Chaiyaphum Province
Encyclopedia
Chaiyaphum is one of the north-eastern
provinces
(changwat) of Thailand
. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Khon Kaen
, Nakhon Ratchasima
, Lopburi
and Phetchabun
.
word Jaya meaning Victory, and the word Phum from Sanskrit Bhumi meaning earth
or land. Hence the name of the province literally means Land of Victory. The Malay/Indonesian word Jayabumi is equivalent.
, with the highest elevation in the province at 1222 m. The east of the province belongs to the Khorat Plateau
.
Four national parks are located in the province.
The Tat Thon National Park is in north-west of the province, featuring some scenic waterfalls and dry dipterocarp forests. The biggest attraction of the Sai Thong National Park in the west of the province is the Sai Thong waterfall, but also some fields of the Siam Tulip
. Similar fields can be found in the Pa Hin Ngam National Park
in the south-west, scheduled to be gazetted in the future. This park has its name from the strangely shaped rock formations found there (beautiful rock forest). Phu Laenkha National Park covers another 200 km² of forested hills northwest of Chaiyaphum city.
in the 12th century, when it was a small city on the route from Angkor
to Prasat Singh
(Kanchanaburi province
). The Prang Ku still remains from this time. In 1817 the area was settled again by a group of Lao
tians led by Nai Lae, official from Viantiane Kingdom.
At first they settled in Baan Nam Khun Nong E Chan (Nakhon Ratchasima province), but soon moved to the current site of Chaiyaphum, then called Baan Luang. When the Lao King Anouvong of Viantiane declared war on Siam, the local ruler Jao Phraya Lae changed allegiance and supported the Siamese troops. In 1826 he was killed by Laotian troops, before these were defeated and all of Laos
became part of Siam. Jao Phraya Lae was renamed by the Thais to Phraya Phakdi Chumpon and is still a local hero.
. The first language of most people is the Isan language
, a dialect of the Lao language
.
, tapioca
, sugar cane and taro
root. Chaiyaphum is renowned as a center for the Thai silk
industry.
The provincial tree is Siamese senna (Cassia siamea), and the provincial flower the Siam Tulip
(Curcuma alismatifolia).
The provincial slogan เมืองโบราณ บ้านนักสู้ ภูเสียดฟ้า ป่าช้างหลาย ทุ่งไพรรก น้ำตกใส ผ้าไหมดี สตรีงาม แดนธรรมแดนทอง
translates to Enchanted city, home to heroes, mountain peaks, elephant forests, waterfalls, beautiful silk, lovely ladies, conscientious Buddhists..
The province is subdivided into 16 districts (amphoe
). The districts are further subdivided into 124 subdistricts (tambon
) and 1393 villages (muban
).
Chaopho Phraya Lae Shrine (ศาลเจ้าพ่อพญาแล): Every year, a ceremony to pay respect to the shrine is organized during the 6th lunar month prior to Visakha Puja Day. Also, ceremonies to give propitiatory sacrifice to the spirit through a Phi Fa dance are conducted regularly.
Tat Ton National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติตาดโตน): Due to the conditions of the steep and complex mountains, with a slope in the south and a long mountain ridge from Prachin Buri, passing Khao Yai
and Chaiyaphum towards Loei
, this national park is, therefore, located in a dry area with quite high temperatures. However, the general forest condition is still perfect, and it consists of deciduous dipterocarp forest and dry evergreen
forest. The following attractions can be found inside this national park:
-Namtok Tat Ton (น้ำตกตาดโตน) is a beautiful waterfall near the Office of the National Park with water flowing all year but it is particularly magnificent during the rainy season.
-Chaopho Tat Ton (Pu Duang) Shrine (ศาลเจ้าพ่อตาดโตน (ปู่ด้วง): It has been told that Pu Duang had Khmer ethnicity and lived in the similar period to Chaopho Phaya Lae. He behaved as a strict lay ascetic who lived a humble life, usually meditating and strictly following the dharma
. He also had the knowledge and ability to treat people with herbs. Therefore, he received respect from a large number of people.
-Namtok Tat Fa (น้ำตกตาดฟ้า): It is a stone terrace with a width of 15-20 metres, a length of 80-90 metres and a slope of approximately 30 degrees. It is similar to a natural slide board.
-Namtok Pha Iang (น้ำตกผาเอียง): It is a medium-size waterfall stemming from the Chi Long Stream. It is a cliff leaning (Iang) towards the stream making the water run to one side.
-Namtok Pha Song Chan (น้ำตกผาสองชั้น) is a waterfall in the Tat Ton National Park above Namtok Pha Iang. It is a 2-layered cliff with a height of approximately 5 metres.
-Namtok Phanit (น้ำตกผานิต) is a waterfall 1 kilometre south of Namtok Pha Iang. Its characteristic is similar to the latter.
-Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Faet (พระพุทธบาทภูแฝด) is a small rise with the Buddha’s footprint on a stone similar to that in Saraburi.
-Wat Sa Hong (วัดสระหงษ์): This temple is situated on a stone rise. There is a natural rock in a swan - Hong or Hamsa - shape. Behind the temple’s hall is an ancient pond with a width of approximately 10 metres, filled of water all year round.
-Wat Sila At Phu Phra (วัดศิลาอาสน์ ภูพระ): Within the compound of this temple is a rock shelter whit engraved bas-relief Buddha images. It is the source of the name Phu Phra and has been respected among the locals for a long period of time.
-Prang Ku (ปรางค์กู่) is a stone sanctuary from the Khmer period with a plan characteristic of "Arogayasala" - a nursing home - constructed in the 12th to 13th century. There is an annual fair in the 5th lunar month of each year.
-Bai Sema
Ban Kut Ngong (ใบเสมาบ้านกุดโง้ง): These are sandstone boundary markers in the Dvaravati
style of approximately the 7th to 8th century CE which were discovered near the village. Most of them are big with a bas-relief in the front, while some were also inscribed on the back as well.
-Phu Laen Kha National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติภูแลนคา): The geographic condition of this area is a complex mountain range with both dense jungle and timber forest which are the watershed
of streams that run into the Chi River.
-Pa Hin Ngam Chan Daeng (ป่าหินงามจันทร์แดง) is a large stone terrace with many rocks in bizarre shapes. There are distinguished and unique Chan Daeng (Dracaena
Loureiri Gagnep) trees growing on a large boulder.
-Phu Khi (ภูคี) is the highest summit of the national park where the scenery and surroundings of Phu Yuak, Phu Taphao, the Phu Khiao Range, Kaset Sombun District and Phu Khiao District can be seen.
-Phu Kaset (ภูเกษตร) is the second highest summit after Phu Khi in this same national park. Geographically, it is cold and dry because of deforestation and shifting cultivation, leaving behind a large abandoned field on the Phu Laen Kha mountain range.
