Flourishing on the banks of Noi
and Chao Phraya Rivers, Ang Thong Province is a small province in central Thailand. This
region is famous for its various ancient and beautiful temples symbolizing the
Thai history. Better described as a
land of temples, Ang Thong region has several marvelous shrines known for their
intricate mural paintings and wooden carvings. Wat Siroi is located on the bank
of Noi River and has a large seated Buddha image. Wat Chaiyo Worawihan is a
royal Buddhist monastery located on the banks of Chao Phraya River.
There are several temples that
have been built during the ancient Ayutthaya period. Popular among these
include Wat Phohom, Wat Saket, Wat Mathurotsatiyaram, Wat Ratchapaksi and Wat
Khun Inthapramun. The largest and longest reclining Buddha in Thailand is
enshrined here. Wat Chantharam temple
is famous among the visitors for the large population of bats, which are found
hanging upside down from the branches of the numerous trees present around the
temple.
Another beautiful attraction is the Fish Park at Wat Khoi. This park is
located at the Noi River and has around 50,000 fish species. The Bird Sanctuary
is a treat to ornithologists and nature lovers. Several rare migratory and
native birds reside in these beautiful surroundings including the egret, heron,
open-billed stork, night heron and cormorant kingfisher. Samko district is well
known for its native tradition and folk arts.
Ang Thong is well known for its handicrafts. People of this region
exhibit exquisite craftsmanship in making bamboo baskets, molded court dolls,
traditional drums and prefabricated parts for Thai-style house. Ang Thong is
famous for the traditional long boat race held during March and October. There
are few other prominent annual festivals celebrated in this region including
City of Rice and Water Bowl Fair and Annual Red Cross Fair that is held at the
end of harvest time during December-January.
Tourists can hire a car from Bangkok and take the Phahonyothin Highway
or the Bangkok-Pathum Thani Highway to reach Ang Thong. Transportation Company
Limited provides daily bus transportation services between Bangkok and Ang
Thong from Northern Bus Terminal.
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