Thailand The Johnsons

Ratchaprapha Dam, also known as the Cheow Lan Dam, is a large hydroelectric dam located in Surat Thani province, southern Thailand. The dam was built in the 1980s to generate electricity for the region and to regulate the flow of the Klong Saeng River.

The Ratchaprapha Dam is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The dam is surrounded by lush forests and towering limestone cliffs, creating a scenic and peaceful atmosphere. The reservoir created by the dam is called the Cheow Lan Lake and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Visitors to the Ratchaprapha Dam can take a boat tour of the Cheow Lan Lake to explore the scenic surroundings and spot wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, and fish. The lake is also a popular spot for kayaking, swimming, and fishing.

Near the dam, there is also a small village where visitors can learn about the local culture and sample traditional Thai food. The village also offers a variety of eco-tourism activities, such as hiking, camping, and bird watching.

Overall, the Ratchaprapha Dam and the Cheow Lan Lake offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of southern Thailand while also providing an important source of electricity for the region.

St. Raphael Cathedral, also known as Surat Thani Cathedral, is a Catholic church located in Surat Thani province, southern Thailand. The cathedral was established in 1932 and is named after St. Raphael the Archangel, who is considered the patron saint of travelers.

The cathedral is known for its distinctive architecture, which features a mix of European and Thai styles. The interior of the church is adorned with colorful stained glass windows and intricate carvings, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

St. Raphael Cathedral is an important religious and cultural landmark in Surat Thani province. The cathedral serves as the seat of the bishop of the Surat Thani diocese and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Visitors to St. Raphael Cathedral can attend Catholic mass, participate in religious ceremonies and events, and explore the history and architecture of the church. The cathedral is also surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is a peaceful and tranquil place to relax and reflect.

Overall, St. Raphael Cathedral is a unique and important religious site in Surat Thani province.

Wat Tham Singkhon is a Buddhist temple located in Surat Thani province, southern Thailand. The temple is known for its natural beauty, as it is situated in a limestone cave complex surrounded by lush forests and hills.

To reach the temple, visitors must climb a staircase that leads to the entrance of the cave. Inside the cave, visitors can explore the various chambers and passageways, some of which are adorned with intricate carvings and Buddha statues.

One of the highlights of Wat Tham Singkhon is the main shrine room, which is located deep inside the cave and features a large reclining Buddha statue. The statue is considered one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in Thailand, measuring over 30 meters in length.

In addition to the main shrine room, there are also several other shrines and prayer halls throughout the cave complex. You will also see some interesting and complex cave art on the ceiling of the cave as you enter.

Outside the cave, there are several buildings and structures that make up the temple complex, including a bell tower and a stupa. The temple also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the nearby Tapee River.

Suspension of Khao Thep Phitak Bridge is another famous tourist destination in Surat Thani province. Located behind Wat Khao Phang close to the entrance of Ratchaprapha Dam (Chiao Lan Dam). The bridge uses a large wire rope stretched to a concrete pole. The floor is covered with wooden and metal planks on a steel frame. It is surrounded with natural scenery which is beautiful. Behind the bridge is a heart-shaped mountain. If taking pictures in the middle of the bridge will get the most beautiful heart shape.

The bridge is known for its unique design and engineering, as it is one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in Thailand, with a total length of 1.8 kilometers. The bridge’s main span is 320 meters long and is supported by two tall pylons, which are 117 meters high.

The name “Khao Thep Phitak” means “Mountain of the Angel’s Wings” in Thai, which is derived from the nearby mountain range that has a similar shape to angel wings. The bridge was named after this mountain range.

Overall, Khao Thep Phitak Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering and a beautiful landmark in Surat Thani province.

Wat Donsak is a Buddhist temple located in the Donsak district of Surat Thani province in southern Thailand. The temple is known for its impressive architecture, beautiful gardens, and serene atmosphere.

The temple complex is home to several buildings, including a large main hall or ubosot, several chedis or stupas, and a meditation hall. The main hall is adorned with intricate carvings and gold leaf decorations and houses a statue of the Buddha.

The temple grounds are also home to a large garden, filled with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and serene ponds. The garden is a peaceful oasis, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or find a quiet spot to meditate or reflect.

One of the unique features of Wat Donsak is its stunning view of the surrounding countryside and nearby islands. Visitors can climb to the top of the chedi for a panoramic view of the area, including the Gulf of Thailand and the nearby islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phangan.