BAN NAM KHEM TSUNAMI MEMORIAL PARK

Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park is situated near the Ban Nam Khem Coast, 7 kilometres away from Takua Pa District. Being in the area of 8000 square metres, it consists of 5 main parts: Resting Area, Health Area, Playground Area and Tsunami Memorial Area, which is the highlight of this park. The curved concrete wall, which represents tsunami, is located opposite an old fishing boat, which was damaged during the tsunami. Another side of the park, is the path along a clay wall mixed with brick and ceramic tile being carved with more than 1,400 names of the dead.

The royal statue of the Prince of Chumphon, who is the Father of Royal Thai Navy, and a Buddha Image are widely worshiped by fishermen before every voyage. There are also seafood restaurants, tourist information provider and souvenirs produced by villagers. Another attraction around Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park is a beautiful beach, with its clean white sand and clear blue ocean that make a walk along the beach pleasurable until the fishermen villages and various restaurants. This Memorial Park is not only the reminder of the damage, exhibiting numerous pictures of before/after the tsunami, but is also an enjoyable place for a family picnic. 
Visitors can come to the Memorial Park and the beach, which are open around the clock, and the exhibition building that is open from 8:00-17:00. 

HOW TO GET THERE
By Car
From Krabi Town & Ao Nang area: Our shop is located in Ao Nammao, see google maps above. We are just 2 minutes from the Ao Nammao long tail boat pier to Railay East Beach. We are situated on the main road that services Ao Nang to Ao Nammao, opposite the Shooting Range. From Ao Nang it is a 5-10 minute drive to our shop. From Krabi Town a 30 minute drive to our shop. We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel for free, simply sign up and enter your name at checkout!
By Bus
There are both government run air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses that connect Bangkok, Phuket, Phang Nga, Trang, Hat Yai, and Surat Thani (Samui) to Krabi Bus Terminal. The bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal to Krabi takes approximately 12 hours. In addition to these buses, many private bus companies and travel agencies provide air-conditioned buses or vans to and from Krabi and these other provinces. There is a regular shuttle bus service between Krabi and Phuket airports, which are roughly 2 hours apart. Krabi Bus Terminal is located 4 kilometers north of town at Talat Kao. For schedules and additional information contact the Krabi Bus Terminal.
By Train
There is no train service to Krabi. The nearest train stations are in Surat Thani and Trang, where visitors can transfer to busses to Krabi.
By Plane
The Krabi International Airport (KBV) is about 10 km from the city limits, 15 km from the city center, and 40km from Ao Nang. Krabi is serviced by Thai Airways from Bangkok, Bangkok Airways from Koh Samui, and Thai AirAsia from both Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Major airlines recently added routes to the Krabi Airport, check out the airport website for the most up-to-date info.
By Other
Real Rocks Climbing customers get a FREE hotel pick up and drop off service from any hotel in Railay Beach, Krabi Town, Ao Nang & Klong Hang area.

MU KOH SIMILAN NATIONAL PARK




Similan is a Yawi or Malay word, which means nine or a group of nine islands. Similan is a small group of islands comprising nine islands stretching from north to south, respectively, namely: Koh Bon, Koh Bayu, Koh Similan, Koh Payu, Koh Miang (two adjoining islands), Koh Payan, Koh Payang, and Koh Huyong. Occupying an area of 32,000 acres, it was declared as a national park on September 1, 1982 and the park office is located on Koh Miang. Similan is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, both onshore and underwater. It is situated 70 kilometers from Phang-nga town. Best time to visit is between November and April.
Interesting attractions in the National Park include:
            Koh Similan or Koh Paet is the largest island of this group. It has a distinctive horseshoe-shaped bay and the average depth of the water is 60 feet. Underwater is full of rock formations and coral reefs in several shapes and forms such as deer, leaf, brain, and mushroom. The latter one is the most unspoiled coral found in the country. Its white sand beach is beautifully soft and very stunning. Diving around here is the must as it allows you to touch the real underwater world that full of fish and corals. To the north, lies a striking large rock formation with astonishing shapes such as boot and Donald Ducks head. The upper part of the beach is an ideal looKohut point with a rock of a sailing boat shape.
            Koh Ba-ngu is the ninth island of the Similan group. Its strange shape can be looked in different ways including a skull. Underwater scene is as beautiful as a coral reefs valley with deep gorges and various sizes of fish.
            Koh Huyong, the island offers the whitest and longest beach of all the nine islands. During turtles’ egg laying season, from November to February, there would be tracks on the beach made by turtles come onshore to lay eggs, resembling centipede tracks.
            Koh Miang is the second largest island among the group. It is where the office of the National Park is located. The island offers a scenic beach suitable for camping.
            Diving Spots: There are several diving spots suited both snorkeling and scuba diving. The famous scuba diving spots including rock formations that lie to the west of Koh Tachai where whale sharks can be seen, Koh Bon, Christmas Point rock formation, Fantasy rock formation, and Ao Kwang En (to the east of Koh Paet), etc.
Snorkeling spots are scattered around these islands. The suggesting spots are sailing boat rock, Ao Kwang En, and behind Miang Island.
            Accommodation: There are bungalows and tents as well as restaurants available on the island. For reservation, contact Mu Koh Similan National Park, tel: 0 2562 0760, www.dnp.go.th
Opening hours: 9am-5pm
Admission: 500 baht for adult and 300 baht for children
Contact: Mu Koh Similan National Park, Mu 1, Thap Lamu, Tambon Lam Kaen, Amphoe Thai Mueang, Phang-nga 82120, 076-421-365, 076-595-045, 02-562-0760
Getting there: Thap Lamu Pier, located 70 kilometers north of Phang-nga at Amphoe Thai Mueang, is the nearest point to Similan. A boat trip takes around 2 hours. There is no regular boat service for travelers to the island. Boats leaving from Thap Lamu are suitable for chartered with the rates range from 30,000-40,000 baht, depending on various factors.  It is sometimes possible for individuals to hitch a ride or pay a reasonable fraction of the rental cost on a boat chartered by a group. This method is by no means certain and should be an option only for the adventurous that have time to spare. Visitors may contact the park office at Thap Lamu (Tel: 0 7659 5045) for further information.
            A boat trip from Patong Beach, Phuket takes around four hours. Visitors can contact Seatran Travel Tel: 076-219-391/2. Diving companies in Phuket also organize a three-day trip ranging from 9,000 to 25,000 baht depend on the level of luxury, food and accommodations.


