Adventure in Nakhon Nayok and Prachinburi: A Journey Beyond the Expected

When it comes to adventure travel, what activities and destinations come to mind? As a novice in this type of tourism, I recently had the opportunity to embark on an exciting journey filled with new experiences and friendships, thanks to the "Fan Pa Tiew / My Life My Travel" page.

The page held a contest for participants to share their reasons for wanting to join the trip, and I was one of the five lucky winners selected. Later, I learned that the trip was sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Nakhon Nayok office, which also covers the provinces of Prachinburi and Sa Kaeo.

Personally, I hadn't visited Nakhon Nayok in a long time, not since I was a child. Even though it's not far from Bangkok, I've always wanted to return and revisit the waterfalls my family used to take me to.

However, this trip wasn't about waterfalls. Instead, it allowed me to discover a new side of Nakhon Nayok, one I never knew existed. I'm incredibly grateful to the TAT Nakhon Nayok office for opening my eyes to these new perspectives.

In this space, I'd like to share my experience and insights from this 2-day, 1-night trip to Nakhon Nayok and Prachinburi. It wasn't just about adventure activities; it also included Thai massage, spa treatments, and onsen to unwind after our various adventures.

This combination of experiences inspired the title of this review: Sipping Coffee, Soaking in Onsen, and Embracing Adventure.

Note: Personal photos will be watermarked with my own logo. For photos that are not my own, I will credit the original owner.

Nakhonnayok: A Journey Through Blooming Beauty

Our journey begins on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, heading towards Rangsit-Nakhonnayok. After a little over an hour, we arrive at our first rest stop, a welcome opportunity to stretch our legs and breathe in the fresh air.

The Flower Village of Khlong 15

This area, stretching along Khlong 15 and its surroundings, is renowned as the largest breeding ground for ornamental plants in Thailand. A vibrant tapestry of flowers unfolds before our eyes, a testament to the dedication and expertise of local growers.

** Coffee shop with trees **

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed every Monday.

A small coffee shop by the canal, in the atmosphere of a cool old wooden house.

Nestled amidst a vibrant marketplace of plants and flowers, the cozy and intimate shop bustles with a steady stream of customers.

Old furniture that secretly reminds me of my childhood days

If you have time, try reading the messages that many people have left in their handwriting. It might even bring a smile to your face.

As a non-coffee drinker, I am unable to provide an assessment of the coffee's flavor.

The lush greenery and the simple, relaxed atmosphere, where you can sit and enjoy the trees and the water, are reason enough to visit.

The car ride was short, and we soon arrived at our next destination: the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, or Chulachomklao.
Located in Phrommani Subdistrict, about 14 kilometers from the city center.

I must confess that this was my first time visiting the academy.
I had no idea that there were so many fun activities to participate in.
My visit this time only covered a small portion of what is available.

Upon arrival, the staff from the TAT Nakhon Nayok office was waiting for us.
They were ready to coordinate and guide us throughout our 2-day, 1-night trip.

We began by paying our respects at the Shrine of Chao Pho Khun Dan.
(Remember to light 5 incense sticks.)

:: Information from the sign in front of the court ::

The text describes the heroic deeds of a city gatekeeper in Nakhon Nayok during the Ayutthaya period. His bravery was displayed in 2130 AD, during the reign of King Naresuan the Great, when he resisted a Khmer invasion. This occurred while Thailand was engaged in a war with Burma. The Khmer forces took advantage of the situation to raid and capture people from the Prachinburi area, intending to take them back to Cambodia.

The Khmer forces captured the cities of Prachinburi and Nakhon Nayok. In response, Khun Dan, the local governor, rallied the people of Nakhon Nayok and established a base at Khao Chongok. He then led an attack to drive the Khmer out of Nakhon Nayok, but ultimately suffered a defeat.

To reach the main shrine of Chao Khun Dan, visitors must climb a short flight of stairs. However, for elderly individuals who may find it difficult to climb stairs, an alternative option is provided. A replica of the main deity is placed at the bottom of the stairs, allowing for worship from the ground level.

Subsequently, visit the ** Royal Thai Military Academy Museum ** located in the 100th Anniversary Building of the Royal Thai Military Academy.

(Open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.)