-Dok Krachiao Field in Pa Hin Ngam Thung Khlong Chang (ทุ่งดอกกระเจียวบริเวณป่าหินงามทุ่งโขลงช้าง) is a deciduous dipterocarp forest where Krachiao - curcuma
- bulbs with pink and white blossoms grow on a rocky terrain together with various types of other plants. There is also a large rock similar to an elephant.
-Mo Hin Khao (มอหินขาว) is a plateau of large rocks scattered in strange and rare shapes similar to mushrooms, boats, elephants, turtles and chedi
s. Moreover, there are large stone columns standing in a line.
-Viewpoint of Lan Hin Rong Kla (จุดชมวิวลานหินร่องกล้า) is a large stone plateau with various deep cracks and distinguished cliffs. It is approximately 700 to 800 metres above sea level.
-Viewpoint of Pa Hin Prasat (จุดชมวิวป่าหินปราสาท) is a location of a unique large rock similar to a prasat
and a nature sightseeing spot.
-Pha Phae (ผาแพ) is a stone cliff which occurred from the lifting of stone layers and the movement of ores. Therefore, the colours of the ores’ pigments are obviously different.
-Pratu Khlong (Natural Stone Archway)(ประตูโขลง(ซุ้มประตูหินธรรมชาติ)) is a large stone similar to a gate (Pratu) whereas in the surrounding area are located many stones in bizarre shapes alternated by deciduous dipterocarp forest.
-The Pha Kluaimai or Orchid Cliffs (ผากล้วยไม้) are high cliffs of many heights stretching horizontally and connected to one another. There are many kinds of rare orchids scattered on the cliffs.
-Tham Phra and Tham Kluea (ถ้ำพระและถ้ำเกลือ) are white sandstone caves created by water erosion running through the stone crevices, causing a chemical reaction over a long period of time as well as the alteration and natural change of the sandstone layers causing large holes.
-Namtok Tat Ton Noi (น้ำตกตาดโตนน้อย) is a waterfall created by the confluence
of flows from small and big creeks originating from the Phu Kaset mountain range.
-Khao Khat and the Chi River (เขาขาดและแม่น้ำชี) is a natural characteristic of the mountain range created from the sinking and uplifting of the Phu Laen Kha and Phang Hoei mountain ranges, causing a pass through the mountains and creating many legends that have been passed on for a long time.
-Pha Koeng (ผาเกิ้ง) is a part of the Phu Laen Kha mountain range. The locals call it "Pha Koeng" meaning a moon cliff in the Isarn language.
-Ban Khwao (บ้านเขว้า) is famous for silk weaving. It is particularly well known for its "Mudmee
" silk which is popular among those who favour Thai traditional fabrics.
-Ku Daeng (กู่แดง) is an ancient Khmer ruin. At present, the ruin is only a square base made of laterite with recessed corners and a staircase on each of its four sides. This ruin was, estimating from the pattern on its lintel, constructed in the 11th century in the period of the Baphuon
art of the ancient Khmer Empire.
-Sai Thong National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติไทรทอง): It is the source of many rivers and creeks which are tributaries of the Chi River. It has deciduous dipterocarp and dry evergreen forests combined with a mixed deciduous forest.
-Namtok Sai Thong (น้ำตกไทรทอง): At the front of the waterfall is a large basin for swimmers called Wang Sai. Also, above the waterfall is a deep body of water called Wang Ngueak whose water runs along the crooked and steep stone plateau towards Namtok Sai Thong for a distance of 150 metres.
-Namtok Chuan Chom (น้ำตกชวนชม): This waterfall is along a nature study route of 2 kilometres above Namtok Sai Thong. The 20 metre high waterfall is surrounded by abundant trees.
-Thung Bua Sawan or Thung Dok Krachiao (ทุ่งบัวสวรรค์ หรือทุ่งดอกกระเจียว): From the end of June to mid-August, curcuma or Krachiao blossoms will bloom in this field in both pink and white colours.
-Pha Pho Mueang (ผาพ่อเมือง) is a cliff along the west side of the Phang Hoei mountain ridge along the route leading upward to the Bua Sawan Field, a total distance of approximately 3 kilometres and 700 to 908 metres above sea level.
-Pha Ham Hot View Spot (จุดชมทิวทัศน์ผาหำหด) is the summit of the Phang Hoei mountain range, 864 metres above sea level. It is cold throughout the year.
-Tham Kaeo (ถ้ำแก้ว): The cave is similar to a hall, located deep inside the mountain and chilly and humid throughout the year. From the entrance, there is a path leading to a lower level where a Buddha image is enshrined.
-Khao Phang Hoei Viewpoint (จุดชมทิวทัศน์เขาพังเหย): It is a rest area and sightseeing spot for motorists. Along the road lie various shops offering local products. The panoramic view of the sunset from this point is admirable.
-Bueng Waeng (บึงแวง) is a swamp in front of Khon Sawan District Office, covering an area of approximately 350 rai
with a path around the swamp. At dusk, teal -a species of duck - usually fly as a flock covering the sky, creating a splendid contrast of colours between the flock and the beams of the sunset.
-The Grand Buddha Image of the Dvaravati Period (พระพุทธรูปใหญ่สมัยทวารวดี): It is a laterite Buddha image in a standing posture, representing Dvaravati art.
-Ban Khae Topiary Centre (ศูนย์รวมไม้ดัดบ้านแข้) is on Highway No. 201, 76 kilometres from the centre of Chaiyaphum or 1 kilometre prior to Phu Khaio District.
-Phrathat Nong Sam Muen (พระธาตุหนองสามหมื่น) is a beautiful and perfect chedi with recessed corners, located on a square base with a height of 45.30 metres and stairs on its 4 sides.
-Non Salao Khit Cloth Weaving Village (แหล่งทอผ้าขิตบ้านโนนเสลา): It is the biggest source of Khit
cloth weaving in Chaiyaphum. The locals of Non Salao have passed on the process of Khit weaving from their ancestors. Nearly every house makes their own hand-made fabric.
Chulabhorn Dam / Nam Phrom Dam (เขื่อนจุฬาภรณ์/ เขื่อนน้ำพรม): It is a rockfill dam with a core of clay packed with stones and pebbles. It was built to generate electrical power and for irrigation and agricultural purposes during the dry season. Attractions within the Chulabhorn Dam are as follows:
-The Replica of Phra Phutthasiri Sakkharat (Luangpho Chet Kasat) (พระพุทธสิริสัคคราชจำลอง (หลวงพ่อเจ็ดกษัตริย์)) is a revered Buddha image enshrined at the left side of the dam, opposite Chulabhorn Dam’s Park.
