(cont. from Page 6)........Naturally it’s a bit congested and I have no plans to stay. I simply call at the railway station before heading back to Ban Krut. The journey back is the complete opposite as I make my way first along the open highway before turning back along the coastal road leading back into Ban Krut. Initially deserted this road crosses a small river which offers refuge to a small fishing community then passes more resorts of high star rating before rejoining the main coastal road my starting point. Before dark I take a stroll along the beach before reverting to two wheels to look for some dinner. It’s time to make some notes; that will do for today.

Thursday 6 December

Heading north……..Today I have a rough plan to utilize the motorbike again. It promises to be another sunny hot day but eventually I hope to visit Hauy Yang National Park with its waterfall providing some respite but first a welcome coffee awaits me. In contrast to yesterday I’m heading north, the next town of any size being Thap Sakae but as I exit the beach road I stop at Wat Thong Chai, the local place of worship, during lunch post the 11.00 service and offering to the monks. I take photos of a recently constructed addition to the temple complex and note the pride this brings to the monks and community alike.
Phra Phut Kiti Sirichai Pagoda……..This pagoda is constructed on the summit of a promontory or headland which forms the northern limit of Ban Krut bay. It can be seen for miles around and similarly the views from the pagoda are breathtaking indeed. I am heading there. At the base of the pagoda is a large Buddhist statue beyond which there is no vehicle access. A not uncommon long stairway leads to the summit and the pagoda itself. The grandeur of Phra Phut Kiti Sirichai Pagoda is hard to comprehend. It’s not surprising that the budget for construction of this pagoda was 231 million baht about 7.5 million dollars, all raised from private donations. While the project looks complete, donations are still accepted for golden tiles that are needed to complete the roof. On closer inspection I can see where they are needed. I have paused here for longer than expected having underestimated this location if only for the magnificent views of Ban Krut Bay and the views to the north in the direction I am next heading.
(cont. on Page 8)