Ratchaburi, a town of historical importance during the Dvaravati period over 1,000 years ago, is located on the banks of the Mae Klong River 80 kilometers west of Bangkok. Featuring a diverse topography, Ratchaburi features lowlands to the east and the Tanaosi Mountain Range to the west, which provides a natural border with Myanmar (Burma). The Ratchaburi provincial area abounds in natural attractions and historical sites. Ratchaburi features outstanding natural beauty and a number of opportunities to learn about Thai culture. Ratchaburi’s premier attraction is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, a ‘must-see’ destination visited by a large percentage of tourists who visit Bangkok. Vendors in the market sell their wares by paddling boats along Ratchaburi’s canals. Every morning, hundreds of boats crowd the market, paddled by women in straw hats. For a few hundred baht visitors can hire their own boats and explore the canals while shopping for everything from vegetables and fruits to freshly-cooked noodle and souvenirs.