-Chulabhorn Dam’s Park (สวนเขื่อนจุฬาภรณ์) covers an area of approximately 41 rai, designated as a preserved forest with various kinds of plants. The path through the park is paved with natural stones.
-The 325-Million-Years Ancient Plants (พืชโบราณ 325 ล้านปี) are in the similar category of grass, comprising two main species, namely, Son Sam Roi Yot (Lycopodium
) and Son Hang Ma or Ya Thot Plong (Horsetail or Equisetum).
-Lup Khuan View Pavilion (ศาลาชมวิวหลุบควน) is a viewpoint with a height of more than 800 metres.
-The Waterfront Ground by the Royal Residence (สนามริมน้ำข้างพระตำหนัก) is surrounded by a serene atmosphere.
Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าภูเขียว): It is to preserve, breed and propagate wildlife such as Siamese firebacks, peacocks, barking deer, deer, and hogdeer. They are let free in this natural habitat and are able to conduct their own reproduction. Interesting destinations within the reserve are as follows:
-Thung Kramang (ทุ่งกระมัง) is a large area of grassland located in the middle of the reserve, is an important source of food for herbivores. On top of the hill over Thung Kramang lies a royal residence overlooking the reservoir.
-Phrom River (ลำน้ำพรม) On its east lies Huai Dat or Lam Dok, the main brook shifting the water from the lower part of Chulabhorn Dam to produce the electricity. It also directs the flow into the Lam Su Brook which has water throughout the year. Above the Phrom River is located Lan Chan, consisting of a rock terrace and a deep crooked pool within a serene and shady atmosphere.
-Lan Chan and Tat Hin Daeng (ลานจันทร์และตาดหินแดง): Lan Chan is a large rock terrace along the Phrom River with water throughout the year. It is a shady area full of various kinds of big and small trees due to it being surrounded by evergreen forests with moss, fern, rattan, betel-vine and various kinds of medicinal plants growing there.
-Bueng Paen (บึงแปน): It is grassland similar to Thung Kamang, but it lies in a lower plain which floods during the rainy season. In the dry season, there is a swamp in the middle of the plain.
-Namtok Tat Khro (น้ำตกตาดคร้อ) is a large and high waterfall to the south of Thung Kramang near the Phu Khiao Forest Safeguard Centre in Nong Bua Daeng District. The water from this waterfall will run down to the Saphung River.
-Namtok Huai Wai (น้ำตกห้วยหวาย) is a 3-tiered waterfall. Each of its levels is 20 metres high. The location where it runs through the mountain is the pass in between Khao Phu Noi and Khao Phu Khiao Yai.
-Namtok Nakkharat (น้ำตกนาคราช): The width of this waterfall is approximately 5 metres with 3 tiers of different height. Nearby the waterfall one finds and abundance of Phaya Nakkharat (Polynesian foot fern) and it is therefore that the waterfall is called "Namtok Nakkharat".
-Pha Thewada (ผาเทวดา) The rocks at this cliff are white - similar to limestone - with a water flow passing through called "Chi Phut". It is the origin of the Chi River with a width of 10-15 metres running through the south of the mountain and down to the Chi Yai River at Ban Lon.
-Phu Khing (ภูคิ้ง) is the summit of the Khao Khiao mountain range with a height of 1,167 metres above sea level. It is considered as the 5th highest one of the Northeast and is located in the Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve.
-The Phu Khiao Wildlife Breeding Research Station (สถานีเพาะเลี้ยงสัตว์ป่าภูเขียว): There are many kinds of wildlife to see, particularly sambar deer and brown-antlered deer.
Pa Hin Ngam National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติป่าหินงาม) There are many kinds of wild flowers in the same species of Dusita, En A, and orchids, as well as, various species of wildlife, comprising more than 56 kinds of birds, 21 types of mammals, and 10 categories of reptiles. Destinations within the national park are as follows:
-Lan Hin Ngam (ลานหินงาม) It was caused by the erosion of the soil and rocks into different shapes, which can be imagined as many kinds of objects and animals such as nails, radar, hens, etc.
-Dok Krachiao or Bua Sawan Field (ทุ่งดอกกระเจียว หรือ ทุ่งบัวสวรรค์) Krachiao – a kind of curcuma - is an annual plant in the same species as ginger-galingale, scattered generally from Lan Hin Ngam to the Sut Phaendin viewpoint.
-Sut Phaendin (สุดแผ่นดิน) is a steep cliff and the highest point of the Phang Hoei mountain range, 2 kilometres from the Office of the National Park and 846 metres above sea level. It is the cliff connecting between the Central and Northeastern regions.
-Namtok Thep Phana (น้ำตกเทพพนา) is a medium-size waterfall originating from Huai Krachon flowing from the Phang Hoei mountain range. It can be divided into 3 different tiers. There is water only during the rainy season.
-Namtok Thep Prathan (น้ำตกเทพประทาน) is situated in Ban Rai Sub-district, 7 kilometres from the Office of the National Park. It is a medium-size waterfall but quite flat. There are different low tiers of large rock terraces and a steep highland with a large amount of water during the rainy season.
-Phra Phutthabat Khao Yai Hom (พระพุทธบาทเขายายหอม): It is a red Buddha’s left footprint, stamped onto the rock terrace with a width of 75 centimetres, length of 180 centimetres, and depth of 45 centimetres, surrounded by 3 holy ponds.
sausage can be found in this province.
and Mor lam sing
.
The Chaopho Phraya Lae Worship Ceremony (งานประเพณีบวงสรวงเจ้าพ่อพญาแล) is held at the Nong Pla Thao Shrine on the first Monday of May every year (It lasts for 3 days and 3 nights). The locals will pay respect to Chaopho Phraya Lae’s spirit and perform traditional dances in front of the old shrine. There is a contest of local food, folk sports competition and a "Bai Si" procession contest.
The Candle Festival (งานแห่เทียนพรรษา) is a festival organised by the Chaiyaphum Municipal Office on the full moon day of the 8th lunar month (around July). There is a candle contest. This event is widely popular and similar to the candle procession of Ubon Ratchathani
.
The Ram Phi Fa Tradition (ประเพณีรำผีฟ้า) is a ceremony worshipping certain sacred objects and the "Phrachao Ong Tue", a Buddha image engraved out of sandstone with a height of 2 metres. The locals consider this Buddha image as very holy. Many people will participate in this ceremonial dance. The ceremony is organised twice a year on the 13th to 15th day during the waxing moon of the 5th lunar month (in April) and the first day during the waning moon of the 3rd lunar month within the area of Khao Phu Phra, Ban Na Kai Sao and Na Siao Sub-district in Mueang District.
