Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
One daily train from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong station stops at Si Racha (30B, three
hours). Si Racha's train station is 3km east of the waterfront.
Motorbike taxis zip around town for 20B to 30B.
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Ko Si Chang
POP 5012
Once a royal beach retreat, Ko Si Chang has a fishing village atmosphere and enough at-
tractions to make it a decent day's excursion from Si Racha, or an overnight stop for those
who want to chill out. It gets busier at weekends, when Bangkok Thais come to eat sea-
food, pose in front of the sea and make merit at the local temples.
Sights
Phra Chudadhut Palace
( 9am-5pm Tue-Sun) This former royal palace was used by Rama V (King Chu-
lalongkorn) over the summer months, but was abandoned when the French briefly occu-
pied the island in 1893. The main throne hall - a magnificent golden teak structure known
as Vimanmek Teak Mansion - was moved to Bangkok in 1910. What's left are subdued
Victorian-style buildings set in gardenlike grounds.
Ruen Vadhana and Ruen Mai Rim Talay contain historical displays about the king's vis-
its to the island and his public works programs, including a lecture to the local people on
Western tea parties. Up the hill is Wat Asadang Khanimit, a temple containing a small,
consecrated chamber where Rama V used to meditate. The Buddha image inside was
fashioned more than 50 years ago by a local monk. Nearby is a stone outcrop wrapped in
holy cloth, called Bell Rock because it rings like a bell when struck.
As this was a palace, proper attire is technically required (legs and arms should be
covered) but the rules aren't enforced here. While some desultory renovations are going
on, there is a rather melancholy air to the place and it is far less well-maintained than most
royal properties.
HISTORICAL SITE
Cholatassathan Museum
AQUARIUM
 
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