HOW TO GET THERE
By Car
From Krabi Town & Ao Nang area: Our shop is located in Ao Nammao, see google maps above. We are just 2 minutes from the Ao Nammao long tail boat pier to Railay East Beach. We are situated on the main road that services Ao Nang to Ao Nammao, opposite the Shooting Range. From Ao Nang it is a 5-10 minute drive to our shop. From Krabi Town a 30 minute drive to our shop. We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel for free, simply sign up and enter your name at checkout!
By Bus
There are both government run air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses that connect Bangkok, Phuket, Phang Nga, Trang, Hat Yai, and Surat Thani (Samui) to Krabi Bus Terminal. The bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal to Krabi takes approximately 12 hours. In addition to these buses, many private bus companies and travel agencies provide air-conditioned buses or vans to and from Krabi and these other provinces. There is a regular shuttle bus service between Krabi and Phuket airports, which are roughly 2 hours apart. Krabi Bus Terminal is located 4 kilometers north of town at Talat Kao. For schedules and additional information contact the Krabi Bus Terminal.
By Train
There is no train service to Krabi. The nearest train stations are in Surat Thani and Trang, where visitors can transfer to busses to Krabi.
By Plane
The Krabi International Airport (KBV) is about 10 km from the city limits, 15 km from the city center, and 40km from Ao Nang. Krabi is serviced by Thai Airways from Bangkok, Bangkok Airways from Koh Samui, and Thai AirAsia from both Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Major airlines recently added routes to the Krabi Airport, check out the airport website for the most up-to-date info.
By Other
Real Rocks Climbing customers get a FREE hotel pick up and drop off service from any hotel in Railay Beach, Krabi Town, Ao Nang & Klong Hang area.

PHANG NGA BAY OR AO PHANG NGA NATIONAL PARK

The marine national park covers a total area of approximately 25,000 acre in Amphoe Mueang Phang Nga, Amphoe Takua Thung, and Amphoe Koh Yao. It was declared a national park on April 29, 1981 and became Thailand’s second marine national park where most of the area is seawater and islands of Limestone Mountains of different shapes and beauty. It is also the home of mangrove forest and a breeding area of marine animals. December to April is the most appropriate period to visit the Park whereas May to October is the period of heavy rainfalls and strong waves.
Interesting Attractions within the National Park:

