CONFLUENCE—Chao Phraya River, Thailand. - River Origins, Destinations and Confluences on Waymarking.com

This confluence is found at the site of the small city and provincial capital of Nakhon Sawan, ~200kms north of Bangkok, in the quiet rice filled fields of central Thailand. The two rivers, the Ping and Nan here meet and form the Chao Phraya River. From this point the new river flows southwards 372 kilometres and discharges into the Gulf of Thailand.

The Chao Phraya River is the main river of Thailand. From its fertile currents the agricultural wealth of the kingdom originates. Both the Thai kingdoms of Ayutthaya (1350-1767), and the Rattanakosin (the current) have been formed along the shores of this river. Also the river has been and still is, a transportation route, continuously filled with barges and ferries and people.

The origin is recognised in the city. There is a sign denoting its existence at the confluence on the western shore (in gallery), and also a Chinese themed set of religious icons at this location. I did visit during the preparations for Chinese New Year, and this foreshore area was filled with people and preparations, thus most of the standard material was covered with decorations.

I hired a dragon boat (100 baht = $3) for a personal trip across the river so as to photograph the confluence point. Thus I decided to place the waymark in the centre of the river.

During my visit (January 2012) the rivers were quiet and peaceful, meandering, however, just two months earlier these rivers were in flood and put the central parts of Bangkok under water. The fickleness of nature.

At this point on the river there is some parking in the narrow streets, also a small ferry embarkation point.

Parking Coordinates: Not listed Trailhead Coordinates: Not listed Relevant Web Site: Not listed

Visit Instructions:
1. Describe your journey and visit.
2. Date of your visit.
3. At least one original photo (DO NOT include either you or your GPSr).

Recent Visits/Logs:

There are no logs for this waymark yet.