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	<title>ThaiLand Travel Guides &#187; Destination</title>
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	<description>Thailand discovery</description>
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		<title>Thailand Holidays &#8211; What Makes Them So Special</title>
		<link>http://thailand.travelxem.com/thailand-holidays-what-makes-them-so-special/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 07:27:49 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[Destination]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[From wonderful beaches to stunning religious sites, from colossal shopping malls to crazy nightlife – holidays to Thailand are replete with everything one could possibly ask for!! A famed tourist destination in Southeast Asia, Thailand proffers a veritable blend of local as well as foreign cultures. No wonder, it is one of those enchanting holiday [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-141" title="Thailand Holidays" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Thailand-Holidays-300x240.jpg" alt="Thailand Holidays" width="300" height="240" />From wonderful beaches to stunning religious sites, from colossal shopping malls to crazy nightlife – holidays to Thailand are replete with everything one could possibly ask for!! A famed tourist destination in Southeast Asia, Thailand proffers a veritable blend of local as well as foreign cultures. No wonder, it is one of those enchanting holiday destinations where all the fantasies come true.</p>
<p><strong>Bangkok</strong></p>
<p>Bangkok is the scintillating capital city of Thailand. Bangkok is a tremendously popular tourist hub and tempts millions of holidaymakers to plan holidays for Thailand. No wonder, Bangkok is an extraordinary gem of the country. Home to soaring skyscrapers, ritzy shopping mall and plush hotels in Thailand, Bangkok never fail to enchant visitors. Top tourist spots like Royal Grand Palace, Bangkok temples (Wat Pho and Wat Arun), Thailand National Museum and Jim Thomson&#8217;s House offers a unique experience.</p>
<p><strong>Pattaya</strong></p>
<p>Another popular gem of Thailand &#8211; Pattaya is a beach destination that attracts all sorts of travellers. Tropical ambience of the place is perfect for lazing on spectacular beaches and soaking up the sun. Pattaya is conveniently accessible from Bangkok and travelling to the city is absolutely hassle-free. And if craving for some change, then head to marvellous sightseeing attractions like temples, parks, or museums scattered all over. Khao Khew Open Zoo, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Mini Siam, and Pattaya Floating Market are some of the amazing attractions that offer a perfect respite from seashores.</p>
<p><strong>Phuket</strong></p>
<p>Phuket is no less a tourist magnet, enticing people from all parts of the world to book flights to Thailand. Phuket flaunts the stunning natural wonders like pristine beaches and lush forests. The beach resort is excessively popular among leisure travellers. The place offers endless list of exhilarating activities like jet skiing, para-gliding, wind surfing and boating. Thai Village and Orchid Farm and Phuket Aquarium are some of the attractions that one should never miss when in Phuket.</p>
<p><strong>Chiang Mai</strong></p>
<p>Chiang Mai is a mirror of glorious Thai dynasties. The metropolis has effectively emerged as the incredible amalgam of rich history and traditions of Thailand. Cultural riches, divine peacefulness, heavenly handicraft, luscious food and proximity to dozens of natural treasures make this city a gratifying holiday destination for travellers. Chiang Mai is replete with great hotels and resorts to stay. Apart from this, travellers are offered a great assortment of recreational activities &#8211; trekking to the villages, elephant rides, mountain-biking, white-water rafting, rock-climbing expeditions and zip line adventures.</p>
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		<title>Explore Bangkok and Pattaya on your Thailand Tour</title>
		<link>http://thailand.travelxem.com/explore-bangkok-and-pattaya-on-your-thailand-tour/</link>
