Travel restrictions have spurred virtual trips to explore the world. However, destinations need not be far as there are many interesting places in Thailand to discover.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports together with the provinces of Suphan Buri, Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi invite cyber tourists to experience landmarks and attractions through a 360-degree hybrid tour using AR, VR, 3D and Invisible Drone technologies.
The seven stops in Suphan Buri include the City Pillar Shrine; Bueng Chawak Chalerm Phrakiat freshwater lake; Wang Yang community in Si Prachan; and the Traditional Tai Dam Cultural Center in U Thong district.
The province is also famous for its temples, namely Wat Khao Tham Thiam with a colossal Buddha statue carved on the cliff; Wat Khao Phra Si Sanphetchayaram featuring Buddha's footprint carved from stone; and Wat Pa Lelai Worawihan, where murals portray scenes from Thai literature Khun Chang Khun Phaen.
The virtual tour of Ratchaburi highlights four temples -- Wat Mahathat Worawihan with an enshrined Buddha relic; Wat Nong Hoi with a hilltop Guan Yin monastery; Wat Pho Rattanaram with a stainless steel ordination hall; and Wat Khao Chong Pran with a bat cave.
The historic bridge over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi. (Photo courtesy of ABM Connect)
Another sacred site -- the cave in Khao Ngu Stone Park -- features Buddha images carved on the wall. Meanwhile, Nang Yai Wat Khanon National Museum showcases an exhibition of shadow puppet drama as well as leather-carving craftsmanship.
The virtual tour in Kanchanaburi starts at the historic bridge over the River Kwai, which was a part of the infamous "Death Railway" constructed during World War II. Also, over 100 years old, an emblematic giant rain tree allows 10 people to hug its large trunk at once.
Other highlights in this western province include Srinagarind Dam, Tiger Cave Temple, Royal Monument of King Naresuan the Great, and the Thai Paper Mill founded in 1938.
In addition, the virtual tour introduces viewers to Otop products that can be purchased from participating communities through Facebook and Line.
Nang Yai Wat Khanon National Museum in Photharam, Ratchaburi. (Photo: Ministry of Tourism & Sports)
