Day trip by train from Bangkok to Phetchaburi

witaya ratanasirikulchai / Shutterstock.com

Traveling by train is a relaxing activity, it may take a little longer than, for example, by car, but the train in Thailand offers beautiful views of lush fields, forests and local life. So is the 911 special train, with which you can take a day trip from Bangkok to the coastal city this summer Phetchaburi can make.

It's a rare opportunity to spend a day enjoying the unique culinary delights of this southern province for little money, as well as seeing ancient temples, historic sites and ancient communities dating back to the glorious days of the Ayutthaya period. The 911 special train runs from the station hua lamphong in Bangkok to Suan Son Padipat station in Hua Hin, including a stop in Phetchaburi.

An eco-cultural journey

The Tourist Authority of Thailand, in collaboration with the State Railway of Thailand and local stakeholders, has put together a new eco-cultural tour program called “Chom View Rot Rang, Tiew Tang Rot Leng” (Admire the view in the train, ride around with a tuk-tuk). The 911 train runs every weekend and national holidays and the first 1000 passengers are offered a free tuk tuk with an experienced driver/guide to get to know the city.

Wat Phra Pathom Chedi

Travelogue

Pattarawadee Saengmanee took part in this trip and made a nice travelogue with photos for 'The Nation Weekend'. The journey started on a Saturday morning when about 100 passengers reported for the departure at half past six. She has opted for a seat in second class, which has air conditioning. Less than an hour and a half later, Nakhon Pathom is reached, where travelers have the opportunity to visit the nearby morning market, where food, drinks and delicious sweets are sold. A little further on is the Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, home to Thailand's largest bell-shaped Lanka-style chedi, built in 1853.

Phra Ramrajnivet palace

Phetchaburi

The journey continues and an hour later the train arrives in Phetchaburi. There are already dozens of tuk tuks ready to carry out the sightseeing tour. It's the first stop Phra Ramrajnivet palace, the construction of which was started in 1910 and was supposed to serve as a summer residence for King Rama V. It is a palace inspired by a German palace of Kaiser Wilhelm and is considered a masterpiece of European architecture. Construction was completed in 1916 during the reign of King Rama VI and opened to royal guests in 1918.

Lunch time

After another visit to Wat Mahathat Worawihan, built in the Dvaravati period and famous for its beautiful stucco work, it's time for lunch. Along the river and in the side streets there are many shops and restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes. The reporter enters Mae Orn, a 60-year-old diner, where a traditional “khao chae” is enjoyed, steamed rice dipped in ice-cold jasmine-like water with prawn paste balls and glazed Chinese rutabaga.

Murals at the Wat Yai Suwannaram (B.Panupong / Shutterstock.com)

Even more temples

After lunch, the tuk tuk will take the travelers to Wat Yai Suwannaram, built in the Ayutthaya period, where murals can be viewed in the main hall, which are supposed to represent the Jakata stories. The last stop is the Wat Phra Phut Saiyat, which has been abandoned for a very long time Temple was, but was restored by King Rama IV. In the hall a 43 meter high reclining Buddha.

End visit Phetchaburi

The visit to Phetchaburi ends around 5 pm and the visitors board the 912 train back to Bangkok. The reporter is already looking forward to his window seat, where he will be able to enjoy the sunset.

Finally

Read the whole story in English and view the beautiful photos at: www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/thailand/30365454, where you can also find details about prices and reservations.