            Koh Panyi is a small island with a plain of approximately 0.5 acre and 200 houses of sea villagers. Most of the dwellers are Thai Muslims, earning their living by fishing and selling souvenirs and food to visitors. There is a school and public health center as well the giant floating football stadium that is listed as one of the most fascinating football stadium around the world.
            Koh Phanak is a beautiful island with stalactite and stalagmite caves and a small-tiered waterfall inside.
            Koh Phing Kan is an island on the beach that derives its name from the fact that a stone mountain split in two and the smaller part slid down, so that its base was buried into the soil while the top parts still lean against each other. The scenery behind Koh Phing Kan is very picturesque with “Koh Tapu”, otherwise known as “James Bond Island” is seen in the sea in the background, looking like a nail—Tapu—stuck into the water.
            Koh Ma Chu is on the way to Koh Panyi and looks similar to a dog, with a head, body, and a hairy tail.
            Koh Khian or Rock Paintings is on the way to Koh Panyi. It houses rock paintings on the cliff of various animals believed to have been painted by sailors who moored their ships here to take shelter from the monsoon. According to the Thailand’s Fine Arts Department, the paintings are at least 3,000 years old.
            Tham Lot is a mountain similar to Koh Thalu. The opening of the cave is approximately 50 meters wide and 40 meters high, through which a small boat can sail to the other end of the cave. There are weird stalactites on the cave’s ceiling.
            Koh Hong features undulated hills hugging the sea, looking like a large chamber with 2 doors and housing beautiful coral reefs.
Accommodation: The Phang-Nga Bay Resort near the Tha Dan pier offers comfortable rooms while national park itself also has bungalows and tents for rent. The national park bungalows has room for 4-15 persons and rates range from 700-1,500 baht. In case visitors bring their own tents, a fee of 20 baht each will be charged for showering. For more information contact Ao Phang-Nga National Park at 80 Mu 1, Tambon Koh Panyee, Amphoe Mueang, Phang-Nga 82000 or tel. 076-411-136, 076-412-188.
Opening hours: 8am-5pm
Admission: 300 baht for adult and 100 baht for children
Contact: Ao Phang Nga National Park, 80 Mu 1 Tambon Koh Panyi, Amphoe Mueang Phang Nga, Phang Nga 82000. 076-411-136, 076-412-188, or National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department Tel.   02-562-0760, www.dnp.go.th
Getting there:
            By car, the Park is approximately 8 kilometers from the provincial town. Take Highway No. 4 and turn left for some 4 kilometers into Highway No. 4144 until reaching the Customs Checkpoint Pier. A boat for rent is available from the pier. Otherwise, take a daily Song Thaeo (minibus) from the provincial town to the Customs Checkpoint Pier.
            Boat Cruises in Ao Phang Nga is available from various piers, as follows:
·        Customs Checkpoint Pier, near the Phang Nga Bay Resort, boats of different sizes are available. Contact Khun Han Karaket at Tel. 081-894-1499—Boat for 1 - 8 persons 1,200 Baht / Boat for 8 - 20 persons 2,000 Baht / Boat for 20 - 40 persons 4,500 Baht. The cruise takes about 3 - 4 hours.
·        Surakun or Kasom Pier, Amphoe Takua Thung, provides boats for rent of different sizes.—Boat for 1 - 10 persons 1,200 Baht / Boat for 1 - 20 persons 1,500 Baht / Boat for 1 - 30 persons 1,600 Baht
·        Ao Phang-nga National Park’s pier, speedboats and long-tail boats available. For more information , contact 076-411-136, 076-412-188.—Boat for 2 - 6 persons 1,000 Baht / Boat for 7 - 12 persons 1,500 Baht / Boat for 35 - 45 persons 4,500 Baht The Cruise takes about 3 - 4 hours. Note: Boat rental rates are subjected to change without prior notice.
For more information call:
·        Kiatjaroenchai 1, 076-496-475, 081-677-5971
·        * Kiatjaroenchai 2, 076-496-342, 081-676-2906
·         Ran Pol, 076-496-381, 086-691-4802. Or contact the following businesses: Sayan Tour, 076-430-348.

PHANG NGA

Phang Nga province is blessed with a variety of outstanding natural attractions including the stunning Phang Nga Bay, the idyllic Surin and Similan Islands, the sandy coast of Khao Lak, and
Phang Nga is a province equally renowned for its beautiful land, spectacular bay, and amazing islands; Phang Nga national parks feature magnificent scenery with immensely different attractions. Most famous is Phang Nga Bay National Park, a geological wonder filled with islets, sunken caverns, and startling rock formations rising vertically out of the sea. The bay is extremely sheltered and therefore ideal for expeditions on sea kayak that explore the many fascinating caverns and islands throughout the bay.


Phang Nga's Andaman coast offers equally stunning national parks of a different kind; the island groups of Surin and Similan are renowned for their beautiful, unspoiled beaches and spectacular underwater scenery, attracting divers from around the world. On the Phang Nga mainland, Khao Lak features a coastal park full of rare birds, exotic mammals, and scenic waterfalls, as well as many luxury and budget hotels along the spectacular coast that was devastated by the 2004 Tsunami but has since been completely rebuilt.

Not to be confused with Koh Phangan, the island in the Gulf of Thailand, Phang Nga province lies on the Andaman coast on the Thai mainland immediately north of Phuket. 

Phang Nga is renowned for its spectacular beauty, particularly Phang Nga bay, which contains hundreds of island including Koh Tapu (James Bond Island), where the film The Man with the Golden Gun was shot, and Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai, which feature laid back communities that allow for cultural home stay experiences. Phang Nga is also the province that includes two groups of islands considered the most beautiful in Thailand: Mu Koh Similan and Mu Koh Surin National Marine Parks. 

