The Khong Chiam region is still largely unaffected by tourism and, for those willing to explore it, offers spectacular scenery and the promise of peaceful days spent well away from the noise and chaos of the urban environment. With its waterfalls, cliffs and rock paintings, Pha Taem is the kind of place you simply never tire of exploring.

The magic of Pha Taem, north of Khong Chiam

Elephant rides have become a major concern in many locations, but are still offered by a handful of so-called "sanctuaries" with the proposition to get close to the exotic and majestic animal. Elephant rides are offered on every street corner and Westerners have little knowledge about the cruel methods to succeed in training these enormous animals.

Experience Thailand without riding elephants!

Come and completely immerse yourself in the gigantic megalopolis which is Bangkok. 

Bangkok, a continental megalopolis

To set the scene for you, imagine 2,188 km² covered by 80% forest and populated with more than 800 animal species roaming completely free. Add streams, waterfalls and a mountain range amongst 2,000 plant species. Classify it all as a UNESCO world heritage site and you have the Khao Yai national park.

Khao Yai or the paradise of species

Damnoen Saduak

Kanchanaburi

Erawan

Bang Pa In

Makhon Pathom is a typical Thai provincial town, west of Bangkok, famous for its chedi which is the biggest in the world.

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The last time I went to Nakhon Pathom, I went by train and I recommend it to those who like a different way of traveling. You can visit Nakhon Pathom in a day. Its principal point of interest is the chedi, a bell shaped dome which shelters a relic of Buddha, which is the highest in the world at a mere 127 meters tall! But as I had already seen the chedi, even though that wouldn't stop me going again to admire the fervor of the Thais and the now finished renovations, this time I took the time to walk in the streets near the station and eat in a really local restaurant, to experience what I call the "real" Thailand. The other interesting place to visit in Nakhon Pathom is the royal palace of Sanam Chan, a curiosity which dates from the beginning of the last century. What with the statue of the dog elevated to hero status (simply as a mark of affection) and the main building which looks like a Disneyland castle, there's plenty to look at for a while. The garden is superb, the museum is interesting, if a bit too patriotic, and a day spent at Nakhon Pathom goes quickly.

At 120 meters tall the stupa of Nakhon Pathom is the tallest in the world. It contains some relics of Buddha. All that was needed to make this site extremely sacred to Buddhists. Having left Bangkok, I went there during my <a href="/thailand/">journey around Thailand</a>, on my way to Kanchanaburi. A 2 hour stop is enough for the visit. Remember that it is essential to walk clockwise around the stupa. I felt very small next to this giant! While going round I found a small museum, a little temple, some caves with statues of Buddha, and a chapel at each point of the compass. They are called viham. In short, make a short stop at Nakhon Pathom, a not-to-be-missed site in Thailand.

Half-way between Bangkok and Kanchanaburi is Nakhon Pathom, the tallest stupa in the world.

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Nakhon Pathom: For how long?

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