Situated in almost the exact centre of Thailand, Chaiyaphum is well known for having some of the oldest religious buildings in the country and for possessing some of the most beautiful flower fields.
Around 210 miles (340kms) from Bangkok, the province of Chaiyaphum is located within Thailand’s central region. Originally founded over 200 years ago by Nai Lae of Vientiane, Laos, the area has become a popular tourist destination due to the fields of pink wildflowers throughout its districts.
Pa Hin Ngam National Park in Thep Sathit, about 87 miles (140kms) from the town proper, is a popular campsite with curious rock formations and meadows blanketed in pink flowers during the early rainy season. Yellow orchids grow wild during the cool months of December and January. Another often-visited location where the pink kra chico flowers grow in abundance is Sai Thong National Park along the Chaiyaphum-Nakon Sawan route. A lengthy trek with a one-night forest camp stay is required to see the expansive fields.
The religious structure of Prang Ku sits 1.2 miles (two kilometers) from the town hall in the city. The highly revered Buddha image from the Dhvaravati period rests within the ancient sandstone shrine and is honored each year in a bathing ceremony in April.
Very popular with one-day visitors, the Chulabhorn Dam in Amphoe Khon San is a large reservoir surrounded by a picturesque landscape. Travelers seeking a quiet place to relax enjoy the sedate location, and bungalows can be reserved for those interested in an overnight extension.