		<comments>http://thailand.travelxem.com/explore-bangkok-and-pattaya-on-your-thailand-tour/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:25:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Destination]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Thailand identified as the Land of Smiles and Land of White Elephants is truly the most vibrant country in the South East Asia and is the most travelled destination in the entire world. This beautiful country loving Thailand is with the rich heritage, royal culture and the fascinating lifestyle of the visitors easily attracts visitors [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-138" title="Explore Bangkok and Pattaya" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Explore-Bangkok-and-Pattaya-300x227.jpg" alt="Explore Bangkok and Pattaya" width="300" height="227" />Thailand identified as the Land of Smiles and Land of White Elephants is truly the most vibrant country in the South East Asia and is the most travelled destination in the entire world. This beautiful country loving Thailand is with the rich heritage, royal culture and the fascinating lifestyle of the visitors easily attracts visitors for its exotic charm and magnitude beauty.</p>
<p>Stunning beaches, picturesque lakes, musical waterfalls, incredible bay, colonial charm and the marvel architecture of the past easily entice tourist for wonderful vacation. This beautiful country is very renowned for its colorful life and bright festivals. This country also offers magnificent hotels with world class amenities and which truly offer comforts and luxury at its best. The warm hospitability, the beautiful locales easily entice and tempt the holiday makers to visit this fanciful country again and again.<br />
This country invites all sorts of visitors from every nook and corner of the world for their fun filled and exciting vacation throughout the year. The wide range of tourist attractions and the fantabuolous destinations will truly spoil your choice and confuse your mind. Some of the fascinating destinations along with its amazing attractions are listed below:</p>
<p><strong>Pattaya:</strong> Pattaya is one of the favorite places for the visitors and the most splendid tourist destination in the country which offer the wide range of tourist attractions. The rich history and the diverse culture of the country can be explored here. The scintillating attractions along with the marvelous sightseeing spots easily attract visitors from every nook one corner of the world. Pattaya is the shopper’s paradise and truly the shoppers love to enjoy visiting this city again and again. The bustling night life, great shopping facilities and astounding daytime activities easily caters everything to every visitor in this city as on your Pattaya Thailand Tours. The fascinating beaches in this city are truly bliss for the visitors which offer the tourist an easygoing and wonderful vacation.</p>
<p><strong>Bangkok:</strong> Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand; this destination is the most sought after tourist destination in the entire country. Truly if you want to explore the exotic charm and the cultural style of Thailand then this is one of the most visited destinations in the entire world. The elegant Buddhist temples, green emerald gardens, gorgeous rivers, interesting sites and visual delights will truly offer you wonderful vacation. Beautiful Bangkok is one of the liveliest and the friendly city in the entire world and truly never to be missed on your any Thailand tour. Some of the major tourist attractions to visit in this city are such as Bangkae Amusement Park, River Cruises, Dusit Zoo, Bangkok Playhouse, Chinatown Bangkok, City Pillar Shrine and Democracy Monument.</p>
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		<title>Chon Buri province</title>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 01:48:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Destination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eastern Thailand]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Chonburi province is on the eastern coast of Thailand and is popular as a weekend getaway because of its proximity to Bangkok. Chonburi province has beautiful beaches and one the most famous beach resorts of the world, Pattaya, is located here. Millions of foreign tourists visit Pattaya each year not just for its beaches but [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/map-chonburi.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-132" title="map-chonburi" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/map-chonburi.jpg" alt="map-chonburi" width="243" height="249" /></a>Chonburi province is on the eastern coast of Thailand and is popular as a weekend getaway because of its proximity to Bangkok. Chonburi province has beautiful beaches and one the most famous beach resorts of the world, Pattaya, is located here.</p>
<p>Millions of foreign tourists visit Pattaya each year not just for its beaches but also for its nightlife, golf courses, watersports, restaurants, cabaret shows, and zoos. The best part is that Chonburi province is just two hours away from Bangkok and you can either go for a day trip or an extended one.</p>
