Wat Wang Wiwekaram

Wat Wang Wiwekaram

Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, Kanchanaburi

About 6 km. from Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, this temple is the residence of Luangpho Uttama, a respected monk of Thais and Mons including Karens and Burmese living in the area. On the riverside, an elegant marble Buddha image named “Luangpho Khao” is situated in the Wihan (Buddhist assembly hall). Besides, 1 km. from the temple, the Buddha Gaya Chedi with a square-formed base is situated containing relics of Lord Buddha’s right thumb. Near the pagoda, there are lots of shops selling products from Myanmar such as clothing, cosmetics, Burmese talcum powder and wooden furniture at low prices.

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Every year, in February, there is a festival to celebrate Luangpho Uttama’s birthday. Activities include religious rituals, Muai Khat Chueak boxing, performances from the Cultural Folk Club such as Mon classical dance, Karen’s Ram Tong, etc. In the festival, people will get dressed in Thai-Raman typical costumes and prepare sets of food offerings to carry on their heads and give to the monks.

Sangkhla Buri Jungle Trek

Sangkhla Buri Jungle Trek

Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, Kanchanaburi

This service is offered to tourists by hotels in Amphoe Sangkhla Buri. The programme starts with rowing boats along Huai Song Ka Lia, riding elephants and rafting. Please contact tour agencies in Kanchanaburi in advance or get more information at the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Central Region Office, Region 1, or call Tel. 0 3462 3691 and 0 3451 2500.

Khao Laem National Park

Khao Laem National Park

Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, Kanchanaburi

About 190 km. from Kanchanaburi on Highway 323 (Thong Pha Phum-Sangkhla Buri), the national park is situated at Km. 40, about 30 km. to Amphoe Sangkhla Buri. With an area of 815 sq. km. covering Amphoe Thong Pha Phum and Amphoe Sangkhla Buri including forest, Khwae Noi River and Vajiralongkorn Dam (or Khao Laem Dam), it is a peaceful pleasant park with Huai Kateng Cheng flowing through it. Tourists can camp and start the journey there to learn about nature along the waterfall.

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Namtok Kateng Cheng

This medium-sized waterfall has 23 levels, and each level has its own different unique form. The distance from the first level to the highest one is about 2 km.; therefore, it is suitable for visual studies of various kinds of forests; banana forest, bamboo forest, evergreen forest and mixed deciduous forest. Moreover, especially at the sixteenth level a large beautiful tree exists and another huge one requires at least 13 adults holding hands to encircle.

To experience this waterfall, tourists have to go on foot from the national park office taking about 2-3 hours. After about 2 km., they will get to the first level of the waterfall. Climbing up to the higher levels, they will find a sight-seeing point at the top of the waterfall where they can see Khao Laem Dam at a bird’s eye view.

After that, visitors can choose to return by foot and take a jungle trek through the fertile virgin forest instead of the one they depart from. During the journey, they will pass fascinating fern forest, Rakam (zalacca) forest, lichi and Mafai forest. Furthermore, it is pleasant to hear the echoing sound of water falling over the rocks all the time.

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However, the rainy season is not a good time to visit this waterfall. Tourists should ask for official guides of the park office. Accommodation service and camping is available. Admission is Bt400 for adults and Bt200 for children.

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For further information, please contact the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkhen, at Tel. 0-2562-0760 or at the website http://www.dnp.go.th/.

The Phuket International Marathon 2007

The Phuket International Marathon 2007

the largest destination marathon in South East Asia, will take place on Sunday 17th June 2007

Only in its sophomore year, the Phuket International Marathon 2007 looks set to build substantially upon the success of last year’s inaugural event.

Organisers Go Adventure Asia are expecting a 100 per cent increase in participants – including 1,500 international runners from 40 different countries – which will provide a global platform for the beautiful Thai region.

The date of the event was specifically chosen to maximise the benefits of the event for the island. Held during a traditional low-season the, Phuket International Marathon 2007 will encourage the tourist industry to thrive throughout a typically quiet period.