Along Phang Nga’s Andaman seashore lies Khao Lak, a stunning coastline of expansive beaches that bore the brunt of the 2004 Tsunami but has greatly recovered, and -- these two islands are little visited, yet well worth the effort. Although part of Phang Nga province, they are best visited from either Phuket or Krabi provinces. The big attraction in the bay is the spectacular karst scenery that is found through out the north of the bay. 

HOW TO GO
BY BUS
There are daily bus services from Bangkok to Phang Nga departing in the morning and evening. Traveling time is around 12 hours. For more information call the Southern Bus Terminal at tel. 0 2435 1199-200 or the Phang Nga Bus Terminal at tel: 0 7641 2300, 0 7641 2014 or visit www.transport.co.th

BY TRAIN
There is no direct train to Phang Nga. The State Railways of Thailand operates daily train services between Bangkok and Surat Thani. Visitors can get to Phang Nga by getting off at the Surat Thani Railway Station and then transferring to a bus for another two hours. For more information call Bangkok’s Hua Lumphong Railway Station at tel. 1690, 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020 or visit www.railway.co.th

BY AIR
The nearest airport to Phan Nga is Phuket, which is serviced by numerous Thai and international carriers from destinations within Thailand and abroad. From Phuket, visitors can take a bus, rent a car, or take a taxi (around 1200 baht) to Phang Nga, around 90 kilometers away. 

It is also possible to fly to Krabi, where it is then possible to rent a car or get mini-bus transportation to Phang Nga, an approximately 2 hour trip.

CHIANG MAI CITY ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER


  Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center, located on Chiang Mai-Hang Dong Road, is the center of Lanna arts and culture. It is Thai traditional teak houses, with exquisitely etched doors and windows. Within the area, there are plenty of souvenir shops, hill tribe villages, and antique fabric museum “Saban Nga”, in which more than 60 photographs are kept to display the town generality, tradition and culture, costumes, and life styles of the north people 100 years ago. Moreover, the site exhibits more than 6000 archaic textiles, and the stories of each hill tribe as well. Tour guides will take visitors around, narrating about history and unique features of each hill tribe textiles.
At night, dinner in Thai northern style “Kantok” is provided. Each of Kantok set consists of several Lanna local menus, such as Namprik Ong (Thai Northern Style Pork and Tomato Relish) served with pork cracklings, Namprik Noom (Green Pepper Chili Paste), Kaeng Hang Le (Hang Lay Curry), Mee Krob (Crispy noodles), and other 8 menus. Anyone prefers to dine on the floor can feel more at ease by laying their backs on northern triangle shaped pillows provided. Apart from dining, tourists can also enjoy a rare-to-find Lanna cultural performance, and hill tribe performances; Karieng, Mong(Maew), Akha, Musur, Yao, and Lisu as well. The show of each tribe is distinct. It welcomes visitors everyday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Anyone interested can contact 0 5327 4540, 0 5327 5097 for further information.
As for those who yearn to taste Lanna Kantok and try seeing the show outside the center, you can visit Lanna Kantok-Petchngam Hotel Tel. 0 5327 0080-5, Maeping Kantok-Imperial Maeping Hotel Tel. 0 5327 3900, Khum Kaew Palace Tel. 0 5321 4315, Kantok Baan Roii Chan-Pang Suan Kaew Hotel Tel. 0 5322 4444, and Sipsong Panna Tel. 0 5381 0695. The service time and rate of all these restaurants are quite the same.



HOW TO GET THERE
By Car
From Krabi Town & Ao Nang area: Our shop is located in Ao Nammao, see google maps above. We are just 2 minutes from the Ao Nammao long tail boat pier to Railay East Beach. We are situated on the main road that services Ao Nang to Ao Nammao, opposite the Shooting Range. From Ao Nang it is a 5-10 minute drive to our shop. From Krabi Town a 30 minute drive to our shop. We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel for free, simply sign up and enter your name at checkout!
By Bus
There are both government run air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses that connect Bangkok, Phuket, Phang Nga, Trang, Hat Yai, and Surat Thani (Samui) to Krabi Bus Terminal. The bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal to Krabi takes approximately 12 hours. In addition to these buses, many private bus companies and travel agencies provide air-conditioned buses or vans to and from Krabi and these other provinces. There is a regular shuttle bus service between Krabi and Phuket airports, which are roughly 2 hours apart. Krabi Bus Terminal is located 4 kilometers north of town at Talat Kao. For schedules and additional information contact the Krabi Bus Terminal.
By Train
There is no train service to Krabi. The nearest train stations are in Surat Thani and Trang, where visitors can transfer to busses to Krabi.
By Plane
The Krabi International Airport (KBV) is about 10 km from the city limits, 15 km from the city center, and 40km from Ao Nang. Krabi is serviced by Thai Airways from Bangkok, Bangkok Airways from Koh Samui, and Thai AirAsia from both Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Major airlines recently added routes to the Krabi Airport, check out the airport website for the most up-to-date info.
By Other
Real Rocks Climbing customers get a FREE hotel pick up and drop off service from any hotel in Railay Beach, Krabi Town, Ao Nang & Klong Hang area

