History of Chachoengsao or Paet Rio
Chachoengsao
Chachoengsao is commonly called "Paet Rio"
The name "Chachoengsao" comes from the Khmer Language which means "deeps canal",("Paet" means eight, and "Rio" means stripes) is believed to have come from the way dried fish is slit into eight strips.
Chachoengsao is a tourist destination close to Bangkok.
It is located in central Thailand or 82 kilometers from Bangkok. It covers an area of 5,351 square kilometers.
Chachoengsao is divided into 10 amphoe (district) and 1 king amphoe (sub district): Amphoe Muang, Bang Khla, Bang Nam Prieo, Bang Pakong, Ban Pho, Phanom Sarakham, Sanam Chai Khet, Plaeng Yao, Ratchasan, Tha Takiap, and King Amphoe Khlong Khuean.
Art and Culture
Wat Sothon Woraram Woravihan
This temple lies in the municipal area by the Bang Pakong River.
It was built in the late Ayutthaya Period, with its original name being "Wat Hong" It is the location of Phra Phutthasothon statue or Luang Phor Sothon statue or Luang Phor Sothon statue.
This important Buddha image, sculpted in the meditation pose, has a width of 1.65 meters and a height of 1.48 meters.
Legend has it that this Buddha image floated on the river before being placed here at the temple.
The original Buddha images was a beautiful bronze one, but to prevent it from being stolen, cement was placed on it. Everyday, many worshippers come to pay respect to the image, pasting gold leaves on it.
Wat Muang (Wat Pitulathiratrangsit)
It is located at Tambon Namuang.
The temple was built during the reign of King Rama III in 1834, together with the fortress and the wall.
The architectural style of the temple is similar to Wat Phra Kaeo in Bangkok.
The temple was formerly called Wat Muang. In 1908, during his visit to Chachoengsao, King Rama V called it "Wat Pitulathirat Rangsit", which means "the temple built by the king's uncle".
Wat Sampatuan
It is located on Suphakit Road.
One side of the chapel depicts Wetsandon Jakarta (stories at the Buddhas past lives) ; the other side shows the traditional Paet Rio lifestyle.
There is a beautiful hall which houses a Buddha images. At the pier, visitors can see the Bang Pakong Dam.
Wat Uphai Phatikaram
It is located near talad Mai (a market) on Suphakit Road.
The temple was formerly a Chinese temple; however, it has now turned into a Vietnamese temple
(Mahayana doctrine).
It is the location of a Luang Phor To image (Phra Trairattananayok or Chaopho Sampakong).
In Thailand there are only three images of Luang Phor To : at Wat Kanlayanamitra (Bangkok), Wat Phananchoeng (Ayutthaya), and Wat Uphai Phatikaram (Chachoengsao). Every weekend many Chinese tourists come to pay respect to the image.
Wat Chin Prachasamoson (Wat Leng Hok Yi)
This temple is located on Suphakit Road, Tambon Banmai, 1 kilometers from the City Hall. It was built by the believers of the Mahayana doctrine with Chinese architecture in 1906, during the reign of King Rama V.
The interesting item in the temple are Chinese warrior sculptures and the ceremonial hall (viharn) featuring Chinese arts. The site draws many Chinese visitors.
Wat Phayakkha Intharam (Wat Chedi)
This temple is located at Tambon Banmai. It was built during the reign of King Rama V. The big pagoda inside the temple was built in 1873 by Mr. Sue or Pra Kriengkrai Krabuanyut, the deputy of Chachoengsao
,and Mrs. In, his wife.
The temple itself was built later, in 1881.Being one of the most ancient temples, this venue has been registered by the Fine Arts Department as an archaeological site. The highlights of the temple are three pago-das, one big and two small, the ancient cemetery, the chapel and the bell tower.
Wat Pho Bangkhla
Wat Pho Bangkhla is located 23 kilometers from the city.