Present the history of this military academy from its inception to the present day.

This exhibition showcases the history of the Thai military, featuring weaponry and uniforms used in past conflicts.

We have gained a good amount of knowledge.

It's time for a light adventure activity for the group of girls who have come together for this occasion. ^__^

This shooting range offers a wide variety of firearms to choose from, including both handguns and rifles. Experienced instructors are available to provide close supervision and guidance for beginners.

The initial shots were on target, but as the shooter held the gun for an extended period, their accuracy seemed to decline, with shots veering off-center.

Note: For those who can score more than 94 points,
there will be a certificate awarded.

However, for this group, all of whom were new to shooting, they were unable to obtain certificates.

Just a paper target with scores attached, framed and pasted on the wall of the house to scare the man of the house, hehe
(This trip was with the "Fan Pa Tiew" page, but they took us on a "Runaway from Boyfriend" trip.)
^o^

The first activity was a lot of fun, and then we moved on to the next location: **Khao Cho Ngok, CPRU**.

We started with an archery practice session.
This activity required not only accuracy but also good concentration and arm strength when drawing the bow, otherwise the arrow would fall before reaching the target.

Other activities are also available in the same area.

The prices for the various activities are shown in the image below.

In my opinion, the price is not expensive at all. If there were a package that included multiple activities, it would be even better.

The afternoon is waning.
Let's have lunch at ** Villa Aden Organic Resort **.
- The first organic resort in Asia -
https://www.facebook.com/villaaden

The Sariga-Nang Rong route is a resort full of trees, very shady.

The prepared food was a feast for the eyes, and upon learning more about the ingredients, I was truly impressed. The use of pesticide-free ingredients, deep-sea fish, and organic rice, beans, vegetables, and fruits demonstrated a meticulous selection process.

For pork leg, the resort uses the leanest cut.

Plump and juicy shrimp

Organic 3-color rice (Jasmine, Red Jasmine, Riceberry)

Personally, I like the idea of the menu in the lower right corner.
"Steamed egg with tom yum shrimp" by putting steamed egg at the bottom of the cup and pouring tom yum shrimp soup on top.
v

The resort also offers homemade mango and Marian plum wines.

Unfiltered, resulting in sediment and an apple cider vinegar-like flavor.

This wine is not produced for general sale and is only available to guests staying at the hotel.
The restaurant also does not accept walk-in customers.
Reservations are required to dine here.

Before bidding farewell to Villa Aden, I had the opportunity to visit the Thai house "Aden Thai House Museum", which is located in the same area.

This Thai house was built by craftsmen from Ban Pae, Ratchaburi province, and took approximately 3 months to complete.

Approximately 70% of the wood is teak, with the remaining 30% being a combination of padauk and red wood.

This traditional Thai house features a room dedicated to preserving rare and valuable antiques, offering a glimpse into the past.

However, there are not many yet, as they are still in the process of being collected.

This includes exquisite furniture, some of which have unique origins and stories.

For example, sewing machines, Mercedes-Benz.

The intricate floral pattern on this cabinet is crafted from seashells, meticulously polished to a seamless finish. The artistry is so deceptive that one would never suspect its origin without being informed.

What catches the eye is the "kinnaree statue".

Exquisitely graceful and beautiful, with a rich ceremonial history.

After a delicious meal, it's time to get some exercise.

We continue our adventure with ATV riding at "R ATV Nakhon Nayok", not far from Villa Aden.

(Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM)

In the past, I have driven an ATV on the designated trails.

This is a true nature trail, complete with mud, hills, and waterfalls. It's safe to say it was incredibly fun.

Unfortunately, due to time constraints and the need to travel to Prachin Buri, I was unable to complete the full circuit of the ride.

Left hand on the brake, right hand on the accelerator.

Due to the muddy conditions, only a few images were captured using a GoPro camera. Additional images from the "Fan Pa Tiew" Facebook page photographer will be included.

The cost of driving an ATV here is 600 baht per lap.

A distance of 7 km covered in no more than 1 hour.

In addition to ATV activities, there are other nearby options such as BB Gun and Paintball. If you have time, feel free to choose the activities that suit your interests.

