Where are you going? ....Ratchaburi..... How about going there? EP.2

Where are you going? Ratchaburi? How about going there? EP.2

If you are passionate about cultural tourism, enjoy admiring rare artistic heritage, and want to relax and step back in time to experience the old atmosphere that might make you smile, in just one short day, we recommend that you experience the charm of a small, lovely, and simple district, Photharam and Ban Pong, Ratchaburi.

Photharam

Wat Khanon Nang Yai

The shadow puppet show of Wat Khanon was created during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). The carving of the puppets was initiated by Phra Kru Sathitthasunthon (Luang Pu Klom), who was born in the year of the monkey (2391 BE) and died on December 5, 2485 BE, at the age of 95. He had the idea of creating shadow puppets that were larger than before, so he invited Kru Ang, Chang Jad, Chang Ja, and Chang Puang to join him in the construction. The first set they created was the Hanuman Offering the Ring set. Later, they created nine more sets, bringing the total number of puppets to 313. This is a treasure of the temple that has been jointly preserved and passed down. It is the only temple that has a shadow puppet show as its property. It has a complete set of puppets and a shadow puppet troupe that has been under the patronage of the temple and passed down to this day.

• Travel : Private car, take Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) through Nakhon Pathom Province to Ban Pong District, Ratchaburi Province. Then turn right at the intersection of Bang Phae District, follow Highway 3090 to Photharam District, cross the Mae Klong River Bridge, and turn right onto Highway 3089 for about 3 kilometers. Wat Khanon is on the right-hand side. Public bus, there is an air-conditioned bus of Photharam Tour Co., Ltd. departing from the Southern Bus Terminal every day from 6.30-19.30 hrs. The fare is 55 baht. For more information, please call 0-2435-5036.
• Opening hours : Daily, from 8.00-17.30 hrs. (Shadow puppet show at the Shadow Puppet Theatre every Saturday, starting at 10.00 hrs.)
• Festival : Wat Khanon Shadow Puppet Festival, every April 13-14 of each year.
• Entrance fee : Free of charge.

Wat Khongkharam

Kongkaram Temple: A Historical and Artistic Gem in Ratchaburi

Kongkaram Temple, located in Khlong Ta Khot Subdistrict, Photharam District, Ratchaburi Province, stands as a testament to the rich history and artistic heritage of the region. Situated approximately 22 kilometers from the city center, the temple boasts exquisite murals dating back over 250 years. These intricate paintings, crafted by skilled artisans, are a rare and valuable treasure, attracting scholars and art enthusiasts from far and wide.

Kongkaram Temple's significance extends beyond its artistic beauty. It serves as a vital center for the study and preservation of Mon culture. The temple's origins trace back to the migration of Mon people who settled along the Mae Klong River during the late Ayutthaya period, continuing through the Thonburi and early Rattanakosin eras.

Another architectural highlight is the traditional Thai-style house with nine rooms, constructed during the Thonburi period. Today, it houses a local museum showcasing historical artifacts that offer valuable insights into the region's past.

Kongkaram Temple stands as a beacon of cultural and artistic heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Mon people in Ratchaburi. Its stunning murals, architectural marvels, and museum collections provide a unique and enriching experience for all who seek to delve deeper into the region's cultural tapestry.

The interior of the temple gives the impression that the murals are alive. Most of the paintings depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, including the temptation by Mara, the various levels of heaven, the Buddha's past lives on the throne, and the Buddha's previous lives and Jataka tales.

Wat Kongkaram Folk Museum

Located within the grounds of Wat Khongkharam, the museum is a traditional Thai wooden house. The museum consists of nine rooms, each a beautiful example of a Thai wooden house with intricately carved teak doors and windows. It houses a collection of ancient artifacts related to the local area, serving as an educational resource for younger generations to learn and expand their knowledge. (Photography is prohibited inside the museum.)

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• Opening Hours: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
• Entrance Fee: 10 Baht for the Wat Kongkaram Folk Museum. Free entry to view the murals inside the Ubosot.
• Parking: Free.

Wat Phra Si Ariyai

The Golden Ubosot: A Testament to Faith and Art

The Golden Ubosot at Wat Phra Si Ariyamet in Photharam District, Ratchaburi Province, stands as a magnificent testament to the unwavering faith of the local community in Buddhism. This remarkable structure, valued at over 100 million baht, took 37 years to complete.