The focus of the event is not on breaking world records but in establishing a respected competition that exposes the true beauty of Phuket. Following the Tsunami disaster in 2004, the organisers set out to create an event that celebrated how the people, businesses, and landscape of Thailand had recovered and were moving forward.

In 2007, Go Adventure Asia is encouraging runners to raise money for a charity of their choice. This is a new concept in Thailand, but the organisers hope to emulate the success of the London Marathon, whose 9500 participants raised in excess of £12 million in 2006. The Phuket International Marathon 2007 has nominated HOPE worldwide (Thailand) as its official charity. HOPE worldwide (Thailand) is dedicated to helping needy children and underprivileged girls in Thailand.

The race course navigates around the picturesque Northern part of the island, allowing people of all abilities to participate whilst still enjoying the stunning scenery of the island. A Half Marathon and a 10km Fun Run have been organised in addition to the Marathon – making this incredible sporting experience available to people of all ages and athleticism.

RUN PARADISE!

The Phuket International Marathon, 2007

June 15th – 17th 2007

PHUKET INTERNATIONAL MARATHON 2007 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

• Friday June 15th

– Expo

– Participants pick up Race-Kit’s @Laguna Beach Resort

• Saturday June 16th

– Expo

– Participants pick up Race-Kit’s @Laguna Beach Resort

• Saturday June 16th

– Pasta Party @ Similian Ball Room, Laguna Beach Resort

• Sunday June 17th

– 2nd Phuket International Marathon

• 05.00hrs - Start of Marathon

• 06.00hrs - Start of Half Marathon

• 06.30hrs - Start of 10k Fun Run

• 08.00hrs - Start 5k walk

• 09.00hrs - Start 1k Kids Run

• 09.30hrs - Winner’s Presentation

• 10.00hrs - Cultural Performances on stage

• Sunday June 17th

– Farewell Party @ Columbian Garden, Dusit Laguna Resort Marketing Support by Paul Poole (So uth East Asia) Company Limited

A ‘Pasta Party’ on the evening of the 16th and a Farewell Party on the 17th provide an excellent opportunity to meet fellow runners, organisers, and taste some of the delicious seafood from the Andaman region. Entertainment will be provided by traditional musicians so participants can taste both the delicacies and culture of the island – before exploring the geography during the race. Tickets can be bought online or at the event Expo on the 15th and 16th June.

“2007 will be an excellent year for the Marathon” commented Raimund Wellenhofer – Phuket International Marathon 2007 race director - “The professional organisation of the inaugural event was commended – but for 2007 the race has grown significantly in size, and as such, we hope to offer sporting excellence while providing even greater exposure for the region’s beauty and abilities.”

More Information:

www.phuketmarathon.com/

www.purpletangerine.com/phuketmarathon

www.goadventureasia.com/

www.thailandmarathon.org/

www.hopeww.org/

6th KOH SAMUI REGATTA

6th KOH SAMUI REGATTA

The Tropical Island Regatta May 27th – June 2nd 2007

The Koh Samui Regatta, now in its sixth year, looks set to maintain its strong reputation as one of the highlights of the Asian sailing circuit at the 2007 event – being held between May 27th and June 2nd.

The week long sailing extravaganza, now officially recognised by the International Sailing Federation, brings together many of the world’s top sailors guaranteeing a week of fun filled racing action and passionate partying.

The Regatta is organised under the auspices of the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand. Racing takes place over five days comprising of a mixture of coastal passages and around the cans.

The event culminates in a VIP gala dinner and awards ceremony at the Central Samui Beach Resort. Evening cocktail parties are held at various locations throughout the Regatta.The laid back luxury of island life, combined with exhilarating On-The-Water action offers a truly unique event.

“In six successful years the Koh Samui Regatta has made incredible progress and it is easy to see why it hasbecome one of the highlights of the Asian sailing circuit,” says Pornsiri Manoharn, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

“The Koh Samui Regatta can truly be called an international yachting event since it attracts boats from as far a field as Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong, as well as from all parts of Thailand, which make their way here solely to take part in this fun event.”