<p>In Amphur Bo Thong District of Chonburi province you will find the Ang Phak Nam waterfall and Khao Cha Ang stone mountain. The Ang Phak Nam waterfall is a 5-level waterfall on the Khao Yai range. The walk to the waterfall is 1.5 kilometers long through a forest which is home to many wild animals and birds. Khao Cha Ang is a stone mountain and is famous for its minerals and semi-precious stones. Embedded in the mountain is also a cave which is inhabited by over one hundred thousand fruit bats. Besides this, there are other caves namely Water Cave, Laplae Cave, and Dragon Cave.</p>
<p>In Amphur Koh Si Chang District, which is an island, you can visit the Chao Pho Khao Yai shrine. The shrine is a natural architectural masterpiece and is revered by both Thai and Chinese. From the shrine, you can get a breathtaking view of the island.</p>
<p>You can also visit the Si Chang Palace which was built during the reign of King Rama V as a summer palace. Each building in the compound of the palace was named after the King’s consorts who were responsible for their respective buildings. The palace is now a museum and is open to the general public.</p>
<p>In Amphur Muang District of Chonburi province, you can visit the Nong Mon Market, which is located on Sukhumvit Road along the way to Bang Saen. The market is popular for is local seafood like squid, shrimp and fish which can be bought either fresh or preserved. In addition you can also purchase sweets and sweetmeats including the popular Khao Lam, a traditional Thai dessert cooked and served in a bamboo tube.<br />
Every year in October, the Chonburi province hosts the Chonburi Buffalo Races. Besides buffalo races, there are many beauty contests and contests pitting buffalo and man, making the entire event a fun-filled festival.</p>
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		<title>Krabi province</title>
		<link>http://thailand.travelxem.com/krabi-province/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Sep 2011 01:41:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Destination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Southern Thailand]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thailand.travelxem.com/?p=126</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Krabi, a province on southern Thailand’s Andaman coast, is an almost otherworldly region of labyrinthine archipelagos, where islands seem to erupt vertically out of the sea and secluded beaches are only accessible by colorfully adorned long tail boats. Krabi’s myriad of bays and coves have sheltered pirates, merchants, and sea gypsies for thousands of years [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-127" title="Krabi province" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Krabi-province-300x294.jpg" alt="Krabi province" width="300" height="294" />Krabi, a province on southern Thailand’s Andaman coast, is an almost otherworldly region of labyrinthine archipelagos, where islands seem to erupt vertically out of the sea and secluded beaches are only accessible by colorfully adorned long tail boats. Krabi’s myriad of bays and coves have sheltered pirates, merchants, and sea gypsies for thousands of years and archaeological evidence indicates that Krabi was originally inhabited as early as 25,000 &#8211; 35,000 years ago!</p>
<p>With attractions including hot springs, a wildlife sanctuary, sea caves, flourishing coral reefs and exotic marine life, limestone cliffs that draw rock climbing enthusiasts from around the world, and national parks that include the island paradises of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, one could easily spend weeks in Krabi and leave yearning for more.</p>
<p>If that wasn’t enough, Krabi features some of the most photogenic sunsets in Thailand, often accompanied by spectacular displays of cloud to cloud lightning, that are best enjoyed from a beachside bar or restaurant.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, with all the tourists spread out among various beaches and islands, life goes on in Krabi Town, the somewhat sleepy provincial capital. Surprisingly few tourists spend time in the charming riverside town, whose hilly streets feature a number of cozy cafes and inexpensive and authentic Thai cuisine is served at an outdoor, riverside evening market.</p>
<p>“Town” to most visitors is Ao Nang, a seaside strip of guesthouses, hotels, bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops that continues to grow as tourist arrivals increase, now spreading north into Noppharat Thara, whose quiet, shady beach is part of the national park that includes the Phi Phi Islands. Ao Nang is the major launching point for boat trips to nearby islands and the isolated beaches of Phra Nang Cape, where the famous former hippie enclave of Railey Beach is located.</p>
