Sambor Prei Kuk (Isanapura) សំបូរព្រៃគុហ៍ is an archaeological site in Cambodia located in Kampong Thom Province, 176 km (109 mi) east of Angkor and 206 km (128 mi) north of Phnom Penh.
The now ruined complex dates back to the Pre-Angkorian Chenla Kingdom (late 6th to 9th century), established by king Isanavarman I as central royal sanctuary and capital, known then as "Isanapura" ឦសានបុរ
In 2017, Sambor Prei Kuk was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located on the Eastern bank of the Tonle Sap lake, close to the Steung Saen River, the central part of Sambor Prei Kuk is divided into three main groups.
Each group has a square layout surrounded by a brick wall. The structures of the overall archaeological area were constructed at variable times: the southern and north groups (7th century) by Isanavarman I, who is considered a possible founder of the city and the central group.
The buildings of Sambor Prei Kuk are characteristic of the ...
Souk Al-Mubarakiya, one of Kuwait’s oldest traditional markets, has a rich history spanning over 200 years as a central hub for trade and commerce in Kuwait City, predating the oil era and serving as a vital economic lifeline when Kuwait relied on maritime and overland exchanges with regions like India, Iraq, Oman, and Africa.
Named after Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah, the founder of modern Kuwait who ruled from 1896 to 1915, the souk originated around a small kiosk (“kishk”) in the Qibla district.
This structure initially functioned as a diwan (office) for addressing community issues and grievances, evolving into Kuwait’s first court, with merchants gathering nearby to trade goods like spices, textiles, dates, and pearls, transforming the area into a bustling marketplace.
The souk’s design, featuring wooden ceilings, palm-frond roofs, and shaded alleys, was adapted to Kuwait’s harsh climate, providing protection from heat and sandstorms while fostering a communal space for haggling, ...
Nakhon Nueang Khet Ancient Market: A Historic Canalside Treasure in Chachoengsao
Nakhon Nueang Khet Ancient Market (ตลาดโบราณนครเนื่องเขต), also known as Nakhon Khlong Nueang Khet Old Market, is a picturesque 130-year-old riverside market in Khlong Nakhon Nueang Khet Subdistrict, Chachoengsao Province, central Thailand.
Situated at the scenic intersection of Tha Kai Canal and Nueang Khet Canal, it evokes a bygone era with its wooden shophouses, boat-based trading heritage, and vibrant local scene. It’s a top spot for authentic Thai culture, open weekends and holidays (Sat-Sun, 9 AM–4 PM), making it ideal for a relaxed day trip from Bangkok (~1-hour drive east).
Established over 130 years ago during the late 19th century (Rattanakosin period), the market—originally called Si Yeak Tha Kai—flourished as a vital trading hub where canals met, facilitating boat commerce for rice, fruits, and goods in rural Chachoengsao.
The intersection point was a ...
Ing Nam Sam Khok Riverside Market is a charming weekend flea market located in the Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani, along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Open Friday to Sunday from 9 AM to 8 PM, it’s a local gem known for its authentic, community-driven atmosphere.
Visitors can explore stalls selling fresh seafood, traditional Thai street food (e.g., grilled river prawns, som tam, Mon-style noodles), handmade crafts, antiques, and local produce.
The market is small and local, so expect a more intimate experience compared to larger tourist markets.
Originally named Sam Khok (“three mounds”), Pathum Thani was established around 1660 by Mon migrants fleeing Burmese rule during the Ayutthaya period. These settlers built thriving riverside communities along the Chao Phraya River, engaging in agriculture and pottery production, as evidenced by archaeological sites like the Tao Ong Ang Kiln Ruins.
In 1815, King Rama II visited the area and renamed it Prathum Thani (“City of Lotuses”) ...
