Kamphaeng Phet Sights, POI and Things to Do
While for the first time we happened to visit Kamphaeng Phet only for its historical park, the city and its environs have enough to keep you busy for a couple of days.
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park
Even if you have already visited Sukhothai Historical Park, do not skip Kamphaeng Phet – the atmosphere here is quite different and besides there are almost no people and wandering around ancient ruins in complete solitude is a very special experience to our mind.
The Historical Park can be divided into three sections and, unless you’re a history enthusiast, it will take no more than one day to visit all of them.
Right north of the city centre, surrounded by the ancient wall of the city of Cha Kang Rao you’ll find what is considered the inner district Khet Nai. The major attractions hare are the ruins of the royal temple of Wat Phra Kaeo with his reclining Buddha and Wat Phra That. It is also the stage for festivals and other celebrations held in the city so if you happen to be there during the right period you will see a wonderful sight of the ruins being illuminated with primitive lanterns what adds to the mysterious vibe.
Keep moving north and outside of the walls you’ll find the forest district Khet Aranyik whit his 40 archaeological sites spread around a peaceful forest area. Buddha’s images, ancient Sri Lankan Chedis, 69 elephant statues are just some of the sites you’ll admire walking or cycling (this is what we recommend) around. The entrance to these two areas is THB100 each or you can purchase a combined ticket for THB150. The whole Park is open to visitors every day from 8am to 5pm.
On the other side of the river you can visit what remains of the old city Mueang Nakhon Chum. It looks like this site has been forgotten by both Thai and Western tourists and the entrance is free of charge. One of the oldest temples in the Historic Park, Wat Phra Borommathat, can be found here and believe it or not, this 14th century monastery is still in use.
Kamphaeng Phet National Museum
Located 100 meters from the entrance of the inner district of the Historical Park, this interesting museum is dedicated to the history of Kamphaeng Phet. On display there are tools, objects, relics, Buddha’s statues and any sort of antiques coming from the first prehistoric settlements, through the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya kingdoms, and the more recent hill tribes that still live in the province. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 9am till 4pm and admission ticket is THB100.
National Parks
There are two main National Parks located not far from Kamphaeng Phet. The most visited one is Khlong Lan National Park, 60 km out of town. Its popularity is mainly due to Khlong Lan Waterfall with his impressive streams of water falling down a 100 meters cliff. Fallingl to the bottom, the waterfall forms several different pools and some of them are suitable for a refreshing bath. The entrance fee to Khlong Lan is THB200 and the waterfall is a short walk from the main gate. Three J Guesthouse organizes day tours if you don’t want to rent a car or motorbike.
20 km away from Khlong Lan you’ll find the amazing Mae Wong National Park. With almost 850 square km of forests, mountains, rivers and waterfalls it would take weeks to be entirely explored. The signature destination here is Khao Mokoju, one of the highest peaks in Thailand (1964 mt). A 40 km trek will take you to the summit, but you will need 5 days to complete the trek. It’s possible to arrange an expedition with a guide at the park headquarters. Tents are available for rent and outside the main entrance you’ll find a restaurant and simple accommodation options. To get there you’ll need your means of transportation.
Phra Ruang Hot Springs
Located not far from town on highway 101 to Sukhothai, it’s a perfect destination for a half day trip if you’re searching for a way to relax your muscles other than the regular Thai massage that you can easily find in town. Alternate 10 minutes in hot water with a cold shower and you will feel rejuvenated. Do not expect anything luxurious – the whole complex is targeting to local visitors and there is not much else apart from individual and common baths, foot pool and a pond with water bicycles for THB20. There are a lot of gazebos all around the area and you can spend a couple of lazy hours there. Try to avoid weekends and public holidays when it can get quite busy. Admission ticket is THB30 and it opens every day from 8.30am till 6pm.
