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AMPHOE CHAIYO
Wat Chaiyo Worawihan or Wat Ket Chaiyo
Is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, approximately
18 kilometers away from Amphoe Mueang Ang Thong, on Ang Thong Sing
Buri route. This is the second-class royal monastery. Formerly it
was a small ordinary temple constructed in the Ayutthaya period
with the unknown building date. Later in the reign of King Rama
IV, this temple was noted when Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phromrangsi)
a revered monk of Wat Rakhangkhositaram in Thonburi constructed
a large seated Buddha image in the posture of meditation made of
white plaster. In the reign of King Rama V, His Majesty the King
went to worship the image and had Wat Chaiyo renovated in 1887 but
the vibration from ramming piles of the wihan caused the large Buddha
image to collapse. The king then commanded to build a new large
Buddha image following the pattern of the large Buddha image at
Wat Kalayanamit. The new one has the lap width of 16.10 meters and
the height (from radiance to feet) of 22.65 meters and was graciously
named Phra Mahaphutthaphim. There was the biggest celebration for
the image ever held in Ang Thong at that time. The molded statue
of Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phromrangsi) constructed in 1894,
having the lap width of 5 meters and the height of 7 meters, has
been enshrined in the wihan facing the Chao Phraya River.
The large Buddha image housed in this wihan is larger, more elegant,
and more remarkable wihan than any other, therefore, Buddhists from
various parts of the country have continuously paid homage to this
image. In front of the wihan, the ubosot facing the Chao Phraya
River was constructed using the magnificent Thai architectural design.
Inside the ubosot, there are mural paintings depicting scenes of
the Lord Buddhas chronicles painted by the artisan in the reign
of King Rama V, and the molded statue of Somdet Phra Phutthachan
(To Phromrangsi) from Thonburi. At present, Wat Chaiyo Worawihan
has been renovated to exhibit its distinctive beauty.
Wat Phohom (Wat Pahuaphan)
Is located in Tambon Ratchasathit (Tambon Tanot) on the west
bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is 12 kilometers from Amphoe Mueang
Ang Thong. Taking Ang Thong Sing Buri route at Km 68-69 and turn
at the intersection for 1.5 kilometers. Originally, this temple
was constructed in the Ayutthaya period and was left deserted. The
temple was rebuilt 10 years ago. Attractions in this temple are
2 large stucco of four-face Bhrama heads, found from the excavation
of this temple placed on trays beside chedi. The object reveals
original workmanship of a Khmer-style sculpture. It is assumed that
those heads were the top parts of either the temple gate or the
ubosot gate similar to the one on top of the palace gate in Ayutthaya
period. Moreover, the new abbots' compartment displays a mixture
of Asian and European arts.
Wat Saket
Is an ancient temple, built in the Ayutthaya period, located in
Tambon Chaiyaphum, on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, approximately
15 kilometers from Amphoe Mueang Ang Thong. Formerly, Tambon Chaiyaphum
was called Ban Saket, administratively reported to Mueang Wiset
Chai Chan District. In the Royal Chronicle, it is mentioned that
in 1585 when Phrachao Chiangmai led his army to encamp at Ban Saket,
King Naresuan the Great and Somdet Phra Ekathotsarot attacked and
finally defeated Phrachao Chiangmais army. The present King and
Queen visited this temple in 1970 to make merit for King Naresuan
the Great.
AMPHOE MUEANG
Aquarium
Is near the intersection in front of Ang Thong Provincial Prison.
Here you can find a lot of huge Amazon serpent-headed fish and other
native fish like rad (gouramy), sawai (genus Pangasius), thepo (genus
Pangasius).
City Pillar Shrine
is opposite to Ang Thong city hall. The height of the shrine is
1.5 meters. This is the second city pillar shrine having mural paintings
on the four interior walls. (The first city pillar shrine with mural
paintings is City Pillar Shrine in Bangkok.) Ang Thong City Pillar
Shrine is an exquisitely sacred place appropriate as a focus of
victory and peoples heart. Do not miss to pay homage to this city
pillar shrine when visiting this province.
Somchit Roengpho Mixed Orchard
Is located at Mu 2, Tambon Khlongwua, Amphoe Mueang, taking Wat
Channimit entrance for approximately 3 kilometers. This orchard
was accredited with Mixed Orchard and 2001 International Feminine
Farmer Awards. Khun Somchit grows mixed fruits on the land of 13
rai (5.2 acres) and rice fields on the land of 10 rai. (4 acres)
She emphasizes on growing several mango seeds e.g. Setthi, Thawai,
Choke-Anan, Nam Dok Mai Mon, and pamelo and Citrus nobilis. To visit
the orchard, contact Khun Somchit for more details at Tel. 0 1818
1450.