Visitors can drive along Highway No. 304 (Chachoengsao-Kabinburi) for 17 kilometers, turn left to Highway No. 3121 to Amphoe Bangkhla for 6 kilometers, pass the Monument of King Taksin the Great, then turn left for 500 meters Thousands of Mae Kai bats ("Mae Kai" means Mother Hen) or fruit eating bats crowd the trees in the day and fly out to search for fruit at night.
The Mae Kai bats have black wings. Brown fur, red cheeks and wolverine facial features of a small nose and ears but big eyes.
Wat Jaeng
Wat Jaeng is located at Bang Khla Market. A fascinating facet of the place is the chapel (ubosot) with Thai-Chinese arts and a statue of giant next to the chapel.
The temple is believed to have been built in the reign of King Rama I. During his journey to make war with his enemies, King Rama I arrived in the area at dawn. This temple was then built and named "Wat Jaeng" ("Jaeng"means dawn).
Wat Prathatwayo (Wat Hueinamsap)
It is located at Moo 2, Tambon Ladkrathing. Visitors can make Highway No. 3259 (Sanamchaikhet-Thatakiep) 9 kilometers from the city.
In the temple there is a big Buddha image and a bell-modeled pagoda with art depicting various events from the Lord Buddha's life.
There is also a staircase to the top of the pagoda; visitors can admire the scenery of the town and the Ladkrathing Raser-voir, a small reservoir surrounded by fascinating nature.
Wat Chom Phonarai
It is located at Tambon Sothon, Amphoe Muang The most interesting site in the temple is a pagoda with the style of Buddh Gaya,India. The pagoda contains the Buddha's cremated bones.
San Lak Muang (City Pillar Shrine)
The City Pillar Shrine is located on Na Muang Road.
The Shrine is built in Thai architectural style with 4-sided roofs and a tower (prang) in the center. Inside, there are two city pillars. One was built in 1834 and the other in 1895. In the same compound there is the Chao Pho Lak Mueng Shrine, which is highly respected. Operating hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Floating Chaomae Kuan-Im Shrine
(Sawangtham Foundation)
The foundation is the location of Chaomae Kuan-Im, which is located on Suphakit Road . A ceramic image of the popular Chinese goddess stands at a height of 1 meter and weighs 40 kilograms. The image was found floating around the bridge across the Bang Pakong River in 1997. It was taken a shore and placed at this shrine Many worshippers head to the shrine to pay respect to the images.
Monument of King Taksin the Great
This monument was built to commemorate King Taksin. King Taksin passed Chachoengsao after the fall of Ayuttahya in 1767 to restore Thailand's independence.
It is believed that this location was for-merly a stupa which was built for King Taksin's victory over his enemies. It was demolished in 1931, but the new shrine was constructed in 1988.
Ancient Fortress
It is located on Maruphong Road, the main part of the city. The site was erected during the reign of King Rama III in 1794 to protect the city from its enemies. During the reign of King Rama V, the fort was used bythe military against Chinese opium traders.
The area at the front of the fortress is arranged as a public park to allow people to admire the scenery of the Bang Pakong River. Many ancient cannons can be seen along the wall.
Prince Marupong Siriphat's Mansion
Prince Marupong Siriphat's Mansion, now the official residence of the Chachoengsao Governor, has as remarkable a historical significance as the old Prachin Provincial Hall.Prince Marupong Siriphat's Mansion.
Monument of Phraya Sunthonwohan
(Noi Ajarayangkun)
This monument is located in front of Sri Sothon Military Camp. Phraya Sunthonwohan (Noi Ajarayangkun) was a local. He was a Thai linguist under King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).
He wrote many Thai-language learning books, which were the most suitable learning materials for students at that time.
Talad Mai (Mai Market)
This is an ancient market dating back 100 years ago. This market on Suphakit Road by the Bang Pakong River reflects the traditional lifestyle of those who lived in the area.
There are many stalls selling traditional food, coffee and drinks, herbs, Thai desserts, toys and souvenirs. It operates only on weekends (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) For more information, contact 0 3881 7336, 0 6148 4513, 0 9881 7161, 0 9666 4266.
