Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan This temple is situated on the west bank of the Bang
Pakong River, 2 Kms. south of the city hall. Enshrined in
a new gigantic hall is Phra Phutthasothon, or "Luang
Pho Sothon" regarded as one of the most revered Buddha
images in Thailand. The image, in the attitude of meditation,
measuring 1.65 metres wide at the lap and 1.98 metres high,
is always seen entirely pasted with gold leaves by worshipers.
Two annual fairs celebrating the image fall in the 5th and
the 12th lunar months (around April and November).
According to legend, Luang Pho Sothon
floated down the Bang Pakong River to the site of the temple.
Efforts to retrieve it were unsuccessful until a villager
had a small shrine erected on the site and performed a ceremony
welcoming the image to the community.
Bang Pakong River
This scenic river originates in the Khorat high plateau
and winds through the heart of the town before running into
the Gulf of Thailand at Amphoe Bang Pakong. A boat trip
along the river can start either from the town market or
Wat Sothon, and travellers can go towards Amphoe Bang Khla,
a total distance of 25 kms. The trip takes bout 3 hours
by long-tail boat.
Ancient Fortress
This historical site is located on Maruphong Road in the
town. This fortress was frequently used during the reigns
of King Rama lll and King Rama V. Many old cannons can now
be seen along the wall. Nearby, a public park is suitable
for viewing the scenery of the Bang Pakong River.
Somdet Phra Sri Nagarindra Park This public park in front of the city hall houses a
large swamp surrounded by various types of trees. It is
a suitable place for relaxation. |
Wat Pho
bang khla This temple is located
17 kms. from the town along Highway No. 304 (Chachoengsao-Kabin
Buri route) and another 6 kms. along Highway 3121. It is
home to numerous fruit bats, or flying foxes, which hang
themselves on the trees within the precincts of the temple.
Monument of King Taksin the Great This was constructed as a memorial site for the historic
event when King Taksin led the army past Bang Khla after
the fall of Ayutthaya to restore Thailand's independence.
Mango Orchards
Amphoe Bang Khla is a major producer for mangoes of various
kinds, which are known for their superb quality and taste.
The produce is plentiful in March, and the Mango Fair is
held during this time to promote this famous fruit.
Khro Hin Son
This is on Phanom Sarakham-Kabin Buri Road between Km. 51
and 52. It is a spectacular hill full of huge white rocks.
The unfertile area of about 770 acres, has been managed
and developed in accordance with the royal projects of experiment
and demonstrations on crop cultivation, fishery and livestock,
so that farmers can apply this knowledge in their work.
Ben Santitham or the village Social
Development Centre This is
located in Amphoe Sanam Chai Khet, some 60 kms. east of
the town along Route Nos. 304, 3245 and 3259. The centre
was established by the villagers to pass on local wisdom
and express the traditional way of life to youth. In the
village, there are herb gardens, a typical house with an
exhibition of farming tools and many devices created by
the local folk. Various farm products and herbs are on sale
at a nearby roadside open market. |