Thai-Style House Models, Thai-Style House Prefabricated Parts,
Toddy Palm Furniture.
Follow Ayutthaya, Pa Mok, and Tambon Phosa route, this is a center
producing Thai-style house prefabricated parts of all types by sophisticated
handicraft inherited from the ancestors to remain Thai-style uniqueness.
Besides, there are Thai-style house models and furniture made of
several types of Toddy palm trees available for pale.
Wat Mathurotsatiyaram
Is located on the Asian Highway (Highway No. 32). From Asian Highway,
when passing the intersection to Ang Thong province for approximately
500 meters to Nakhon Sawan province, turn right into PTT gas station
for about 30 meters. This temple is formerly called Wat Kuti locating
on the bank of the Prakamthong River, an ancient river currently
called the Chao Phraya River. This temple was assumed to have been
constructed in the late Ayutthaya period. The only evidence remains
are crystal wall, ubosot, chedi, and wihan standing on the appropriate
positions with magnificent figures. The 4x8 meters ubosot is built
in the Chinese junk figure using brick and plaster, and the 6-meter
roof is covered with fire-clay tiles. Luxurious arts of the ubosot
are the carved angel pressing his hands together on top of lotus
motifs in the center of front and back gables.
Wat Ang Thong Worawihan
Is located on the east bank of the river. This is the third-class
royal monastery opposite Ang Thong City Hall. Originally, there
were 2 small temples located next to each other called Wat Pho Ngoen
and Wat Pho Thong constructed in the reign of King Rama IV. Later
in 1900, King Rama V had these 2 temples combined into one and graciously
named it Wat Ang Thong. This temple is famous for its beautiful
ubosot and bell-shaped chedi decorated with gold mirror. Groups
of neatly lying Thai monks' compartments are made of teak exhibiting
the arts in early Rattanakosin period.
Wat Chantharangsi
Is located in Ban Na, Mu 9, Tambon Huaphai from the Asian Highway
intersection entering Amphoe Mueang approximately 1 kilometer. When
you see the sign of the road, take another 1 kilometer to reach
this temple. Areas of this temple cover both sides of the road.
On one side, there is a sacred Buddha image called Luangpho Yok.
On the other side, it locates wihan of Luangpho Sod which housing
the metal image, the largest of its kind in the world, was constructed
in 1996. This golden Buddha image has a lap width of approximately
6 meters and 9 inches, and a height of 9.9 meters.
Wat Phinitthammasan
Is located on the east bank of Chao Phraya River in Tambon Bang
Plakot on the route of Ang Thong - Pa Mok - Ayutthaya Km 15. Its
former name was Wat Krasop. Main attractions are the old wihan constructed
in the late Ayutthaya period and the large seated Buddha image made
of plaster in the posture of subduing Mara built in the first Chiang
Saen batch with the lap width of approximately 12 meters, enshrined
in the open.
Wat Plotsat
Is located in Ban Hae, Mu 4, Tambon Ban Hae, approximately 7 kilometers
from the downtown of Ang Thong province, taking Highway No. 3501
Km 3-4. In the temple compound, there is a tower made of brick,
whose unique summit is covered with Ceylon-style chedi pagoda seen
from a distance.
Wat Ratchapaksi (Nok)
Is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River. Take Highway
No. 309 (Ang Thong to Ayutthaya) Km 52-53 from Amphoe Mueang 3-4
kilometers to the south. In this temple, there is a large reclining
Buddha similar to the one enshrined in Wat Pa Mok, but of a little
smaller size. The image was assumed to have been constructed during
the Ayutthaya period. The original image was badly ruined and was
renovated as shown. There is another Buddha image built during the
reign of King Songtham, approximately in 1620, which was formerly
placed on the bank of the Chao Phraya River. Prior, the image was
fallen into the river, Phra Maha Wichian Khannak and Buddhist devouts
moved the image to the current temple in 1947. Later the construction
of wihan had been completed in 1959 after struggling through various
obstacles. The image was then renamed as Phra Rod Wachira Molee
and has been remained for everybody to worship and pay homage.
Wat Suwansewariyaram
Is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River in Tambon Taladkruat.
Take the Asian Highway (Highway No. 32) Km 103-104 or 3 kilometers
from Ang Thong City Hall along the irrigation canal road. The wihan
houses approximately 20 meters in length of a reclining Buddha image.
