Wonna Kaset (Ban Santitham) Self-Sufficiency Learning Center

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Open Days: Recommended to call in advance to confirm activity or camp schedules

Opening Hours: Recommended to call in advance – especially for group visits

 

Located in Lad Krating Subdistrict, Sanam Chai Khet District, Chachoengsao Province, Wonna Kaset, also known as Ban Santitham, is more than a typical nature attraction. It is a community-based learning center dedicated to self-sufficiency, village development, and sustainable living in harmony with nature. Covering nearly 10 rai of land, the center integrates herbal knowledge, natural farming practices, traditional Thai culture, and youth development activities into one cohesive and meaningful space.

 

Unlike ornamental gardens created primarily for sightseeing, Wonna Kaset serves as a practical demonstration site. The area contains more than 700–800 plant species, most of which are medicinal herbs traditionally used in Thai healing practices. Each plant is categorized by its properties and accompanied by informational signage, allowing visitors to gain structured knowledge about herbal medicine, plant science, and their practical applications in daily life.

 

The central philosophy of Ban Santitham is to build a “knowledge base” that community members and visitors can genuinely apply. This includes cultivating household medicinal plants, practicing traditional rice management, organizing youth learning programs, and developing self-reliance camp activities. The integration of these elements positions Wonna Kaset as an agro-tourism destination, a cultural heritage site, and a social learning hub simultaneously.

 

The history of the center is closely associated with Mr. Wiboon Khemchalerm, who initiated the development of this experiential learning space. Starting from unused land within the community, the area gradually evolved into a study center that preserves native plant species, herbal wisdom, and traditional knowledge. The objective has always extended beyond tourism; it aims to inspire younger generations to value sustainability, local wisdom, and balanced coexistence with nature.

 

One of the highlights is the traditional Thai wooden house roofed with “krabueang wao” clay tiles. The structure is designed as a venue for meetings, lectures, and workshops. The ground floor serves as an open activity space for training sessions and recreational programs, while the upper floor displays traditional tools, antiques, and vintage household items that reflect rural Thai lifestyles of the past. This architectural feature strengthens the educational experience by connecting cultural heritage with practical living skills.

 

Behind the house stands a simulated rice granary complete with traditional threshing and milling equipment. Visitors can learn about the rice management process, from harvesting and drying to storage and milling. This feature offers significant educational value, especially in a modern era when many young people are disconnected from the origins of food production.

 

The grounds also include camping areas and activity spaces for youth development programs. Activities often focus on chemical-free vegetable cultivation, traditional cooking, introductory herbal studies, teamwork exercises, and leadership development. Schools, educational institutions, and organizations frequently use the center as a venue for experiential learning camps focused on sustainability and life skills.

 

Environmentally, Wonna Kaset functions as an important green space within the community. Land management practices emphasize biodiversity conservation. The extensive herbal gardens create a small ecosystem that supports insects, butterflies, and local bird species, contributing to a calm, shaded, and ecologically balanced atmosphere ideal for both relaxation and study.

 

Getting There: From Chachoengsao, take Highway 3245 (Phanom Sarakham–Sanam Chai Khet), then turn onto Highway 3259 (Sanam Chai Khet–Tha Takiap). Continue for approximately 3 kilometers to reach the center. The most convenient mode of transportation is by private car or van, especially for group visits.

 

 

A: It is ideal for students, youth groups, educators, and travelers interested in sustainable living, herbal studies, and community-based learning.

 

A: Visitors are advised to call in advance to confirm current arrangements, as access may depend on activity schedules or organized programs.

 

A: Yes, youth camps and experiential learning programs can be arranged with prior coordination.

 

A: The extensive herbal garden, the traditional Thai wooden house, and the simulated rice granary showcasing traditional rice management methods.

 

A: You may call +66 38 597441 or +66 38 597715.