Saraburi, Thailand

Saraburi has been an important town since ancient times. It is believed to have been constructed in the year 1548 during the reign of King Maha Chakkraphat. Sarahuri is only 108 kilometers from Bangkok occupying 3,576.5 square kilometers, and is administratively divided into 11 Amphoes and 2 King Amphoes: Muang Saraburi, Kaeng Khoi, Nong Khae, Wihan Daeng, Nong Saeng, Muak Lek, Ban Mo, Phra Phutthabat, Sao Hai, Nong Don, Don Phut and King Amphoe Wang Muang. Phra Phutthabat Shrine The name of this shrine literally means the Buddha's Footprints which are housed in the Mondop located on the shelf of Suwan Banphot Hill or Satchaphan Khiri Hill, Amphoe Phra Phutthabat 31 kilometers from the provincial township area. From Saraburi one takes a left turn and travels one kilometer before arriving at Amphoe Phra Phutthabat site. The footprint was discovered in the reign of King Songtham of Ayutthaya. There are two annual fairs celebrating the footprints: The first one falls on the 8th waxing moon day to the 1st waning moon day of the 3rd lunar month; and the second falls on the 8th waxing moon day to the 1st waning moon day of the 4th lunar month. Phra Phutthachai This literally means the Buddha's Shadow which is located on the Bangkok-Saraburi Road at Km.102 where a right turn is to be made for a distance of four kilometers; then take a left turn to the monastery where one can follow the sign clearly leading to the location in the foot hill area of Patthawi Hill, Tamhon Nong Pla Lai. The main attraction is the shadow of a Buddha image seen on a cliff wall and one can access there through a spiral staircase; the surroundings of that place are very pleasant and shady. Tham Krabok Buddhist Monk Sanctuary This place, famous for its treatment provided against narcotics addiction, is located in the area of Pong Prap Mountain Range, Tambon Khun Khlon, Amphoe Phra Phutthabat 25 kilometers along Paholyothin Road from Saraburi township area. Muak Lek Arboretum This arboretum is located 36 kilometers from Saraburi on Friendship Highway in back of the shops selling the products of the Dairy Farm Organization. It occupies an area of 375 rai situated at the middle point between Amphoe Muak Lek of Changwat Saraburi and Amphoe Pak Chong of Changwat Nakhon Ratchasima. Nam Tok Sao Noi or Ched Sao Noi This waterfall is accessible through the same road to Nam Tok Muak lek but one travel further for nine kilometers. The waterfall has many levels and the surrounding is naturally beautiffil with a spacious shady swimming area.