Other ancient relics are about 100 years old.
Wat Tonson
Is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River opposite Ang
Thong Technical College. Wat Tonson is an ancient temple housing
Somdet Phra Si Mueangthong, a very beautiful seated Buddha image
in the posture of subduing Mara with the lap size of about 14 meters
wide and 19 meters high molded in metal and gilded. Wat Tonsons
abbot, Phra Ratchasuwanmalee, started the construction in 1973.
Her Royal Highness, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn performed a
ceremony to complete the construction on March 7, 1985. This is
regarded as the one of the largest metal molded Buddha images with
beautiful posture.
AMPHOE PA MOK
Ang Thong Brick
Is a high quality household industry for domestic sales. Most people
use this kind of brick to decorate external parts of the buildings
and houses. Those who are interested can buy the bricks directly
from the factory. There are more than 42 factories in Amphoe Pa
Mok along Highway No. 3501 Km 1-9 and Highway No. 309 Km 43-47.
Ban Bang Sadet Court Doll Center
Is a high raised Thai house behind Wat Tha Sutthawat in Tambon
Ban Bang Sadet. The former name of this Tambon was Tambon Ban Wattan.
When Their Majesties the King and the Queen visited and offered
help to those who suffered from flood in 1975, the people were overwhelmingly
pleased with their Majesties presence and contributions. In remembrance
of their gratitude to Their Majesties, the people approvingly changed
the name of Ban Wattan to Ban Bang Sadet.
The establishment of Ban Bang Sadet Court Doll Project was initiated
by Her Majesty the Queen in 1976. Its main purpose is to help the
villagers earn supplementary income. Besides admiring the shaded
and magnificent scene over the bank of the Chao Phraya River, visitors
can observe court doll production in the friendly villagers' houses.
Center of collaboration in the form of a co-operative system resides
at Ban Bang Sadet Court Doll Center. Some project members will demonstrate
court doll making and the products on sale are available at fair
price. Court dolls are the exotic clay invention displaying Thai-style
course of life and culture, e.g. Thai childrens' recreation, Thai
orchestra or various types of Thai fruits appropriate as souvenirs.
Contact number of Court Doll Production and Sales Center is Tel.
0 3566 2995.
Drum-Making Village
Is located in Tambon Ekkarat, behind Pa Mok market on the west
bank of the Chao Phraya River. Take the inner road passing Amphoe
Pa Mok Municipality Office running parallel to the irrigation canal
for approximately 17 kilometers. From time to time, drum shops can
be found on both sides of the road. People of Ban Phae have begun
producing drums since 1927 after the harvesting season. The raw
materials used are cowhide and rain tree wood because its texture
is soft and able to be dug easily. We can observe drum-making procedures
starting from lathing wood, laying cowhide sheet, and embedding
pins. We can find sophisticated and magnificent drums here in various
sizes, good for souvenirs. If you go passing the Tambon chief's
(Hongfah Yodyoi) house, you will find the largest drum in the world
of 3692 cm wide and 7.6 meters long, made of 6 pieces of connecting
Albizzia lebbek. It was built in 1994 and taken about one year to
complete.
Phanthai Norasing Monument
Is located in Wat Norasing, Mu 2, Ban Taphun, Tambon Norasing,
taking Highway No. 3501 (Ang Thong Pa Mok Ayutthaya route) Km 9-10.
This monument was built in 1988 to commemorate the steersman of
Ekkachai royal barge in the reign of King Phrachao Suea. The steersman
confirmed to receive an execution for not able to control the barge
well enough and let it bump into branches and broke the royal barge
front. He believed this would prevent the next generation from doing
the same mistake. Hence, his decision has been appraised until now.
Wat Pa Mok Worawihan
Is located in municipal Tambon Pa Mok on the west bank of the
Chao Phraya River approximately 18 kilometers away from Amphoe Mueang.
Take Highway No. 309 (Ang Thong Ayutthaya route) at Km 40, then
take Highway No. 329 and 3501 to find a signage to Wat Pa Mok. In
the temple compound, there is a beautiful gilded reclining Buddha
made of brick, and plaster. The image is 22.58 meters from the topknot
to the feet. It is assumed to have been constructed in the Sukhothai
period. Legend of this Buddha image was that he floated along the
river and sank in front of this temple. People offered sacrifices
to the Buddha image before pulling him from the river to house on
the riverbank. In the royal chronicle, it is mentioned that before
leading his army to attack Phra Maha Upparacha, King Naresuan the
Great stopped at this temple to gather his troops and paid homage
to the image.
