Fah Thai Magazine - Inflight Magazine of Bangkok Airways Issue Jan-Feb 2024

OVERTURES
THAILAND TREASURES
Clockwise from
Top Right
Wat Phrasi Rattana
Mahathat, a
remarkable Khmerstyle
temple, built on a
grand scale in the 12th
century
Basil & Coffee, a
chill-out eatery,
serves international
classics amid a feast of
wildflowers
Puffball mushroom
curry, a Lop Buri
delicacy, offers foodies
a taste of the unique
local cuisine
Mahathat, a remarkable Khmer-style
temple. Built in the 12th century on a
grand scale, this temple is a patchwork
of preserved remnants from different
historical periods. Notable is the
Buddhist temple to the east of the
pagoda, commissioned by King Narai.
Its unique fusion of styles mixes Thaiinspired
doors with Gothic windows that
mirror the diverse cultural influences
present during its construction.
Along with historical gems, Lop Buri is
also endowed with natural riches.
At Khao Chin Lae Mountain,
located 23 kilometres east of the town,
sunflower fields burst into bloom from
November to January. Standing amid
endless expanses of vibrant yellow
flowers stretching to the mountains and
azure sky creates a stunning backdrop
for your adventure.
Basil & Coffee is situated amid fields
of cosmos flowers a 10-minute drive
away. This relaxed eatery serves classic
Thai dishes like spicy holy basil-flavoured
stir-fries alongside European favourites
like salmon steak. Diners can stroll along
the elevated walkway for selfies with the
charming wooden cottage set amid the
wildflower meadow.
Lop Buri’s culinary scene reflects the
melting pot of local ethnicities and cultures,
ranging from Thai Phuan to Mon.
On Phrasi Mahosot Road is Mudmee,
a renowned Thai Phuan restaurant that
counts Thai royals among its clientele.
Signature dishes here are Stir-Fried Crispy
Catfish with Salted Egg, Puffball Mushroom
Curry, Fried Chicken with Herbs, and Deep-
Fried Whisker Sheatfish with Garlic.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast,
a wildlife lover, or a foodie seeking new
flavours, Lop Buri has something special to
offer, making it a must-visit destination for
those exploring the wonders of Thailand.
SCENIC TRAIN RIDE
Roundtrips on the famous “floating
train” tourist service run from Bangkok
to scenic Pa Sak Jolasid Dam in Lop Buri
province from November to January.
The train is named for the illusion of
gliding over the water as it traverses
the dam on the tranquil reservoir.
Adding a touch of authenticity this year
is the vintage 1980 KiHa-183 train,
a retired “workhorse” now serving
tourists. Celebrated as one of Thailand’s
most picturesque train rides, the Pa
Sak Jolasid Dam route features an
enticing side excursion to breathtaking
sunflower fields. The pinnacle of the
journey, however, is witnessing the
sunset over the reservoir from the
classic KiHa-183. Tickets for this
enchanting ride can be secured at all
train stations throughout Thailand. For
additional details, please call 1690,
www.dticket.railway.co.th
16