100-Year-Old Talad Khlong Suen
The market is located in Tambon Thepharat, Amphoe Banpho, Chachoengsao. In the past, Khlong Suen (Suen Canal) was used to travel to Bangkok.
The route begins at Thatua Watergate (Chachoengsao), passes Talad Khlong Suen and finally ends at Pratunam (Watergate) or Sapathum Palace, Bangkok.
Traveling along the banks of the river, visitors can admire the 100-year-old lifestyle of Thai-Chinese, Buddhists and Thai Muslims, and also sites such as Chinese temples, Buddhist temples and mosques.
The sites along the banks reflect a good relationship in the inter-faith community.
The meeting point of the local people is Talad Khlong Suen.
Visitors can taste Thai food, desserts and coffee, and view antiques and precious architecture. For more information, contact Tambon Khlongsuen Municipality, Tel. 0 2739 3253, 0 2739 3329.
Local products
Processed banana produced by a housewives group. Different types of processed banana such as baked cheese banana chips, baked sliced banana, crisp banana chips, barbeque banana chips, chilie paste banana chips. Tel: 0 1455 1861.
Dessert and snacks Khanom Pia, Khraya Sard, Khanom Jark Agricultural products Different types of mango, jasmine rice, egg, fresh prawn, coconut, Khanom Jark and other desserts. All products are common in shops in Chachoengsao.
Brass handmade products are for sale at 56, Moo 13 Ban Klongkudmai, Tambon Thai Kai. Brass is made into Different forms such as vases, baskets, napkin boxes, champagne boxes, souvenir products and candlesticks. Tel: 0 3851 3857, 01 939 9942
Handicraft products made from wood, bones and horns are produced in Moo 3, Tambon Klong Nakhon, Nuang Khet. The village sells decoration items and utensils such as hair clips, hair pins, necklaces,bangles, earings and chopsticks. Tel 0 3884 7307, 0 3859 2678
Local products and souvenirs Fruits and agricultural products Herbal products from Chao Phraya Abhaibhubate Hospital Handcraft products made of bamboo wood Furniture made of bamboo wood in Prachantakam District
Accommodations & Hotels
Amphoe Muang
Grand Royal Plaza: 1110 Sukprayun Road, Tambon Sothon, Tel.0 3882 3701. 170 rooms available (635-1,500 baht/night)
Jai Inn: 71/23 Bang Pakong Road, Tambon Sothon, Tel. 0 38512236, 038514810. 33 rooms available(250-450 baht/night)
Mitsamphan: 76-92 Rimkhlongthakhai Road, Tambon Namuang, Tel. 0 3851 1079. 32 rooms available (150-350 baht/night)
Yenjit bungalow: 203 Mahachakkaphat Road, Tel. 0 3851 1200. 29 rooms available (250-400 baht/night)
River Inn: 122/1 Maruphong Road Tambon Namuang, Tel. 0 3851 4530-1, 0 3851 1609, 0 3851 1921. 30 rooms available (290-590 baht/night)
Sammanakhan Bang Pakong Park: (Rathnakharin Rajabhat College) 422 Maruphong Road, Tambon Namunag, Tel.0 3881 0541, 0 3851 2501. 39 rooms available (500-700 Baht/night)
Happy Home: 67/13 :Liengmuang Rorad,40 rooms available (200-350 baht/night)
Amphoe Bangkhla Resort
Bangkhla Resort: 118 Moo 1, Bangkhla-Plangyao Road, Tambon Thathongluang, Tel. 0 3854 2138-9. 28 rooms available (500 baht/night)
Amphoe Phanomsarakham
Phanom Garden: 333 Moo 4, Phanomsarakham Road, Tambon Thathan, Tel. 0 3855 1817, 03855 2775, fax no. 0 3855 1515. 44 rooms available (450 baht/night)
Khao Hinsorn Development Study Center: 7 Moo 2, Chachoengsao-Kabinburi Road (the 51st-52nd kilometer), tambon Khao Hinsorn, Tel. 0 3859 9105-6, 0 3859 9067, 03859 9019. 10rooms available (600baht/night)
RUNC RUENG 999 Moo 1 Tambon Phanom: Tel. 0 3855 1200 14 Room (150-250baht/night)
PHANOM 1269 Phanomsaraksam Tambon Phanom: Tel 03855 1145 62 room (150-230 baht/night)
BANG PAKONG Rive Bank 61/6 Moo 13 Bangna - Trad Road, Tambon Bang pakong Tel. 0 3853 1512 20 Room (200-350baht/night)
Tourism
Bang Pakong River Trip
The Bang Pakong River originates in the Korat high plateau, flows through Prachinburi and the heart of Chachoengsao before running into the Gulf of Thailand at Amphoe Bang Pakong.
