Buddha’s Head embedded by Tree Roots

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Creative Ways to Serve Fresh Fruit Salad – Useful Tips

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Solitude-the highest expression of self-care

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Flock of Pigeons on Electric Wire in Tokyo,Japan

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Buddha’s Head embedded by Tree Roots

By on March 20, 2025

A fascinating sight can be found in the ancient city of Ayutthaya, Thailand, where a Buddha’s head is mysteriously entwined in the roots of a tree.Thailand’s most iconic image in Wat Mahathat , a ”Temple of Great Relic” is famous for its Buddha’s head embedded in an overgrown banyan tree roots.

When you explore this site, you’ll be enchanted by the way the roots embrace the Buddha’s head.This striking image illustrates the harmony between the natural world and spirituality, highlighting the way nature can slowly reclaim and envelop human-made structures. Located in the ancient city of Ayutthaya, this site serves as a significant reminder of the region’s rich cultural history and the enduring impact of Buddhism. Many visitors are captivated by the serene presence of the Buddha, which contrasts sharply with the untamed growth of the tree, exemplifying the beautiful fusion of art and nature.

It’s important to remember to show respect for the Buddha. Blocking the view is not permitted, and if you want to take a picture with the Buddha, you must be seated. Keep these guidelines in mind if you visit the same location.

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Recipes for busy moms/Fruits/Desserts/Salad/Decorative Ideas

Creative Ways to Serve Fresh Fruit Salad – Useful Tips

By on March 19, 2025

The most effortless way to host my guests is by presenting a Fresh Fruit Salad like this one. It is a perennial favorite that I typically serve during special occasions. From my finest creations of fruit and vegetable salads, you can gather several ideas to inspire your own. By experimenting with various fruit combinations, you may find the perfect pairings, while also discovering those that do not work as well. I have explored numerous ways to mix and match flavors, as well as different presentation styles including arranging fruit slices in bowls, individual servings, platters, cocktail glasses, salad bowls, cups, and many more.

The ideal blend is one that balances both sweetness and aroma. I’m excited to share my techniques for arranging and decorating fresh layered fruits on a platter. As illustrated, the images will convey the process effectively. Preparing this dish is enjoyable and allows you to create a stunning masterpiece by combining diverse tastes, textures, and colors. This salad is perfect for a hot summer day or can be served as a dessert with yogurt or a berry sauce.

The essence of mixing various flavors lies in the appealing contrast of sweet and slightly sour notes especially when attractively presented on a plate or platter. The best aspect of this recipe is that it requires no cooking! You can adjust the quantity of fruit based on your preferences. Any available fruits will suffice. Personally, I often include grapes, strawberries, kiwis, cherries, mangoes, apricots, plums, cantaloupe, pineapple, and peaches of any variety; even canned fruits can be used. It is best to prepare this salad just before serving and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready.

Strawberries neatly arranged in a circular pattern on a plate Arranging fresh strawberries in a circular design makes for a visually appealing presentation. In the middle, a small glass holds four half-moon slices of strawberry, topped with plain yogurt and delightful pink chocolate sprinkles.

Fruit Medley Served in a Pineapple Boat Fruit shells can serve as creative vessels for presenting various fruit slices. Utilizing the fruit itself as cups, platters, or boats can create a distinctive and appealing presentation.

Note: To prepare a scooped-out pineapple boat in advance, simply place the pineapple shell on a cookie sheet and store it in the refrigerator. Cover it with a damp paper towel to maintain its freshness.

Salad of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables drizzled with Strawberry Yogurt A visually appealing arrangement features a mix of red and green apple half-moon slices, rounded kiwi pieces, half-moon orange segments, and a bed of lettuce underneath, all elegantly finished with a dollop of yogurt for a nutritious touch.

Prawn Salad with Fruits in a Cocktail Glass Ideal for gatherings, I combined a variety of fresh fruits that are in season, as you can see. This prawn salad makes for a delightful appetizer presented in a cocktail glass.

