Entries about mountain

Following on from my slideshow of Wat Bang Riang, this is of the second structure in the complex at the top of the hill.

Wat Bang Riang is a temple where Buddhist monks reside. The overall atmosphere is very peaceful but once in a while, buses with local visitors stop by to make merit and pay respect to a bell-shaped pagoda. Called Chedi Phutthathambanlue, this 109-metre-tall holy structure is said to house relics of the Buddha.

The 2 enormous, mystical 5-headed Nagas (serpents) standing on each side of the staircase make quite an impressive entrance. Within the temple complex are the gigantic golden Buddha and the tallest statue of Kwam Im in South of Thailand (as well as many of her mini versions in the basement).

You'll also get to see Buddha images of all sizes, in different postures and styles, throughout the premise. There are also Thai guardian figures such as lions, elephants and holy birds, as well as Chinese-style dragons.

There are panoramic views of the district from the top of the hill, with vistas out over the hilly countryside of rubber plantations. On a clear day, you often have small villages and the Andaman Sea, as well as the famous Phang Nga Bay.

Visitors to Wat Bang Riang can explore the temple grounds, which also include other structures, statues, and beautiful gardens. The Chedi Phutthathambanlue is a popular pilgrimage site and a place for devotees to pay their respects and offer prayers.

It's quite beautifully adorned with reliefs and galleries of painting of the Buddha. When I was there, there was some restoration work going on with the paintings.

Ya Nui is a beautiful beach located on the southern end of Phuket Island, Thailand. It is a small beach compared to other popular beaches on the island, but it is known for its crystal-clear water and stunning views of nearby islands.

Ya Nui beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The water is calm and clear, which makes it perfect for underwater exploration. The beach is also surrounded by coral reefs, which are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even octopuses.

While Ya Nui beach is not as crowded as some of the other popular beaches on Phuket Island

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.

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.

Ao Ta Let is a beautiful beach located in Khanom district in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, southern Thailand. It is situated on the Gulf of Thailand and is known for its tranquil and secluded atmosphere, as it is still largely undeveloped and not yet as popular among tourists as other beaches in the region.

The beach at Ao Ta Let is pristine and peaceful, with soft white sand and crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding area is also home to a lush mangrove forest and several small fishing villages, which offer visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in southern Thailand.

One of the main attractions of Ao Ta Let is its stunning sunsets, which paint the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking in the nearby hills.
Overall, Ao Ta Let is a beautiful and peaceful beach that is perfect for those seeking a quieter and more laid-back holiday experience in southern Thailand.