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Rayong, Thailand

Region: Rayong

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Geographic Coordinates: 12.674200, 101.279000

Climate: Climate and weather patterns in Rayong, Thailand?

Population: 61902

Language: Thai

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Rayong is a captivating province located on the eastern coast of Thailand, Offering an enchanting blend of natural beauty, Cultural heritage, And modern development. Nestled between the Gulf of Thailand and lush green mountains, Rayong boasts pristine beaches with soft golden sands that stretch for miles. Its idyllic coastline is dotted with charming fishing villages and bustling beach towns that attract both locals and tourists seeking a tranquil escape from the city. One of Rayong’s most famous attractions is Hat Mae Ramphueng Beach, A stunning 12-kilometer-long stretch of shoreline known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque sunsets.

Here, Visitors can indulge in various water activities such as swimming, Snorkeling or simply lounging under the shade of coconut trees while savoring fresh seafood from nearby vendors. Beyond its beautiful beaches, Rayong holds a rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored. The province is home to numerous temples that showcase intricate Thai architecture and provide insight into local customs and beliefs. Wat Pa Pradu stands out as one such temple with its impressive reclining Buddha statue adorned in gold leaf. For nature enthusiasts, Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park offers an incredible experience.

This lush sanctuary features dense forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna along with cascading waterfalls like Namtok Chamao waterfall – perfect for hiking or cooling off in natural pools amidst breathtaking scenery. Rayong also boasts vibrant markets where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture. Ban Phe Market offers an authentic Thai market experience where you can find fresh produce, Delicious street food delicacies like mango sticky rice or grilled squid skewers; it’s also known as the gateway to Koh Samet Island – a popular destination just off Rayong’s coast.

In recent years, Rayong has seen rapid industrial development while still preserving its natural charm. The province hosts several industrial estates attracting international businesses across various sectors including petrochemicals, Automotive and electronics. This influx of industry has also contributed to the growth of modern infrastructure, Making Rayong a convenient and well-connected destination for both business travelers and tourists. Rayong is a captivating province that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, Cultural heritage and modern development.

With its pristine beaches, Rich cultural sites like temples and markets, Stunning national parks with waterfalls and wildlife as well as its growing industrial sector – there is something for everyone in this enchanting part of Thailand. Whether you seek relaxation by the sea or an exploration of Thai culture amidst breathtaking landscapes, Rayong promises an unforgettable experience that will leave visitors yearning to return time and time again.

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1. Hat Mae Ramphueng: A beautiful beach with white sand and clear water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
2. Koh Samet: A stunning island known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and beach activities.
3. Wat Pa Pradu: This Buddhist temple is famous for its unique architecture featuring a giant reclining Buddha statue covered in gold leaf.
4. Rayong Aquarium: A great place to explore marine life with various exhibits showcasing different species of fish, coral reefs, and other aquatic creatures.
5. Ban Phe Market: This bustling market offers an authentic Thai shopping experience where visitors can find fresh seafood, local snacks, handicrafts, clothing items, and more.
6. Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park: Located on the mainland near Koh Samet Island, this national park offers breathtaking views from its viewpoint as well as hiking trails through lush forests.
7. Suan Son Beach: Another beautiful beach known for its tranquil atmosphere and pine trees lining the shore. It is a great spot for relaxation or picnicking by the sea.
8. Phra Chedi Klang Nam (The Floating Pagoda): Situated on the mouth of Rayong River, this unique pagoda appears to be floating during high tide due to its location on a small island accessible only by boat or bridge during low tide.
9. Suphattra Land Fruit Farm: Visitors can enjoy picking fresh fruits such as durian or rambutan at this fruit farm while learning about local agriculture practices in Rayong.
10. Wat Ban Don Shadow Puppet Museum: A museum dedicated to traditional Thai shadow puppetry where visitors can learn about the history of this ancient art form through exhibits and live performances.

These are just a few of the many attractions Rayong has to offer, making it a popular destination for both local and international tourists.