The Bun Duean Si Festival (งานบุญเดือนสี่) is a festival of the people of Khon San, comprising merit-making on the dark moon day of the 4th lunar month (Duean Si) and a "Saba" competition on the 1st to 3rd day of the waxing moon during the 5th lunar month (around March). The Saba competition is challenged for the winner prize creating amusement within the compound of Wat Chedi, Khon San District. It is the only Saba competition performed in Northeastern Thailand.
The Dok Krachiao Blossom Festival (งานวันดอกกระเจียวบาน) is held at the end of June to July at Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Thep Sathit District. It is during the rainy season when the blossoms of the wild Krachiao flowers - in a purplish pink colour - are widely found in the area. Therefore, this area is known as Dok Krachiao Field. During the festival, there is a nature tour around the national park and local performances.
Isan
Isan is the northeastern region of Thailand. It is located on the Khorat Plateau, bordered by the Mekong River to the north and east, by Cambodia to the southeast and the Prachinburi mountains south of Nakhon Ratchasima...
provinces
Provinces of Thailand
Thailand is divided into 76 provinces , which are geographically grouped into 6 regions. The capital Bangkok is not a province but a special administrative area and is included as the 77th province since it is administered at the same level as the other 76 provinces. The name of the provinces are...
(changwat) of Thailand
Thailand
Thailand , officially the Kingdom of Thailand , formerly known as Siam , is a country located at the centre of the Indochina peninsula and Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the...
. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Khon Kaen
Khon Kaen Province
-History:The first city of the area was established in 1783 when Rajakruluang settled there with 330 people. King Rama I made Rajakruluang the first governor of the area when establishing tighter connections with the Isan area. The main city was moved six times until in 1879 it reached its modern...
, Nakhon Ratchasima
Nakhon Ratchasima Province
Nakhon Ratchasima or , often shortened to Korat or Khorat , is one of the north-eastern provinces of Thailand...
, Lopburi
Lopburi Province
Lop Buri is one of the central provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Phetchabun, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Saraburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, Sing Buri and Nakhon Sawan.-Geography:...
and Phetchabun
Phetchabun Province
Phetchabun is one of the northern provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Loei, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Lopburi, Nakhon Sawan, Phichit and Phitsanulok.- Geography :...
.
Etymology
The word Chaiya originates from the SanskritSanskrit
Sanskrit , is a historical Indo-Aryan language and the primary liturgical language of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism.Buddhism: besides Pali, see Buddhist Hybrid Sanskrit Today, it is listed as one of the 22 scheduled languages of India and is an official language of the state of Uttarakhand...
word Jaya meaning Victory, and the word Phum from Sanskrit Bhumi meaning earth
Earth
Earth is the third planet from the Sun, and the densest and fifth-largest of the eight planets in the Solar System. It is also the largest of the Solar System's four terrestrial planets...
or land. Hence the name of the province literally means Land of Victory. The Malay/Indonesian word Jayabumi is equivalent.
Geography
The province is cut into two halves by the Phetchabun mountain rangePhetchabun Mountains
The Phetchabun mountains are a mountain range in Thailand.-Geography:It extends in a roughly north-south direction, and separates the broad Chao Phraya river valley of central Thailand from the Khorat Plateau of northeast Thailand...
, with the highest elevation in the province at 1222 m. The east of the province belongs to the Khorat Plateau
Khorat Plateau
The Khorat Plateau also Korat Plateau, is a plateau in the northeastern region of Thailand, named for the short form of Nakhon Ratchasima, an historical stronghold controlling access to and from the plateau.-Geography:...
.
Four national parks are located in the province.
The Tat Thon National Park is in north-west of the province, featuring some scenic waterfalls and dry dipterocarp forests. The biggest attraction of the Sai Thong National Park in the west of the province is the Sai Thong waterfall, but also some fields of the Siam Tulip
Siam Tulip
The Siam Tulip or Summer Tulip is a tropical plant native to northern Thailand and Cambodia. Despite its name, it is not related to the tulip, but to the various ginger species such as turmeric...
. Similar fields can be found in the Pa Hin Ngam National Park
Pa Hin Ngam National Park
Pa Hin Ngam is a National Park in Chaiyaphum province in Thailand. The name Hin Ngam means beautiful stone, where Pa means forest....
in the south-west, scheduled to be gazetted in the future. This park has its name from the strangely shaped rock formations found there (beautiful rock forest). Phu Laenkha National Park covers another 200 km² of forested hills northwest of Chaiyaphum city.
History
The history of the city of Chaiyaphum dates back to the Khmer EmpireKhmer Empire
The Khmer Empire was one of the most powerful empires in Southeast Asia. The empire, which grew out of the former kingdom of Chenla, at times ruled over and/or vassalized parts of modern-day Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Burma, and Malaysia. Its greatest legacy is Angkor, the site of the capital city...
in the 12th century, when it was a small city on the route from Angkor
Angkor
Angkor is a region of Cambodia that served as the seat of the Khmer Empire, which flourished from approximately the 9th to 15th centuries. The word Angkor is derived from the Sanskrit nagara , meaning "city"...
to Prasat Singh
Mueang Sing historical park
Mueang Sing ) is a historical park in the Sai Yok district, Kanchanaburi province, Thailand. The remains of two Khmer temples date to the 13th and 14th century. It was declared a historical park in 1987....
(Kanchanaburi province
Kanchanaburi Province
- History :Archaeology found in Kanchanaburi dates back to the 4th century which proves of trade with surrounding countries even in that time. Very little is also historically known about the actual Khmer influence in Kanchanaburi but there is evidence of their occupation with Prasat Muang Singh –...
). The Prang Ku still remains from this time. In 1817 the area was settled again by a group of Lao
Lao people
The Lao are an ethnic subgroup of Tai/Dai in Southeast Asia.-Names:The etymology of the word Lao is uncertain, although it may be related to tribes known as the Ai Lao who appear in Han Dynasty records in China and Vietnam as a people of what is now Yunan Province...
tians led by Nai Lae, official from Viantiane Kingdom.
At first they settled in Baan Nam Khun Nong E Chan (Nakhon Ratchasima province), but soon moved to the current site of Chaiyaphum, then called Baan Luang. When the Lao King Anouvong of Viantiane declared war on Siam, the local ruler Jao Phraya Lae changed allegiance and supported the Siamese troops. In 1826 he was killed by Laotian troops, before these were defeated and all of Laos
Laos
Laos Lao: ສາທາລະນະລັດ ປະຊາທິປະໄຕ ປະຊາຊົນລາວ Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao, officially the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, bordered by Burma and China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south and Thailand to the west...
became part of Siam. Jao Phraya Lae was renamed by the Thais to Phraya Phakdi Chumpon and is still a local hero.