<p>Krabi Province, which lies along the coast of the Andaman sea in Southern Thailand, is a top tourist destination as a result of its plentiful natural attractions including, white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, extensive coral reefs, numerous caves and waterfalls, and over 130 islands, including Koh Lanta and the jewels of the Andaman coast, the six islands of Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park.</p>
<p>While not the top destination in and of itself, Krabi Town is a charming provincial capital located along the banks of a river that leads to the nearby Andaman Sea. Consequently, Krabi is an important port city for both local fisherman as well as boats ferrying visitors to the nearby attractions, including Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Railey Beach, one of the premier rock climbing destinations in the world.</p>
<p><strong>Key Tip</strong></p>
<p>Visitors are advised to make early reservations (up to a year in advance) for accommodation during the peak season from late December to early January because of the popularity of the Krabi and its attractions.</p>
<p>When traveling by ferry to islands around Krabi, it may be preferable to purchase only a one way ticket so that your trip can be more easily altered and you can more easily arrange your departure.</p>
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		<title>Chumphon</title>
		<link>http://thailand.travelxem.com/chumphon/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 08 Sep 2011 01:38:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Destination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Southern Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chumphon city]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thailand.travelxem.com/?p=124</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[With 200 kilometers of coastline, Chumphon features many beautiful and desolate beaches as well as some of the best diving and snorkeling on the gulf coast. Chumphon province is located half way down the Isthmus of Kra, the narrow body of land flanked by Andaman Sea on the west and the Gulf of Thailand on [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-125" title="Chumphon" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Chumphon-300x275.gif" alt="Chumphon provice" width="300" height="275" />With 200 kilometers of coastline, Chumphon features many beautiful and desolate beaches as well as some of the best diving and snorkeling on the gulf coast.<br />
Chumphon province is located half way down the Isthmus of Kra, the narrow body of land flanked by Andaman Sea on the west and the Gulf of Thailand on the East; western Chumphon borders Myanmar, while the east of the province consist of more than 200 kilometers of coastline with numerous beaches that are infrequently visited by tourists. Consequently, Chumphon is an ideal destination for those who are seeking relaxation in a natural and quiet atmosphere.</p>
<p>Chumphon city, the capital of the province, is the gateway to other southern provinces as well as the islands in the Gulf of Thailand, particularly Koh Tao. While the area isn’t overrun with tourists there are still many opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, yachting, paragliding, diving, and snorkeling.</p>
<p>Historical documents state that Chumphon was continuously inhabited by various communities since the pre-historic period, especially in the area along the banks of the Tha Taphao River. Chumphon was also one of the leading trading centers of Siam (Thailand prior to the Second World War).</p>
<p>As a frontier city, Chumphon is believed to have derived its name from Chumnumphon, which means the accumulation of forces. Whenever there were movements of the army, the soldiers would gather their forces here in this province. Other sources argue that the name is derived from a local plant named Maduea Chumphon, which is abundant in this area. This plant has become a symbol of Chumphon Province.</p>
<p>Chumphon city, the capital of Chumphon province, is the gateway to Thailand’s southern provinces as well as the islands in the Gulf of Thailand, particularly Koh Tao. With more than 200 kilometers of coastline featuring numerous unspoiled beaches, Chumphon is an ideal destination for those who are seeking relaxation in a natural and quiet atmosphere and wish to enjoy such activities as sunbathing, swimming, yachting, paragliding, diving, and snorkeling.</p>
<p>If you are so inclined, try some bird’s nest soup; the nests are harvested in the area.</p>
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		<title>Chanthaburi Province</title>