KOH SAMUI REGATTA 2007 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

• Saturday May 26th

– Early Registration @ Central Samui Beach Resort

• Sunday May 27th

– Registration Day @ Central Samui Beach Resort/ Opening Party @ Zico’s

Brazilian Grill and Bar

• Monday May 28th

– Race Day 1

• Tuesday May 29th

– Race Day 2

• Wednesday May 30th

– Race Day 3

• Thursday May 31st

- Rest Day / Explore this beautiful Tropical Island with the Land Rover Tour

• Friday June 1st

– Race Day 4 / Land Rover Party @ TBA

• Saturday June 2nd

– Race Day 5 / VIP Gala Dinner @ Central Samui Beach Resort
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Initial participant response indicates that over 30 yachts are expected to head to Koh Samui this May with an even mixture of keelboats and multihulls. Racing classes include: Racing; Cruising; Sports Boats; Multihulls and Firefly One Design.

"We firmly support this regatta,” said Daweesak Somabha , President of the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand . “Our commitment helps ensure the success of an event which brings so much credit to the lovely island of Samui and her people.”

The 2007 event is being managed by Image Asia Events Co., Ltd. , who will draw upon their vast experience running the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta the Evason Phuket Raceweek and the Phuket International Marine Expo (PIMEX), to ensure that the 6th Koh Samui Regatta 2007 maintains its reputation as a major player in the marine events arena. Its proven expertise in the industry will encourage the growth of the event, while remaining truthful to its origins – providing an excellent platform to showcase the region and theregatta.

Commenting on the relationship with Image Asia Events Co., Ltd, Peter Plant, Secretary of the Koh Samui Regatta Organising Committee said, “The tie up with Image Asia Events presents a great opportunity for the Koh Samui Regatta to move forward and to strengthen its place as one of the highlights of the Asian sailing circuit.”
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Koh Samui

Koh Samui is Thailand’s third largest island at 247 square kilometres. During the last decade the island has become one of South East Asia’s top five most visite d tourist destinations. The neighbouring islands of Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and the breathtaking Ang Thong National Marine Park offer visitors a wide range of activities such as sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling and adventure excursions.

Along with the island’s established infrastructure including international educational and medical facilities, a wide choice of high street shopping brands, exquisite dining venues, and beautiful white sandy beaches, Koh Samui stands out as one of the jewels in Thailand’s illustrious crown.
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For Interviews / Images / Further Information

Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co., Ltd.

198 Tanou Road, Bovernives

Pranakorn, Bangkok, 10200

Thailand

Tel/Fax: +66 2622 0605 - 7
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Paul Poole – Managing Director (English Speaking)

Tel: +66 8 6563 3196

E-mail: paulpoole@email.com

Thanthip Kaewsri – Personal Assistant (Thai/ English Speaking)

Tel: +66 8 1694 7412

E-mail: thanthip@email.com

IMPORTANT

Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.

Contact:

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Email: info@tat.or.th

Website: www.tat.or.th

Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)

Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)

FOR EVENT INFORMATION,

please call 1672.

Address:

1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Rajatevee

Bangkok 10400

Thailand

Mon Bridge

Mon Bridge

Amphoe Sangkhla Buri, Kanchanaburi

Sangkhla Buri is a district bounded by Myanmar, approximately 215 km. from the city of Kanchanaburi. By travelling along Highway 323, passing mountains near Vajiralongkorn Dam, an attractive reservoir with beautiful scenery. Furthermore, Amphoe Sangkhla Buri is situated in the place where three rivers: Huai Song Ka Lia, Huai Bi Khli and Huai Ran Ti, join and lead to the Khwae Noi River. That’s why we call the point “Sam Prasop” (the confluence of three rivers). In addition, Mons have settled in this district so visitors can learn about the typical Mon ancient culture and traditions here.
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Mon Bridge
Also known locally as Uttamanuson Bridge, the bridge links Sangkhla Buri and Mon villages. It is Thailand's longest wooden bridge which is 850 meters long and crosses Songkaria river. In addition, it is a famous viewpoint from which to admire the merging point of three rivers, Songkaria, Bikhli and Ranti.