Due to the erosion on the riverbank near wihan, King Sisanphet
III commanded Phraya Ratchasongkhram to lead the removal of Buddha
image from the riverbank. King Thai Sa controlled this removal and
invited the Buddha image to enshrine in the new wihan in Wat Talad,
168 meters away from the river. Later the King commanded to merge
Wat Talad and Wat Chipakhao into one temple and renamed as Wat Pa
Mok due to the abundance of Wrightia religiosa (Mok) trees all around.
Besides the reclining Buddha, this temple is famous for wihan Khian,
where the wall confronting to the river has a tall stand formerly
used by the King, mondop of 4-foot prints, and tower of monastic
library, etc.
Wat Sa Kaeo
Is located in Tambon Bang Sadet approximately 200 meters away
from Wat Tha Sutthawat along the irrigation canal road. If travel
from Ayutthaya using Ayutthaya Ang Thong route (Highway No. 309)
Km 39-40, entrance to the temple will be on the left side. This
temple was constructed in 1699 when it was originally named Wat
Sakae. This temple has become the orphans care center with many
children under supervision. Therefore, Wat Sa Kaeo Orphanage Li
Gay troupe has been established for earning income to cover the
expenses in bringing up themselves, which in turn makes this temple
become well known. Inside Wat Sa Kaeo, there is Samakkhisamakhan
building, which is a center for hand woven fabrics project under
Her Majesty the Queens initiation established in 1981, currently
under the supervision of Cottage Industry Section, Ministry of Industry.
Also, there are good-quality woven clothes e.g. sarong, bathing
cloth, etc. In front of the temple is the location of Amphoe Pa
Mok Cultural Center, providing demonstration of weaving, silverware
and court doll production, and agriculture produce from housewives
e.g. banana. This represents the dissemination of Amphoe Pa Mok
workmanship skills to be known and sold to the public. Both attractions
are open daily from 8 am. 4 pm. For more information, please contact
Wat Sa Kaeo at Tel.0 3566 1169,0 3566 1273 or Wat Sa Kaeo School
at Tel. 0 3566 1950-1 or email : Wat_Sakaew@hotmail.com.
Wat Tha Sutthawat
Is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River in Tambon
Bang Sadet. This ancient temple was constructed in the early Ayutthaya
period. During the war, this site was the trooping route for the
army crossing the Chao Phraya River. Take Ayutthaya Ang Thong route
(Highway No. 309) Km 38-39, the temple entrance will be on the left
side approximately 17 kilometers before reaching downtown Ang Thong
province. At present, this temple is under the royal patronage of
Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The temple compound is shaded with
large trees exhibiting magnificent scene over the bank of the Chao
Phraya River. The royal pavilion stands in the middle of the pond.
Chedi (pagoda) exhibits ancient Buddha images and historical relics.
Monuments of King Naresuan the Great and King Ekathotsarot are besides
the pavilion. Inside the ubosot, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn
had her personal painters and drawers from the Royal Folk Arts and
Crafts Project draw the mural paintings illustrating Phra Maha Chanok,
history of Ang Thong province. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graciously
drew a mango on this temple wall as well.
Wat Thanon
Is located in Tambon Phongpheng. From Amphoe Pa Mok, passing
municipal market to the inner route of Pa Mok Bang Ban (Highway
No. 3501) Km 19-20 approximately 7 kilometers, you will find Wat
Thanon. This temple was constructed approximately in 1780 in the
Thonburi period. A wooden Buddha image in the standing posture,
carved in a human size of approximately more than 2 meters, is enshrined
in the wihan called Luangpho Phraphut Rampueng. From the chronicle,
the raft with the Buddha image floated along the river and stopped
in front of this temple and did not go any further. Phra Thong Yu,
the abbot in that period, found that there was an engraved wooden
Buddha image in the raft. Therefore, he offered sacrifices to the
Buddha image before moving him from the river to house in the temple.
People, who pay homage to this temple, like to make wishes and prove
them by placing the eggs in front of the Buddha image. Whoever can
make the egg stands, he/she has good luck. Offerings of boiled eggs,
a play, and garland are used as the means to redeem a vow to the
Buddha for the wishes that have been made. Other attraction is the
floating 100-year Buddhas footprint of 30x70 in engraved wood on
the ceiling of the temple hall.
