West Thailand Attractions

Cha Am attracts tourists who come here mainly to enjoy the beach and sun. There are numerous resorts along the ocean front. In addition to the natural beauty there are also a number of cultural attractions in the surrounding areas including numerous temples.

Samut SongkhramSamut Songkhram lies 70 km (43 mi.) south-west of Bangkok on the estuary of the Mae Klong, which flows from the Tenasserim mountains, as well as dividing Thailand and Myanmar. It is mainly marshland to the west of the town broken up by huge salt-evaporation fields. To the north of the town fertile vegetable-growing areas are traversed by a dense network of canals; Damnoen Saduak, one of the last floating markets in Thailand, is located in this network.By car: from Bangkok Highway 35 (72 km (45 mi.)). Alternatively a rewarding detour via Nakhom Pathom (see Nakhom Pathom): Highway 4, 10 km (6 mi.) past Nakhon Pathom on Highway 325 (96 km (60 mi.)).By bus: several times daily from Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal.By rail: Mae-Klong narrow gauge railway from Bangkok to Thonburi. Alight at Samut Sakhon, cross the Menam Tha Chin by ferry and continue the journey by the connecting train on the other bank.The journey up the Mae Klong and through the canals by boat is through wonderful countryside which is partly cultivated and partly unspoilt. Some of the houses, which line the bank in places, are in the original Thai style.