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 Chak-kaphat of Ayutthaya as a
centre for recruiting troops.
The town, as a gateway to the northeastern region, is only 108 kms. from Bangkok. It occupies an area of 3,576.5
square kilometres, and is administratively divided into 13 districts: Muang Saraburi, Kaeng Khoi, Nong Khae, Wihan Daeng,
Nong Saeng, Muak Lek, Ban Mo, Phra Phutthabat, Sao Hai, Nong Don, Don Phut, Wang Muang, and Chaloem Phra Kiat.
Saraburi Attractions:
Wat
Phra Phutthabat Lacated in Amphoe Phra Phutthabat 28
kms. north of the town along Highway No.1, it is one of the
most beautiful religious sites in Thailand. The temple Houses
the footprint of Lord Buddha found on a stone panel near Suwan
Banpot Hill. The footprint
was found in the reign of King Songtham
of Ayutthaya. A cone-shaped structure or mondop was built to
cover the footprint. The beautiful mondop, which is a square
building, has a seven-level castle roof .Each level is decorated
with an arch supported by wood and decorated with gold and coloured
glass. The external walls are also decorated with gold and coloured
glass in the shapes of mythological gods and rice offering ceremonies.
The pearl inlay artwork on the mondop doors is one of the best
samples of this type of craftsmanship in the country. A five-headed
Naga, mythical serpent, cast in bronze flanks the stairs to
the mondop entrance. The mondop is surrounded by bells used
by visitors to make merit for other people. A museum in the
temple displays many ancient objects including King Songtham's
attire, old weapons, Bronzeware and ceramics. Annual fairs celebrating
the footprints are held twice a ear, in February and March.
Wat Phra Phutthachai At Km. 102 or Km. 104 before arriving in the town, there
is a 5 km. access road leading to this temple, Which is situated
on a hillside. The main attraction is a picture of Lord Buddha
appearing on a cliiff wall. A vihara has been built to cover
it. The surroundings are very pleasant and shady.
Khao Sam Lan National
Park This is the nearest national park where tourists
can take a short journey from Bangkok. It is 4 kms. beyond Wat
Phra Phutthachai. The park offers many small waterfalls, some
of which can be reached by short hiking trails. The best time
to visit the falls is the late rainy season when water is plentiful.
Tham Krabok This place is known for its treatment provided
against narcotics addiction. It is located at Tambon Khun Khlon,
Amphoe Phra Phutthabat, 25 kms. north of the town along Highway
No.1.
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