		<link>http://thailand.travelxem.com/chanthaburi-province/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Sep 2011 01:48:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Destination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eastern Thailand]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thailand.travelxem.com/?p=129</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Chanthaburi province is located near Bangkok and it 245 kilometers from the capital. Chanthaburi province is famous for its Thai gem mining center, varieties of tropical fruits and woven reed mats. Of course, one should not forget the natural beauty and the historical attractions of Chanthaburi province. Located in the eastern part of Thailand, Chanthaburi [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Map-of-Chanthaburi.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-130" title="Map-of-Chanthaburi" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Map-of-Chanthaburi.jpg" alt="Map-of-Chanthaburi" width="173" height="241" /></a>Chanthaburi province is located near Bangkok and it 245 kilometers from the capital. Chanthaburi province is famous for its Thai gem mining center, varieties of tropical fruits and woven reed mats. Of course, one should not forget the natural beauty and the historical attractions of Chanthaburi province.</p>
<p>Located in the eastern part of Thailand, Chanthaburi province is also called Muang Chan and is important from a historic point of view when it played an important role during the Rattanakosin period.</p>
<p>Chanthaburi province is administratively divided into districts, which are as follows: Mueang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Khlung, Laem Sing, Pong Nam Ron, Makham, Soi Dao, Na Yai Am, Kang Hang Maeo and Khao Khitchakut. The province is blessed with lush verdant forests, scenic waterfalls, quaint fishing villages and serene beaches.</p>
<p>Chanthaburi province used to be a French colony in the early of part of the 20th century and this has greatly influenced the architecture. Chanthaburi is home to the largest Catholic cathedral in Thailand and boasts of a sizable Christian population.</p>
<p>In Chanthaburi province you can find Tham Khao Wong caves in Khao Chamao Khao Wong National Park. These caves are around 40 kilometers before Chanthaburi town. While Khao Wong are limestone hills. The caves contain stalagmites and stalactites and some of the caves are interconnected by passages. The trek to the caves will give you views of varied plant life.<br />
Also located in Chanthaburi province is Krathing Waterfall which is rather popular for its 13 levels. Nature lovers and hikers will love the trails which cut through all the levels of the waterfall. There are also ponds where swimming is allowed and you can also camp at campsites near the waterfall.</p>
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		<title>Ang Thong</title>
		<link>http://thailand.travelxem.com/ang-thong/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Sep 2011 01:38:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Central Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Destination]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Ang Thong, originally known as Mueang Wiset Chai Chan, is located along the Noi River and the low-lying banks of the Chao Phraya River. Historically, Ang Thong was an essential frontier outpost of the Ayutthaya Kingdom in defense against the Burmese. Ang Thong province is a center for the production of numerous handicrafts, including miniature [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-122" title="Ang Thong Marine National Park" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Ang-Thong-Marine-National-Park.jpg" alt="Ang Thong Marine National Park" width="634" height="362" /></p>
<p>Ang Thong, originally known as Mueang Wiset Chai Chan, is located along the Noi River and the low-lying banks of the Chao Phraya River. Historically, Ang Thong was an essential frontier outpost of the Ayutthaya Kingdom in defense against the Burmese.</p>
<p>Ang Thong province is a center for the production of numerous handicrafts, including miniature dolls, firebricks, drums, and wickerwork. It is also the site of origin of Li Ke folk dancing and many native folk songs, as well as the hometown of Nai Dok and Nai Thongkaeo, heroes of the legendary Bang Rachan Battle against the Burmese. Ang Thong also features more than 200 magnificent and interesting temples.</p>
<p>Ang Thong is a small province through which the Chao Phraya and Noi Rivers flow.<br />