The enjoyable trip to Nakhon Nayok Province has come to an end, and we are now heading towards Prachin Buri Province.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

:+: Prachin Buri :+:
Located approximately 60 km east of Nakhon Nayok Province.

Chaophraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital

Address: Prachin Anusorn Road

Website: http://www.abhaiherb.com

This hospital has long been renowned for its beautiful old buildings
and its diverse range of products made from Thai herbs.

** Chao Phraya Abhaiphubet Building **

Open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

The Majestic Architecture of the Chaophraya Abhaibhubejhr Building

The Chaophraya Abhaibhubejhr Building, a magnificent architectural landmark, stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Thailand. This iconic structure, recognized as an outstanding heritage building by the Association of Siamese Architects, boasts over 105 years of existence.

Built in 1909, the two-story building showcases a blend of Western (Baroque) and traditional Thai architectural styles. Its distinctive hipped roof, a hallmark of Thai architecture, adds to its elegance and charm. The building was constructed entirely with the personal funds of Chaophraya Abhaibhubejhr, a prominent figure in Thai history.

The building was declared an ancient monument by the Fine Arts Department.
It is still preserved and currently houses the Abhaibhubejhr Traditional Thai Medicine Museum.

Refreshing herbal drinks were prepared to welcome visitors.
Before the staff took them on a tour of the beautiful interior, which included:
- An exhibition room on the history of Chao Phraya Abhaiphubejhr
- A museum showcasing traditional Thai medicine and dried herb samples
- A shop selling and providing herbal medicine services, Phothaisong-Abhaiphubejhr Osot
which is a traditional wisdom and has been modernized to fit the present era.

On Saturdays and Sundays, there will be additional Thai-style activities.

For example, garland weaving, both demonstrations and visitors can participate.

Due to the late arrival, there was not much time to walk around here.

and did not visit the herb garden, which is located behind this conservation building.

Visiting the Traditional Thai Medicine Hospital

Next, we visited the Traditional Thai Medicine Hospital, located next door. This facility offers a variety of services, including:

1. Therapeutic massage (with medical examination): This service targets specific conditions such as musculoskeletal disorders and psoriasis.
2. Postpartum care: This includes traditional practices like "อยู่ไฟ" (postpartum confinement) and "นาบหม้อเกลือ" (salt pot steaming).

++ Postpartum Mother Care Room ++

and 2) Massage for relaxation

The text describes a massage service with different zones and prices.

Here is the breakdown:

• Clear division and separation of zones: This indicates that the massage service has designated areas for different types of massages.
• For the general public seeking relaxation: This clarifies the target audience for the service.
• Body massage, foot massage, neck-shoulder-back massage: This lists the specific types of massages offered.
• Starting price of 200 baht per hour: This provides the cost information for the service.

The hospital also offers facial massage services using its own herbal products.

Unfortunately, the service is about to close. Otherwise, I would have requested an hour.

++ Facial Massage Service ++

++ Neck, shoulder, and back massage service secretly admires the chair. It seems like a comfortable massage. ++

This section is open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Open only on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 19:00. Appointments are recommended. Afterwards, stop by to buy Thai herbal products as souvenirs. Everyone got souvenirs. There are many good things here.

Herbal Center for Health, Abhaibhubejhr

Location: Lower floor of the hospital building, near the Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Building.

The product range includes skincare products, soaps, shampoos, body creams, lemongrass mosquito repellent sprays, and more.

Everything is natural herbs.

The final stop is the **Abhaibhubejhr Day Spa**, which is a separate building from the main hospital.

This consists of two parts:

Treatment Spa

Open Wednesday - Sunday, 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM.

This spa represents the integration of traditional Thai medicine with international service standards. The spa is divided into separate areas for men and women. The spa area offers a more luxurious experience compared to the traditional Thai medicine area.

++ Luxurious like a hotel spa ++

This spa's unique feature is its massages based on the ruling element of the individual.

Offering a variety of massage styles, including traditional Thai massage, aromatherapy oil massage, and facial massage. Additionally, specialized massages are available to address specific imbalances.

Cuisine Spa

Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

This spa focuses on using herbal ingredients in its cuisine, following the concept of "food as medicine" for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure.

++ I could only capture the ambiance of the restaurant because I arrived when it was about to close. ++

I personally visited the Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital over 10 years ago.