AMPHOE PHO THONG
Bats at Wat Chantharam
Wat Chantharam is an old temple locating in Ban Chang, Mu 5,
Tambon Khok Phutsa, approximately 4 kilometers to the west of Pho
Thong District Office. Take Pho Thong Sawaengha Road for approximately
1 kilometer and then turn left for another 3 kilometers. Inside
the precinct of this temple is crowded with trees, which have become
habitats for numerous basted birds for centuries. These bats look
for food at night, whereas during daytime, they hang themselves
upside down along the black-color branches to be seen from distance.
Visitors can enjoy visiting them in every season.
Fish Park at Wat Khoi
Is located at the Noi River in front of Wat Khoi, Mu 1, Tambon
Pho Rang Nok, 12 kilometers from Ang Thong province. Take Ang Thong
Wiset Chai Chan route, on Highway No. 3151 Km 27-28, you will find
the signboard of the Fish Park at Wat Khoi, then turn right to take
a short cut along irrigation canal for approximately 2.3 kilometers.
Fish at Wat Khoi have been abundant for 50 years since Phrakhru
Sukitwichan (Luangpho Khem) was an abbot. Later in 1985, Phrakhru
Sorakitchaton, the present abbot had the place renovated. With the
coordination from the Office of Amphoe Pho Thong Fisheries, this
venue was declared as a fish sanctuary. The police will see that
the fish are not disturbed. At present, there are various species
of fish living together over 50,000 e.g. sawai (genus Pangasius),
rad (gouramy), thepo (genus Pangasius), buek (Pangasianodon gigas),
tapian (carp), etc. Fish foods are available for visitors to enjoy
feeding them. Beverage stalls are also available.
Within Wat Khoi compound, another attraction is an ancient Thai-style
teak temple hall of religious instruction built on eight-angle pillars.
Under the temple hall, various kinds of antiques are exhibited e.g.
boats from China such as towing boat, sculling boat, Thai-style
gondola, and covering boat. Collections of tools and equipment used
in growing rice e.g. cart, wheel, and plough handle are also displayed.
Aquaculture harvest equipment like bamboo fishing trap can also
be found. Besides, there are mondop, wihan, chedi, ubosot, monks'
compartment, praying hall, historic remains of ancient classroom
and antiques from foreign countries e.g. ancient lamp from Washington
D.C., ancient clock from Paris, and teak monastic cabinet from China
in the reign of King Rama V, or ancient cradle. Neighbors in this
area established Coarse Rice Production Center in a form of cooperatives
for distribution to the public. Local museum displays various kinds
of ancient boats e.g. towing boat and sculling boat, and farmers'
equipments e.g. stone mortar, hand rice mill, rice winnowing basket,
etc., which clearly review life style of the Thai people in the
central region.
Phra Tamnak Khamyat
Is located in Tambon Khamyat, 2.5 kilometers west of Wat Pho
Thong on Ayutthaya Pho Thong Road. At present only four walls of
the royal residence remain. The 10x20 meters royal residence, made
of brick and plaster, stands eminent in a paddy field. The artistic
beauty still remains e.g. motifs around the window, front and back
balcony, was painted in red soil and covered with wooden floor.
Regarding his diary about the trip on the Makhamthao River, King
Rama V visited Phra Tamnak Khamyat in 1908, he understood that Krommakhun
Phornphinit (Prince Uthumphorn or Khunluang Hawat) entered his monkshood
at Wat Pho Thong and built this residence for his lodging during
the Buddhist Lent since it was a strategic site. Having seen that
the residence was exquisitely constructed, King Rama V then changed
his mind. He realized that Krommakhun Phornphinit should not have
had this residence built so exquisitely for a temporary lodging
or a stronghold. King Rama V surmised that this residence might
have been constructed in the reign of King Borommakot as his residence
during his frequent visits to this area, in parallel to King Prasatthong
who constructed his residence in Bang Pa-In. Due to his preference
in this area and paying homage to the reclining in Wat Khun Inthapramun
twice, Krommakhun Phornphinit (Prince Utumphorn or Khunluang Hawat)
made his loyal subjects and monks to leave Ayutthaya and stayed
at Wat Pho Thong Khamyat and Phra Tamnak Khamyat in order to join
with Bang Rachan villagers. At present, Department of Fine Arts
has renovated and registered Phra Tamnak Khamyat as a historical
site.
Wat Khun Inthapramun
Is located in Tambon Inthapramun. It is an ancient temple constructed
in the Sukhothai period. Considering the original line of brick
remains, it is estimated to be a large temple. The largest and longest
reclining Buddha in Thailand, 50 meters from the topknot to the
feet, is enshrined here. Originally, the reclining Buddha image
was housed in the wihan, but this temple was on fire and was left
deserted with the Buddha image in the open for centuries. The image
features and size are similar to those of Phranon Chaksi, a reclining
Buddha image in Sing Buri Province. Therefore, it is assumed to
have been constructed in the same period. The image possesses attractive
Buddha features with a serene smiling face attracting respectfulness
and faithfulness from people. Thai kings went to pay homage to the
image e.g. King Borommakot in 1753, King Rama V in 1878 and 1908.
