Prachuapkhirikhan

PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN

Prachuap Khiri Khan is located some 281 kms. south of Bangkok. After the old town was abandoned during the fall of Ayutthaya, a new settlement was established in 1845 in the reign of King Rama IV. The province, today, is more famous for its natural charm of beaches and mountains than historical attractions. Hua Hin, its major attraction, is one of Thailand's most popular seaside resorts among overseas visitors as well as Thais.

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Hat Hua Hin




Hat Hua Hin is a 5-kilometer white sandy beach lined with a wide range of accommodations, from bungalows to five-star hotels and resorts. Located at the sunrise side of the city, the beach runs from a rocky headland which separates it from a tiny fishing pier, and gently curves for some three kilometers to the south where the Giant Standing Buddha Sculpture is located at the foot of Khao Takiap. While offering a tranquil atmosphere, the beach is also the place for fun-filled activities ranging from jogging, walking, sun bathing, horse riding, kite boarding, and other kinds of water sports.

Hua Hin Railway Station



Built in the reign of King Rama VI, the station is one of Thailand's oldest railway stations. In addition, it is one of the country's most beautiful train stations with unique architecture. Its most striking feature is the splendid Royal Waiting Room constructed in the Thai architectural style. The room was relocated from Sanam Chan Palace in Nakhon Pathom Province during the reign of King Rama VI.


Ko Thalu, Ko Sang and Ko Sing
These three islands suitable for fishing can be reached within 20 minutes by boat from Ban Pak Khlong, 3 kms. east of Bang Saphan.

Ao Mae Ramphung and Ao Bo Thonglang
Situated in the southern extremities of the province, both are scenic bays in the Bang Saphan district area. Travel about 75 kilometres south of Phrachuap Khiri Khan to Km. 399, turn left and continue for another 17 kilometres via Bang Saphan Market to Ao Mae Ramphueng. Ao Bo Thonglang is 4 kilometres away. Accommodation and seafood restaurants are available.

Namtok Huai Yang National Park
This 16-square kilometre-park covers a forested area on the Tanao Si Mountain Range. A 5-layer waterfall, Namtok Huai Yang, near the park office is its main attraction. The highest elevation is the 1,251-metre Khao Luang mountain. Admission is 100 baht per person. Accommodation is available near the park headquarters.

Sam Roi Yot National Park
Located 63 kilometres south of Hua Hin in the vicinity of Kui Buri district, this coastal national park covers an area of 98 square kilometres with limestone mountains, mangrove swamps, and beaches. It is also home to various kinds of local and migrating birds, which are plentiful from November to February. With a large number of ridges, Khao Sam Roi Yot (or the mountain of 300 peaks) stands as a landmark for seamen and also provides a good shelter for ships during a storm. To get to the park, follow the direction signs marking the remaining distances of 38 and 15 kilometres at Km. 256 and Km.286.5, respectively. Admission is 200 baht per person.

Attractions within the park area include:


Hat Wanakon National Park
23 kilometres from Prachuap Khiri Khan, this 38-square kilometre park is centred on a fine 7 kilometre-pine-fringed beach. Camping is permitted. Snorkelling around offshore islands, swimming, hiking and bird watching number among major attractions. Admission is 100 baht per person. Accommodation facilities are available.

Dan Singkhon
This Myanmar-Thailand border pass is located in Tambon Khlong Wan, 4 kms. from Khao Hin Thoen Stone Park. It used to be a strategic line for military movement in the past.

Ao Manao
Lying some 5 kilometres south of the town, this beautiful curved bay, once a battlefield between the Thai and Japanese armies during the Second World War, is under the care of the Royal Thai Airforce. Part of the beach is lined with souvenir stalls. The remainder, and the greater part, is tranquil and largely untouched by commercialism. Accommodation should be reserved in advanced at the 53rd Squadron, Tel: 0 3261 1017, 0 3261 1031 ext. 2146.

Pran Buri
Pran Buri is some 30 kilometres south of Hua Hin. There are several beach resorts in peaceful atmosphere. It is a relatively new destination amongst in Thailand's thriving resort offerings. Blessed with endless miles of white sandy beaches, Pran Buri is fast becoming one of the preferred holiday getaways for discerning individuals and for those who yearn for their own private retreat. The Pran Buri Forest Park occupies a large area with a 1-kilometre pine-fringed beach and mangrove nature trails.

Khao Takiap
This hill is situated at the southern end of Hua Hin, only 4 kilometers from the town. It can be easily reached by local minibus. Visitors can go up the hilltop to enjoy a bird's eye view of Hua Hin, which is one of the delightful views either during the day or night. There is a temple call Wat Khao Takiap situated on top of the hill. The nearby Khao Takiap Beach offers mostly bungalow accommodations. The giant golden Buddha Statue standing against the cliff has become a landmark of Khao Takiap.

Klai Kangwon Palace
In Thai, the name of the palace literally means far from worries. This summer palace consisting of 3 Spanish style mansions facing the sea was constructed to the north of Hua Hin under the royal command of King Rama Vll. Today, it is the permanent residence of the King.

Khao Hin Thoen Stone Park
This is located to the west of the town. Travel along Highway No.4 till km. 331-332, then turn right and drive for another 8 kms. Among large stones placed by nature in the area, there are narrow walks leading to wide rocky fields on the mountain top overlooking the view of the city and the sea.


Wa Ko
This locality has had historical importance since the reign of King Rama IV. The King made a trip to Wa Ko to witness the full moon eclipse. A long white sandy beach lined with pine trees offers a pleasant atmosphere. It is located at Km. 335 of Highway No. 4, 12 kms. south of town.


King Mongkut Memorial Park
King Mongkut Memorial Park of Science and Technology was established at Wa Ko in 1989 to commemorate King Monkut (King Rama IV), who is regarded as the Father of Thai Science Study. In 1968 the King made a trip to Wa Ko to witness an eclipse of the sun after his astronomical forecast. A science museum with many sections for youth education, an aquarium and a butterfly garden situated in the compound can be visited every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adult 20 baht child 10 Baht. The park is located at Km.335 of Highway No. 4, about 12 kilometres from Prachuap Khiri Khan and 4 kilometres along a branch road. Call 0 3266 1098 for more information.