People
Most people in Chaiyaphum province are ethnically LaoLao people
The Lao are an ethnic subgroup of Tai/Dai in Southeast Asia.-Names:The etymology of the word Lao is uncertain, although it may be related to tribes known as the Ai Lao who appear in Han Dynasty records in China and Vietnam as a people of what is now Yunan Province...
. The first language of most people is the Isan language
Isan language
Isan language is the collective name for the dialects of the Lao language as they are spoken in Thailand. It is spoken by approximately 20 million people, which is nearly one-third of the entire population of Thailand, predominantly in the Isan region of northeastern Thailand. There are also large...
, a dialect of the Lao language
Lao language
Lao or Laotian is a tonal language of the Tai–Kadai language family. It is the official language of Laos, and also spoken in the northeast of Thailand, where it is usually referred to as the Isan language. Being the primary language of the Lao people, Lao is also an important second language for...
.
Agriculture and Industry
Principal crops in Chaiyaphum include riceRice
Rice is the seed of the monocot plants Oryza sativa or Oryza glaberrima . As a cereal grain, it is the most important staple food for a large part of the world's human population, especially in East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and the West Indies...
, tapioca
Tapioca
Tapioca is a starch extracted Manihot esculenta. This species, native to the Amazon, Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and most of the West Indies, is now cultivated worldwide and has many names, including cassava, manioc, aipim,...
, sugar cane and taro
Taro
Taro is a common name for the corms and tubers of several plants in the family Araceae . Of these, Colocasia esculenta is the most widely cultivated, and is the subject of this article. More specifically, this article describes the 'dasheen' form of taro; another variety is called eddoe.Taro is...
root. Chaiyaphum is renowned as a center for the Thai silk
Thai silk
Thai silk is produced from the cocoons of Thai silkworms. Thai weavers, mainly from the Khorat Plateau in the northeast region of Thailand, raise the caterpillars on a steady diet of mulberry leaves...
industry.
Symbols
The provincial seal shows a triangular flag, a symbol of victory in war.The provincial tree is Siamese senna (Cassia siamea), and the provincial flower the Siam Tulip
Siam Tulip
The Siam Tulip or Summer Tulip is a tropical plant native to northern Thailand and Cambodia. Despite its name, it is not related to the tulip, but to the various ginger species such as turmeric...
(Curcuma alismatifolia).
The provincial slogan เมืองโบราณ บ้านนักสู้ ภูเสียดฟ้า ป่าช้างหลาย ทุ่งไพรรก น้ำตกใส ผ้าไหมดี สตรีงาม แดนธรรมแดนทอง
translates to Enchanted city, home to heroes, mountain peaks, elephant forests, waterfalls, beautiful silk, lovely ladies, conscientious Buddhists..
Administrative divisions
Amphoe
An amphoe is the second level administrative subdivision of Thailand. Usually translated as district, amphoe make up the provinces, and are analogous to a county seat...
). The districts are further subdivided into 124 subdistricts (tambon
Tambon
Tambon is a local government unit in Thailand. Below district and province , they form the third administrative subdivision level. As of the 2009 there are 7255 tambon, not including the 169 khwaeng of Bangkok, which are set at the same administrative level, thus every district contains 8-10 tambon...
) and 1393 villages (muban
Muban
Muban is the lowest administrative subdivision of Thailand. Usually translated as village, they are the subdivision of tambon. As of 2008, there are 74944 administrative villages in Thailand. As of the 1990 census, the average village consisted of 144 households or 746 persons.A muban does not...
).
|
|
Sights
Phraya Phakdi Chumphon (Lae) Monument (อนุสาวรีย์พระยาภักดีชุมพล (แล)): The people of Chaiyaphum built the monument in 1975. It is dedicated to the first governor of Chaiyaphum called "Chaopho Phraya Lae" by the locals.Chaopho Phraya Lae Shrine (ศาลเจ้าพ่อพญาแล): Every year, a ceremony to pay respect to the shrine is organized during the 6th lunar month prior to Visakha Puja Day. Also, ceremonies to give propitiatory sacrifice to the spirit through a Phi Fa dance are conducted regularly.
Tat Ton National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติตาดโตน): Due to the conditions of the steep and complex mountains, with a slope in the south and a long mountain ridge from Prachin Buri, passing Khao Yai
Khao Yai
Khao Yai, meaning "large mountain" in the Thai language, can refer to:* Khao Yai, a tambon in Ao luek District, Krabi Province, Thailand* Khao Yai, a 1050 m high mountain in the Tenasserim Hills, Ratchaburi Province...
and Chaiyaphum towards Loei
Loei
Loei is a town in the north-east of Thailand. In 2005, it had a population of 22,677. Loei covers the whole tambon Kut Pong of Mueang Loei district.Loei is the capital of the Loei Province.- References :...
, this national park is, therefore, located in a dry area with quite high temperatures. However, the general forest condition is still perfect, and it consists of deciduous dipterocarp forest and dry evergreen
Evergreen
In botany, an evergreen plant is a plant that has leaves in all seasons. This contrasts with deciduous plants, which completely lose their foliage during the winter or dry season.There are many different kinds of evergreen plants, both trees and shrubs...
forest. The following attractions can be found inside this national park:
-Namtok Tat Ton (น้ำตกตาดโตน) is a beautiful waterfall near the Office of the National Park with water flowing all year but it is particularly magnificent during the rainy season.
-Chaopho Tat Ton (Pu Duang) Shrine (ศาลเจ้าพ่อตาดโตน (ปู่ด้วง): It has been told that Pu Duang had Khmer ethnicity and lived in the similar period to Chaopho Phaya Lae. He behaved as a strict lay ascetic who lived a humble life, usually meditating and strictly following the dharma
Dharma
Dharma means Law or Natural Law and is a concept of central importance in Indian philosophy and religion. In the context of Hinduism, it refers to one's personal obligations, calling and duties, and a Hindu's dharma is affected by the person's age, caste, class, occupation, and gender...
. He also had the knowledge and ability to treat people with herbs. Therefore, he received respect from a large number of people.
-Namtok Tat Fa (น้ำตกตาดฟ้า): It is a stone terrace with a width of 15-20 metres, a length of 80-90 metres and a slope of approximately 30 degrees. It is similar to a natural slide board.
-Namtok Pha Iang (น้ำตกผาเอียง): It is a medium-size waterfall stemming from the Chi Long Stream. It is a cliff leaning (Iang) towards the stream making the water run to one side.
-Namtok Pha Song Chan (น้ำตกผาสองชั้น) is a waterfall in the Tat Ton National Park above Namtok Pha Iang. It is a 2-layered cliff with a height of approximately 5 metres.