Circular slices of orange and cubes of dragon fruit presented in a dragon fruit shell A simple mix of dragon fruit cubes and round orange slices, all served in the dragon fruit shell.

Fruit Medley in a Petite Glass You can use any mix of fruits you like. Just layer them in the glass, and you’re all set to enjoy!

Fruit Display in a Fan Shape The fruit is arranged in a fan shape. Simply slice the strawberry in half to create an opening, then add the fan-shaped fruit slices inside.

Cantaloupe Bowl The Cantaloupe bowl is ideal for presenting its own fruit. I simply hollowed it out into a rounded form and diced the remaining fruit into cubes. It truly is that simple!

Note: Use a disposable plastic mini fork picker to easily lift those fruit slices. (Check out the picture above)

I hope you find some helpful tips and ideas in this blog. Give it a shot!

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Inspirational Quotes | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Solitude-the highest expression of self-care

By on March 16, 2025

Finding peace in the calmness of this location, there are times when solitude becomes essential, allowing you to embrace your own company. A tranquil setting like this provides a soothing environment for self-discovery. Occasionally, taking time for yourself can lead to a peaceful mind and a serene spirit.

Recognizing the advantages of spending time alone can be quite rewarding, as it allows for genuine self-reflection and a greater appreciation of life’s positive elements. There’s no reason to be afraid of solitude; your thoughts and your own company can be comforting companions. It’s important to set aside moments just for yourself, away from distractions. This time alone encourages you to ponder your thoughts and feelings. Often, it’s during these peaceful moments that the most innovative ideas emerge.

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure | Wildlife/Animals/Pets

Flock of Pigeons on Electric Wire in Tokyo,Japan

By on March 14, 2025

Flock of pigeons flying in unison landed on electric wire, it caught my attention prompting me to retrieve my camera to capture the moment. It was a very delightful sight to see them all lined up together. I snapped these photos during our visit to the Asakusa temple in Tokyo,Japan. Asakusa Temple is a renowned destination in Tokyo attracting countless tourist from around the globe and, it also serves as a favorite spot for pigeons to gather. This is simply how pigeons adapt to bustling environments, it is a common sight. The view below reveals an astonishing number of tourist, clearly indicating that this spot is a popular destination for visitors.

Pigeons are social birds often gather together and fly in flocks to help them identify spot on where to land. At this moment, i noticed they landed on a wire circling around and return to the same area indicating the familiarity with the surroundings, their communication and cooperation appeared to be highly developed which I believe serves as a safety measures to protect them against predators on the ground. They typically have a keen awareness of their environment and knows how to adapt, they hang out in safe spots where there’s plenty of food around.

You often spot this kind of scene but snapping a great photo can be tricky since the birds tend to fly away at the slightest noise. I never anticipated that I would have the opportunity to photograph birds here in Japan. Previously, I managed to capture images of seagulls, tree sparrows, black hawks and black drongos among others.These are pretty common birds around here but they definitely grab everyone’s attention.

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

The Magnificent Sunset of Boracay

By on March 5, 2025

As the day comes to an end, daylight fades, one can observe the serene beauty of the sun setting beyond the western horizon at this time of the day. As the day wraps up and the light starts to dim,the tranquil charm of the sunset reveals itself, crafting a stunning spectacle as the sun creating a breathtaking scene as it vanishes from sight. I captured these sunset images during a family vacation in Boracay, Philippines. This resort island in the Western Visayas boasts gorgeous scenery, with its soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and captivating sunsets. It’s definitely a spot that makes you want to come back over and over again.

This photograph was captured just prior to sunset, I was already prepared to take the shot, simply awaiting the perfect moment of twilight.

I would like to share a few stunning sunset photographs that I captured in Boracay. Sunset Boracay represents one of the most stunning and exceptional sunset view, it features a breathtaking display where sun rays are elegantly mirrored on the sea accompanied by the gentle rhythm of romantic waves. The scene is further enhanced by the picturesque sight of paraw boats gracefully sailing through the water. Absolutely, a truly enchanting sunset scene. Boracay Island stands out as my preferred location for capturing sunset images, it is truly one of the finest spots in the Philippines showcasing the wonders of nature.