Ang Thong is mostly flat, containing neither mountains nor forests, and consists primarily of agricultural land. Ang Thong receives much rain during the rainy season and the two rivers and their subsidiary canals (klongs) provide enough water to the sandy soil to produces abundant rice crops. Ang Thong is only 108 kilometers from Bangkok and is an area of historical importance for its contributions to Thai art and mythology. There are a number of historical attractions in Ang Thong, including many fine temples, and there are opportunities to see unique handicrafts produced in several local villages.</p>
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		<title>Phayao Destinations</title>
		<link>http://thailand.travelxem.com/phayao-destinations/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 04 Mar 2011 08:36:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Northern Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Phayao]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Virtually enveloped by mountains and valleys, Phayao is a peaceful province. Though with only modest facilities and conveniences, it is an enchanting community with delightful natural beauty and fascinating religious sites. Dating back to more than 900 years, it used to be an independent state with its own rulers before it became a part of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-16" title="phayao_welcome" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/phayao_welcome.jpg" alt="phayao_welcome" width="239" height="191" />Virtually enveloped by mountains and valleys, Phayao is a peaceful province.  Though with only modest facilities and conveniences, it is an enchanting  community with delightful natural beauty and fascinating religious sites. Dating  back to more than 900 years, it used to be an independent state with its own  rulers before it became a part of the Lanna Thai kingdom in mid-14th century.</p>
<p>Phayao is about 691 kilometres from Bangkok and covers an area of 6,335 square  kilometres. Administrative, it is divided into the following districts: Muang,  Chun, Chiang Kham, Chiang Muan, Dok Khamtai, Pong, Mae Chai, Phu Sang, and Phu  Kam Yao.</p>
<p>Phayao (Thai พะเยา) is one of the northern provinces (changwat) of Thailand.  Neighboring provinces are (from east clockwise) Nan, Phrae, Lampang and Chiang  Rai. In the north-east it borders Xaignabouli of Laos.</p>
<h2>Geography</h2>
<p>The city of Phayao is located at the Phayao lake (Kwan Phayao) in the valley  of the Ing River. Three big mountains surround the valley, the Doi Luang  (1697m), Doi Khun Mae Fat (1550m) and Doi Khun Mae Tam (1330m).</p>
<h2>History</h2>
<p>After Phayao was founded in 1096 it was a small city-state kingdom. In the  13th century it gained enough importance to be equal partner of King Mengrai of  Lannathai and the Sukhothai kingdom. However a later king of Lannathai captured  Phayao in 1338, and made it part of Lannathai. During the Burmese rulership of  Lannathai the city became deserted, and in 1897 became part of the province  Chiang Rai. Becoming effective on August 28, 1977 it was split off from Chiang  Rai again, and became a province of its own.</p>
<h2>Symbols</h2>
<p>The provincial seal shows Buddha, representing the famous Buddha image in the  temple Wat Si Khom Kham called Phra Chao Ton Luang. Behind him are 7 flames  showing the glory of Buddha. In front of Buddha is a bowl and two ears of rice.</p>
<h2>Tourism</h2>
<p><strong>An extensively fresh-water lake, Kwan Phayao (กว๊านพะเยา)</strong> is the  largest fresh-water fish habitat in the upper North which provides the  livelihood of many of the local people. To protect the lake from pollution,  motor boats are not allowed on the lake.</p>
<p><strong>The Pho Khun Ngam Mueang Memorial (อนุสาวรีย์พ่อขุนงำเมือง)</strong> commemorates a former king of Phayao, or Phu Kam Yao, who was in power some 700  years ago. During his reign, the state prospered and expanded its territory.</p>
<p><strong>Wat Si Khom Kham (วัดศรีโคมคำ)</strong> It houses the largest Buddha statue of  Lanna Thai, Phra Chao Ton Luang, a sitting Buddha with a lap width of 14 meters  and height of 16 meters. It is said that it took no less than 33 years to  complete it.</p>
<p><strong>Ho Watanatham Nithat (หอวัฒนธรรมนิทัศน์)</strong>. The indigenous museum deals  with the history and ancient relics of Phayao, including native culture and  traditions and creativity.</p>
<p><strong>Kwan Phayao Pavilion and the Phayao Fresh-water Fishery Station (พระตำหนักกว๊านพะเยาและศูนย์วิจัยและพัฒนาประมงน้ำจืดพะเยา)</strong> is the first facility in the world to successfully breed Pla Buk, the giant  catfish. There is an aquarium displaying many species of fish and waterplants.</p>
<p><strong>The Chiang Saen-style Chedi at Wat Si Umong Kham (วัดศรีอุโมงคำ)</strong> is  still in good condition. The Lanna-style Buddha statue, Phra Chao Lan Tu (พระเจ้าล้านตื้อ),  is regarded as the most beautiful anywhere.</p>
