Ban Chamrung
Take some time away from the chaos of everyday life and immerse yourself in simplicity. Let the world slowly revolve while taking time out to gain some in-depth knowledge about the philosophy of sufficiency economy, a method that is proven to lead to happiness, health, stability and self-reliance in an authentically local way at Thailand’s rural knowledge base, Ban Nok University.
Local villagers are the teachers here and the wisdom that they impart on visitors is something that simply cannot be found in a textbook. The emphasis here is on simplicity but the immense pleasure these locals take in everyday duties like picking local vegetables, visiting local farms and such will make visitors see these tasks in a new light. The farming prototype of “Three Forests, Four Benefits” is adhered to here and visitors can find out more about how it is implemented by talking to the villagers themselves. Learning groups include the Waste Bank, which converts waste into either bank deposits or fertilizer for further use, Tree Bank, which was established to support tree planting and nurture and manage the production for the community according to the guidelines of sustainable natural resource utilization, knife forging and rubber farming. Lucky travellers may also have a chance to grab a knife and try tapping the rubber. themselves. As well as the learning groups, responsible tourism and warm smiles there’s also Ban Chumrung Homestay which gives visitors a chance to spend the night and wake up feeling refreshed in the midst of nature.
Before returning home, travellers can help support local chemical-free products including local vegetables, herbs and seasonal fruits such as mangosteen, rambutan, snake fruit, dragon fruit, Marian plum and langsat, or locally sourced products such as fish sauce, Nam Phrik Kapi (Spicy Shrimp Paste) and durian chips. Not only will you be sinking your teeth into the freshest fruit around, but you will also be helping the local community.
Highlight Activities
- Experience an unhurried local way of life based on sufficiency principles.
- Get out and try various activities with groups of villagers such as Waste Bank Group, knife forging and rubber farming.
- Support local products and promote the sustainability of the community’s economy.
Best Time to Visit
- All seasons, peak season for fruits in the east during April and May is recommended Rayong Fruit and Specialties Festival around May features a motorized parade decorated with fruits, fruit contests, a beauty pageant and a market with fresh seafood.
- Sunthorn Phu Monument Worship Ceremony on 26th June in Tambon Klam, Amphoe Klaeng. The monument area exhibits the famous Thai poet’s work.
- On the full-moon day of the twelfth lunar month, blanketing Phra That Klang Nam (Floating Relics) and long-boat racing will both be held at Wat Pak Nam, Amphoe Mueang, Rayong.