A friend of mine, who’s also a fellow blogger from Malaysia once shared that her visit to Boracay, She experienced the most breathtaking sunset she’s had ever witnessed. We both wholeheartedly agreed as we had the same impression after witnessing its breathtaking beauty ourselves.

A stunning sunset graces the evening sky, showcasing a vibrant palette of orange, red, purple, pink, yellow, and blue. The shimmering reflections on the water enhance the captivating details in both the foreground and background. This scene beautifully illustrates the wonders of nature, allowing us to cherish the remarkable moments as the sun dips below the western horizon at this time of the day.

Outdoor photography offers immense enjoyment, allowing us to capture fascinating subjects from life and nature as we observe the world around us, including people, places, and objects. Through the lens, photography has the unique ability to present authentic images that deepen our understanding of life itself. As I pursue my daily photography assignments, I find it impossible to leave home without my camera—my smartphone serves as a convenient alternative. This practice has been ingrained in my routine for quite some time. I have documented a variety of scenes from both indoor and outdoor summer photography, including landscapes, vacation moments, and wildlife shots taken in both bright and foggy conditions.

I am deeply passionate about blogging, cooking, and photography, and I continuously engage in these activities. It brings me joy to capture and share the beauty of the world around us.

See you next post. Goodnight!

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Parasailing in Boracay

By on February 19, 2025

While we were on our family vacation in Boracay, one thrilling activity I really want to try is Parasailing. I took part in various activities that are considered as essential experiences, considered as must-dos, however, parasailing has truly piqued my interest, it seems to be something that really interests me. There’s no harm in giving it a try! I organized a booking that cost approximately 2,000 per person for a 15-minute ride. We opted for a tandem package which requires two people so, I rode with Gwayne. It’s a pretty budget-friendly and super easy to arrange. There were tons of operators and resorts that provides parasailing experiences. Riding together made it more fun as it eases my nerves and it’s uplifting to have a conversation while watching the white birds flying in the sky and seagulls down there. Join me as I share my parasailing adventure!

Parasailing in Boracay is all about enjoying a quick ride, it was such a thrilling experience, you’ll get trapped into a parachute, you will be securely fastened into a harness that fits snugly around your thighs, a crew member will connect you to the parachute and pulled along by a speedboat giving you the chance to glide high above the water.

Usually, parasailing takes place over water, the speedboat has a launching platform at the back to get you up in the air. Parasailing gives you a quick thrill with just a 15-minute ride but don’t forget that it takes about 5-10 more minutes to land.The air was so dense that it made maneuvering the parachute back to the landing zone quite challenging and the crew needs some time to pull the rope back so we can get back to the platform safely.

While ascending my primary concern was the possibility of being towed by the speedboat via an attached rope. I felt a slight apprehension that what if the rope might break causing us to be thrown far away. However, I reassured myself with the knowledge that the rope was made of polypropylene, a material known for its durability and reliability.

The speedboat gradually lifted us higher at a rapid pace, and i must say, it was a remarkable sight up there observing the seagulls soaring along us was delightful and the breathtaking aerial view of the landscape along with fishes leaping from the water added to the excitement at the moment, it was such a thrill!

I wore these flexible, snug beach shoes which were permitted by the operator. This choice was made to safeguard my feet from the cold temperatures experienced at altitude.

As we ascend gradually, the parachute inflates, drawing us higher into the sky. My excitement is palpable, I am filled with excitement since this is my first experience with parasailing. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity. Thank you Lord for making this wish come true!

The most amazing flying experience I’ve had is definitely parasailing. The chill music from the speedboat floats over the water, adding to the overall relaxation of the adventure.

We brought our own camera up there so, you can be assured that we captured aerial photographs during our flight. Gwayne held it securely to prevent it from slipping from his grasp as the speedboat gradually lifted us higher and higher. We’ll share more about that part later.