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1. Petrochemical Industry: Rayong is home to one of Thailand’s largest industrial estates, Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate. This estate houses numerous petrochemical plants and refineries, making it a significant hub for the petrochemical industry in Southeast Asia.
2. Automotive Industry: Rayong is also a major automotive manufacturing center in Thailand. Several international automobile manufacturers have set up their production facilities in the province, including Toyota, Ford, General Motors, and BMW.
3. Electronic Manufacturing: The province has a strong presence in the electronics manufacturing sector with companies like Sony, LG Electronics, Samsung Electronics, and Toshiba having production facilities there.
4. Tourism: Rayong’s coastal location makes it an attractive destination for tourists seeking beautiful beaches and tropical islands such as Koh Samet. The tourism industry plays a significant role in the local economy with various hotels, resorts, restaurants, and entertainment establishments catering to visitors.
5. Agriculture: Although not as prominent as other industries mentioned above; agriculture still plays an important role in Rayong’s economy. The region produces various agricultural products such as fruits (especially durian), rubber seafood (fishing industry), palm oil plantations among others.
6. Renewable Energy: In recent years there has been an increasing focus on renewable energy sources like solar power farms and wind farms being developed around Rayong due to its favorable climate conditions for such projects.

These are some of the major industries and businesses that contribute significantly to the economic growth of Rayong province in Thailand.

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Rayong History

1. Early History

   Rayong has a long history dating back to the Dvaravati period (6th-11th century). The region was an important trading center and influenced by the Khmer Empire.

2. Invasion by Burma

   In 1767, during the Burmese-Siamese War, Rayong was invaded and occupied by Burmese forces for several months before being liberated by King Taksin the Great.

3. Royal Visits

   King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) visited Rayong in 1890 during his royal inspection tour of southern Thailand. His visit brought development to the area, including infrastructure improvements.

4. World War II

   During World War II, Rayong served as an important base for Japanese forces in their occupation of Thailand from 1941 to 1945.

5. Industrial Development

   In recent decades, Rayong has become a major industrial hub in Thailand due to its strategic location near deep-sea ports and its proximity to Bangkok. Many multinational corporations have established manufacturing facilities there.

6. Notable People

   • Admiral Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse (Prince of Chumphon): A highly respected naval officer who played a crucial role in modernizing the Thai navy.
   • Thanom Kittikachorn: A military dictator who served as Prime Minister from 1963 to 1973.
   • Dr. Prasert Prasarttong-Osoth: Founder of Bangkok Airways and one of Thailand’s most successful entrepreneurs.
   • Chalerm Yoovidhya: Co-founder of Red Bull energy drink empire.

These events and individuals have contributed significantly to shaping both the historical narrative and modern development of Rayong, Thailand.

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1. Wat Pa Pradu: This beautiful Buddhist temple is known for its intricate wood carvings and stunning architecture.
2. Rayong Aquarium: A popular attraction for families, the aquarium showcases a variety of marine life including colorful tropical fish, sharks, and turtles.
3. Phra Chedi Klang Nam: Located on a small island in the Rayong River, this iconic monument features a pagoda-style structure surrounded by water. It offers panoramic views of the city.
4. Ban Phe Museum: This museum provides insights into the local fishing industry and showcases traditional fishing tools, boats, and artifacts.
5. Rayong City Pillar Shrine: A significant cultural site in Rayong, this shrine is believed to protect the city from harm and is often visited by locals for blessings.
6. Koh Samet Island: While technically not in Rayong itself but nearby, Koh Samet Island is a must-visit destination known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
7. Laem Mae Phim Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Rayong province with golden sand and calm waters perfect for swimming or simply relaxing by the sea.
8. Eastern Marine Fisheries Research and Development Center (EMDEC): Ideal for those interested in marine conservation, EMDEC offers educational exhibits about aquatic life preservation efforts.
9. Baan Pae Fresh Market: A vibrant local market where you can find fresh seafood, tropical fruits, spices, handicrafts, clothing items, and more at affordable prices.
10. Wat Khao Chamao National Park: Located near Rayong province’s border with Chanthaburi province lies this scenic national park offering lush forests dotted with waterfalls ideal for hiking or picnicking.

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1. Rayong FC: Rayong Football Club is the most prominent football team in the province. Founded in 2010, they currently compete in the Thai League 2, which is the second tier of professional football in Thailand.
2. Rayong United: Formerly known as PTT Rayong FC, this team was established in 2009 and played several seasons in the Thai League 1 (the top-tier league). However, due to financial difficulties, they disbanded after the 2019 season.
3. Ban Chang Rugby Club: This rugby club was formed by expatriates living in Ban Chang district of Rayong province. They participate in various local and regional rugby tournaments.
4. Chakravorty Gym Muay Thai Camp: Muay Thai (Thai boxing) is a popular combat sport throughout Thailand. Chakravorty Gym Muay Thai Camp located in Rayong offers training for both locals and foreigners interested in learning this traditional martial art.

It’s important to note that while these teams have existed or currently exist within Rayong province, their histories may not be as extensive or well-known compared to teams from larger cities or provinces within Thailand.