BHUPING PALACE



Located on Doi Bhak Ha, just 4 kilometers further from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, this royal winter palace accommodates the royal family during their state visit in the north and is also a guesthouse to foreign dignitaries.  Built in the mountain overlooking Chiang Mai in central architectural Thai style of Ruen Muu (a group of houses), the palace takes the adventage of the cool mountain breeze. Immerse yourself in a flower paradise of Suan Suwaree, the famous royal rose garden. The palace is open to public but will be temporary closed for royal family visit from January to early March.
Opening hours: Daily 08.30 AM – 04.30 PM
Contact: Bhubing Palace, Doi Bhuk Ha, Tambon Suthep, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Mai, tel: 0 5322 3065, www.bhubingpalace.org


HOW TO GET THERE
By Car
From Krabi Town & Ao Nang area: Our shop is located in Ao Nammao, see google maps above. We are just 2 minutes from the Ao Nammao long tail boat pier to Railay East Beach. We are situated on the main road that services Ao Nang to Ao Nammao, opposite the Shooting Range. From Ao Nang it is a 5-10 minute drive to our shop. From Krabi Town a 30 minute drive to our shop. We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel for free, simply sign up and enter your name at checkout!
By Bus
There are both government run air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses that connect Bangkok, Phuket, Phang Nga, Trang, Hat Yai, and Surat Thani (Samui) to Krabi Bus Terminal. The bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal to Krabi takes approximately 12 hours. In addition to these buses, many private bus companies and travel agencies provide air-conditioned buses or vans to and from Krabi and these other provinces. There is a regular shuttle bus service between Krabi and Phuket airports, which are roughly 2 hours apart. Krabi Bus Terminal is located 4 kilometers north of town at Talat Kao. For schedules and additional information contact the Krabi Bus Terminal.
By Train
There is no train service to Krabi. The nearest train stations are in Surat Thani and Trang, where visitors can transfer to busses to Krabi.
By Plane
The Krabi International Airport (KBV) is about 10 km from the city limits, 15 km from the city center, and 40km from Ao Nang. Krabi is serviced by Thai Airways from Bangkok, Bangkok Airways from Koh Samui, and Thai AirAsia from both Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Major airlines recently added routes to the Krabi Airport, check out the airport website for the most up-to-date info.
By Other
Real Rocks Climbing customers get a FREE hotel pick up and drop off service from any hotel in Railay Beach, Krabi Town, Ao Nang & Klong Hang area.

BAN TAWAI - THE VILLAGE OF HANDICRAFT

Awarded OTOP tourism village of Thailand, this handicraft village is one of the major cultural attractions of Chiang Mai. Best known for its high quality at bargained price of wide variety of wooden, bronzeware, silverware handicraft and hand woven textile, the village is just an hour from Chiang Mai city.
Opening hours: Daily
Contact: Ban-Tawai Commercial and Tourism Information Center, 90, Moo 2, Ban-Tawai, Khun Khong, Hang Dong, Chiang Mai, 50230, tel: 081 882 4882, Website: http://www.ban-tawai.com, Email: baantawaimap@gmail.com

HOW TO GET THERE
By Car
From Krabi Town & Ao Nang area: Our shop is located in Ao Nammao, see google maps above. We are just 2 minutes from the Ao Nammao long tail boat pier to Railay East Beach. We are situated on the main road that services Ao Nang to Ao Nammao, opposite the Shooting Range. From Ao Nang it is a 5-10 minute drive to our shop. From Krabi Town a 30 minute drive to our shop. We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel for free, simply sign up and enter your name at checkout!
By Bus
There are both government run air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses that connect Bangkok, Phuket, Phang Nga, Trang, Hat Yai, and Surat Thani (Samui) to Krabi Bus Terminal. The bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal to Krabi takes approximately 12 hours. In addition to these buses, many private bus companies and travel agencies provide air-conditioned buses or vans to and from Krabi and these other provinces. There is a regular shuttle bus service between Krabi and Phuket airports, which are roughly 2 hours apart. Krabi Bus Terminal is located 4 kilometers north of town at Talat Kao. For schedules and additional information contact the Krabi Bus Terminal.
By Train
There is no train service to Krabi. The nearest train stations are in Surat Thani and Trang, where visitors can transfer to busses to Krabi.
By Plane
The Krabi International Airport (KBV) is about 10 km from the city limits, 15 km from the city center, and 40km from Ao Nang. Krabi is serviced by Thai Airways from Bangkok, Bangkok Airways from Koh Samui, and Thai AirAsia from both Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Major airlines recently added routes to the Krabi Airport, check out the airport website for the most up-to-date info.
By Other
Real Rocks Climbing customers get a FREE hotel pick up and drop off service from any hotel in Railay Beach, Krabi Town, Ao Nang & Klong Hang area.