-Namtok Phanit (น้ำตกผานิต) is a waterfall 1 kilometre south of Namtok Pha Iang. Its characteristic is similar to the latter.
-Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Faet (พระพุทธบาทภูแฝด) is a small rise with the Buddha’s footprint on a stone similar to that in Saraburi.
-Wat Sa Hong (วัดสระหงษ์): This temple is situated on a stone rise. There is a natural rock in a swan - Hong or Hamsa - shape. Behind the temple’s hall is an ancient pond with a width of approximately 10 metres, filled of water all year round.
-Wat Sila At Phu Phra (วัดศิลาอาสน์ ภูพระ): Within the compound of this temple is a rock shelter whit engraved bas-relief Buddha images. It is the source of the name Phu Phra and has been respected among the locals for a long period of time.
-Prang Ku (ปรางค์กู่) is a stone sanctuary from the Khmer period with a plan characteristic of "Arogayasala" - a nursing home - constructed in the 12th to 13th century. There is an annual fair in the 5th lunar month of each year.
-Bai Sema
Bai Sema
Bai Sema are the boundary stones which designate the sacred area for a phra ubosot within a Thai Buddhist temple .-History:...
Ban Kut Ngong (ใบเสมาบ้านกุดโง้ง): These are sandstone boundary markers in the Dvaravati
Dvaravati
The Dvaravati period lasted from the 6th to the 13th centuries. Dvaravati refers to both a culture and a disparate conglomerate of principalities.- History :...
style of approximately the 7th to 8th century CE which were discovered near the village. Most of them are big with a bas-relief in the front, while some were also inscribed on the back as well.
-Phu Laen Kha National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติภูแลนคา): The geographic condition of this area is a complex mountain range with both dense jungle and timber forest which are the watershed
Drainage basin
A drainage basin is an extent or an area of land where surface water from rain and melting snow or ice converges to a single point, usually the exit of the basin, where the waters join another waterbody, such as a river, lake, reservoir, estuary, wetland, sea, or ocean...
of streams that run into the Chi River.
-Pa Hin Ngam Chan Daeng (ป่าหินงามจันทร์แดง) is a large stone terrace with many rocks in bizarre shapes. There are distinguished and unique Chan Daeng (Dracaena
Dracaena
Dracaena can mean:*Drakaina, a Greek mythological entity*Dracaena , a genus of plants*Cordyline australis, a plant commonly known as the Dracaena palm...
Loureiri Gagnep) trees growing on a large boulder.
-Phu Khi (ภูคี) is the highest summit of the national park where the scenery and surroundings of Phu Yuak, Phu Taphao, the Phu Khiao Range, Kaset Sombun District and Phu Khiao District can be seen.
-Phu Kaset (ภูเกษตร) is the second highest summit after Phu Khi in this same national park. Geographically, it is cold and dry because of deforestation and shifting cultivation, leaving behind a large abandoned field on the Phu Laen Kha mountain range.
-Dok Krachiao Field in Pa Hin Ngam Thung Khlong Chang (ทุ่งดอกกระเจียวบริเวณป่าหินงามทุ่งโขลงช้าง) is a deciduous dipterocarp forest where Krachiao - curcuma
Curcuma
Curcuma is a genus of about 80 accepted species in the plant family Zingiberaceae that contains such species as turmeric and Siam Tulip. The name comes from Arabic kurkum meaning "turmeric". Since assembly of the genus Curcuma by Linnaeus in 1753 about 130 species have been described so far...
- bulbs with pink and white blossoms grow on a rocky terrain together with various types of other plants. There is also a large rock similar to an elephant.
-Mo Hin Khao (มอหินขาว) is a plateau of large rocks scattered in strange and rare shapes similar to mushrooms, boats, elephants, turtles and chedi
Stupa
A stupa is a mound-like structure containing Buddhist relics, typically the remains of Buddha, used by Buddhists as a place of worship....
s. Moreover, there are large stone columns standing in a line.
-Viewpoint of Lan Hin Rong Kla (จุดชมวิวลานหินร่องกล้า) is a large stone plateau with various deep cracks and distinguished cliffs. It is approximately 700 to 800 metres above sea level.
-Viewpoint of Pa Hin Prasat (จุดชมวิวป่าหินปราสาท) is a location of a unique large rock similar to a prasat
Prasat
Prasat is a Thai and Cambodian term meaning palace or temple, derived from the Pali and Sanskrit . In Thai, a "prasat" can mean a castle or a temple, not a palace...
and a nature sightseeing spot.
-Pha Phae (ผาแพ) is a stone cliff which occurred from the lifting of stone layers and the movement of ores. Therefore, the colours of the ores’ pigments are obviously different.
-Pratu Khlong (Natural Stone Archway)(ประตูโขลง(ซุ้มประตูหินธรรมชาติ)) is a large stone similar to a gate (Pratu) whereas in the surrounding area are located many stones in bizarre shapes alternated by deciduous dipterocarp forest.
-The Pha Kluaimai or Orchid Cliffs (ผากล้วยไม้) are high cliffs of many heights stretching horizontally and connected to one another. There are many kinds of rare orchids scattered on the cliffs.
-Tham Phra and Tham Kluea (ถ้ำพระและถ้ำเกลือ) are white sandstone caves created by water erosion running through the stone crevices, causing a chemical reaction over a long period of time as well as the alteration and natural change of the sandstone layers causing large holes.
-Namtok Tat Ton Noi (น้ำตกตาดโตนน้อย) is a waterfall created by the confluence
Confluence
Confluence, in geography, describes the meeting of two or more bodies of water.Confluence may also refer to:* Confluence , a property of term rewriting systems...
of flows from small and big creeks originating from the Phu Kaset mountain range.
-Khao Khat and the Chi River (เขาขาดและแม่น้ำชี) is a natural characteristic of the mountain range created from the sinking and uplifting of the Phu Laen Kha and Phang Hoei mountain ranges, causing a pass through the mountains and creating many legends that have been passed on for a long time.
-Pha Koeng (ผาเกิ้ง) is a part of the Phu Laen Kha mountain range. The locals call it "Pha Koeng" meaning a moon cliff in the Isarn language.
-Ban Khwao (บ้านเขว้า) is famous for silk weaving. It is particularly well known for its "Mudmee
Ikat
Ikat, or Ikkat, is a dyeing technique used to pattern textiles that employs a resist dyeing process similar to tie-dye on either the warp or weft fibres....
" silk which is popular among those who favour Thai traditional fabrics.
-Ku Daeng (กู่แดง) is an ancient Khmer ruin. At present, the ruin is only a square base made of laterite with recessed corners and a staircase on each of its four sides. This ruin was, estimating from the pattern on its lintel, constructed in the 11th century in the period of the Baphuon
Baphuon
The Baphuon is a temple at Angkor, Cambodia. It is located in Angkor Thom, northwest of the Bayon. Built in the mid-11th century, it is a three-tiered temple mountain built as the state temple of Udayadityavarman II dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. It is the archetype of the Baphuon style...
art of the ancient Khmer Empire.