This is the view of the sea landscape from our vantage point in the sky, the sight below is truly stunning.The expanse of the sea stretches endlessly as far as the eye can see. Overall, it presents a magnificent and timeless panorama, an awe-inspiring aerial perspective of the coastal scenery unfolds before us.

The aerial view of the sea landscape provides a breathtaking visual experience. Soaring high above.. the stunning sky with its perfect weather and clouds morphing into amazing shapes, feels almost within reach. The sight of migratory birds flying in a V-formation adds to the thrill. My eyes are delighted by the breathtaking scenery. It’s simple incredible!

I have no clue how high we were but, it felt super peaceful and gorgeous up there. We just hung out, we even engaged in casual conversation, with our feet swinging and our bottoms getting chilly. It was surreal experience being up at that height!

Up here! you can feel a beautiful world where everything is peaceful and you really can breathe freely, there’s a sense of freedom.

The pleasant and clear weather enhances the overall experience. The clouds were beautifully forming above me and I found myself in close proximity to the spectacle. Below, the coastline unfolds, dotted with paraw boats and speedboats zipping through the waves while the gentle surf kisses the shore. It’s a moment that truly makes you appreciate the beauty of the world from up here, revealing views that are hidden from the ground.

Parasailing offers a brief yet a thrilling experience in the sky accompanied by amazing views.

Experience a panoramic perspective of Boracay island from above, it resembles a serene paradise where tranquility prevails and you can truly enjoy the fresh air. Everything feels calm.

At first, I was thinking about trying parasailing during sunset, but I was worried because the sky turns dim immediately after sunset and we are in the middle of the sea. Although it is only 15 minutes, it can be unpredictable, and what if it suddenly rains? That is my first concern.

We’re soaring to new heights. Up, up, and away…

The platform to elevate ourselves high up serves both for ascending to great heights and for landing as well.

Approaching a gradual landing, we’re getting ready to touch down gently and there’s a safe landing platform.

The overall perspective of the beach is stunning, featuring soft white sand, pristine turquoise waters and a mesmerizing sunset. It is a resort destination that you will yearn to revisit time and time again.

As summer draws near, I can’t wait to return to Boracay for another thrilling parasailing adventure.This season offers a perfect weather making it ideal for a variety of activities, a multitude of enjoyable activities in Boracay, such as scuba diving, sunset cruise, paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, mermaiding, free diving, water sliding among others. with a total of more than 21 water activities available, you can be assured of an enjoyable and super-relaxing vacation here.

If you are visiting Boracay for exploration, opt for package activities for a more affordable and thrilling experience. I’m pretty sure you’ll have a wonderful time and a story to tell back home..

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Celebrating Chinese New Year 2025 in Binondo

By on February 11, 2025

Lunar New Year is a significant cultural event celebrated across Asia particularly in countries with Chinese heritage. In the Philippines, Thousands of people celebrated Lunar New Year in Binondo, a district in Manila recognized as the oldest Chinatown in the world making an ideal spot for the celebrations. A large crowd of spectators filled Ongpin street renowned as the jewelry capital of the Philippines and this is the main street that serves as the central gathering and focal point for various activities organized by the city Government to celebrate Chinese new year. Numerous events and activities such as parades, fireworks display, Feng Shui talk, acrobatics as well as the lion and dragon dance and various cultural performances are commonly anticipated.

Red oval lanters hang gracefully around the lengthy streets of Binondo illuminating the path with a stunning glow.The rhythmic vibrations of drum and the resonant clangs of gongs reverbenate through the chest. Lion and dragon dancers showcased their artistry captivating people around with their impressive performances. Each year Fil-Chinese community in Binondo joyfully welcomes the new year embracing the vibrant red hues that are believed to ward off evel spirits and misfortune while inviting goodluck.

Binondo is buzzing with a vibrant and dazzling Chinese celebration. The night is filled with continous non-stop street parties.

