Hello again from "Deawpapai" with the slogan "Travel anywhere when you're grown up." We enjoy BackPack-style travel and train journeys. This time, we'll take you on a morning-to-evening trip near Bangkok to Ratchaburi, where we'll experience travel with strangers from different backgrounds but with a shared goal. With just 100 baht, you can have a great time. Join us on our journey and discover that travel doesn't have to be expensive.

This is the first time "Baek Pae-Tiew" has had the opportunity to travel with a group of people who share the same passion for travel and adventure as us.

Our journey begins at Hua Lamphong Railway Station. While it may be a destination for many, it serves as the starting point for our adventure. @Hua Lamphong Railway Station

Upon arrival, we proceeded to collect our tickets for the journey to Ratchaburi Station (one free ticket per ID card). Our designated train, a free service, was Train No. 261, originating from Bangkok Station and terminating at Hua Hin Station. The train departed Bangkok at 9:20 AM.

Meanwhile, we waited for the members we had never met before. We were wondering if they would be surprised to see us. At 9:00 AM, all the members arrived as scheduled. ^^

9:20 a.m. The train departed from Bangkok Station on time.

Fortunately, the sun is not too hot today, so you can sit comfortably. For those looking to escape the heat, I recommend sitting on the right-hand side facing the front of the train. This side will receive less direct sunlight.

The train may be old, but it's a classic. ^^

Despite being on a trip together, they didn't forget to take a group photo.

The journey was so enjoyable that we forgot how far we had come.

12:15 p.m. The train arrived at Ratchaburi station 27 minutes later than the scheduled time. But it's okay, I'm here now. ^^

We have arranged round-trip transportation for the entire trip in advance for a total cost of 1,400 baht. With 17 people, this comes out to only 83 baht per person. ^^

The Khao Ngu Stone Park is located about 10 kilometers from Ratchaburi Railway Station.

Though we come from different places and may not have known each other before, we share a common goal: to travel together. More importantly, we are now friends. 😙😙😙

The group immediately took a selfie after getting on the bus. ^^

We are almost there, it's about a 10-minute drive.

The entrance features a stunningly carved Buddha statue on the cliff face. We can't emphasize enough how much more breathtaking it is to witness in person than in pictures.

The group dispersed to take photos. Although it was hot, everyone had a lot of fun.

Durians are incredibly cheap here! Only 65 baht per kilogram.

We continued our journey to the highlight of Khao Ngu Stone Park, located near the cliffside Buddha statue.

There is a decent selection of goods available. A visit during the winter season would likely be more enjoyable.

Khao Ngu Stone Park is a rock park and forest garden located in Ko Plab Phla Subdistrict, Mueang District, about 10 kilometers from Ratchaburi city. It was originally an important source of limestone and crushed stone in Thailand since the early Rattanakosin period due to its high-quality limestone. However, both the government and the public recognized the deterioration of the landscape and scenery. Moreover, Khao Ngu is also an ancient religious site. Therefore, the concession for blasting and crushing stones in this area was revoked.

After the concession of Khao Ngu was revoked, it became a deserted mine in a dilapidated state. The Ratchaburi Provincial Administration therefore developed Khao Ngu into a public park, a tourist attraction, and an archaeological site. A large stone Buddha statue was created by laser-etching the rock face, covering the entire surface. Within the Khao Ngu Stone Park, there are several archaeological sites, including caves located on the mountain. These include the Rishi Cave, the Fa To Cave, and the Chinese-Cham Cave. In these caves, numerous carved Buddha statues or stone-carved Buddha images can be found on the cave walls. These Buddha statues date back to the Dvaravati period. Each cave is located within close proximity to the others, but requires a steep climb up stairs to reach them. The surrounding area is also home to a large population of monkeys.

This is what we call "friendship."

There are also small pedal boats available.

The suspension bridge is a must-visit spot for tourists to take thrilling, I mean, memorable photos. ^^

The atmosphere here is fantastic, although it can get a bit hot at times. 😃😃

This place is perfect for jogging when the sun is down and the wind is calm. Surrounded by mountains, water, and fish, it has great potential to be developed into a tourist destination and landmark for Ratchaburi in the future.

The trail at Khao Ngu Stone Park ends here at this resting point. The total walking distance is approximately 500 meters. It may seem short, but if you actually come and walk the trail, you will realize that it takes a long time to reach this point. Taking photos at each spot takes quite a while!

While waiting for the other members to board the bus, let's take a moment to reflect on the memorable moments.

From this point, we took a car to a nearby viewpoint.

The viewpoint is approximately 30 meters from the parking lot.

This viewpoint is located on a rather dangerous cliff, so please exercise caution. There is also a cave on the opposite side of the mountain, but unfortunately, due to time constraints, I was unable to visit it.

Capturing the essence of our unforgettable journey together through photographs. ^^

This shot was like trying to catch crabs in a basket. 55

A breathtaking view from above.

Behind the scenes of capturing stunning photos, the investment is worth it. ^^

After capturing the essence of the first location, we will embark on a journey to the second destination, the Nong Hoi Temple Forest Park.

The distance from Khao Ngu Stone Park to Wat Nong Hoi Forest Park is approximately 6 kilometers. It's not far at all. Let's follow me!

