The Siam Tulip Festival of Chaiyaphum
The unique geographical landscape of Chaiyaphum Province in the northeast of Thailand gives rise to a range of natural attractions of exceptional beauty. Of these, the fields of pinkish-purple Siam Tulip, or "Dok Krachiao", come in to full bloom in the early part of the rainy season from June to August.

Also commonly called 'patumma', 'bua sawan' (heaven lotus), or 'bua bok' (the land lotus), the Siam Tulip is a member of the ginger genera - Curcuma or Zingiberaceae.

The unusual form, bright colour and long-lasting quality of the Siam Tulip has made it an increasingly popular choice for floral decorations. It is in high demand and is currently being cultivated in the form of cuttings or ornamental plants for local consumption as well as for export overseas, predominantly to Japan and the Netherlands.

THE PA HIN NGAM ROCK GARDEN
The extraordinary 'rock-garden' of Pa Hin Ngam (forests of beautiful rock), located within a forested area in the Amphoe Thep Sathit sub-district is another place of interest.

Pa Hin Ngam consists of 10 sq. kilometres of impressive natural sandstone sculpture. Weathered by sun, wind and rain over thousands of years, the sandstone is worn into curious shapes, the names of which refect its form such as Nail Rock, Castle Rock, Elephant Rock and even Laser Rock.

Tat Ton Waterfall

In addition to this unusual rock formation, Chaiyaphum Province also has its share of spectacular waterfalls such as the Tat Ton and Pha Eang Waterfalls and the Tum Kaew Caves, and other breathtaking sights and vantage points.

09.39
Experience the ‘Floating’ Train
The rail line runs along the embankment of the Pasak-Cholasit Dam for a distance of 5 km, making this the dam with the longest wall in Thailand. As the train crosses a section of the Pasak-Cholasit Dam on an elevated track, it feels as though the carriage is ‘floating’ on the water.

11.20
Arrive at Vatabag Station. Tranfer to Thepsatit district by local van.

11.30
Lunch at Ton Krachiao Restaurant

12.30
Depart for Pha Hin Ngam National Park. Stop at a scenic vantage point at Sud Pan Din to enjoy a panoramic view of the area where the borders of the three provinces converge – namely Chaiyaphum in Northeastern Thailand, Petchabun in Northern Thailand and Lopburi in Central Thailand.

Travel on to Lan Hin Pha Ngam. En route, enjoy the beautiful natural landscape as fields of Krachiao flowers in bloom stretch into the distance for as far as the eye can see.

14.30
Shop for ‘OTOP’ products from each of the ‘tambon’ or sub-districts of the province promoted under the ‘One Tambon One Product’ theme. Fresh seasonal fruits from the surrounding orchards are also on offer.

16.10
Excursion train No. 796 departs Vatabag for Bangkok
Dinner is served on the train

20.55
Arrive in Bangkok

Cost: 900 Baht per person
Includes rail ticket for travel on 2nd Class Air-conditioned carriage, transfer by local van, 3 meals, admission fee to the national park, insurance and fees for a local guide

*Advanced bookings can be made at Bangkok Railway Station or other rail stations. The above programme is subject to change so please check with the State Railway of Thailand before leaving for the trip.

Contact information
State Railway of Thailand
Hotline: 1690
Tel: +66 (0) 2220 4334, (0) 2621 8701 Ext. 5217, 5529

New Trip Travel
Tel: +66 (0) 2929 6502, (0) 1364 0717, (0) 1257 2730, (0) 6884 0940

MAP OF CHAIYAPHUM Please click to view

CONTACT INFORMATION : TAT NORTHEASTERN OFFICE - REGION 1 Tel : +66 (0) 4421 3666, (0) 4421 3030 Fax : +66 (0) 4421 3667 Tel: +66 (0) 1390 0925, +66 (0) 1265 8834 AMPHOE THEP SATHIT (DISTRICT) Tel: +66 (0) 857 099, (0) 857 105