-Sai Thong National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติไทรทอง): It is the source of many rivers and creeks which are tributaries of the Chi River. It has deciduous dipterocarp and dry evergreen forests combined with a mixed deciduous forest.
-Namtok Sai Thong (น้ำตกไทรทอง): At the front of the waterfall is a large basin for swimmers called Wang Sai. Also, above the waterfall is a deep body of water called Wang Ngueak whose water runs along the crooked and steep stone plateau towards Namtok Sai Thong for a distance of 150 metres.
-Namtok Chuan Chom (น้ำตกชวนชม): This waterfall is along a nature study route of 2 kilometres above Namtok Sai Thong. The 20 metre high waterfall is surrounded by abundant trees.
-Thung Bua Sawan or Thung Dok Krachiao (ทุ่งบัวสวรรค์ หรือทุ่งดอกกระเจียว): From the end of June to mid-August, curcuma or Krachiao blossoms will bloom in this field in both pink and white colours.
-Pha Pho Mueang (ผาพ่อเมือง) is a cliff along the west side of the Phang Hoei mountain ridge along the route leading upward to the Bua Sawan Field, a total distance of approximately 3 kilometres and 700 to 908 metres above sea level.
-Pha Ham Hot View Spot (จุดชมทิวทัศน์ผาหำหด) is the summit of the Phang Hoei mountain range, 864 metres above sea level. It is cold throughout the year.
-Tham Kaeo (ถ้ำแก้ว): The cave is similar to a hall, located deep inside the mountain and chilly and humid throughout the year. From the entrance, there is a path leading to a lower level where a Buddha image is enshrined.
-Khao Phang Hoei Viewpoint (จุดชมทิวทัศน์เขาพังเหย): It is a rest area and sightseeing spot for motorists. Along the road lie various shops offering local products. The panoramic view of the sunset from this point is admirable.
-Bueng Waeng (บึงแวง) is a swamp in front of Khon Sawan District Office, covering an area of approximately 350 rai
Rai (area)
A rai is a unit of area, equal to 1,600 square metres , used for measuring land area. Its current size is precisely derived from the metre, but is neither part of nor recognized by the modern metric system, the International System ....
with a path around the swamp. At dusk, teal -a species of duck - usually fly as a flock covering the sky, creating a splendid contrast of colours between the flock and the beams of the sunset.
-The Grand Buddha Image of the Dvaravati Period (พระพุทธรูปใหญ่สมัยทวารวดี): It is a laterite Buddha image in a standing posture, representing Dvaravati art.
-Ban Khae Topiary Centre (ศูนย์รวมไม้ดัดบ้านแข้) is on Highway No. 201, 76 kilometres from the centre of Chaiyaphum or 1 kilometre prior to Phu Khaio District.
-Phrathat Nong Sam Muen (พระธาตุหนองสามหมื่น) is a beautiful and perfect chedi with recessed corners, located on a square base with a height of 45.30 metres and stairs on its 4 sides.
-Non Salao Khit Cloth Weaving Village (แหล่งทอผ้าขิตบ้านโนนเสลา): It is the biggest source of Khit
Khit
Khit, or Khid, is an ancient type of woven cloth produced in certain areas of Isaan, the northeastern region of Thailand.-Tradition:Khit weaving is done by hand in traditional looms. It favours certain basic colors, like red, purple and dark green, although other colors are also used...
cloth weaving in Chaiyaphum. The locals of Non Salao have passed on the process of Khit weaving from their ancestors. Nearly every house makes their own hand-made fabric.
Chulabhorn Dam / Nam Phrom Dam (เขื่อนจุฬาภรณ์/ เขื่อนน้ำพรม): It is a rockfill dam with a core of clay packed with stones and pebbles. It was built to generate electrical power and for irrigation and agricultural purposes during the dry season. Attractions within the Chulabhorn Dam are as follows:
-The Replica of Phra Phutthasiri Sakkharat (Luangpho Chet Kasat) (พระพุทธสิริสัคคราชจำลอง (หลวงพ่อเจ็ดกษัตริย์)) is a revered Buddha image enshrined at the left side of the dam, opposite Chulabhorn Dam’s Park.
-Chulabhorn Dam’s Park (สวนเขื่อนจุฬาภรณ์) covers an area of approximately 41 rai, designated as a preserved forest with various kinds of plants. The path through the park is paved with natural stones.
-The 325-Million-Years Ancient Plants (พืชโบราณ 325 ล้านปี) are in the similar category of grass, comprising two main species, namely, Son Sam Roi Yot (Lycopodium
Lycopodium
Lycopodium is a genus of clubmosses, also known as ground pines or creeping cedar, in the family Lycopodiaceae, a family of fern-allies...
) and Son Hang Ma or Ya Thot Plong (Horsetail or Equisetum).
-Lup Khuan View Pavilion (ศาลาชมวิวหลุบควน) is a viewpoint with a height of more than 800 metres.
-The Waterfront Ground by the Royal Residence (สนามริมน้ำข้างพระตำหนัก) is surrounded by a serene atmosphere.
Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าภูเขียว): It is to preserve, breed and propagate wildlife such as Siamese firebacks, peacocks, barking deer, deer, and hogdeer. They are let free in this natural habitat and are able to conduct their own reproduction. Interesting destinations within the reserve are as follows:
-Thung Kramang (ทุ่งกระมัง) is a large area of grassland located in the middle of the reserve, is an important source of food for herbivores. On top of the hill over Thung Kramang lies a royal residence overlooking the reservoir.
-Phrom River (ลำน้ำพรม) On its east lies Huai Dat or Lam Dok, the main brook shifting the water from the lower part of Chulabhorn Dam to produce the electricity. It also directs the flow into the Lam Su Brook which has water throughout the year. Above the Phrom River is located Lan Chan, consisting of a rock terrace and a deep crooked pool within a serene and shady atmosphere.
-Lan Chan and Tat Hin Daeng (ลานจันทร์และตาดหินแดง): Lan Chan is a large rock terrace along the Phrom River with water throughout the year. It is a shady area full of various kinds of big and small trees due to it being surrounded by evergreen forests with moss, fern, rattan, betel-vine and various kinds of medicinal plants growing there.
-Bueng Paen (บึงแปน): It is grassland similar to Thung Kamang, but it lies in a lower plain which floods during the rainy season. In the dry season, there is a swamp in the middle of the plain.