The river stretches for 230 kilometers. A boat trip can start from the town market or Wat Sothon, and head towards Amphoe Bang Khla, a total distance of 25 kilometers.
Along the route you can see the locals lifestyle, and interesting places such as Khrommakhun Maruphong Siriwat's Residence, ancients fortress and walls, the old City Hall, the biggest teak building and numerous wats.
The trip takes about 3 hours by longtail boat. For more information, contact Bang Pakong Charter Service Co., Ltd., Tel. 0 3851 4333, 0 9668 1726, 0 9666 4266 (90 bath per person).
River Trip and Dolphin Watch
It is located at Tambon Thakham in Amphoe Bang Pakong. During November - January there are a lot of sea catfish, dolphins favorite food, in the Bang Pakong River.
Amphoe Bangkhla Bang Khla
Kho Lad River Trip Boat cruises are available around Bang Khla's Lad Is land.
Khao Ang Ranai Wildlife Sanctuary
(Amphoe Thatakiap)
This sanctuary covers 1,030 square kilometers encompassing a large area that extends into five provinces: Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Prachinburi.
If contains the last well-preserved tropical forest of the eastern region and is the source of several waterways:the Bang Pakong River (Chachoengsao), the Tanod Canal (Chanthaburi), and the Prasae River (Rayong).
The national park is located 30-150 meters above sea level.
The park's main attraction is the Ang Ranai Waterfall or Bo Thong Waterfall, 2 kilometers from the sanctuary's office.
How to get there:
Take Highway No. 3245 (Phanomsarakham-Sanamchaikhet),
turn to Highway No. 3259, pass Amphoe Thatakiap to Ban Nong Kok for 50 kilometers, take the highway to Amphoe Wang Nam Yen (Sakaew Province) for 20 kilometers to reach the office of the Khao Ang Ranai Wild-life Sanctuary.
Visitors are required to follow the park's rules and also ask for permission at least 15 days in advance.
Khlong Siyat Reservoir
It is situated at Moo 2, Tambon Thatakiep, on Highway No. 3259 (4 kilometers from the administrative office of Amphoe Thatakiep, and 90 kilometers from the city of Chachoengsao).
The dam supplies water for crops. The reservoir, surrounded by a beautiful land-scape, is good for recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, sailing , biking, trek-king and camping. In the area is the Chao Pho Shrine at which locals pay their respects.
Khao Hinsorn Royal Development Study Center
This center, covering 1,929 rai, was established in 1979.
This agricultural development study center aims to promote sustainable agriculture in accordance with the wishes of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej by demonstrating to and educating the people.
In various forms of agriculture such as soil and land development, livestock and fisheries. A herbal project has also been established .
It is open for visitors on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The entrance fee is 20 Baht.
There is accommodation for approximately 120-150 people; however, bookings must be made. It is also necessary to bring your own food and beverage.
For more information, Contact Tel. 0 3859 9105-6, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Restaurants
(Amphoe Mueng)
Kuai Jab Tak Mo (Chinese food) 30/24-25 Moo 5 Bang Phra (Open: 6 a.m. - 4 p.m.) Tel. 0 3882 1893-4
Kung Nang (Thai food) Located at the Bang Pakong riverside under the railway bridge.
