Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(Wat Ko; off Th Matayawong; 7am-6pm) F Located at the edge of town, this temple compound
dates back to the Ayuthaya era, and the bòht features early-18th-century murals that are
among the oldest in Thailand. One panel depicts what appears to be a Jesuit priest wearing
the robes of a Buddhist monk, while another shows foreigners undergoing Buddhist con-
versions. You'll probably have to ask the caretaker to open it for you.
THAM KHAO LUANG
( 8am-6pm) F About 4km north of town is this cave sanctuary, which has three caverns
filled with dozens of Buddha images in various poses - some of them originally placed by
Rama IV. The best time to visit Khao Luang is around 5pm, when the school groups have
gone and the evening light pierces the ceiling, surrounding artefacts with an ethereal glow.
A round-trip săhm·lór from town should cost about 150B.
CAVE
PRIMATE WARNING
Note that Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park is home to hundreds of cheeky monkeys that are, according to nu-
merous signs, 'not afraid anyone'. You make yourself a particular target of their aggression by carrying any sort
of food or drink. If you're hungry or thirsty, consume your food or drink at the stalls (the vendors are armed with
slingshots and can defend against attacks) and be sure to discard any cans, peels or wrappers before proceeding.
Around Phetchaburi (Phetburi)
KAENG KRACHAN NATIONAL PARK
( 0 3245 9293; www.dnp.go.th ; 200B; visitors centre 8.30am-4.30pm) The largest national park in
Thailand and home to the gorgeous Pala-U waterfalls, Kaeng Krachan National Park is
easily reached from Phetchaburi. There are caves to explore, mountains, a huge lake and
excellent birdwatching opportunities in the evergreen forest blanketing the park. Kaeng
Krachan has fantastic trekking, and it is one of the few places to see Asian elephants
roaming wild (if you're lucky).
Tourist infrastructure in the park is somewhat limited and roads can be rough. Park
rangers can help arrange camping-gear rental, food and transport. The best months to visit
are between November and April. Staffs at Rabieng Rim Nam ( 0 3242 5707; 1 Th Chisa-In; 950B
per person for 4 people) can arrange trekking and birding tours that range from one day to mul-
tiple days if you don't want to figure out the logistics yourself.
NATIONAL PARK
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