Sangkhalok kiln, Sukhothai Historical Park

Art pottery for foreign exports

Luzon, Phillipines

Previously, I had a little interest of Sanghalok, it was a rough, heavy and old fashioned earthenware. What make me smarter are the pottery collections from various sources in South East Asia and China at Ayala Museum, Makati city, Manila in the Philippines. Of course, one of the outstanding artifacts is Sangkhalok of Sukhothai.

World Class Goods

From Si Satchanalai to Manila, the cargo ship route had established for many hundred years. Sangkhalok products were used in rituals for the elites and belong to the VIP people.

Sankhalok were ship to many destinations; the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, Middle East and Europe. Began in the 18th Buddhist century (13rd century) and reached Europe on 21st Buddhist century (16th century).

Production of Sangkhalok scattered along the Yom River. The Ceramic Kilns Conservation and Study Centre is located about 5 km from the northeast city gate. The centre exhibits history of pottery, Sangkhalok and the kiln excavated in this area.

Good to Know

A thing interesting for me is the decorative elements made of baked clay that use for ancient temples which at present we could not see from the real places. All were broken and disappeared. The centre shows glaze tile samples such as gable end in form of deva, Makara head using to decorate stair at the viharn or main chedi.

In fact, these details are very valuable. Unfortunately, we could see the ruins of the ancient world without these delicate components. However, from now on I can imagine more. Not just visit existing ruins and quite disappointed for nothing to see.

Kamphaeng Phet Visit Part I

Travel

Wat Phra Si Iriyabot, Arunyik Site

Kamphaeng Phet is a small province, located on the Upper Central region. Sometimes people say that the Lower North. The city has a population of about 30,000. There are some areas to speak the local language.

Getting There & Away

By Bus - Bangkok - Kamphaeng Phet distance of 358 km.

Kamphaeng Phet bus station is 1km from town.

2 options from Mor Chit 2 (Bangkok Bus Terminal)

1. Air-con bus Bangkok – Kamphaeng Phet (5-6 hours)

Win Tour is recommended.

Win Tour bus Kamphaeng Phet - Sukhothai also available. (1 - 1.30 hours)

2. VIP bus in Bangkok - Chiang Mai (5-6 hours)

VIP bus take time faster and seats are more comfortable.

Kamphaeng Phet Visit Part II

Stays

There is not much choice of accommodation. However, it is fairly diverse.

The standard hotel English-speaking staff with restaurant and spa facilities located in the town centre or the air-conditioned room for under 1,000 baht per room or the waterfront resort for a small budget or friendly guesthouse welcomes the backpacker.

These accommodations provide trip advice, motorcycle - bike and van rental for the World Heritage site and on the other destination in Kamphaeng Phet as well.

You may add a longer stays in Kamphaeng Phet, if you know that there are more natural sites for outdoor activities, such as hiking, rafting, bird watching, visiting hill tribes or waterfalls in the national parks, without having to go far.

Diamond Wall is Kamphaeng Phet

 The origin of the strong town walls.

Kamphaeng Phet is named the town that specializes in the battle against the enemies of the fortress and military valor, through the history both Sukhothai and Ayutthaya era.

Why? The wise construction of the walls is the answer.  The walls are strong and advantageous position is located at the intruder. Blockade of an enemy town cannot put pressure on people in the town. Because our water system from the surrounding moat are well equipped.

The strength of the construction of town walls is a laterite, unlike most of other towns, the soil. By placing the laterite blocks stacked into a wall about 3 metered high, then scoop out the soil inside the town walls. Laterite wall to accommodate more resistant to destruction.

When the enemy attempts to penetrate the outer town wall across the moat into a vertical wall, using a ladder leaning on the wall and then climb out. The people on the rampart and forts can take advantage from the higher location. To overcome is the difficulties.

Wat Chang Lom, Arunyik Site

The use of a gun or artillery bombardment faced with laterite wall with a ridge up the rear cannot break the wall. If to besiege the city for a long time, the people can use the moat as a source of drinking water without trouble.

If the enemy army is settle too long, troops from the capital can be raised to help at a later time. The enemy has to retreat because they cannot cope with the two sides of the battle.

Vientaine Visit

Pratu Chai, gateway to the spirit of Lao PDR.

No one who visit the capital miss this place "The Victory Monument" that was influenced by French. This gate is Laotian architecture with western functions.

The ceiling of the arch is decorated with Ramayarna  epic. There is a stair to the top of the monument. Each floor occupied by souvenir shops.

When reaching the top, the visitors will see the capital in 4 directions 

Traditional Decorative Ceiling

The ceiling of the arch is decorated with Ramayarna  epic. There is a stair to the top of the monument. Each floor occupied by souvenir shops. The ceiling of the arch is decorated with Ramayarna  epic. There is a stair to the top of the monument. Each floor occupied by souvenir shops.

Vientaine Visit 2

Pra That Luang

Golden pagoda stands as the most important religion statue of the country. 

The unique design shows the Laotian craftsmanship.

Entrance

Inside