The Treasures of Ancient Phetchaburi
The Treasures of
Ancient Phetchaburi
Historically, Phetchaburi has played an important role in the development from the time
Thailand was still called Siam. The construction of royal residences and religious sites
are among the historical highlights of this half-day venture north of Hua Hin.
WHY THIS TOUR?
Phetchaburi is a place where tourists can enjoy both cultural and natural sites at the same time. The province has been described as the place where the golden era of Ayutthaya still lives. This is on display through the magnificent architecture of palaces and ancient temples.
When you opt for an overland transfer from Bangkok to your beach retreat in the Gulf of Thailand, you will quickly catch a glimpse of Phetchaburi. Knowing that there is more hidden, related to a period of prosperity and cultural development when Thailand was called Siam makes a trip to Phetchaburi more than worth it.
TRAIL ITINERARY
08:30 - 13:30
A mere 50-minute drive from Hua Hin, and you have arrived in the Phetchaburi province with the capital town bearing the same name. Your guide will explain the importance of Phetchaburi with its sites and places that are a reminder of what once was one of the main places in Siam, designated as a royal retreat.
We start our tour with a visit to the regal hillside residence of King Mongkut (King Rama IV), called Khao Wang (Palace Mountain). This iconic building can be seen on the approach to Phetchaburi, a town that has a history dating back to the eleventh century. The architectural design of the palace buildings is a unique mix of neo-classical, Thai and Chinese styles. In the nineteenth century, it became a royal retreat of King Rama IV, starting a trend of summer retreats that has been continued by his royal successors. We get the opportunity to explore the palace and enjoy the fine vista of the town, its river and the surrounding rice fields. To the west, the mountainous border of Myanmar is visible, even when the clouds blur the contours of the mountainous peaks.
A highlight of this tour to the capital of Phetchaburi province is the Khao Luang (Royal Mount) Cave lies on the outskirts of the town, and this is the home of more than 170 Buddha images, some of which were placed there by King Rama IV. Around midday, they are illuminated by a natural shaft of light that floods the cave.
Finally, before we make our way back to Hua Hin / Cha-am, we stop at the Khmer-influenced temple of Wat Mahathat Worawihan, a royal temple that dates back from the 12th century and is situated along the western river banks of the Phetchaburi River. The magnificence of its architecture is something we cannot simply pass. After a short stroll through the temple complex, we head back southbound to your hotel in Hua Hin / Cha-am.