CENTER OF THAI TRADITIONAL AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE, FACULTY OF MEDICINE, CHIANG MAI UNIVERSITY

 Center of Thai Traditional and Complementary Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University
Center of Thai Traditional and Complementary Medicine (TTCM) is located at 55 on Samlan Road, Tambon Pra Sing, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Mai. Its fundamental tasks can be divided into 3 parts. First, the task is to do the research on Thai traditional and alternative medicine such as pharmaceutical and toxicological studies on herbs and natural products, performances of acupuncture, massaging, and herb remedies etc.
Second, the center works towards teaching and learning. It now offers 4 core curricula: on Thai Medicine Assistant, on Hummer Massage for Health, on how to take care of a mom after delivery (according to Thai ancient tradition) and on mixing Chinese acupressure with Thai massage.
Last of all, it pursues health care service for patients. The center has provided the service since September 2011. More than 3,000 patients have used the service from medical doctors (medical clinics for general diseases) Thai medicine doctors (Suandok-style massage with hot press and how to take care of a mom after delivery according to Thai ancient tradition) and Chinese medicine doctors (touching the pulse to diagnose diseases, acupuncture and curing by using Chinese herbs) The service rates are as follows:
-250 baht for medical service
-400 baht for Thai massage with hot press; totally 650 baht as medical service is added to your program (refundable 250 baht)  
- 350 baht for Chinese medical acupuncture; totally 600 baht as medical service is added to your program (refundable 100 baht) 
-2,100 baht for a package of 6-time massage; totally 2,350 baht as medical service is added to your program (refundable 1,500 baht)
-1,800 baht for a package of 6-time acupuncture; totally 2,050 baht as medical service is added to your program (refundable 600 baht) 
Moreover, clients will be checked and given advice to by medical doctors before the massage or acupuncture and if clients are civil servants, they can refund according to the rights enforced by Central Accounts Department of Ministry of Finance
Clients can use the service from Monday to Sunday (09.00 a.m. - 08.00 p.m.) For more information, please contact 0 5394 9899, 0 5394 5003 or via ttcmmedcmu@gmail.com

HOW TO GET THERE
By Car
From Krabi Town & Ao Nang area: Our shop is located in Ao Nammao, see google maps above. We are just 2 minutes from the Ao Nammao long tail boat pier to Railay East Beach. We are situated on the main road that services Ao Nang to Ao Nammao, opposite the Shooting Range. From Ao Nang it is a 5-10 minute drive to our shop. From Krabi Town a 30 minute drive to our shop. We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel for free, simply sign up and enter your name at checkout!
By Bus
There are both government run air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses that connect Bangkok, Phuket, Phang Nga, Trang, Hat Yai, and Surat Thani (Samui) to Krabi Bus Terminal. The bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal to Krabi takes approximately 12 hours. In addition to these buses, many private bus companies and travel agencies provide air-conditioned buses or vans to and from Krabi and these other provinces. There is a regular shuttle bus service between Krabi and Phuket airports, which are roughly 2 hours apart. Krabi Bus Terminal is located 4 kilometers north of town at Talat Kao. For schedules and additional information contact the Krabi Bus Terminal.
By Train
There is no train service to Krabi. The nearest train stations are in Surat Thani and Trang, where visitors can transfer to busses to Krabi.
By Plane
The Krabi International Airport (KBV) is about 10 km from the city limits, 15 km from the city center, and 40km from Ao Nang. Krabi is serviced by Thai Airways from Bangkok, Bangkok Airways from Koh Samui, and Thai AirAsia from both Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Major airlines recently added routes to the Krabi Airport, check out the airport website for the most up-to-date info.
By Other
Real Rocks Climbing customers get a FREE hotel pick up and drop off service from any hotel in Railay Beach, Krabi Town, Ao Nang & Klong Hang area.

CHIANG MAI


Thailand’s “Rose of the North” is a cultural and natural wonderland with ethnic diversity, a multitude of attractions and welcoming hospitality. 




Chiang Mai literally means “new city” and has retained the name despite celebrating its 700th anniversary in 1996. King Meng Rai the Great founded the city as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom on Thursday, April 12 1296 around the same time as the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. King Meng Rai even conferred with his friends, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai and King Ngam Muang of Phayao before choosing the site where the capital of the Lanna Kingdom was to be founded. Henceforth, Chiang Mai not only became the capital and cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom, it was also to be the center of Buddhism in northern Thailand. King Meng Rai himself was a very religious leader who even founded many of the city’s temples that remain important to this day. Chiang Mai is one of the few places in Thailand where it is possible to experience both historical and modern Thai culture coexisting side by side: the city features centuries-old pagodas and temples next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels. This dichotomy is best appreciated within the moat-encircled old city, which retains much of the fortified wall that once protected the city center as well as the four main gates that provided access to the former Lanna capital city. Strangely, for many years tourists had mistaken Chiang Mai simply as the base from which they could plan trekking and rafting trips to hill tribe villages and explore other provinces. Once in Chiang Mai, however, tourists are surprised by the fact that there are so many things to discover other than its beautiful and historic temples. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes, a number of elephant camps, many cooking and massage schools, numerous outdoor activities, a variety of handicrafts workshops, various cultural performances, and breathtaking scenery make Chiang Mai one of Asia’s most attractive tourist destinations. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around town" was once a common expression. Today, two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for travelers to experience all that Chiang Mai has to offer.