Sai Yok National Park

Sai Yok National Park

Amphoe Sai Yok, Kanchanaburi

The park covers approximately 300-square-kilometers and contains several interesting caves and the nations famous Sai Yok Yai waterfall. The park has dense forests, including majestic teak trees and an abundance of small mammals such as squirrels, bats and deer, as well as numerous bird species. IN addition, the park is home to what is probably the smallest mammal in the world, the two-grammed Kittis Hog-nosed Bat, which was first discovered in 1973 by a Thai naturalist. The park is 104 kilometers from Kanchanaburi via Highway No. 323 and can also be reached by chartered boat from the Pak Saeng Pier. The park is very popular during the weekends. Bungalow accommodations, river rafts, camping facilities, and a daytime food market are available.

Sai Yok Yai Waterfall (Namtok Sai Yok Yai), which is located 104 kilometers from the town, flows directly into Khwae Noi River. Its idyllic beauty has been repeatedly celebrated in Thai poetry and songs. A rope bridge enables people to cross the river to view the waterfall. Rafts are available for a river trip along the riverbank but advance booking is recommended.

Lawa Cave and Daowadung Cave are two caves, which house numerous stalactites and stalagmites. Of the two caves, the Daowadueng Cave, which entails a river trip and 1-kilometer walk, is the more popular cave.

Tham Wang Badan or Tham Sawan Wang Badan, located within the area of Erawan National Park at Tambon Tha Sao, Amphoe Sai Yok, some 63 km. from the province. It is accessible from behind Namtok Sai Yok Noi where there is a direction sign of 3 km. to the national park’s safeguard unit, a location of the upstream of Namtok Sai Yok. Another 1,500–metre walk from the safeguard unit will lead to the cave with nature interpretation signs along the way. Tham Wang Badan is a small but deep cave of 500 metres long. It is a 2-storeyed limestone cave with a small hole at the mouth to be entered one by one. Its upper storey houses various chambers of beautiful stalagmites and stalactites of different shapes. The lower storey contains a stream to look like a tunnel of water under a large boulder.

Sai Yok Noi Waterfall (Namtok Sai Yok Noi) is also dubbed as Khao Phang Waterfall. It is situated 60 kilometers from town via Highway No. 323. The place is best visited between July and September.

To get to Sai Yok Noi Waterfall:non air-conditioned buses leave Kanchanaburi Bus Station every 30 minutes from 6 a.m. until 6.30 p.m. The journey takes 2 hours and costs 25 baht.
Alternatively, visitors can take a train from Kanchanaburi to Namtok Station and continue on foot or by local transport to the waterfall, which is 2 kilometers away. Trains depart from Kanchanaburi at 6.11 a.m., 11 a.m. and 4.37 p.m. and return from Namtok Station at 5.25 a.m. 1 p.m. and 3.15 p.m. The one-way rail trip takes about 2 hours and costs 17 baht. (Please check the current schedule from TAT Kanchanaburi or the railway station before departure.)

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak)

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery (Don Rak)

This is the place where the remains of 6,982 POWs died during the construction of the Death Railway are buried. The cemetery, which is located on Saengchuto Road, opposite the Railway Station, just 1.5 kilometres from the TAT office, It is open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.

Prasat Muang Sing Historical Park

Prasat Muang Sing Historical Park

Muang Singh town was built between 857 and 1157 when the Khmer Kingdom was still prosperous. It was later abandoned until the reign of King Rama I when Muang Singh was rebuilt as a Kanchanaburi border town.

The only archeological site with a religious structure built in the middle of the city is the Khmer Prasat Mueang Sing (Tower of the City of Lions) where the heavy influence of the late Lop Buri arts is clearly visible. The ancient site is located on a steep bank of Khwae Noi River where the waterway narrows and becomes fast flowing. The city walls, which were made of rectangular laterite, are approximately 800 meters in width, 1,500 meters in length and 5 meters in height. The compound is believed to have been the westernmost outpost of the Angkor-centered Khmer empire. Remains dating back some 2,000 years have been discovered, and artifacts, including temple carvings, religious statuary and pottery shards indicate that the city must have been inhabited from approximately the 12th to 14th centuries.

