Know Your Destination

Thailand is located in the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, bordering Malaysia to south, the Lao PDR and Cambodia to the east and Myanmar to the north and west. From the tip of the country’s northernmost point to its southernmost point, Thailand spans approximately 1,600 km., and approximately 870 km. from east to west. Thailand has along coastline along the Gulf of Thailand (1,875 km.) and the Andaman Sea (740 km.), containing over 400 magnificent islands, many of which have become popular tourist destinations.

Thailand has long been known as the “Land of the Smiles” for the gentle and welcoming nature of its people, and this charming character has persisted. It has also been known for its rich cultural heritage, and was named the fifth “best country for the cultural heritage influence in 2021” according to a recent report by New York-based CEOWORLD magazine.

Learn more and keep updated about “Thailand’s current affairs” at the Thailand NOW ! website

Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand, officially known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon and colloquially as Krung Thep.

For major tourist attractions in Bangkok, most of them are Historical sites or religious sites such as temples in Bangkok. There is beautiful architecture, wall painting and also important in History, such as Wat Phra Sri Rattanasamaram (Phra Kaew), Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangalaram (wat pho), Wat arun Ratchawararam, Wat Sra Ket, and Phra Bor Banphot (Golden mountain), Wat Ratchanadda, Wat Traimit, Wat Benchamabophit, Wat Bowonniwet Vihara Suthasan, Wat Suthat Thep Wararam etc.

There are also other interesting places such as palaces, museums, parks, as well as various Shopping centres in Bangkok. There are both chilling places like Chatuchak Weekend Market, Sampeng Market, Yaowarat and Phahurat night market or luxury level such as many leading department stores in all areas of Bangkok as well.

Learn more and keep updated about “Bangkok” at Tourism Authority of Thailand website

Chiang Mai, sometimes written as Chiengmai or Chiangmai, is the largest city in northern Thailand, and the second largest city in Thailand. It is 700 km (435 mi) north of Bangkok in a mountainous region.

With beautiful nature blended with Lanna Culture and colours of contemporary perfectly Chiang Mai is, therefore, a province that has many tourists, both Thai and foreigners, come in many millions each year. Popular tourist activities in Chiang Mai include worshipping the Phra That doi suthep, which is an important Landmark of Chiang Mai people. Experience the local way of life and shop for stylish handmade products at Thapae Walking Street. Visit various species of plants at the Queen Sirikit botanical Garden and Rajapruek Royal Park. Do not miss to shop art products, taste local CUISINE and see cultures on Nimmanhaemin Road. In addition, nature and mountain tours are another activity that should not be missed when visiting Chiang Mai, whether stepping on the highest point of Thailand at the top of doi inthanon. Absorb the beauty of the rice fields, feel the Cool breeze while watching the giant tiger flower at Doi Ang Khang. Experience Ecotourism HomeStay in Mae Kampong and visit Hmong villages in Doi Pui and many more.

Learn more about “Chiang Mai” at Tourism Authority of Thailand website

Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand. It is in Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province. This mountain is an ultra prominent peak, known in the past as Doi Luang ('big mountain') or Doi Ang Ga. The mountain, also known as the “Roof of Thailand,” rises to a height of 2,565 meters.

Doi Inthanon is one of the most popular national parks in Thailand. It is famous for its waterfalls, few trails, remote villages, viewpoints, sunrise/sunset watching, birdwatching and the all year round cold weather on higher elevations. The main park entrance is about 70 km southwest from Chiang Mai city center.

Learn more about “Doi Inthanon National Park” at Thai National Parks website

Doi Suthep is a mountain west of Chiang Mai Province. It is 1,676 metres in elevation and is one of the twin peaks of a granite mountain. The other peak is known as Doi Pui and is slightly higher (1,685 metres).

This mountain is encompassed within the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, which also houses notable attractions like the revered Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep temple and the Bhubing Rjanives Palace located higher up the mountain. As one of Chiang Mai’s most popular attractions, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep temple is typically included in many Chiang Mai tours, along with other area temples and Hmong hill tribe villages.

Learn more about “Doi Suthep-Pui National Park” at Thai National Parks website

Wat Nam Tong Temple is situated near Mae Klang Waterfall, at the foothills of Doi Inthanon. It is a stunning temple showcasing the exquisite Lanna architectural style. The entrance to the chapel is adorned with intricately crafted doors in the form of Theppanom, which represents or the figure of deva. Furthermore, inside the chapel, you will find the revered Buddha statue.

It is believed that this temple was originally built during the reign of Queen Chamthewi (700 CE). However, it was eventually abandoned for a long period of time. It wasn't until the year 2475 BE (1932 CE) that the temple underwent renovation and was relocated to the new location near Mae Klang Waterfall, the current Mae Klang Waterfall Temple. This relocation led to the temple being deserted for a considerable period.

Nearly 20 years ago, Wat Nam Tong Temple underwent renovations to enhance its beauty. In 2556 BE (2013 CE), a groundbreaking ceremony was held to commemorate the beginning of the construction of the Phra Mahathat Chedi, a stupa that enshrines the relics of Lord Buddha. Below the relics, there is a museum collection featuring old Buddha statues and antique porcelain.

Wat Nam Tong Temple is the start line of TRANS-INT 160