The old city of Chiang Mai is a showcase of the north’s fascinating indigenous cultural identity that includes diverse dialects, a delectable cuisine, distinctive architecture, traditional values, lively festivals, numerous handicrafts workshops, northern style massage, and classical dances. Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources including mountains, waterfalls, and rivers. The presence of numerous hill tribes that feature a wealth of unique cultures enhances Chiang Mai’s distinctive diversity. Hill tribe trekking, often combined with river rafting and elephant riding has always been one of Chiang Mai’s greatest tourist attractions. Nowadays there are innumerable activities and attractions both in the city and the surrounding province, including massage instruction and golf. Moreover, visitors can visit workshops where they can learn about the production of silk or silver, and purchase memorable, hand-crafted souvenirs. With such a diverse range of attractions and an equally grand selection of dining and accommodation options, Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy the ultimate Thailand holiday.
Key Tips




  • Many elephant camps do not engage in Elephant-friendly practices. Avoid patronizing camps that exploit Thailand’s elephants.








  • Patronizing the Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Training Center in Mae Hong Son benefits both villagers and the authenticity of native arts.








  • The admission fee for the Chiang Mai Zoo is not inclusive of the fee to visit the Pandas.









  • If you plan on arriving in Chiang Mai during the Songkran festival (April 13-15) make sure you pack everything in plastic prior to placing it in your luggage.






  • HOW TO GO


    BY BUS
    From Bangkok there are ordinary, 2nd class, and 1st class air-conditioned busses leaving throughout the day from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) for Chiang Mai (8.00 a.m. to 09.00 p.m.) Call 02 936 3600, 02 936 2852, and 02 937 8055 for an updated bus timetable. 

    Private buses, which can be conveniently booked in tourist centers in Bangkok, are also available. However, the public busses from the Northern Bus Terminal are generally more reliable. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic. 

    From other provinces, including Mae Sai, Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai, Nan, Phayao, Phrae, Lampang, Lamphun, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Mae Hong Son, Mae Sot, Mae Sariang, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat), and Udon Thani, there are direct busses that service the Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station. Contact tel: 0 5324 2664 for an updated bus timetable.

    BY TRAIN
    Express and rapid trains operated by the State Railways of Thailand leave for Chiang Mai from Bangkok’s Hua Lumphong Station six times a day from 8.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. The trip takes about 11-12 hours on an express train. For more information, contact tel. 1690, or 02 223 7010, 02 223 7020. Chiang Mai Railway Station, tel. (053) 24 2094, 244 795, .247 462 245 363-4

    BY AIR
    Domestic airlines, including Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, and Nok Air, operate several flights daily between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Depending on where you are flying from, one of these airlines can also fly you directly to Chiang Mai from Mae Hong Son, Pai, Chiang Rai, and Koh Samui. 

    From international destinations, visitors can fly directly to Chiang Mai on a number of domestic and international air carriers. While these routes are subject to their economic viability for individual airlines, it is usually possible to fly directly to Chiang Mai from Kuala Lumpur, Luang Prabang, Singapore, Vientiane, and Yangon. International airlines servicing Chiang Mai from those destinations include Silk Air, Lao Airlines, and Mandalay Air.



    SIRINTHON DAM

    Sirindhorn Dam is a stone dam filled with clay. It is constructed to divide the Dom Noi River, which is a branch of the Mun River, at Kaeng Chae Noi in Chong Mek Sub-district, Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. The establishment started in 1968 and finished in 1971. It is currently under the responsibility of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand. Apart from its advantage to produce electricity, Sirindhorn Dam is also an important tourist attraction in Ubon Ratchathani Province.
    Sirindhorn has a very spectacular scenery. The main activity here is undoubtedly admiring the view of the dam above its ridge. Besides, inside the dam, there is “Sirindhorn Garden,” which the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand built to glorify Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in the occasion of her third round birthday anniversary in 1990. Sirindhorn Garden is situated on the left side of the dam ridge, next to the reservoir. The area covers around 40 Rai. It is generally shady with large and small plants and is a suitable place for relaxation. Inside the garden, the interesting things are the sculptures of 3 elephants, playing the Thai xylophone, fiddle, and flute. These three are the princess’ favorite musical instruments. At the garden, there are poem inscribed at many places for the visitors to search for.
    Other services which Sirindhorn Dam provides for the tourists are restaurants, accommodation guaranteed by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, and golf court for those who are interested in playing sports.
    Direction: From the city center of Ubon Ratchathani Province, take the highway number 24 to Warin Chamrap District. After that, take the highway number 217 to Sirindhorn District. The entrance of Sirindhorn Dam is on the left side of the highway number 217. It is not far from the city center of Sirindhorn District.