Beyond its golden exterior, the Ubosot boasts intricate stuccowork, unlike any other, adorning its walls. The murals depict the story of Prince Mahajanaka and the Five Kings, adding to the temple's artistic splendor. Visitors can also pay homage to the revered Phra Si Ariyamet Buddha statue, a Gandhara-style image, and the principal Buddha statue, carved from white jade in the Burmese style.

Another highlight is the incorruptible body of Luang Pho Khan, preserved in a glass coffin. The old Ubosot and the sacred well offer further glimpses into the temple's history. Additionally, the temple serves as a center for learning about Thai kite-making and houses a Buddhist youth camp that teaches young people about the Buddha's teachings.

Directions: Follow Google Maps to reach Talad Chet Semaen.

The Seven Scribes Market: A Century-Old Gem in Ratchaburi

The Seven Scribes Market, located in the Seven Scribes sub-district of Photharam district, Ratchaburi province, is a historical market with over 100 years of existence. Despite its age, it is affectionately known as the "119-Year-Old Seven Scribes Market."

This quaint market may not be bustling with activity during the day, but come Saturday and Sunday evenings, it transforms into a vibrant hub. The golden hour paints the sky with hues of orange, while a cool breeze from the Mae Klong River, situated to the west, creates a delightful atmosphere.

Local vendors offer a variety of delicious dishes, and a must-try delicacy is the Seven Scribes' signature pickled radish, available in both sweet and savory varieties. This simple yet flavorful dish pairs perfectly with a steaming bowl of rice porridge.

Adding to the market's charm, every Saturday and Sunday, visitors can immerse themselves in artistic activities, making the Seven Scribes Market a unique blend of history, culinary delights, and creative expression.

Recommended time: Saturday - Sunday evenings, every last weekend of the month.

A Tranquil Retreat in a Historic Setting

After a day of exploration, unwind at the unique Baan Suk Phan Potharam (Baan Phothi 1). This charming hotel, housed in a converted wooden elementary school building, evokes a nostalgic atmosphere for those who remember the classrooms of the 1970s. The two-story, reddish-brown wooden structure features balconies reminiscent of a bygone era, transporting guests back to their childhood memories. For those born later, the opportunity to experience the smooth wooden floors, once meticulously polished by parents every evening, offers a glimpse into the past.

Preserving the building's original character sets Baan Suk Phan Potharam apart from other accommodations. The décor is simple and elegant, with two types of rooms available. The first is a large house, aptly named "Teacher's House," while the second option offers individual rooms, each named after a grade level from kindergarten to sixth grade, totaling nine rooms. This peaceful haven is ideal for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.

• Contact for inquiries: Room reservation call 085-9951441

Baan Pong

Nestled along the Mae Klong River in Ratchaburi province lies a charming little district that beckons visitors to return time and again. Today, we embark on a quest to uncover the hidden gems of **graffiti and street art** that adorn the town's walls. Prepare yourselves, for an artistic adventure awaits!

Graffiti and Artwork Coordinates

Point 1: Nine Cafe parking lot, Khao Luang Road, opposite Ban Pong Fire Station.

Point 2: The municipal fresh market can be accessed from two roads: Khai Luang Road and Songpol Road.

Point 3: Soi Mit Samret, at the open space behind the Shoe Way shoe store.

Point 4: Surrounding areas of Chalerm Thongkham Cinema, Mit Samret Alley, and Nien Thongkham Alley

Point 5: Soi Chaowansattha, behind the open space of Baan Pong Lab Clinic.

Point 6: Dong Ma Prao Market (Khlong Thom) - The area surrounding the market walls and adjacent areas.

Point 7: Khosit Cinema, Khosit Sakul Alley

Point 8: Along Thanon Songphol, the alley next to Nang Ngam Noodle Shop, and surrounding areas.

Point 9: Ban Pong Rama Cinema, located on Songpol Road, opposite the cinema.

This is just a glimpse of the charming districts of Photharam and Ban Pong. We encourage you to experience them for yourself. You can easily explore them in a single day. Come and fall in love with these places!

Don't forget to join us next holiday.

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