A Weekend Hike at Khao Pla Ra, Uthai Thani
Little has been known about prehistoric cultures in western upper part of the central region of Thailand. Extant archaeological investigations in the area have revealed a wide variety of artifacts. However, knowledge about past people is still limited and relatively unexplored.
Uthai Thani province is located in the upper central region of Thailand and is located at the boundary between central, western and northern region. Traces of human culture and settlement since prehistoric times have been discovered in the province, evolving into larger communities over time. Other provinces located within the vicinity, such as Kanchanaburi and Suphanburi also share a similar past, including identical geographical features- mountains, rivers and forests. Therefore, we are able to find traces of prehistoric settlements through various ancient human features. Evidence of their early days living on mountain ridges and hunting to survive, to their migration to the plains, and their evolvement into a larger community in the modern-day society serve as clear indications of life and dynamism in the area since the beginning of time.
“Tham Prathun” cave in Khao Pla Ra is another perfect illustration of the livelihood and beliefs of those from over 3000 years ago. These stories are vibrantly told through colourful paintings on mountain ridges. Many of the paintings feature both human and various types of animals- dressed and adorned with quirky costumes, while displaying various gestures. These paintings are also a reminiscence of a prehistoric procession or ritual. The physical attribute of the mountain cliff, which slopes out to about 80 degrees, gives rise to a canopy which serves as a strong protection of the roughly 40 coloured paintings from the sun and rain.
On Saturday, 25 to Sunday, 26 June 2022, The Siam Society is arranging a weekend excursion to Uthai Thani province. This trip will serve as an eye-opening adventure to an ancient site and exotic landscapes once shared by past people at least 2000 years ago. Our trip includes a visit to a well-known prehistoric rock art site at Khao Pla Ra, museums housing archaeological remains, and other interesting sites in the area.
When
Leader
Dr Thanik Lertcharnrit
Associate Professor of Archaeology, Silpakorn University
Booking
Or contact Khun Supanut
supanut@thesiamsociety.org
Booking
Important note:
– The environment of this trip involves extensive distance of trekking through nature trails and areas of dense forest. The Siam Society kindly asks our trip participants to ensure that they are in good health and physical condition, as trekking may take up to 4 hours through mountainous terrain.
– The Society requires all study trip participants to be fully vaccinated. We kindly ask that you attach appropriate proof(s) along with your registration.
– To comply with the measures set forth by the government in regards to the COVID-19 pandemic and in order to protect yourself and others around you, the Society kindly asks our participants to follow the appropriate safety and precautionary measures as stipulated by the government and health organisations.
– The Siam Society may utilise photos taken from study trips, lectures, performances, and other activities as part of its public relations and marketing campaign. These photos, which may sometimes contain image(s) of activity participants, can also be featured on the Society’s website and other online social media channels.
The contribution of THB 9,800 (THB 10,800 for non-members), single room surcharge THB 1,300, will cover transportation, accommodation for 1 night (two persons per room), meals, gratuities and other costs incurred to make this trip possible. In addition, basic travel insurance is included. There is a 4% surcharge for credit/debit card payment to cover bank charges. Please pay by cash or cheque payable to “The Siam Society”. Alternatively, you can transfer the money to The Siam Society travel account at TMBThanachart Bank (ttb), saving account no. 053-2-18000-7. Please fax or e-mail the deposit or transfer docket to us.
For further information and bookings please contact Khun Prasert at Tel. 02-661-6470-3 ext. 504 or Khun Supanut Tel. 02-661-6470-3 ext. 506, Fax 02-258-3491 or email: supanut@thesiamsociety.org. The Society’s office is open from 09:00 to 17:00, Tuesday to Saturday.