The present king came to present the royal Kathin robes in 1973
and again in 1975. Buddhists from all over the country always make
their visits to worship the image.
Moreover, within Wat Khun Inthapramun compound, there are historical
remains of basement, some parts of walls, and Buddha image in Luangpho
Khao wihan. Inside the all-purpose pavilion, there is a statue of
Khun Inthapramun and the skeleton found in the wihan of the reclining
Buddha image in 1998 lying on his face with his hands and feet tied
up. People believe that this skeleton is of Khun Inthapramun, but
some say it is not. According to the legend, Khun Inthapramun was
a revenue officer who secretly embezzled the government tax to build
this reclining Buddha image as a holy object. When the King asked
how he obtained the fund from, Khun Inthapramun did not reveal the
truth because he was afraid that his merit from building the image
would be passed on to the King. He was finally sentenced to death.
And the temple was then called Wat Khun Inthapramun.
How to get there : This site can be accessed by 3 routes. Ang Thong
Amphoe Pho Thong (No. 3064), then take a right turn at Km 9 for
approximately 2 kilometers. Or take the route from Sing Buri province
to Amphoe Chaiyo at approximately Km 64-65, take a left turn for
4 kilometers to reach the temple. Or take the new route Amphoe Wiset
Chai Chan Pho Thong (along the irrigation canal road) when arriving
at Amphoe Pho Thong, take a right turn for 2 kilometers to reach
the temple.
Wat Pho Thong
Is located in Ban Pho Thong, Tambon Khamyat, opposite the entrance
of Ban Bangchaocha, 9 kilometers from Amphoe Mueang on Ang Thong
Pho Thong route. In the royal chronicle, Wat Pho Thong was the place
where Krommakhun Phornphinit (Prince Uthumphorn or Khunluang Hawat)
entered his monkshood. King Rama VI spent his summer vacation in
this temple during his boat trip visiting the Noi River and Yai
River in Krungkao precinct in 1916.
Wat Ta It
Is located in Ban Ta It, Tambon Bangphlap, taking Highway No. 3064
Km 7-8. This temple was constructed in 1761. Originally, this site
was for firebrick production and brick distribution center or port
for building Wat Khun Inthapramun. After the completion of temple
construction, it has then been called Wat Ta It (temple of brick
port). Villagers called the principal Buddha image in the ubosot
as Luangpho Phetch, while the principal Buddha image in the wihan
was called Luangpho Khao. The latter, once enshrined in wihan Maha-Ut
was constructed in the Ayutthaya period approximately over 200 years
ago. When entering the temple, the outstanding Phrathat Chedi Sri
Phothong in gold can easily be seen. Reasons for constructing Phrathat
Chedi can be traced back to 1992 when Phrakhru Sukhonthasilakhun
(Luangpho Hom) initiated to build the Ceylon Ayutthaya -Rattanakosin
pattern chedi of 40-meter width and 73-meter height in the temple
compound. The octahedron chedi holding bells and divided into 32
sections is to replace the former corroded chedi standing in front
of the ubosot. This chedi is for housing the relics of Buddhas neck
as well as various Buddha images in different postures, which represents
the religious treasures in commemoration of Lord Buddhas kindness
for preaching mankind to have good faith, concentration, and wisdom
in order to achieve the virtue based on individuals ability. Later
in 1995, Phrakhru Sukhonthasilakhun, acknowledged of King Bhumiphols
sickness at the beginning of this chedis construction, had made
a strong wish praying for His Majesty the Kings recovery in exchange
for a construction of this chedi as a donation. His Majesty the
King then named this chedi Phrathat Chedi Sri Phothong. Princess
Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presided at the opening ceremony of this
chedi in 2000. Wickerwork Village Ang Thongs renowned wickerwork
is mostly produced by the community of Amphoe Pho Thong. Almost
every house situated in the vicinity along both sides of the Chao
Phraya River establish groups of specialization for wickerwork,
rattan, and bamboo wickerwork production e.g. Tambon Ongkharak Group,
Tambon Bangchaocha Group, Tambon Bangrakam Group, Tambon Phlap Group,
and Tambon Inthapramun Group.
