The nation’s agricultural heartland is also its historical heart. Nakhon Pathom, west of Bangkok, was a Mon power centre in ancient times, while beyond lies Kanchanaburi, site of the infamous World War II Bridge over the River Kwai, and Three Pagodas Pass, a former gateway for Burmese invaders.
North of Bangkok is the ruins of Ayutthaya, Thailand’s capital for more than 400 years and once the most magnificent city in the Orient. Beyond lies the historic town of Lop Buri, a Khmer outpost before the rise of the Thais and later serving as Versailles to Ayutthaya’s Paris.
On the upper edge of the Central Plains is the 700 years-old site of Sukhotai, Thailand’s first capital. Nearby are the ruins of the ancient satellite towns Si Satchanalai and Kamphaeng Phet. To the west, a road crosses spectacular mountain scenery to reach Mae Sot on the Burmese boarders.
For touring purposes, the Central Plains can be included on a road or rail route north of Chiang Mai, although Ayutthaya is also a popular day excursion from Bangkok. Kanchanaburi lies off the north-south axis and warrants a separate visit.
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Central plains of Thailand are one of the most beautiful and picturesque areas in Thailand. It is a pleasure to travel there by car or boat.
I have been to Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi, very lovely places with amazing picturesque scenery.
I think that Kanchanaburi tour is one of the most popular in the last couple of years in Thailand and definitely Central Thailand is one of the most beautiful parts in Thailand.