9 Must-visit Places for an Unforgettable Experience in Phetchaburi, Thailand
Phetchaburi, a Thai province filled with rich history and natural beauty, is where you can find a variety of attractions that guarantee an unforgettable experience for travellers. From temples and royal palaces to a warm, sandy beach and verdant national parks, here are nine must-visit places that capture the charm of Phetchaburi!
Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang)
Constructed in the 19th century during the reign of King Rama IV, this park was once a summer palace and royal retreat for the Thai royal family.
The palace complex features an interesting blend of architectural styles, combining traditional Thai designs with Chinese-inspired halls and European buildings, honouring the rich cultural mix of the time. It offers a wonderful glimpse into the artistic and architectural tastes of the era.
Tham Khao Luang
Tham Khao Luang, a cave temple in Phetchaburi, is famed for the breathtaking shaft of sunlight that illuminates its walls, adorned with intricate stalactites and stalagmites. During the reign of King Rama IV and V, the cave's ancient Buddha statues were restored and a royal temple was built. Today, Tham Khao Luang has been fully restored and developed as a tourist attraction, offering guided tours for visitors.
Mrigadayavan Palace
The palace, also known as Wang Klai Kangwon, was constructed from 1923 to 1924 during the reign of King Rama VI. It has a unique architectural blend of traditional Thai wooden style with modern amenities.
Mrigadayavan has recently earned the prestigious 2021 UNESCO Special Recognition for Sustainable Development Award for its significance in preserving Thailand’s architectural heritage!
Wat Na Yang
Wat Na Yang, a 15-acre traditional Buddhist temple in Cha-Am, serves as both a spiritual heart and community hub for local residents. The temple features a large reclining Ganesha statue and an impressive Luang Pu Suk statue that reaches about five floors in height, attracting many visitors for worship and reflection. Its calm surroundings and striking statues make Wat Na Yang a welcoming and peaceful place to visit.
Kaeng Krachan National Park
Kaeng Krachan National Park is a huge and beautiful area known for its incredible landscapes and diverse wildlife. As Thailand’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to dense tropical rainforests, majestic mountains and caves, cascading waterfalls, and the scenic Kaeng Krachan Dam. Visitors can also enjoy exciting activities like wildlife spotting, rafting, camping, and canoeing, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers!
Cha-Am Beach
Well-known for its long stretch of clean, sandy coastline, Cha-Am Beach is the ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're taking a peaceful stroll by the sea or enjoying thrilling activities like banana boating and parasailing, this beach has something for everyone. When you’re getting peckish or in need of a break, you can easily find delicious fresh seafood or take a good rest in a nearby resort town.
Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park
Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park is a beautiful woodland escape known for its impressive limestone hills visible from afar. The park has two nature trails: a shorter path that takes about 15 minutes to complete, and a full 3.5 km trail for those looking for a bit more of a challenge. Whether you want to hike or relax with a nice picnic around the visitor centre, this park is the perfect spot to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.
Na Yang Bat Cave
Source: The Occasional Traveller
Surrounded by rugged terrain and greenery, Na Yang Bat Cave is where you can admire stunning stalactites and stalagmites. True to its name, the cave is home to many bats, whose nightly flights create a captivating sight, harmonised by the echoes of their distinctive calls. It is a fascinating place to witness nature in action!
Phra Ram Ratchanivet Palace
Phra Ram Ratchanivet Palace, built during King Rama V's reign, is a beautiful European-style building with a blend of Baroque and Art Nouveau design. Large windows fill the palace with light, while marble floors keep it cool inside. The dining room has colourful animal and plant tiles, and the king’s bedroom shines with golden accents. With a small garden and fountain at its centre, this palace is a charming spot full of elegance and history.
Now that you know where to go, let’s visit Phetchaburi. You can check out our About Phetchaburi page for a deeper dive into these sites, and learn about the beautiful craftsmanship unique to Phetchaburi, local food and dessert, and the year-round festivals you can’t miss out on!
Join PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 from November 12-14 to enjoy the province’s offerings first-hand. This event includes tours across the destination, as well as presentations and panel discussions focusing on leveraging rich cultural heritage, innovative destination marketing strategies, and the transformational power of tourism.
