Phra Pradaeng: A Tourist Site Neighboring Bangkok

[Jai Dee]

Phra Pradaeng: A tourist site neighboring BKK

Tourists can get in touch with nature, breath fresh air, and visit the floating market at an ecotourism destination near the capital city of Bangkok.

Phra Pradaeng, originally named Nakhon Khuan Khan, has been established since Rattanakosin era, during the reign of HM Somdet Phra Buddhalertla Napalai (King Rama II). The city was once a barricade that protected the enemies from attacking by sea. Currently, it is one of the districts of Samut Prakarn Province.

Phra Pradaeng was once a main city of the country, and many people have migrated to reside here. Eventually, the city has a unique culture and traditions, especially during the Songkran festival, which is also known as Songkran Pa Klad. The traditions of the festival remain unchanged despite the tides of time.

The district of Phra Pradaeng has many tourist attractions, including ecotourism sites such as Sri Nakhon Khuan Khan Garden. The garden covers 148 rai of land and has been named by His Majesty the King. It is located in Tambon Ban Ka Jao, with 148 rai of land. The site has continued to attract both Thai and foreign tourists. Times Magazine has commended Sri Nakhon Khuan Khan Garden to be one of the top three tourist destinations in Asia with cleanest air.

After entering the garden, countless varieties of plants and flowers can be seen, and it is a place very fitting for exercising and resting with one’s family members during weekends.

Deep inside the garden, a large lake can be found with many types of fish. Tourists can take a boat ride or take a walk on a wooden bridge, to view the beautiful nature of the garden. Other activities include bird watching, bicycling, and viewing natural sceneries. The garden is opened everyday from 6 AM to 8 PM.

Nearby Sri Nakhon Khuan Khan Garden, tourists can shop at Bang Nam Pung floating market, which is opened only on weekends. One of the charms of this floating market is its traditional way of life in the midst of natural serenity.

The products being sold here are mostly local products, OTOP goods and food items, such as vegetables and fruits. Products from other places are not being sold at this floating market as it would like to generate revenues to the local residents.

Besides, Bang Nam Pung Tambon Organization Administration and the local people are providing home-stay services for tourists who would like to stay overnight.

For more details, please call Bang Nam Pung Tambon Organization Administration at 0-2819-6762.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 12 September 2006