The noted wickerwork area of the province is in Ban Bangchaocha
locating at Mu 8, Ban Yangthong, Tambon Bangchaocha. The wickerwork
from this village is made of bamboo. Her Royal Highness Princess
Maha Chakri Sirindhorn visited this village and advised people to
grow Sisuk bamboo as for their raw materials and for conservation
of this handicraft category. Wickerwork from this village is well
known for its extraordinary fineness and beauty besides being produced
to meet the market demand. It does not stick only to the old typical
design which enabling it to produce for export. This village has
been recognized as a pattern for career development.
In this village, there is a museum exhibiting a collection of tools
and native equipment made of bamboo.
How to get there : Take Ang Thong Pho Thong route for approximately
9 kilometers to Yangmani Irrigation Canal. Then turn right and go
along the canal for approximately 5 kilometers before turning right
into Wat Yangthong Road. The handicraft center is behind the temple.
AMPHOE SAMKO
Amphoe Samko
Is approximately 25 kilometers away from Ang Thong city. Though
it was originally a small Tambon reporting to Amphoe Wiset Chai
Chan, it was promoted as sub-district and then as district in 1965.
For its historical importance, Samko is mentioned in the royal chronicle
that the Burmese marched their army from Dan Chedi Sam Ong to encamp
in Samko before attacking Ayutthaya City. It is also the place where
King Naresuan the Great and Phra Ekathotsarot led the troops to
Tambon Traphangtru in Suphan Buri province and defeated the enemy
by combat on elephant back.
At present, Samko is well known in its native tradition and folk
arts. There are some agriculture areas in Samko converted from rice
fields to other agriculture land e.g. lotus field, good species
coconut plantations estate, and mixed orchard. Farmers know how
to develop their career using new technologies to improve agriculture
products in both quality and quantity and to earn satisfactory income.
Samko is also a land of native songs where both male and female
singers take significant roles in conserving and bringing native
recreation and songs back to life.
AMPHOE SAWAENG HA
Ban Khu Mueang
Is located in Tambon Ban Phai, 4 kilometers from the north of
Sawaeng Ha District and 3 kilometers from Bang Rachan stockade.
At Ban Khu Mueang, archaeologists discovered ruins of an ancient
city, which presumably existed during Thwarawadi period. Its evidence
shows a wide ancient moat and earthen mound, some fragments of pottery,
animal bones, beads, and medicine grinding stone. At present, it
is a simple canal without any traces of historical sites.
Bird Sanctuary
Is located at Mu 2, Ban Riowa, Tambon Ban Phran, 24 kilometers
from Ang Thong province. Take Pho Thong Sawaeng Ha Road (Highway
No. 3054) Km 18-19, turn into Ban Tambon Nongmaekai until reaching
Nongmaekai School. Then go along the laterite road for 6 kilometers
until you reach Wat Riowa. In this temple, thousands of birds of
various species naturally dwell there including the egret, heron,
open-billed stork, night heron, cormorant kingfisher, etc. Certain
kinds nearly become extinct and cannot easily be seen in other places.
Wat Ban Phran
Is located in Tambon Sriphran. Take Pho Thong Sawaeng Ha route
(Highway No. 3054) Km 21-22. It is unknown when this ancient temple
was built. Regarding to Luangpu Chaimongkons (from Ayutthaya) narration,
a couple called Mr. Phan and Mrs. Ngoen and their son, Mr. Krapukthong
constructed Wat Ban Phran at the end of Sukhothai era during 1319-1327.
After that, this temple was deserted and was overspread with thick
weeds and trees for over 100 years. When hunters set up small village
in this area, they helped renovate this temple. There is a legend
saying that the laterite Buddha image called Luangpho Kraithong
enshrined in this wihan was built by King Sri Intharathit in Sukhothai
and removed into separated parts for assembly again as the principal
Buddha image in Wat Ban Phran. Since the founder would like to build
his own principal image, he constructed wihan to house the Buddha
image called Luangpho Kraithong. Krai represents the robe, and shoulder
clothes of Luangpho Kraithong. Some fine days at midnight, Krai
will turn into sparkling light indicating good luck for those who
happen to see. It is believed to be a sacred one being able to protect
the worshippers from danger.
Wat Yang
Is located in Tambon Huaiphai and is presumably constructed
in the late Ayutthaya period. The historical remains to be found
now are ubosot with an upward curve base similar to junk, sandstone
Buddha images, damaged stucco Buddha images and boundary stones.