    Ubon Ratchathani


    A City of Beautiful Lotuses, a Two-colored River, Delicious Fish, Beaches and Rapids, Thai Scholars, Devout Buddhists, Finely Carved Candles, and Pre-historical Rock Paintings.

    Located on the banks of the Mun River, Ubon Ratchathani is a large, provincial capital city whose history dates back around two centuries, officially in 1780 when King Taksin the Great appointed the region’s first ruler and awarded the city its name. The city was governed by four semi-autonomous rulers until 1882 when it was appointed a governor as part of the Kingdom Siam.

    Located in the lower region of Northeastern Thailand, 629 kilometers from Bangkok, Ubon Ratchathani province features plateaus and mountain ranges with the Mun River running through the middle. Sandstone cliffs along the Mekong River serve as a natural border between Thailand and Laos. This region, where Ubon Ratchathani borders both Cambodia and Laos and the Mekong flows into Cambodia has been coined “the Emerald Triangle” in recognition of its magnificent green landscapes. Adding to Ubon Ratchathani’s natural appeal, Phu Chong Nayoi and Pha Taem National Parks are two of Isan’s most unspoiled and unvisited natural preserves.

    Ubon Ratchathani province features plateaus and mountain ranges with the Mun River running through the middle. The region where Ubon Ratchathani borders both Cambodia and Laos has been coined “the Emerald Triangle” in recognition of its magnificent green landscapes. Adding to Ubon Ratchathani’s natural appeal, Phu Chong Nayoi and Pha Taem National Parks are two of Isan’s most unspoiled and unvisited natural preserves. Ubon Ratchathani, the north-east's largest city, is also a wonderful place to witness the annual candle festival, a charming Buddhist celebration.

    HOW TO GO
    BY BUS
    Buses depart from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) to Ubon Ratchathani every day. Contact Transport Co. Ltd at Tel: 0 2936 2852-66 for more information.

    BY TRAIN
    Regular trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lumphong Railway Station to Ubon Ratchathani every day. Call 1690, 0 2223 7010-20 for more information.

    BY AIR
    Both Thai AirAsia and Thai Airways have daily flights connecting Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani. For more information, contact Thai Airways at tel. 0-2280-0060, 0-2628-2000 / www.thaiairways.com, or ThaiAir Asia at 02 515 9999 / www.airasia.com.


    RECOMMENDED Ubon Ratchathani

    UBON RATCHATHANI CANDLE FESTIVAL

    Ubon Ratchathani hosts the Candle Festival to mark the beginning of Buddhist Lent. This festival shows the people’s devotion to Buddhist tradition as well as their skills in carving magnificent candles. Buddhist Lent lasts 3 months and in this time the monks are confined to their temple grounds and dedicate their time to

    study, meditation, and prayer. Originally, a bundle of small candles was presented to the monks along with other basic essentials to use during this period. Over time, people started to carve the candles into beautiful shapes and in the reign of King Rama V, the Candle Festival and competitions associated with it were established to find the most beautiful candle. The Candle Procession, which takes place on Khao Phansa Day, features the Royal Candle sent by H.M. the King, and the ornately carved beeswax candles made by the local people. These are paraded around the city streets on floats. There is also an International Wax Sculpture Competition in which artists from all over the world display their works. 




    ** The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice **


    Highlight: The candle competition features two categories of candles based on the method of decoration – beeswax candles carved on the surface, and candles with molded beeswax attached. The festival also includes a light and sound presentation, cultural shows, and displays of local artisans’ handcrafting and sculptures.

    SIAM TULIP FIELD FESTIVAL



    arrived ! For many people waiting to admire the beauty of the Krachai flower with the "Festival of Krachai flower blooming year 2560" between June 1 to September 30, 2560 at Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Thephrodite National Park and Sai Thong National Park. Nong Bua Rawe District Chaiyaphum Province

    For the interior, in addition to the sweet flower field flowers. There are also various exhibitions, OTOP products and views of the land. Watch Bua Sawan and Lan Hin Ngam.

    For more information, please contact Thep Sathit Tel: 0 4485 7099, Chaiyaphum Provincial Administrative Organization Tel: 0 4481 1376, Sawai National Park Tel: 08 1877 8485 and Pa Hin Ngam National Park Tel: 0 4489 0105 or contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Nakhon Ratchasima Office Tel. 0 4421 3666, 0 4421 3030

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