish pink are widely found in the area. Therefore, we call this area as Dok Krachiao Field. In the festival, there is a natural tour around the national park, local performances, and local products on sale.