The historical park is open daily from 9 a.m.-4.30 p.m. Admission fee is 40 baht. Call 0 3459 1122 or 0 3459 1334 for additional information.

Visitors can take a train from Kanchanaburi to Tha Kilen Railway Station and continue on foot or by local transport to Prasat Muang Sing, which is just 1.5 kilometers away. Trains depart from Kanchanaburi Railway Station every day at 6.11 a.m. (arriving at Tha Kilen at 7.28 a.m.), 11 p.m. (arriving at 11.59 a.m.) and 4.37 p.m. (arriving at 5.42 p.m.). To return to Kanchanaburi, trains depart from Tha Kilen Station at 6.22 a.m., 1.51 p.m. and 4.31 p.m.

SARANROM CULTURAL PARK

An Exhibition in Honour of His Majesty the King, Cultural Shows and Light-and-Sound performances Cultural Park for Tourism Project 1 January – 14 April 2007 13.00 – 21.00 hrs, daily

Free Admission

An Exhibition in Honour of His Majesty the KingThe exhibition showcases thousands of projects initiated by His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand for the benefit of the Thai people throughout his 60 years on the throne.

Cultural Shows from Five Regions Cultural shows from the five regions include Thai traditional folk dances, Manorah performances, shadow puppet plays, northeastern-style basket dances, performances of Thai traditional masked dances or khon, and plays by artists from around the country.Performances are staged simultaneously twice a day.15.00 – 15.30 hrs and 18.00 – 20.30 hrs

Merry Folk Music

Enjoy a vast selection of colourful folk music bands such as the northeastern-style Sing Saderd folk singers, the Mongserng rock group, the southern band Pran Preu and alto xylophonist Narongrit Tosa-nga. Many national artists and famous stars from each province will take to the stage, presenting impressive performances daily.Performances are staged simultaneously twice a day.15.00 – 15.30 hrs and 18.00 – 20.30 hrs

Grand Light-and-Sound performances

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday/ 19.00 – 20.00 hrsThese combine the performing arts with multimedia effects, musical fountains, flying angels and laser displays. With the support of more than 50 performers, the show is intended to express national loyalty for His Majesty the King through five stories about five special occasions.

Learn about Thai Folk

Wisdom The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will stage demonstrations on how to create products based on Thai folk wisdom. Visitors are welcome to observe the demonstrations and learn about useful techniques free of charge.

Demonstrations are held twice a day.

15.00 – 17.30 hrs

18.00 – 20.30 hrs

Contact information:

Cultural Park for Tourism Project

Bangkok Tourism Division, Culture, Sports and Tourism Department

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration

Tel: 0 2225 7612-4

Fax: 0 2225 7615-6

Web site: http://www.saranrom.net/,www.bangkoktourist.com

IMPORTANT

Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.

Contact:

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Email: info@tat.or.th

Website: www.tat.or.th

Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)

Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)

FOR EVENT INFORMATION,

please call 1672.

Address:

1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Rajatevee

Bangkok 10400

Thailand

The Bridge on the River Khwae (the Death Railway Bridge)

The Bridge on the River Khwae (the Death Railway Bridge)

Thanks to several films and books, the Bridge on the River Khwae has become notoriously famous and attracted both Thais and foreigners to the site. If an ordinary black iron bridge can tell a story, you can be sure it's a dramatic one.

The bridge spans across Maenam Khwae Yai which is a branch of Maenam Mae Klong. During the Japanese occupation of Thailand in World War II, the Japanese Imperial Army brought the iron bridge from Java. It was then resembled by Allied Prisoners of War (POW) under Japanese supervision. The bridge was part of a strategic railway route to Myanmar in which the Japanese aimed to secure supplies with which to conquer other western Asian countries. It was 415 kilometers long (about 303 kilometers in Thailand and about 112 kilometers in Burma) and passed through the Three Pagoda Pass in Sangkhlaburi District, the northern most part of Kanchanaburi province.