They even set up a stage right in front of Chinatown Lai Lai Hotel where various performances by singers take place, their melodies and voices creates a happy ambience for the audience. The area in front of hotel is bustling with a large crowd, the event resembles the Mardi Gras in its lucky spirit.

The magnificent lion and dragon dance lands out as a cherished tradition of Chinese culture that Filipinos have wholeheartedly embraced as it also stands as my favorite photography subject. Additionally,Filipinos have taken the custom of wearing red symbolizing wealth, positivity and good fortune. With a billion Chinese worldwide reflects a rich tradition that has evolved a thousand of years serving as a significant Chinese influence that resonates throughout Asia.

There’s another street performers out here. A marching band jamming along with gay fire eaters right in front. The fire eaters exhibition takes a flaming object and put in his mouth and extinguishes it, however, before the act, they’re handling out red envelopes for small donations. People around showed their generosity by handling out red lucky envelopes known as ”ampao” to the performers, this is the most fantastic way to kick off the year with giving and receiving good blessings.

Entertainers in quirky and unusual costumes were also around drawing people to snap photos for a little extra donation.

Many customers gathered to grab fruits such as: oranges, apples, pineapples, persimmons, tangerines, cherries, dragonfruits to name a few.

Street vendors were all set up chowcasing variety of Tikoy, a sweet glutinous treat available in various flavors that includes: White sugar, brown sugar, buko pandan and Chocolate flavors.

The Magic Water is a perfect drink to chill you out on a hot day celebration. at First, I was just curious, i don’t know how it would taste so I gave it a shot! It tastes like gelatin with a sweet vanilla but it looks like crystal clear water. Another refreshing option, I really loved the Sugarcane juice with calamansi. It was such another refreshing drink to cool me down while I was wandering through the busy street. It quickly became my go-to favorite even before.

Roasted chestnuts on hot stone can also be found along the bustling Ongpin street where they are the popular choice among Chinese.

Pineapples surrounded by native green oranges and adorned with red ribbons represents a festive decorations. In Chinese culture, pineapple is a fruit of great importance especially during festivities of Chinese new year. The term pineapple”Ong Lai” resembles the phrase for incoming fortune. In Hokkien dialect linking the fruit to themes of goodluck, wealth and prosperity.

People of all ages hurried to grab lucky charms designed as sophisticated bracelets that symbolizes wealth, health, career safety and financial success. The most popular items in high demand this season.

Streets foods that a lot of people love, I waited in a long line to buy these favorite Cantonese barbecue treats.

There are two traditional stalls that offer Chinese cuisine located next to each other. They both specialized in Fried Siopao, Machang, Siomai etc.. Attracting long lines of eager customers. The queue seems endless with people continously coming to buy.

When it comes to food, Chinatown serves as an ideal location to celebrate New year’s offering, a variety of esteemed restaurants that provides authentic Chinese cuisine which has consistently proven its enduring quality over the years, known for their lasting excellence which has stood the test of time. The President Grand Palace Restaurant among the best and popular was the venue for our family dinner on New year’s eve. Thanks to the lovely ambiance and delectable menu options. Although we initially intended to order Peking duck but it was no longer available, so we choose another delightful dish instead. The restaurant was bustling with patrons. Thanks for the treat Maro!

We decided not to attend the fireworks display at Jones bridge where the Chinese new year countdown was taking place, as we are aware of the challenges associated being in a large crowd. The good thing, the glass window of our hotel where we are staying offers a splendid view of the stunning fireworks illuminating the sky in various shapes and brilliant colours. We are relishing the opportunity to capture photographs of fireworks which are distinctly visible from afar.

I was super excited, it was my first time to celebrate Lunar New Year in Chinatown. I have long desired to visit Binondo Chinatown initially planning to stay for two nights encompassing both New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year. However, I’ve encountered fully-booked hotels in the past, At long last, my aspiration has materialized this year as we made an advance hotel reservations to avoid disappointment of being fully-booked again. I can’t wait to share this experience with you, you can partake and enjoy visual celebration while reading this blog!