Upon returning, I was struck by the significant development and transformation that has taken place. Should the opportunity arise again, I will definitely seek to utilize the massage and spa services offered here.

From the hospital, we continued our journey for approximately 50 kilometers to our accommodation in Kabin Buri District.

Serenity Hotel & Spa Kabinburi

Website

Facebook Page

The accommodation has been open for approximately 5 months (since the beginning of 2016).

Featuring a "Japanese-style onsen," this accommodation offers guests a unique and relaxing experience.

Guests can use the service for free, with no additional charges.

A black headband (similar to those used in spas) is available for an additional fee. The cost is 30 baht for women and 20 baht for men.

The accommodation also offers free yukata rentals, allowing guests to take photos in the Japanese garden and experience the authentic atmosphere.

++ Japanese Garden Atmosphere ++

This onsen has only been open since the beginning of August 2016.

Fortunately, I arrived when they were already open.

The onsen features two hot spring pools with temperatures ranging from 38 to 42 degrees Celsius. One pool is tiled, while the other is made of stone. Due to their differing heat retention properties, the two pools maintain distinct temperatures.

++ Images from the men's side of the pool. The women's side was constantly in use, so we were unable to capture any images. ++

Even if you are not staying at the hotel, you are welcome to use the onsen facilities.

The cost is 250 baht per person per session.

The onsen area also offers spa services, yoga rooms, and a fitness center. The equipment appears to be quite modern, with treadmills featuring built-in internet access and touch screen displays for online browsing.

Yoga Room

++ Fitness room ++

The spa prices are reasonable compared to other hotel spas.

Foot massage: 350 baht / 1 hour.
Thai massage: 350 baht / 1 hour.
Aromatherapy massage: 700 baht / 1 hour.

++ Private room for spa ++

Before we go see the rooms, we will have dinner at "Mady Restaurant" located next to the hotel lobby.

They advertise it as international authentic cuisine.

Indeed, the meal served today featured a diverse range of cuisines, including Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and Western. The sheer variety was overwhelming, making it impossible to sample every dish.

I will post separate pictures of the dishes by nationality.
However, I cannot disclose all the menu names as there are too many.

++ Thai Food ++

Japanese and Chinese Cuisine

++ Western Food ++

This restaurant also features private dining areas and a bar serving drinks.

Let's take a quick look around the exterior before moving on to the rooms.

Lobby area

Swimming Pool

++ Lawn ++

Let's move on to the guest rooms.
Serenity Hotel & Spa Kabinburi offers 4 types of rooms.
Before checking out, a staff member took us on a tour and introduced us to all types of rooms.

* Standard Garden View *
This is the starting room type. The room size is 36 sq m.
It is available with either a single bed (King-sized Bed) or twin beds (Twin Beds).

Decorated in gray-black-white tones, it is easy on the eyes.
The bathroom has a separate wet and dry area, but no bathtub.

Deluxe Garden View

This phrase describes a type of accommodation with a view of a garden.

The next room, with a usable area of 50 square meters, differs from the first in that it has a bathtub and a sofa at the end of the bed.

Discreetly stylish and sexy with a folding bathroom window
It can be opened to allow you to lie in the bathtub and watch television at the same time.

* Executive Garden View *

The top-tier room at this property boasts a compact kitchen area, complete with cooking appliances and a small dining table. This design caters to the needs of long-term residents, considering the surrounding industrial estates in the Khlong Sam Wa district.

Another difference compared to the top rooms mentioned below is that this type of room does not have a bathtub in the bathroom.

• Executive Pool View *

This is the top-tier room category at the hotel, offering spacious accommodations with a dedicated pool view.

The room features a well-equipped kitchenette, complete with a range of appliances including an electric stove and microwave.

The bathroom has both a shower room and a bathtub, but it is not a Jacuzzi tub.

The first night, I slept soundly, unaware that it had rained during the night.

I saw the condition this morning ^^"

No pictures of the front of the hotel to share. I was going to take a picture, but a large tour bus was parked in front of it.

The morning of the 2nd day, after a delicious breakfast at Mady Restaurant, we packed our bags and checked out to embark on our next adventure.