Construction started on September 16, 1942 at Nong Pladuk, and was completed on 25 December 1943. It is estimated that over 16,000 POWs from England, Australia, Holland and America died while building the bridge which was a target of bombing raids in 1945. In addition to this, approximate 90,000 laborers from Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia and Indonesia died during its construction.

Rebuilt after WWII, the bridge is still in use today with the curved portions of the bridge being that of the original. An attraction of note is the annual light and sound event at the bridge to commemorate the Allied attack in 1945.

The railway currently ends at Ban Tha Sao or Namtok Station, a distance of some 77 km. from Kanchanaburi Station. A special train running from Bangkok to Namtok Station is available on weekends and national holidays. For further details, please contact the State Railway of Thailand, Tel. 0 1690, 0 2220 4334 or http://www.railway.co.th/.

CHON BURI BANG SAEN SONGKRAN SAND-STUPA BUILDING FESTIVAL

CHON BURI BANG SAEN SONGKRAN SAND-STUPA BUILDING FESTIVAL

APRIL 2007

On the beach in Bang Saen, Siracha district, Chon Buri province

The Songkran celebrations in the Saensuk district Chon Buri province are of particular interest as the festivities reflect the local culture and environment. With no shortage of sand to build sand-stupas, the stupa building contest is a predominant element of the Songkran festivities in Chon Buri.

Residents of the each of the villages in the district gather together to take part in community Buddhist merit-making. Monks are invited to conduct merit-making ceremonies and rituals, whilst local residents present merit-making offerings and sprinkle scented lustral water on Buddha images in a Songkran Thai New Year bathing ritual. Families pay respect to elderly relatives and other respected individuals by pouring scented lustral water over the hands.

Festival highlights include the 'Kong Kao' religious ritual, rarely seen folk games and traditional Thai sports, cockfighting - a popular local sport, the Siracha Miss Songkran beauty pageant and Siracha Songkran Parade.

Contact information:

TAT Central Region Office: Region 3

Tel: +66 (0) 3842 7667, (0) 3842 8750

Fax: +66 (0) 3842 9113

E-mail: tatchon@tat.or.th

SONGRKAN THAI NEW YEAR IN CHIANG MAI

SONGRKAN THAI NEW YEAR IN CHIANG MAI

APRIL 11 - 15, 2007

Featuring Lanna Thai New Year celebrations and festivities at temples, the city gates and around the city moat throughout the northern capital of Chiang Mai,

Highlights and Activities

Phra Buddha Sihing procession

Buddha images bathing ritual

Merit-making activities and presentation of offerings to Buddhist monks

The release of fish and birds in observance of ancient Buddhist merit-making customs

‘Rod nam dum hua’ bathing rituals as a gesture of respect to elderly relatives and other respected individuals

Lanna Thai cultural performances and folk games

Sand-stupa building contest

Songkran water-splashing

One of the best places to experience Songkran is in Chiang Mai, where it is celebrated on a grand scale with a flavour uniquely and entirely its own, attracting visitors from far and wide. This year, Songkran Thai New Year festivities scheduled for April 11-15, will be held at temples, in the vicinity of the city’s gates and around the city moat.

Devout Buddhists visit the temple for merit-making and to listen to sermons. Lustral water is sprinkled on sacred Buddha images, such as the Phra Buddha Sihing image, and also poured over the hands of monks in a gesture of reverence. Donations are also made to the temple. Enjoy traditional Thai cultural performances held in the temple ground.

One of the highlights of the festival is the 'Songkran Beauty Queen Procession' that takes place on Songkran Day itself - April 13. Meanwhile, many other events leading up to the main attraction are spread over several days and it is here that the visitor gets to see various aspects of Chiang Mai, first hand, — its culture, cuisine, arts and crafts, as well as the friendly people.

Contact information:

TAT Northern Office - Region 1

Tel: +66 (0) 5324 8604, (0) 5324 8607, (0) 5324 1466

Fax: +66 (0) 5324 8605

E-mail: tatchmai@tat.or.th

SONGKRAN IN THE 4 REGIONS OF THAILAND

SONGKRAN IN THE 4 REGIONS OF THAILAND

Bangkok. Chiang Mai. Khon Kaen. Nong Khai. Nakhon Phanom. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Chon Buri. Samut Prakarn. Phuket. Nakhon Si Thammarat. Songkhla.