<p><strong>Wat Phra That Chomthong (วัดพระธาตุจอมทอง)</strong> Surrounded by an arboretum,  the temple offers a panoramic view of the town and the lake.</p>
<p><strong>Wat Analyo (วัดอนาลโย)</strong> Covering an extensive area, cool and shady  under leafy canopies of large trees it features building and sculptures of  religion-based characters by contemporary craftsmen of great skill.</p>
<p><strong>Namtok Champa Thong (น้ำตกจำปาทอง)</strong> is a beautiful and tall waterfall  amid natural surroundings.</p>
<p><strong>Ban Tham Indigenous Cultural Centre (ศูนย์วัฒนธรรมพื้นบ้านบ้านถ้ำ)</strong> It  has a large collection of native agricultural tools and implements as well as  ancient objects from which the cultural lifestyle of the Lanna people in the  past can be studied.<br />
<strong>Doi Phu Nang National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติดอยภูนาง)</strong> A variety of birds  are found, especially peacocks which come to the park area for breeding from  January to March. The park also has a scenic waterfall called Namtok Than Sawan.</p>
<p><strong>Chiang Kham (เชียงคำ)</strong> is home to many Thai Lue people. An interesting  temple in Chiang Kham is <strong>Wat Nantaram (วัดนันตาราม)</strong>, a Burmese-style site  built entirely with teak. Another place of interest is <strong>Wat Phra That Sop Waen  (วัดพระธาตุสบแวน)</strong> with its 700-years-old Lanna-style Chedi.</p>
<p><strong>Namtok Phu Sang (น้ำตกภูซาง)</strong> It is fed by a hot spring on the mountain  which flows into the brook before cascading over the fall.</p>
<p><strong>Phu Lang Ka Forest Park</strong> is located in Chiang Kham District and Pong  District. It is around 900 &#8211; 1,720 metres above sea level. The main attractions  are: Doi Hua Ling, Doi Phu Lang Ka and Doi Phu Nom.</p>
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		<title>Phetchabun destinations</title>
		<link>http://thailand.travelxem.com/phetchabun-destinations/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 04 Mar 2011 08:07:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Northern Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Phetchabun]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Phetchabun is located in the lower northern region of Thailand, in the area between the northern and the central region. The province lies in the broad fertile river valley of the Pa Sak River, with mountains of the Phetchabun mountain range to the east and west. It is surrounded by places of interest, many well-known [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Phetchabun is located in the lower northern region of Thailand, in the area  between the northern and the central region.<br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13" title="Phetchabun-thailand" src="http://thailand.travelxem.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Phetchabun-thailand.jpg" alt="Phetchabun-thailand" width="550" height="552" /><br />
The province lies in the broad fertile river valley of the Pa Sak River, with  mountains of the Phetchabun mountain range to the east and west. It is  surrounded by places of interest, many well-known national parks, beautiful  waterfalls and great lakes.</p>
<p>The word Phetcha originates from the Sanskrit word vajra meaning &#8220;diamond&#8221; (or  weapon of Indra), and the word bun from Sanskrit purna meaning &#8220;full&#8221;, &#8220;perfect&#8221;  or &#8220;whole&#8221;. Hence the name of the province literally means &#8220;Perfect Diamond&#8221;.</p>
<p>Initially, the province was called &#8220;Phe-cha-buth&#8221; as &#8220;Phuenchapura&#8221;, which means  the city that is plenty of crops. The reason for being given such name is  because the province is very fertile and full of natural resources. Because of  the fertility of the land, Phetchabun has always been an agriculturally  productive area.</p>
<p>The provincial seal show a diamond on a mountain, as diamonds are found in the  province. In the front are tobacco plants as one of the crops grown in the  province.</p>
<p>Phetchabun is a province of rich tourism potential with attractions including  Khao Kho National Park, which has been referred to as Little Switzerland because  of its beautiful scenery and cool weather; Nam Nao National Park, which features  a large number of wild animals that can be spotted while trekking; and Than Thip  Waterfall, which is a popular place for swimming.</p>
<p>Phetchabun also features a rich history dating back more than 1,400 years, the  height of which occurred after the 11th century when the city was a point of  contact between the Dvaravati and Khmer Empires. The city was a prosperous  center and a number of ruins remain for visitors to appreciate at Si Thep  Historical Park.</p>
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