Overall, it was a delightful experience to partake in celebrations with the Chinese communities in Chinatown Binondo, Manila

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Chinese New Year 2025

By on January 28, 2025

Lunar New Year begins on January 29 for this year 2025 with dazzling lights and fresh starts. Every year, Chinatown and Asia as a whole witness a spectacle Chinese new year, it is the most highly anticipated cultural event and a revival of rich tradition that will again come to life. Fil-Chinese community invited me to watch the Lion and dragon dance, Wushu exhibition as well as other cultural shows in Chinatown, it is the most important traditions during Chinese new year. As a blogger, I never miss the opportunity to highlight Chinese new year celebrations on my blog, it is the best subject to be featured, I started showcasing Chinese activities as a tradition and it became a customary for me to feature major events and activities related to Chinese new year.

This year 2025 would be different from previous years, I would like to engage in something new, thus this year of the wood snake would be something unique and memorable. I’d be celebrating Chinese New Year for the first time in Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown. It would be nice to experience the festival’s positive spirit and wonderful atmosphere. I can just imagine, it would be a lengthy day chasing and photographing the lions and dragons as they danced and paraded around the streets. Given how many people are expected to witness, it’s hardly surprise that there will be a big crowd.

Join me to celebrate Chinese New Year in Chinatown. Watch Chinatown kick off the ”Year of the wood snake.”

What to expect:

  1. Lion and Dragon Dance
  2. Wushu exhibition
  3. Feng Shui talk
  4. 2025 Parade
  5. Stunning fireworks
  6. Festive fair
  7. Long street food fair

and lastly, you’ll also experience to try out food tripping, try the traditional restaurants that stood the test of time. You’ll also enjoy Chinese performances worth a visit at this time of the year. It’s a new year with a bright loud spirit. See you there!

I wish you all a prosperous year full of good fortune, health and pleasure. May the year of the snake a time for rejuvenation and progress bringing you closer to your goals and desires.

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Merry Christmas Greetings

By on December 14, 2024

With my Christmas greetings for this year 2024 and in conjunction with the holiday scene, I have included 3D pictures of me with Santa together.The following 3D pictures as follows; Santa giving gifts, skiing with Santa, snowboarding and Santa’s reindeer and sleigh.

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

The Reclining Buddha- Phra Buddha Sai Yat

By on October 29, 2024

During our Thailand trip, we visited several temples and witnessed Buddhas in various postures including the standing, sitting, walking and reclining Buddha. There is an enormous Reclining Buddha image at this temple which is regarded as one of the most significant in Buddhist history .

Reclining Buddha Sai Yat Phra Buddha in Ayutthaya, Thailand

The huge statue of Reclining Buddha is the representation of Buddha lying on his side with expression of calmness and contentment look shortly before he entered afterlife. In the latter stages of his sickness, it shows the historical Buddha on his way to of parinirvana.

Wat Lokaya Sutha’sreclining Buddha underwent significant restoration in 1954 resulting in its current stage. The Reclining Buddha image measures 42 meters from head to toe and 8 meters high oriented with its face facing west and head pointing to the north, Buddhas head is supported by lotus flowers. One foot of the buddha on top of the other perfectly straight angle to the other foot, all Buddhas toes are of similar length. There are evidence of 24 Octagon shaped brick pillars encircling the Buddha image showing it was once enclosed by a viharn. The Reclining Buddha image is usually wrapped in brightly colored orange cloth but wasn’t the case when we visited.There is a small altar beside where visitors can make offerings but there was no orange cloth.

Wat Lokaya Sutha is a reconstructed temple ruin located in the Pratu Chai Sub-district’s Ayutthaya Historical Park, west of Bueng Phra Ram. It is part of the park with three reconstructed ruins. It is situated straight west of the royal palace. The site can be easily accessed through the western side of Khlong Tho.

How to get there

The easiest way to get there is to hire a taxi or tuk tuk if you are in Ayutthaya or you can join a group tour or a guided day trip from Bangkok.

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