The city of lotus

Despite the marvelous facilities, massive structures, well equippedlaboratories and so on SIU do have a practice of introducing students to the community around to explore the surroundings and get well accustomed with the environment in close proximity.

Our trip commenced from SIU main building at 1:00 PM after a brief lecture from the adviser. Pathumthani is one of the central provinces of Thailand, positioned in the northwest of Bangkok city. It serves as one of the oldest province with multiple temples, parks and areas to experience Mon culture. A lot more of the modern knowledge, culture and history are presented in every aspects of livelihood. Chao Phraya River flows through the city divides the province into two parts: eastern and western Pathumthani, serving the people with many canals and feeding the paddies. It is a perfect place for travelling in various styles near Bangkok.

Situated in the low alluvial flats of the Chao Phraya River, the city dates back to a settlement founded by Mon migration from Mottama in Myanmar around 1650. However during the visit of King Rama II in the mid of 1815, the citizens welcomed him with bounty of lotus flowers. Owing to this motive the then city of Sam Khok was renamed as Pathumthani meaning the city of lotus by the King.

A 100 years old Rahang local market at Ladlumkaew district, indeed a clustered place with unrefined facilities, upholding of old aged brick walls and testimonials in Sam khok clearly designates the preservation of rich cultural heritage. The perfect aroma of lighting incense sticks, offering butter lamps and circumnutating the temples brains Buddhism and feels the essence of Buddha. Feeding fishes across the bank of the river and enchanting prayers implies the practice of Buddhism across the province.

Eyeing upon the radiant flowers placed in well carved pots alongside the path way and dancing to the symphony of gentle breeze, it reminds me of foliage and rocky Bhutan. The full-fledged flowers undoubtedly portray their passion towards green environment. Leading towards the town of Pathum thani where shopping malls and luxurious hotels are innumerable with well furnished equipments. The town is eventful, peoples march forth and back, the cars are noisy emitting smokes and adding on air pollution. I could hardly breathe in any fresh air. Perhaps this is what modernization is, in fact, the power of modern technological advancements.

Without any further persistence, we headed back to our stunning campus. Upon knocking the university gate we are greeted with a flowering shower bringing an end to the day. Arriving at the dorm, I placed my fingers on the keyboard and instigated jotting down the memories. I realized I have cultured and familiarized a lot more. Beyond the knowledge bounded by the four walls of classroom, learning is partial without such publicity and spotlight.