The cool season may not be so tangible in Bangkok but in other parts of the country, especially areas close to forests and mountains, the temperature sure dips to pleasant levels every day from late afternoon to late in the morning.
To welcome the beautiful weather, a number of activities are set to take place in Nakhon Ratchasima, in areas along the northern border of Khao Yai National Park, one of the favourite holiday destinations for city-slickers during this long-awaited time of year.
At GranMonte Vineyard and Winery, located in Pak Chong on the west side of the area, the "Winter In The Vinyard" celebration will be held from Dec 1 all the way to Jan 14. During the period, visitors can enjoy a tour of its farm and learn about the process of winemaking at its winery. Each tour ends with a wine-tasting session for adults (youngsters will be treated with grape juice). On weekends, festive and seasonal food will be available not only at the restaurant but also in the vineyard, with live music. A 20% discount will be offered at its guest house during weekdays.
On Feb 10, the annual "Harvest Festival" and the "Jazz In The Vineyard" event will take place simultaneously on the plantation. The latter is to be co-hosted by Khao Yai Tourism Association. During the fun-filled day, attendants can take part in a grape-picking contest and enjoy a host of other activities including shopping at a temporary night market.
- Visit granmonte.com or call 081-900-8282.
Meanwhile, in Pak Thong Chai, also on the northern boundary of Khao Yai National Park but on the east part, the annual Jim Thompson Farm Tour will take place from Dec 2-7. Under the theme "Rushing Water -- the Life Force Of Isan", this year's event boasts highlights such as a cosmos flower field and hydrophobic vegetable gardens and sales and displays of silks and farm produce, including giant pumpkins.
- Visit jimthompsonfarm.com or call 085-660-7336.
Further away from the forest's edge, on Mitraphap Highway, the National Corn and Sorghum Research Centre (also popularly known as Suwan Farm or Rai Suwan), will be the venue of the Pak Chong Agriculture Fair 2017, on Dec 8-11. At the fair, there will be exhibitions and workshops on various topics as well as the sale of a vast variety of farm products from Pak Chong district, plus of course, contests, musical performances and other forms of entertainment.
- Call 061-558-5280 or 044-351-770--6.
