Let's go on a trip… somewhere nearby….


The author's father hails from U Thong district in Suphan Buri province. Despite frequently passing through the town, the author had never explored its historical significance. This time, however, they decided to delve into U Thong's history, starting with the intriguing Museum of U Thong. Despite having passed by the museum countless times over the years, they had never ventured inside.


Admission fee is 30 baht per person. You can enjoy a VIP experience with no other visitors. The staff is very friendly and the air conditioning is excellent, providing a refreshing contrast to the hot weather outside.

The ticket office features a small exhibition dedicated to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's visit to inaugurate the U Thong Museum.


While enjoying the cool air conditioning and browsing through photos, I stumbled upon these two intriguing models of a pagoda.


Wow, interesting! I didn't know there was something like this nearby. After I finish visiting the museum, I'll ask the staff for directions.

The U Thong Museum features several exhibition sections, including:

1. Exhibition Hall: "U Thong, Center of Buddhism"

2. "Suvarnabhumi: Ancient Global Trade" Exhibition Hall

3. "The Historical Development of Suvarnabhumi" exhibition hall

4. U Thong Sri Dvaravati Exhibition Hall

5. "U Thong Ancestors" Exhibition Hall

"U Thong: Center of Buddhism"

This room showcases the history of U Thong, an ancient city that was one of the first to be influenced by Buddhism from India. U Thong became the birthplace of the Dvaravati culture, and evidence suggests that Buddhism was established in U Thong before other Dvaravati cities.

The exhibition features replicas of significant archaeological artifacts and the excavation of a stupa at the ancient city of U Thong. It utilizes modern techniques and animated films to enhance the display.

Let's go and see. I'm walking alone because there are no other groups.

Let's delve into the history of U Thong, a crucial topic for students. This information is essential for academic assignments.



The presentation technique is captivating, employing a layered model with projected images. It delves into the creation of Buddhist sculptures, including terracotta monk figures, stone platforms, pillars, and the Dharma wheel.

This is approximately the closest we can get to experiencing it firsthand.

According to officials, the typical Dvaravati-era Dharmachakra consists of three parts: a platform, a pillar, and the Dharmachakra itself.

While other sites may only have pillars, platforms, or Dharma wheels, U Thong uniquely boasts all three elements together.


"The U Thong moat is oddly shaped, with curves and bends, unlike the moats of Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Korat, or even Bangkok."

The city's old age is evident in its architecture, which reflects the rounded and irregular shapes typical of cities from that era.


A section of the city moat is on Malai Man Road, also known as Route 321, for those who are unfamiliar with it.

The next exhibition is about trade in the Suvarnabhumi region, with U Thong being a part of the trading cities during that era.

During that era, the sea level was high, making it a significant port city. There is substantial evidence to support this claim, including the discovery of intriguing Roman, silver, and gold coins.



The next exhibition hall showcases the historical development of the Suvarnabhumi region, from prehistoric times to its evolution into an urban society. It is believed that this region, now known as Thailand and Southeast Asia, was a major trading center in the ancient world.

This is a replica of a cave painting from Kanchanaburi, specifically from Tham Ta Duang Cave. It is an intriguing piece.


They're making a big pot!



Let's move on to the next room, which exhibits archaeological objects found in local archaeological sites. Interestingly, these archaeological sites are interspersed among various communities. Based on my conversation with the staff, these sites seem like promising locations for conducting remote sensing surveys.

Evidence suggests that the hippie movement existed as early as the Dvaravati period (6th-11th centuries CE).

The Dharma wheel and the kneeling deer symbolize the arrival of Buddhism.


The image of the Buddha in the teaching posture. When you are stressed, think of this image of the Buddha.

It's as if you're telling us, "Don't worry, everything's going to be okay."

A link to a Facebook photo.




On the right side of the building, there is a courtyard showcasing a traditional Lao Song house, which is remarkably realistic in its presentation.


Goosebumps!


Following our conversation with the officials, we have a new objective for the day: to collect RCs from archaeological sites around U Thong city. While the details were a bit unclear, we understood that the sites are scattered but not difficult to reach.