-Namtok Tat Khro (น้ำตกตาดคร้อ) is a large and high waterfall to the south of Thung Kramang near the Phu Khiao Forest Safeguard Centre in Nong Bua Daeng District. The water from this waterfall will run down to the Saphung River.
-Namtok Huai Wai (น้ำตกห้วยหวาย) is a 3-tiered waterfall. Each of its levels is 20 metres high. The location where it runs through the mountain is the pass in between Khao Phu Noi and Khao Phu Khiao Yai.
-Namtok Nakkharat (น้ำตกนาคราช): The width of this waterfall is approximately 5 metres with 3 tiers of different height. Nearby the waterfall one finds and abundance of Phaya Nakkharat (Polynesian foot fern) and it is therefore that the waterfall is called "Namtok Nakkharat".
-Pha Thewada (ผาเทวดา) The rocks at this cliff are white - similar to limestone - with a water flow passing through called "Chi Phut". It is the origin of the Chi River with a width of 10-15 metres running through the south of the mountain and down to the Chi Yai River at Ban Lon.
-Phu Khing (ภูคิ้ง) is the summit of the Khao Khiao mountain range with a height of 1,167 metres above sea level. It is considered as the 5th highest one of the Northeast and is located in the Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve.
-The Phu Khiao Wildlife Breeding Research Station (สถานีเพาะเลี้ยงสัตว์ป่าภูเขียว): There are many kinds of wildlife to see, particularly sambar deer and brown-antlered deer.
Pa Hin Ngam National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติป่าหินงาม) There are many kinds of wild flowers in the same species of Dusita, En A, and orchids, as well as, various species of wildlife, comprising more than 56 kinds of birds, 21 types of mammals, and 10 categories of reptiles. Destinations within the national park are as follows:
-Lan Hin Ngam (ลานหินงาม) It was caused by the erosion of the soil and rocks into different shapes, which can be imagined as many kinds of objects and animals such as nails, radar, hens, etc.
-Dok Krachiao or Bua Sawan Field (ทุ่งดอกกระเจียว หรือ ทุ่งบัวสวรรค์) Krachiao – a kind of curcuma - is an annual plant in the same species as ginger-galingale, scattered generally from Lan Hin Ngam to the Sut Phaendin viewpoint.
-Sut Phaendin (สุดแผ่นดิน) is a steep cliff and the highest point of the Phang Hoei mountain range, 2 kilometres from the Office of the National Park and 846 metres above sea level. It is the cliff connecting between the Central and Northeastern regions.
-Namtok Thep Phana (น้ำตกเทพพนา) is a medium-size waterfall originating from Huai Krachon flowing from the Phang Hoei mountain range. It can be divided into 3 different tiers. There is water only during the rainy season.
-Namtok Thep Prathan (น้ำตกเทพประทาน) is situated in Ban Rai Sub-district, 7 kilometres from the Office of the National Park. It is a medium-size waterfall but quite flat. There are different low tiers of large rock terraces and a steep highland with a large amount of water during the rainy season.
-Phra Phutthabat Khao Yai Hom (พระพุทธบาทเขายายหอม): It is a red Buddha’s left footprint, stamped onto the rock terrace with a width of 75 centimetres, length of 180 centimetres, and depth of 45 centimetres, surrounded by 3 holy ponds.
Local Products
Chaiyaphum‘s local products are Mudmee silk, cotton cloth, Khit cloth, triangular pillows and other woven cloth products. Also delicate basketry and various local dishes such as Mam, Som Wua, fish cake, and IsarnIsarn
Isarn, Izarn, Isard, or Ysarns is an Occitan name that could refer to:*Isarn of Pallars *Isarn, Bishop of Grenoble *Peire Isarn , bishop*Isarn , troubadour...
sausage can be found in this province.
Culture
Chaiyaphum is a center for the Northeastern Thai musical styles Mor lamMor lam
Mor lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan.Mor lam means expert song, or expert singer, referring to the music or artist respectively. Other romanisations used include mo lam, maw lam, maw lum, moh lam and mhor lum...
and Mor lam sing
Mor lam sing
Mor lam sing is a fast-paced, racy, modernized version of the traditional Lao/Isan song form mor lam. Sing comes from the English word "racing"...
.
Festivals
The Chaopho Phraya Lae Festival (งานฉลองอนุสาวรีย์เจ้าพ่อพระยาแล) is held from the 12th until the 20th of January each year in front of Chaiyaphum City Hall and the Chaopho Phraya Lae Monument Intersection.The Chaopho Phraya Lae Worship Ceremony (งานประเพณีบวงสรวงเจ้าพ่อพญาแล) is held at the Nong Pla Thao Shrine on the first Monday of May every year (It lasts for 3 days and 3 nights). The locals will pay respect to Chaopho Phraya Lae’s spirit and perform traditional dances in front of the old shrine. There is a contest of local food, folk sports competition and a "Bai Si" procession contest.
The Candle Festival (งานแห่เทียนพรรษา) is a festival organised by the Chaiyaphum Municipal Office on the full moon day of the 8th lunar month (around July). There is a candle contest. This event is widely popular and similar to the candle procession of Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani is a city on the Mun River in the south-east of the Isan region of Thailand. It is known as Ubon for short. The name means "Royal Lotus City." The provincial seal features a pond with a lotus flower and leaves in a circular frame. Ubon is the administrative centre of Ubon...
.
The Ram Phi Fa Tradition (ประเพณีรำผีฟ้า) is a ceremony worshipping certain sacred objects and the "Phrachao Ong Tue", a Buddha image engraved out of sandstone with a height of 2 metres. The locals consider this Buddha image as very holy. Many people will participate in this ceremonial dance. The ceremony is organised twice a year on the 13th to 15th day during the waxing moon of the 5th lunar month (in April) and the first day during the waning moon of the 3rd lunar month within the area of Khao Phu Phra, Ban Na Kai Sao and Na Siao Sub-district in Mueang District.
The Bun Duean Si Festival (งานบุญเดือนสี่) is a festival of the people of Khon San, comprising merit-making on the dark moon day of the 4th lunar month (Duean Si) and a "Saba" competition on the 1st to 3rd day of the waxing moon during the 5th lunar month (around March). The Saba competition is challenged for the winner prize creating amusement within the compound of Wat Chedi, Khon San District. It is the only Saba competition performed in Northeastern Thailand.
The Dok Krachiao Blossom Festival (งานวันดอกกระเจียวบาน) is held at the end of June to July at Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Thep Sathit District. It is during the rainy season when the blossoms of the wild Krachiao flowers - in a purplish pink colour - are widely found in the area. Therefore, this area is known as Dok Krachiao Field. During the festival, there is a nature tour around the national park and local performances.
Climate
External links
- http://www.chaiyaphum.go.th Official website (Thai)