Farewell to Serenity Hotel & Spa Kabinburi with this picture.

Hin Peang Rafting

Location: Hin Peang Ranger Station, Khao Yai National Park, Na Di District

Best Time to Visit: June - October (depending on weather and water levels)

Cost: 3,500 Baht per raft (7-8 people)

Experience: This was my third rafting experience, but my first at Hin Peang. It offered a unique and beautiful setting compared to my previous trips at Namtok Chet Sao Noi Waterfall in Saraburi and Lam Nam Khek in Phitsanulok.

Unique Feature: Unlike other rafting experiences, Hin Peang requires a 2.5 km hike to the launch point. The trail passes through the forest, crossing streams and waterfalls. It's a moderate hike, taking about 50 minutes.

A brisk walk to break a sweat.

Upon reaching the starting point for the raft release (Hin Phae Ngam Rapids), all fatigue vanished.
The scenery was breathtaking, with swarms of butterflies fluttering everywhere.

The Peng Stone Rapids are the final rapids of the "Big Clear River".

Originating from Khao Yai Mountain, the rapids are classified as level 3-5, with a rafting distance of approximately 3-4 kilometers.

I took pictures of all the rapids at Kaeng Hin Pheung, but when I opened them up, I was confused! I can't remember which pictures are of which rapids.

The staff prepared the rubber raft for a while, and then it was time to go.

The fun on the water is about to begin now.

Enjoy the video clip to enhance your viewing experience. (Please mute the music so you can hear the intermittent screams, the soundtrack.)
v

Watch the video

The most scenic and exciting section of the Hin Peng rafting route is the "Hin Peng Rapids," which serves as the starting point.

Unlike other rafting experiences, "Slide Rapids" stands out for its unique approach, where participants navigate the rapids without the use of inflatable rafts.

Slide Rapids - Underwater rock formations that create fast-flowing currents near the water's surface, resembling a water slide.

Keeping your body straight, face up, floating and legs straight.
Let yourself flow with the water, water entered my nose, I choked a little, but it was exciting and fun.
It was a new experience that I had never tried before.

++ Apologies, the image might be slightly inappropriate, but I wanted to show you the atmosphere. ++

Boarding the raft was not as difficult as I had imagined.

The officers were very helpful.

++ Note the expression of the person pulling. It looks like it's going to be a tough one. 555 ++

Everyone had a great time.

Upon returning to the command center, the staff had prepared snacks and drinks, which were promptly devoured, leaving nothing behind. The competition was fierce!

Shower rooms and changing facilities are available in the same area.

After changing clothes, we continued our journey.

Before heading home for lunch, we stopped by "Krua Khun Lamyai Restaurant".
https://www.facebook.com/LamYaiKitCheN/
They offer a variety of Thai dishes, as well as Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine.

Stop for a break at the PTT Dong Bang Prajantakham gas station.

This location features a **Pracharat Sukjai Shop**, a community-based store offering high-quality local products and serving as a tourist information center. This initiative is part of the Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) efforts to promote local businesses and enhance the tourism experience.

To generate income and promote community tourism.

PTT stations across the country offer a wide selection of high-quality OTOP and community enterprise products from each province.

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Without further context, it is difficult to provide a more specific translation.

The Sweet Pomelo Festival and the Best of Si Mueang District

This year, the inaugural Sweet Pomelo Festival and the Best of Si Mueang District took place at the Si Mueang District Office.

In addition to pomelo, there are also booths selling OTOP products from Prachinburi province. The pomelo comes directly from the orchard and is available for tasting and purchase at your leisure. I have been impressed by the pomelo in this area since the first day after lunch, as it has a good taste and is not bitter.

A tinge of regret lingers.

Due to limited time, I was unable to visit "The Verona at Tublan." However, even a 2-day, 1-night trip to Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri provinces proved insufficient, given the abundance of tourist attractions located within close proximity to Bangkok.

.

In conclusion, we would like to express our gratitude to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Nakhon Nayok-Prachinburi Office for their generous support in making this trip possible.

• Thank you -
  "Fan Pa Tiew / My Life My Travel" page
  For giving the opportunity to be one of the 5 lucky winners to join this trip.

• And thank you. -

Greetings to all who have visited and reviewed this page.