If you're traveling in Phetchaburi Province and looking for an enjoyable activity in the area, visit Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang). Initially completed in 1860, it was built as a summer palace for the royal family during the reign of King Rama IV.
Since 1979, it has held the status of a historical park and currently hosts a branch of the Thai National Museum.
Prepare to pack your bags and join us on a tour of Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) for an extraordinary experience.
There are a lot of monkeys that live up here. As in many places in Thailand, they have altered to humans by often looking for a food handout. When they don't get one, they can become arrogant. So, do not carry any food or drinks in your hands up here.
The small town of Phetchaburi, located south of Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok), often goes unnoticed by overseas travelers in favor of the beaches in Hua Hin and the Gulf of Thailand. However, for those with an interest in architecture and Thai history, the summer palace built here by King Rama IV is one of Thailand's hidden gems. Phra Nakhon Khiri (Khao Wang), spanning three hilltops, offers a diverse collection of buildings that blend Thai, European, and Chinese design elements, all set against the backdrop of picturesque views of Phetchaburi and the surrounding countryside.
Perched atop a lush 92-meter-high hill in Phetchaburi, this summer palace was commissioned by King Rama IV in 1860. The complex includes royal halls, palaces, temples, and other structures that showcase a harmonious blend of Thai, neoclassical Western, and Chinese architectural styles. On the eastern side, you'll find significant temples associated with the royal family. The highest peak is home to Wat Phra Kaew, considered as crucial as the Wat Phra Kaew at The Grand Palace in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok).
In the center, you'll discover Phra That JomPetch, a 40-meter-tall white pagoda housing Buddha's relics. Visitors who approach the pagoda with pure intentions are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views from the top. The western side features meticulously converted old palaces, now serving as museums that beautifully showcase the royal lifestyles and conveniences of King Rama IV and King Rama V.
So, if you're passionate about history and architecture, Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) is a must-visit destination to uncover the rich heritage of Thailand's royalty.
A morning visit to Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) is highly recommended, especially during the scorching heat of the afternoon. The park usually closes at 4 p.m., so arriving in the morning allows you to explore comfortably while the weather is still pleasant. When you arrive at the hilltop, you'll find three distinct areas to explore:
From the museum area, you'll see pagodas that mark the other two areas, which are just a five-minute walk away. Flowering Frangipani trees surround the hilltop. Begin with the towering white Phra That Chom Phet pagoda, offering views of the city below. You can walk around this pagoda and access the inside through a tunnel.
A short walk will lead you to Wat Phra Kaew Noi, resembling a smaller version of Wat Phra Kaew in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok). Opposite is Phra Prang Daeng, a red Khmer-style prang. These temples and pagodas are worth a brief visit. Afterward, return to the museum area and take the cable car or walk down the east side.
Below are some recommended tips:
Visiting Khao Wang offers a variety of captivating experiences. Perched atop a hill, the park provides breathtaking panoramic views of Phetchaburi town and its picturesque surroundings. The stunning vistas from vantage points like the palace and Ho Chatchawan Wiang Chai Tower make for unforgettable photographs.
In addition to its natural beauty, Khao Wang is a place of historical significance, housing two palaces that are now home to a branch of the Thailand National Museum. Joining a guided tour allows visitors to delve deeper into Thailand's rich history and explore state-owned historical and cultural artifacts.
Here are some of the exciting things to do at Khao Wang:
The most excellent time to get to Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) is from November to February, as the climate is entirely satisfactory for thoroughly enjoying your vacation. In contrast, it is scorching from April to June and experiences heavy rains from July to October.
Visiting the National Museum Phra Nakhon Khiri (Khao Wang) in Phetchaburi is a rewarding experience for history and culture enthusiasts. Here are some travel options and tips to help you plan your visit:
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Day Trip from Hua Hin to Bangkok
Local Transportation
Accommodation
Reaching the Hilltop
Visiting Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) is a delightful journey into Thailand's history and culture. Whether you prefer traveling by train, bus, taxi, or joining a day trip, you'll have the opportunity to explore this remarkable site. Enjoy your visit!
While the Thai royal family no longer utilizes Phra Nakhon Khiri (Khao Wang), traditional customs and protocols are still observed. Visitors are kindly requested to dress modestly by covering their knees and shoulders. Additionally, it is essential to adhere to the "No Photography" signs within the main museum as a sign of respect.
Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) is located on a hill that overlooks the pretty town of Phetchaburi. For years, the park has been known by the name Phra Nakhon Khiri; nonetheless, it is more familiar to the locals than Khao Wang. Upon coming here, you could have an opportunity to appreciate and take some images of the different plus perfect combination of different architectures from all over the world, including European, Japanese, Chinese, and Thai traditional ones.
Entrance Fees |
20 Thai Baht for Thai Citizens 50 Thai Baht for Foreigners |
Business Address |
97 ถนน คีรีรัถยา Khlong Kra Saeng, Mueang Phetchaburi District, Phetchaburi 76000 |
Business Hours |
08:30 - 16:30 | Monday to Sunday |
Phone Number |
+66 (0) 3-242-5600 |
Website |
|
GPS |
13.1091837, 99.9366336 |
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Riley Sinclair (Digital Aqua Bear)
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Riley Sinclair (Digital Aqua Bear)