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1. Rayong Fruit Festival: Held annually in May, this festival celebrates the abundance of tropical fruits grown in the region. Visitors can enjoy fruit tasting, fruit carving competitions, traditional Thai music and dance performances.
2. Songkran Festival: Celebrated nationwide in mid-April, Songkran marks the Thai New Year with water fights and religious ceremonies. In Rayong, locals gather at various temples to make merit and pour scented water over Buddha statues.
3. Rayong Kite Festival: Taking place around February or March each year on Laem Mae Phim Beach, this festival showcases colorful kites of all shapes and sizes. There are kite flying competitions as well as cultural performances.
4. Buffalo Racing Festival: Held annually in October or November at Mueang District Stadium, this festival features buffalo races which are a unique tradition in rural Thailand. Visitors can witness thrilling races while enjoying food stalls and live music.
5. Candle Festival: Celebrated on Asanha Bucha Day (usually July), this festival involves a candle parade where locals carry beautifully decorated candles to local temples as offerings to Buddhist monks.
6. Loy Krathong Festival: Taking place on the full moon night of November, Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide by floating small lotus-shaped rafts made from banana leaves onto rivers or lakes to pay respects to water spirits.
7. International Maritime Silk Road Culture Expo: This event promotes cultural exchange between countries along the ancient maritime silk route through exhibitions showcasing arts, crafts, music performances, and traditional dances from different cultures.

These are just a few examples of cultural events and festivals that take place in Rayong throughout the year; there may be additional smaller-scale events specific to certain communities within the province as well.

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1. Seafood: Rayong is known for its fresh seafood. Some popular dishes include grilled squid, steamed fish with lime sauce, and spicy shrimp soup.
2. Talay Thai Restaurant: This restaurant is highly recommended for seafood lovers. It offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes cooked in traditional Thai style.
3. Laem Charoen Seafood: Another famous seafood restaurant that has been serving delicious dishes for over 30 years. It offers a great selection of grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and other seafood delicacies.
4. Krua Phech Doi Ngam: This restaurant specializes in traditional Thai cuisine with a focus on local flavors from the Rayong region. The menu includes dishes like green curry with fish balls and stir-fried crab meat.
5. Baan Pae Rim Talay: Located near the Ban Phe Pier, this restaurant offers stunning views of the sea along with a variety of freshly prepared seafood dishes such as fried snapper with garlic and chili or crab curry.
6. Khao Laem Ya View Point Restaurant: Situated on top of Khao Laem Ya mountain, this restaurant provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands while enjoying authentic Thai food including spicy papaya salad (som tam) and grilled pork skewers (moo ping).
7. Nang Ram Beachfront Restaurant: This beachfront eatery serves both Thai and international cuisine but is particularly famous for its fresh seafood BBQ options accompanied by ocean views.
8. Kai Yang Chom Chon: If you’re looking for some delicious grilled chicken (kai yang), this place is highly recommended by locals due to its flavorful marinated chicken served alongside sticky rice and various dipping sauces.

These are just a few examples, but there are many more dining options available in Rayong offering diverse cuisines to cater to different tastes and preferences.

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1. Hat Mae Ramphueng Beach: A popular beach with soft sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
2. Koh Samet National Park: Located on an island off the coast of Rayong, this national park offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and camping opportunities.
3. Phala Beach: Another picturesque beach in Rayong where visitors can relax or engage in various water activities like jet skiing or banana boat rides.
4. Suphattra Land Fruit Garden: This fruit garden offers a unique experience to explore different types of tropical fruits grown in the region while enjoying lush green surroundings.
5. Wat Pa Pradu: A Buddhist temple located on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the temple grounds and enjoy peaceful surroundings.
6. Suan Son Park: A large public park with picnic areas, jogging paths, playgrounds for children, and even an aquarium where visitors can learn about marine life.
7. Ban Phe Market: This local market is known for its fresh seafood stalls where visitors can buy various types of seafood to cook at home or enjoy at nearby restaurants.
8. Rayong Aquarium: A great place to learn about marine life found in the Gulf of Thailand through interactive exhibits featuring various species of fish and other sea creatures.
9. Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park: This national park includes several islands with stunning beaches such as Ao Wong Duean Beach or Ao Phai Beach that offer snorkeling opportunities amidst coral reefs.
10. Muang District Walking Street Market (Talat Sod Muang): Held every Saturday evening near Wat Pa Pradu Temple; it’s a vibrant night market offering local street food vendors along with clothes stalls and live performances.

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