Waterfalls and bananas
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Waterfalls and bananas

Peaceful Kamphaeng Phet might not be the most obvious of tourist destinations, but that doesn't mean it's not worth a visit

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Stopping by Kamphaeng Phet isn't high up on many motorists' lists, but the longer I lingered, the more interesting things I began to find hidden in this modest old town.

Located in the heart of Kamphaeng Phet’s old town, Wat Phra Kaeo is outstanding with three Buddha images.

If you regularly travel between Bangkok and the northern provinces via Asian Highway 1, you may have noticed stalls lining the road, attracting customers with big bunches of bananas, banana shoots and other banana products. The bustling roadside market indicates you are approaching Kamphaeng Phet.

Compared to nearby provinces like Tak and Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet is much less famous. This quiet province is not on many travellers' maps, so do not expect luxurious hotels or exciting attractions here.

However, if you are looking for a serene place rich in history and natural resources, this is the spot.

Kamphaeng Phet's history can be dated back some 700 years. It once served as a hub for people from other regions to meet and trade, gradually developing into an important frontier town.

Kamphaeng Phet served as a major fort for Ayutthaya when the kingdom battled with Lanna in the North — strong fort walls with arrow slits can still be seen, reflecting the town's importance.

After the 15th century the Sukhothai Kingdom lost its influence in the region, but Kamphaeng Phet continued to play an important role as a

Buddhism hub. It is believed that Kamphaeng Phet once housed the Emerald Buddha and the Phra

Buddha Sihing, an important Lanna Buddha image.

Strolling through serene landscapes and ancient Buddhist temples in Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park allows you a clearer picture of the town.

The park is rather quiet and peaceful compared to famous sites in Sukhothai or Ayutthaya. Kids are free to play under the shade of huge trees without their parents worrying about cars. A unique attraction next to the historical park is Chalerm Phrakiat National Museum. The museum attracts visitors with its architectural style of the Central Region and exhibitions on the town, however what I found more interesting was its backyard, where over 150 species of local bananas have been planted, including the province's famous kluay hai.

Take notice of kluay tanee dum, or wild Musa balbisiana Colla, which has a surprisingly black trunk and petioles. The metallic-coloured fruit of the red banana is considered an oblation to the gods, while the blood banana's (Musa gracilis Horltt) leaves have a camouflage design, like a soldier's battle uniform.

The museum sells banana shoots, as well, but you can also find them at the Banana Market on Asian

Highway 1, which is probably the liveliest spot in the province. The roadside market showcases the best

Kamphaeng Phet has to offer, selling various products such as bananas, dried fruits, brooms and hammocks.

The market is busy and lively all day, no matter how hot it might be. You will see motorists taking a break, trying out chao kuay, which is black jelly served with ice cubes and syrup. Plant lovers search for orchids and bananas, and ladies roam about, tasting various snacks.

It is good idea to stock up on food at the market before having a picnic in the lush jungle near Khlong

Lan Waterfall. This big and beautiful waterfall is not popular, so you can enjoy a quiet day out in peaceful nature.

To the southwest, close to Nakhon Sawan province, is a wilder side of Kamphaeng Phet. Brave tourists flock to Mae Wong National Park to conquer Mokoju Peak, which stands 1,964m above sea level. The round-trip trek to the peak takes five days, but hikers say the view is worth the journey.

The longer you linger, the more interesting things you will find in this quiet town.

If you want to relax in a less crowded place, Khlong Lan Waterfall is a nice choice. Set among serene nature, the big waterfall is rather quiet and allows nature lovers to enjoy a peaceful day out.

A child looks up at a gigantic Buddha image in Wat Phra Si Iriyabot. The temple houses four Buddha images in walking, seating, standing and reclining positions. They are situated around a concave base and showcase the Sukhothai art found in the province.

A slim pagoda in the Kamphaeng Phet style stands on an octagonal base at Wat Phra That in the historical park. Wat Phra Kaeo and Wat Phra That, two significant temples, are located in the heart of Kamphaeng Phet old town.

Chalerm Phrakiat National Museum’s backyard is a banana plantation which grows over 150 varieties.

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