NORTHERN THAILAND

SONGRKAN THAI NEW YEAR IN CHIANG MAI

Featuring Lanna Thai New Year celebrations and festivities

Throughout the northern capital of Chiang Mai, at temples, the city gates and around the city moat

APRIL 11 - 15, 2007

CENTRAL THAILAND

APRIL 8 - 15, 2007

BANGKOK GRAND SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2007

SONGKRAN FESTIVAL IN THE ANCIENT CAPITAL OF AYUTTHAYA

APRIL 13, 2007

SONGKRAN FESTIVAL AT THE BANG SAI ROYAL FOLK ART & CRAFTS CENTRE

APRIL 13- 15, 2007

Tel: In Bangkok: +66 (0) 2225 8165 - 68 Ext. 460

Tel: In Ayutthaya: +66 (0) 3536 6092

‘ANCIENT CITY’ GRAND SONGKRAN OF THE FOUR REGIONS

APRIL 12- 16, 2007

At the Ancient City (Muang Boran)

Contact information:

Bangkok Office:

78/1 Democracy Monument cycle, Ratchadamnoen

Avenue, Bangkok 10200, Thailand.

Tel: +66 (0) 2224 1057, 2226 1936

Fax:+66 (0) 2226 1227

Samut Prakan Office:

KM 33 (old) Sukhumvit Road,

Bangpoo, Muang District,

Samut Prakan Province

Tel: +66 (0) 2323 9253

RATCHABURI LAO SONGKRAN FESTIVAL

APRIL 15 – 17, 2007

At Wat Ban Singh, Tambon Ban Singh sub-district, Amphoe Potharam district,

Ratchaburi province

SONGKRAN FESTIVAL AND THAI RAMAN FLAG CEREMONY IN PHRA PRADAENG, SAMUT PRAKARN PROVINCE

APRIL 20 - 22, 2007

THE EASTERN SEABOARD

CHON BURI BANG SAEN SONGKRAN SAND-STUPA BUILDING FESTIVAL

APRIL 2007

‘WAN LAI’ SONGKRAN CUSTOMS IN PATTAYA, CHON BURI

APRIL 18 – 19, 2007

Pattaya Beach near Wat Chaimongkon, South Pattaya

SI MAHARAJA SONGKRAN FESTIVAL, CHON BURI PROVINCE

APRIL 19 - 21, 2007

At Koh Loi Park, Si Racha district, Chon Buri province

NORTHEASTERN THAILAND

I-SAN GRAND SONGKRAN: DOK KHUN-SIANG KHAEN FESTIVAL & STICKY RICE WALKING STREET (Thanon Khao Neow), KHON KAEN PROVINCE

APRIL 8 - 15, 2007

At Bueng Kaan Nakhon Cultural Centre and Srichan Road (also known as Thanon Khao Neow)

NONG KHAI THAI-LAO GRAND SONGKRAN FESTIVAL IN NONG KHAI PROVINCE

APRIL 13 - 15, 2007

Hat Chommanee beach by the Mekong River and Wat Pochai

NAKHON PHANOM GRAND SONGKRAN FESTIVAL

APRIL 13 - 15, 2007

At Hat Sai Thong Srikotabun beach by the Mekong River and Phra That Phanom stupa

SOUTHERN THAILAND

MIDNIGHT SONGKRAN FESTIVAL IN HAT YAI

APRIL 12 - 15, 2007

Along Niphon Uthit Road, Sanehhanusorn Road, Hat Yai district, Songkhla province

NAKHON SI THAMMARAT GRAND SONGKRAN

APRIL 11 – 15, 2007

At Suan Sridhammasokraj park, Sanam Na Muang and Phra Isuan Hall,

Nakhon Si Thammarat city centre,

Nakhon Si Thammarat province

SONGKRAN WATER FESTIVAL ON THE BEACH

APRIL 13, 2007

Patong Beach, Phuket

For more information, please visit http://www.songkran.net/

The 2nd Phuket International Marathon

The 2nd Phuket International Marathon
Date 17 Apr 2007
Place The Laguna Resort, Hat Bangthao, Amphoe Thalang, Phuket