The smiles and camaraderie during our shared journey are always bright and joyful. 😊😊

A scenic mountain view during the journey to Nong Hoi Temple Forest Park.

We have arrived at Wat Nong Hoi Forest Park. Wat Nong Hoi is a temple built in 1873, located in Khao Raeng Subdistrict, Mueang District, Ratchaburi Province, about 12 kilometers from the city center. It is home to the 16-meter-tall Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Guanyin statue, with a lap width of 9 meters. The general public refers to it as "Khao Chao Mae Kuan Im Wat Nong Hoi," which is situated atop Khao Raeng and the other side of the peak (Khao Phra Yai) houses the Phra Phuttha Rattanakosin Mahamuni (Luang Pho Yai) statue. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees. Currently, Wat Nong Hoi is well-known to the general public, both locally and from other provinces. It is widely rumored to be highly sacred, granting wishes to those who pray there. People come to pay their respects continuously, especially on weekends.

Before ascending to the second floor of the temple, please scan the QR barcode.

The temple is located on the upper floor, offering a serene atmosphere with subtle hints of Chinese temple architecture. During weekends, the temple attracts a significant number of visitors. There are 11 designated worship points, each requiring 11 incense sticks. Visitors are advised to follow the designated order, as indicated by the signage at each point.

This tranquil atmosphere evokes a sense of serenity and peace.

One notable observation is the presence of crocodile dolls placed at various points. Upon inquiry, the temple staff explained that these dolls are not used for warding off evil spirits or as offerings to the temple. Instead, they serve the practical purpose of deterring monkeys.

Who like to come in and grab things and cause damage

This is the origin of the need to place crocodile dolls around the temple. 🤣

After exploring the interior, let's take a look at the scenic view from the 2nd floor outside the temple.

Although the sun is hot, the wind still blows to cool it down all the time.

From afar, we can also see the Khao Ngu Stone Park.

The blue sky contrasts with the green of the trees. The gentle breeze blows. Nature is so beautiful that it makes me feel like I can forget all the fatigue from the journey. 😁😁

Near the viewpoint, there is a 16-meter-tall and 9-meter-wide statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.

Leaving Khao Wang National Park with a smile. 😁😁 It's now 3:30 PM and we're about to head back to Bangkok. We'll be taking the free train, number 262, from Ratchaburi Station. It departs at 4:00 PM and arrives in Bangkok at 7:00 PM. Time to head back to the station!

The distance from Wat Nong Hoi Forest Park to Ratchaburi Railway Station is 15 kilometers, which is quite far considering the limited time.

Anxiously waiting to see if we'll make it to the train on time. Tick-tock, tick-tock. 😂😂

The atmosphere on the train to Ratchaburi Railway Station was...

Relief! I arrived at Ratchaburi Railway Station 10 minutes early. However, the train was slightly delayed today. We used one ID card to exchange for one free train ticket.

While waiting for the train, there is still some time to chat, take photos, and exchange ideas.

At 5:00 PM, the station master announced, "The train arriving at platform 2 is a free train, ordinary train number 262 from Hua Hin to Bangkok. All passengers, please be aware of the danger from the train."

Boarding this free train requires some skill in securing a seat. Once on board, passengers can take selfies.

After a while, I... uh... fell asleep. Z z z z . . 😂😂😂

At 7:20 PM, we split into two groups. The first group went to Chang Chui to take more photos, while the second group went to Hua Lamphong to return home and rest. I was in the first group, so I got off at Bang Bamru Railway Station. After getting off the train, I walked straight for about 500 meters and arrived at Chang Chui.

The first thing I did when I arrived was take a selfie.

A hub of unconventional ideas, this creative space transcends its role as a mere tourist attraction. It serves as a breeding ground for young minds seeking inspiration and innovation, fostering a marketplace for dreamers. Within the realm of "Chang Chui," a vibrant tapestry of culinary delights, street food, entertainment, music, fashion, art, vintage finds, innovative products, museums, and a vintage barbershop awaits. Cafes, restaurants, bookstores, unique gardens, and recreational areas provide respite, while a cinema and theater offer cultural immersion. Beyond entertainment, dedicated spaces cater to creative pursuits, including art galleries, co-working spaces, design studios, a showcase of Thai ingenuity, and creative shops.

Contrary to expectations, the place was surprisingly crowded at night.

The creator's idea is very creative.

The market offers a wide variety of goods, similar to other night markets.

There are many artsy shops with interesting photo opportunities.

Live music performance.

There is a playground for children.

Offers a variety of unique photo opportunities.

There are shops to sit and eat and drink and chill.

There are many great photo spots, but be prepared for large crowds.

And most importantly, there are a lot of food stalls and restaurants.

The Lucky Robot is a popular meeting spot for many people who visit Chang Chui.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvxzXVkZhCY

Total expenses (excluding food costs):

Thank you for reading until the end. This review may or may not be informative, but I hope it will be helpful for those who enjoy traveling in the same way as us. It shows that traveling doesn't always have to be scary or expensive. Finally, this trip brought together people who had never met before, allowing us to experience friendship. This one-day trip had no age barriers, because here, everyone is a "friend." Thank you. Follow our journey at "Deawpapai" https://www.facebook.com/Taeremix.Backpacker/