Chachoengsao is a Thai province in the eastern central part of the country. Sharing a border with Bangkok, it is very easy to access from the vibrant capital city for a short break filled with fascinating discoveries. Although just a relatively short way from Bangkok, the atmosphere makes it feel worlds apart.
With several beautiful temples, a short stretch of coastline on the Gulf of Thailand, a long and interesting history, and cultural attractions aplenty, there are so many reasons to take a trip to Chachoengsao!
Here are some of the cool things you can see and do when exploring this fascinating province:
1. Wat Sothorn Wararam Woraviharn
Often shortened simply to Wat Sothorn and sometimes referred to as Wat Hong (its former name), this stunning pale-coloured temple is the oldest temple in the province. Located next to the river and close to the main provincial town (also called Chachoengsao), it houses a sacred Buddha image with an interesting past. Known as Luang Pho Sothon, the Buddha statue was said to have been discovered floating along the river. Many people come here to pray and meditate, and you will probably see people lovingly and deferentially affixing small pieces of gold leaf to the honoured statue.
Cast your gaze upwards and you will see brightly-shining stars painted on a dark background. The floor tiles are also very decorative, with interesting images of different types of fish and other aquatic creatures.
Beautiful inside and out, remember to take your shoes off before venturing inside.
2. Wat Saman Rattanaram
A large temple complex that is filled with numerous interesting and brightly-coloured statues, a highlight is seeing the gigantic pink reclining Ganesha statue. The Hindu elephant god, this is the largest Ganesha statue in Thailand. Stretching 22 metres wide and 16 metres in height, it is also often said to be the biggest of such statues in the world. Take time to wander around the base of the statue and you can admire beautiful depictions of Ganesha in a wide variety of poses.
Take a walk next to the river and marvel at the long and dazzling rainbow-coloured Naga, a multi-headed snake, see traditional and fearsome-looking Chinese dragons, and gaze up at the looming statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy who is venerated by Taoists and many East Asian Buddhists. Look out for people whispering into the ears of large rat statues; it is believed that telling the rat your deepest wishes and desires will help them to come true … but, the whisperer must be careful to cover the rat’s other ear to stop the secrets from escaping!
3. Wat Pho Bang Khla
Pretty regular as far as Thai Buddhist temples go, what makes a visit to Wat Pho Bang Khla interesting is the abundance of large fruit bats, also known as flying foxes, that hang from the surrounding trees. Thousands of bats snooze in the daytime, hanging upside down from the branches. As soon as dusk draws near, however, they wake up from their slumber, announcing their alertness with shrill shrieks and squeals. They then flit off en masse in search of food and other nightly forays!
4. Chachoengsao Fortifications
The old protective walls of Chachoengsao Fortifications date back to the end of the 1700s / start of the 1800s. Built to protect the area from rebel attacks, several old and now rusty cannons still stand to attention along the crumbling walls.
5. Talat Ban Mai
A historic waterside market that has been serving the local community for more than a century, a wander through the covered Talat Ban Mai is sure to reveal many interesting bargains and delicious Thai food. The old wooden shop fronts whisper evocatively of the past and the cheerful bright bunting adds a certain jolly atmosphere. It is a terrific place to take a step back in time and observe the traditional way of life from yesteryear.
Even more excellent things to do in Chachoengsao
The gleaming and glinting stainless steel temple of Wat Hua Suan is an exquisite and unusual sight, and you can step inside to admire shining colourful walls that tell the story of Buddha’s life as well as a shimmering and dazzling illuminated colourful statue of the Lord Buddha. At Thai Sand Sculptures Chachoengsao, you can feast your eyes on a wonderful collection of skilfully crafted sand-sculptures, Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary is rich with a wide variety of native flora and fauna, and the pretty Suan Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park is an ideal place for taking a stroll alongside the sparkling pong whilst enjoying the shade of the overhanging trees.
Well-connected to Bangkok by road and rail, and with a journey time of around two hours from the capital, why not step away from the well-trodden tourist trail and spend some time exploring the many gems of Chachoengsao?
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