Ang Thong

Lying on the low-lying bank of the Chao Phraya River and along the Noi River, Ang Thong, also known as Mueang Wiset Chai Chan, is a small province in the central region of Thailand. Not being endowed with abundant ecosystem as mountains or forest, but Angthong is a flat fertile land with numerous paddy fields so people often refer it as 'golden bowl' of Thailand. The province is about 108 km from Bangkok, covers an area of 968 square kilometers and consists of 7 amphoes including Chaiyo, Muang Ang Thong, Pa Mok, Sawaengha, Pho Thong, Samko and Wiset Chai Chan.

Ang Thong used to be a vital frontier outpost of Ayutthaya whilst fighting with the Burmese. According to Ayutthaya chronicles, it was the military base of the Burmese to attack Ayutthaya which caused Bang Rachan Battle. During the reign of king Taksin, after the defeat of Ayutthaya, Mueang Wiset Chai Chan was moved to the Chao Phraya River at Ban Bangkaeo. It then was named Ang Thong meaning “gold basin” for its fertile geography and golden color of rice bowl in the region.

Ang Thong is an agricultural land with sandy soil and much rain in the rainy season along with the subsidy from canals providing water, which produces effective rice crops. It is the centre of numerous native handicrafts as miniature dolls, drums, wickerwork and firebrick. It is also homeland of the two heroes in Bang Rachan Battle, Nai Dok and Nai Thongkaeo and the origin of Li Ke, the local folk song. Besides, the province is an important area having contributed to Thai art and mythology with a lot of historical attractions including more than 200 magnificent temples as Wat Phinitthammasan, Wat Ratchapaksi, Wat Suwansewariyaram, Wat Mathurotsatiyaram, City Pillar Shrine, Wat Chaiyo Worawihan, Wat Pho Thong, Wat Tonson, etc. In addition, tourists have great chance to see unique handicrafts production with skills from the generations in some local villages as Ban Bang Phae Drum Making Village and Ban Bang Sadet Miniature Doll Center with a large number of souvenirs displayed at shops.

Ang Thong is also a land rich in culture with a variety of festivals held during the year including Annual Red Cross Fair (late December) with cultural shows, local handicrafts sales, stalls, exhibitions and product contests; the Long Boat Race Festival (March and October) with interesting boat races; Loy Krathong (Loy Krathhong day) with firework, etc. Let’s come and enjoy various kinds of entertainment here.