About half kilometer to the south of the temple, there is earthen
mound where large quantities of amulets were found. Since it is
not far away from Ban Bang Rachan, it is presumably a place for
hiding precious treasures of the Thai people during that time.
AMPHOE WISET CHAI CHAN
Nai Dok Nai Thongkaeo Monument
Is located in front of Wiset Chai Chan Witthayakhom School at Mu
2, Tambon Phaichamsin. Follow Ang Thong Wiset Chai Chan route between
Km 26-27 for approximately 1.5 kilometers into Soi Pu Dok Pu Thongkaeo
16. This monument was constructed by Wiset Chai Chan together with
Ang Thong people to commemorate the two heroes of Ban Pho Thalay,
Wiset Chai Chan people, and Grandpa Dok and Thongkaeo who sacrificed
their lives in the battle with Burmese at Ban Khai Bang Rachan prior
to the defeat of Ayutthaya in 1766. Crown Prince Wachiralongkorn
on behalf of His Majesty the King presided over the opening ceremony
of this monument in 1977.
Wat Khian
Is another ancient temple locating at Mu 8, Tambon Sanchao Rongthong,
near Wat Wiset Chai Chan, which is 12 kilometers from Amphoe Mueang.
Follow Highway No. 3454 for approximately 1 kilometer. Inside the
ubosot are exquisite mural paintings featuring stories of 10 former
incarnations of the Lord Buddha, which were presumably the workmanship
of a painter school in Mueang Wiset Chai Chan in the late Ayutthaya
period. The painting features are similar to those painted in the
same period being in the ubosot to Wat Ko and Wat Yai Suwannaram
in Phetchburi Province.
Wat Muang
Is located at Mu 6, Tambon Huataphan, approximately 8 kilometers
from downtown. Go along Ang Thong Wiset Chai Chan route (Highway
No. 3195) Km 29 for 1 kilometer, the temple will be on the left
side. There are several important attractions in the temple. The
ubosot of Wat Muang is surrounded by the biggest lotus petals in
the world. Ground floor of Wihan Kaeo is a museum (open only on
Saturday and Sunday during 9 am.5 pm.) exhibiting sacred objects,
antiques, and figures of renowned monks from all over the country.
The upper floor of the museum houses the first and largest silver
holy Buddha image of the country, which was constructed in commemoration
of the 50th anniversary of His Majesty the Kings throne ascendancy.
Within the temple compound, there are figures of heaven and hell,
Thai god paradise, Chinese god paradise, and a huge statue of Kuan
Im female goddess. Besides, there are figures narrating the history
of Thai-Burmese battle in Wiset Chai Chan. At the back of the temple,
there is a fish park where you can also buy some local products
of Ang Thong province here.
Wat Oi
Is an old temple representing a symbol of Mueang Wiset Chai Chan
locating at Mu 10, Tambon Sanchao Rongthong, on the west bank of
the Noi River. Follow Highway No. 3454 for approximately 2 kilometers
and 1 kilometer from the north of Wat Khian. The temple is assumed
to have been constructed in the Ayutthaya period, but there is no
evidence by the reign of which king. The ubosot is a huge building
consisting of 6 chambers made of brick and plaster in ancient design.
The roofs were made of wood and covered with fire-clay tiles, as
beautiful as the ubosot of Wat Ratchaburana in Ayutthaya. With Maha-ut
design, there is no window in the ubosot. Special features of the
ubosot are the pillars of the gallery in 8 directions. The principal
Buddha image, called Luangpho Dam, is made of alloy of brass and
tin. Wat Oi was used as a venue to hold the ceremony of taking the
oath of allegiance to the king in the Ayutthaya period. In the precincts
of Wat Oi, the Children Creation Foundation has provided accommodation
for problem children: straying, drug addicted, or illegally behaved.
The accommodation is called Ban Dek Klai Wat with the purpose of
helping problem children to live better life. They can live with
the beauty of natural surroundings and monks help to treat them
mentally.
Wat Siroi
Is located on the bank of the Noi River, at Mu 4, Tambon Siroi.
Follow Highway No. 3454 km.31-32 (on Pho Phraya Tha ruea or Ang
Thong Wiset Chai Chan route about 12.5 km. kilometers to the west
of Amphoe Mueang Ang Thong, take a left turn along the irrigation
canal road for 5 kilometers). At Wai Siroi, there is a seated Buddha
image in the posture of Pa Lelai, called Luangpho To - 21 meters
high and 6 meters wide from knee to knee. Inside of the ubosot,
there used to have exquisite mural paintings by the craftsmanship
of painters school in Ayutthaya. At present, the paintings have
been faded away.
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