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Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai
Ayutthaya
Bangkok
Pattaya
Cha-Am
Hua Hin
Samui Island
Phuket
Krabi
Phi Phi Island
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LOPBURI
The
fascinating city of La-wo that today is known as Lopburi is a unique blend
of East and West, ancient and modern, royal splendour and desolate ruins
which offer tantalising glimpses into a turbulent and alluring history.
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Located
155 kilometres north of Bangkok, it is unlike many historical cities. Latter
day Lopburi has grown up and for the most part blended in with the remains
of the old city which had been a settlement for centuries. It was 'discovered'
by tourists who were interested in history and culture during the last couple
of years and offers a refreshing insight into Thailand's history. Visitors
arriving by road might be somewhat surprised to be greeted by a giant pink
wedding cake kratong that sits brashly in the middle of a pond at
the main roundabout of the town. However, those arriving more sedately by
rail, are given a sneak preview of the history awaiting them in the shape
of Wat Phra Sri Ratana Maha Tat, a 12th century ruin of Khmer origin that
lies close to the rustic little railway station. The temple has several
important prangs, parts of which date back to the 10th and 11th centuries
depicting a strong Khmer influence. |
