Thailand

A trip to Thailand is often associated with discovering its paradise islands. However, the country has other attractions to offer, such as its cities. Among those worth visiting is Saraburi, the capital of the province of the same name, located in the central part of the country. It is approximately 115 km away from Bangkok.

History

Saraburi is a city that emerged around the mid-16th century. The origin of its name is believed to be linked to its location, as it is situated near a marsh known as "Bueng Nong Ngong." Thus, the combination of "sa," meaning marsh, and "buri," for city, supposedly gave rise to the current name of Saraburi.

Creation of the Province

During the reign of King Maha Chakkraphat of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, it was decided to combine parts of the Lopburi and Nakhon Nayok provinces to form the province of Saraburi. This decision was purely strategic, aiming to facilitate the mobilization of the region's inhabitants during times of war.

Today

Saraburi is today known for its temple, Wat Phra Phutthabat. Also known as the "temple of the Buddha's footprint," it was built in the 18th century during the reign of King Songtham. According to an old legend, a villager in the region supposedly spotted a Buddha footprint carved into the rock at the temple site. The discovery was reported to the king, who, after verifying the claim, ordered the construction of a "mondop," a porch-like structure to house the sacred Buddha footprint. Access to it requires climbing three Naga-shaped staircases. It is believed that worshipping this footprint ensures success in life and guarantees direct access to a better life in heaven. When devotees seek blessings from the Buddha, they sprinkle water on the footprint and place a gold leaf on it.

Tak Bat Dok Lai at Wat Phra Phutthabat

Every year, during the Buddhist Lent (often in mid-July), a flower offering is organized by devotees to the monks of Wat Phra Phutthabat temple. People do this mainly to accrue merits with Buddhist priests.

Attractions to See Beyond Saraburi

Namtok Sam Lan national park

Located about 7 kilometers south of Saraburi, it covers an area of approximately 45 km2. It is renowned for its magnificent waterfalls among local and foreign visitors. Its highest point, Khao Khrok, rises to about 329 m. Exploring the park is mainly done on foot, and it takes about 2 to 3 hours to walk around the site. The best time to visit is between October and January. During your nature escapade, you may have the chance to observe or encounter some regional animals, such as the barking deer, wild boar, pheasant, etc.

Thambon Phai Tam bird reserve

Located about 17 kilometers from the center of Saraburi along Highway 1, birdwatchers and curious tourists alike will enjoy visiting this site. Several bird species are housed here, including the bittern, black drongo, little cormorant, white-breasted waterhen, and black-crowned night heron.

Tham Si Wilai

This cave, situated about twenty kilometers from Saraburi, houses a Buddha several centuries old, the Phra Phutthanaowarat. Inside the cave, visitors can also admire stalactites and stalagmites.

Sunflower fields, scenery worthy of some photographs

These fields are located along the Phattana Nikhom-Wang Mueang road, the route between Lopburi and Saraburi. With mountains and regional vegetation in the background, it offers a beautiful spectacle that will surely surprise many.

Climate

Saraburi experiences a tropical savanna climate with relatively low precipitation in the winters. The average local temperature generally hovers around 27°C. April is often the hottest month, with temperatures exceeding 30°C. In December, the average temperature is around 24.8°C.

How to get there?

Saraburi is located approximately 115 kilometers northeast of Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. You can reach it by bus, train, or private car, as it does not have an airport.

By train

Choosing this mode of transportation can save you some money, as the fare is relatively affordable, ranging from 24 to about 106 baht per person, depending on the class. Trains from Bangkok depart almost daily from Hua Lamphong station.

By bus

From the Mo Chit II Bus Terminal in Bangkok, you can board either an air-conditioned or non-air-conditioned bus. The fare depends on your choice, but generally ranges between 40 and 80 baht. The journey takes about 2 hours.

By car

This option is for those who enjoy traveling at their own pace while being comfortable. It's best to rent your own vehicle if your budget is not a constraint.