Let's go!


Turn right out of the museum gate and enter the alley behind U Thong Suksa School.

Continue straight ahead. You will see a bridge and a sports field in front of you. Stand in the middle of the bridge and face the old city wall.

The third chedi is located on the left-hand side. On the right-hand side, there is another ancient site, believed to be the ancient city of Si Satchanalai.


The location is conveniently close to the community.


Pagoda Number 3


Another angle of the handsome car.



Is this the ancient site of Ban Sri Sawan Phet?


Oh! I understand that it is located behind the U Thong Stadium.

This sign from the museum seems to be the one, but I'm not sure.

Is this it? But I understand this is Pagoda number 13. How come... 5555

It's quite fun, isn't it? It's starting to feel more and more like collecting RC cars.

The stark simplicity and rawness of the ancient structure, at first glance resembling a pile of worthless stones, is in fact surrounded by concrete pillars erected by the Fine Arts Department.

Continue along the city moat, exit onto Winyanuyok Road, turn right and go back up to the beginning of the road.

This is the second pagoda, I think! I'm starting to get confused.

This is very close to the community.

The mouth of the path is around here.


The house is located in close proximity to residential areas.


Continue onward. Near Wat Khao Phra, there are two more ancient sites nearby.

Follow the road. Do you see that far away? That's it, the temple of Wat Khao Phra Si Sanphet.

Zooming in closer, the stairs are incredibly long... There are stairs, but we're not walking. Let's find a way to drive up.

Stupa number 9 is located on the road leading up to the Mondop. You won't see it if you walk up.

Continue riding up to the top of the pavilion.

You can walk up, but judging from the height… I still have a lot to do today, so I'd better not.

Look at this .....

This is the archaeological site of Wat Khao Phra Si Sanphet.

Now that we're here, let's pay our respects at the temple.


Exquisite pavilion


After paying respects at the temple, we rode our bikes towards Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park. Despite the heat, we decided to take a short walk.

Hold on... that's a good angle. Wait a minute... It's noon and the sun is blazing. I understand you want to take a nice picture, but can we hurry up?

Oh no, another stop on the way up to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park.

Pagoda Number 10

The winding road leading to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is quite challenging. If the weather were cooler, it would be a pleasant and relaxing ride.


It's a pity that the weather was a bit too hot, but overall it was amazing. The trees on the farm looked exotic...


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It might get a bit hot. See that herbal drink in my hand? They sell it before the climb. I recommend buying two bottles, it's really good.


Departing from Phuhang Naga, heading towards Khao Tham Thiam Temple, there is now a Buddha statue carved into the cliff face.

Turning right, we passed the Khao Phra Reservoir, which is currently experiencing severe drought conditions.


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No further construction will be undertaken at this time.

And the point we came to find...

Pagoda number 12

It's a shame that we have such good things nearby, but we spend money on other things and then fence them off.

I've been here many times before, but I never noticed the ancient pagoda until now.

And I believe that others feel the same way.


Recently, I have been buying garlands with plastic flowers.

The vendor said that true love is hard to find.....

However, it is still possible to find...


Ha...



The summer heat is relentless, offering both the vibrant light that photographers cherish and the sweltering temperatures that make it unbearable to be outdoors for extended periods.

Flowers are another element that makes summer a season worth exploring.

Stay hydrated!


The ancient city of U Thong is a fascinating place for RC enthusiasts, with many hidden spots still waiting to be discovered. Learning about its history evokes a sense of wonder and regret. Despite being designated as an ancient city for many years, it has not received the attention it deserves.

Finally.

Please keep in mind the delicious "Pad Kra Pao" and "Pad Prik King" dishes from the U Thong market.

If you're looking to try something truly delicious, head to the market and ask around. The flavors are out of this world, like something a master chef would create.



Try searching for it, U Thong. It looks like fun.


DarkcutiE

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#u thong ancient city#suphan buri#museum#thailand#motorcycle
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