Activities
Due to the successful of the first event in 2006, the 2,000 runners from more than 40 countries around the World have joined in this competition and this excited moment would back once in the second of the Phuket Marathon which will be held on 17 June 2007.For any further informations, please visit www. Phuketmarathon.com

Contact Information
Go Adventure Asia, 5th Floor CCT Building 109 Surawong Road., Bangkrak, Bangkok 10500 Contact Persons: Roman Floesser / Pornthip Ratphon Tel.: 0 2236 2931 Fax: 0 2237 3221

Chiang Mai International Art and Culture Festival 2007

Chiang Mai International Art and Culture Festival 2007

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would like to invite you to the 10th Chiang Mai International Art and Culture Festival to be held at the Three Kings Monument and the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre between 1-9 April 2007.

Various stage performances will be seen throughout the nine days. There will be music by the Royal Thai Navy’s Band and Rudklao Amratisha. Dance performances will come from different regions with cultural shows from Japan and Lao PDR. Lanna’s puppet shows will be presented. There will also be music by the ETC Band, together with invited artists: Wiyada Komarakun na Nakhon, Jennifer Kim, Koh Mr. Saxman, and Ford Sopchai Kraiyoonsen. You will enjoy dancesport with the Suntaraporn Band, as well as visit art pavilions and the art market around the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre.

During the Festival, Lanna traditions which have long been passed down will also be held in Chiang Mai, such as Poi Sang Long (ordination of novices) at Wat Pa Pao, Thai Lanna royal drum competition at the ground of the Three Kings Monument, Lap Mueang (spicy meat salad) Fair, and Pi Mai Mueang (New Year Festival) at Lanna Wisdom School.

Activities including art pavilions, an art market, workshops, Lanna’s puppet making, and graphic arts from the Mekong Arts and Cultural Project, will be held around the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre from 16.00 – 22.00 hrs.

The stage performances at the ground of the Three Kings Monument are scheduled from 18.00 – 22.00 hrs. as follows:-

1 April 2007 - Opening Ceremony.

- The Royal Thai Navy’s Band and Rudklao Amratisha.

2 April 2007 - Northern-styled dance from the Chiang Mai Dramatic Arts College.

3 April 2007 - Traditional Thai dance from the Suphan Buri Dramatic Arts College.

4 April 2007 - Isan-styled dance from the Roi Et Dramatic Arts College.

5 April 2007 - Southern-styled dance from the Phatthalung Dramatic Arts College.

6 April 2007 - Cultural performance by the ‘Meinichi Academic’ from Japan.

- Cultural performance from Luang Prabang, Lao PDR.

- Cultural performance from China, Myanmar, and Vietnam, and northern

folk songsby a group of international students from Chiang Mai University.

7 April 2007 - Lanna’s puppet show by Hobby Hut Puppet Troupe , and Krabong Lao puppet

show from Vientiane, Lao PDR.

- The ETC Band and invited artists: Wiyada Komarakun na Nakhon, Jennifer

Kim, Koh Mr. Saxman, and Ford Sopchai Kraiyoonsen.

8 April 2007 - Lanna’s puppet show by Hobby Hut Puppet Troupe , and Krabong Lao puppet

show from Vientiane, Lao PDR.

- Entertainment performances by Lanna folk artists such as Khru Aet

Phanuthat Aphichanathong and the comic group of Chai Chuanchim, Kao Tuam

and Withun Chaiphrom.

9 April 2007 - Music by the Suntaraporn Band.

- The Suntaraporn Band.

- The Chiang Mai Ballroom Dance Club.

For more information, contact

the Events Promotion Division,

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

at Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext. 3475-8, or TAT Call Centre 1672.

http://www.chiangmaiart2007.com/