Kuea Kun Photchana (Chinese food): Kuea Kun Road, Na Muang (Open 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.) Tel 0 3851 1425
Kai Yang Nong Phu (Thai food): New Sri Sothon road,Sri Sothon.
King Tan Coca Photchana Sukiyaki (Chinese food): 103/3 Chumphon Road
Tel: 0 3851 3596, 0 3851 1498
Nguan Photchana (Thai food): Maha Chakkaphat Road, Na Muang
Noi Kai Yang (Thai food): Sri Sothon Road, Sri Sothon
Nai Kuak (Thai food): 49 Moo 12 Bangna-Trad Road
Niew(Rice with Chicken) (Thai food): 83/5 Chakkaphat Road
Pradit Photchana (Thai and seafood): 133 Maruphong Road, Na Muang (Open: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.) Tel. 0 3851 1246
Pem Bun (Made to order and noodles): 3/108 New Sri Sothon Road, Na Muang
Tel. 0 3853 5099
Mathurot Ruan Thai (Thai food): Chachoengsao-Bang Pakong Road
Mathurot Ruan Phae (Thai,Chinese, and eafood): 174/38 A raft; located in front of Chachoengsao Hospital, Maruphong Road, Na Muang (Open: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.) Tel.03851 1958, 0 3851 5833
Ruai Ruan Phae (Thai food): Maruphong Road,Na Muang
Siri O-Cha: 441/5-6 Soi 3 Tel. 03861 3419
Nutritious Food Centre (Made order and noodles): Next to the train station,257 Maha Chakkaphat, Na Muang (Open: 6 a.m.- 7 p.m.) Tel. 0 3882 0083,0 3882 1920
Ban Noi Kai Yang Restaurant (Thai food): 7 Moo 5 Bang Phra, Muang (Open: 9 a.m. - 12 noon)
Sun Mu Deng (Thai food): Maha Chakkaphat Road, Namunag
Thao Kae sue (Chinese food): 55/1-3, Next to Sri Ayutthaya Bank (Bang Khla Branch) Bang Khla-Plang Yao Road, Bang Khla (Open: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.)
Bang Khla Steak (Thai, Chinese, European food): 118 Moo 1 Bang Khla-Plang Yao Road, Bang Khla (Open:10 a.m.-11 p.m.) Tel 03854 2138-9
Mae Nam Restaurant (Thai food):Tetsaban Phatthana 1 Road, Bang Khla (Open: 10 a.m. - 11p.m.) There are boat cruises along the Bang Pakong River.
Tel.0 3854 1909, 0 1861 2740
Travel By Car
There are 3 ways to get to chachoensao, from Bangkok.
First: Take Highway No. 304 (Bangkok - Minburi - Chachoensao),which is a distance of 75 kilometers.
Second: Take Highway No. 34 (Bangna-Trat Highway), Then turn left before the bridge over the Bang Pakong River to Highway No.314 (Bang Pakong - Chachoensao). This is a distance of 90 killometers
Third: Take Highway No.3 (Samut Prakarn -Bang Pakong), then turn on to Highway No. 314 The distance is 100 kilometers.
By Bus
Buses leave from two terminals.
The Northern Bus Terminal on Kamphaeng Phet 2 : For more information, contact Chachoengsao Transportation Co., Ltd, Tel. 0 2936 4041, 0 9748 1349, or The Northern Bus Terminal, Tel. 02936 2852-66 ext 311, 442
The Eastern Bus Terminal at Ekkamai: For more information, please contact Tel: 0 2712 1018, 09749 1336, Chachoensao Transportation Co.,Ltd., 02391 2504 for the Eastern Bus Terminal, or 0 38151 4482 for Chachoengsao Bus Terminal.
150kg Giant Freshwater Stingray caught at Ban Pakong River in Thailand
chachoengsao.go.th