11 really cool must visit places in Kamphaeng Phet
Kamphaeng Phet is a city in northern Thailand known for its fortifications, which date back to the 13th century. Its name, which means “Diamond Wall,” reflects the city’s long history as a fortified outpost used to defend against invaders from the north during the reigns of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya in the 15th century. Today, visitors to Kamphaeng Phet can still see ruins from this period and explore the city to discover its lesser-known attractions. In this guide, you’ll find all the information you need to plan a trip to Kamphaeng Phet.
Kamphaeng Phet Province
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park is located in the Muang district of Kamphaeng Phet province and is situated on the eastern bank of the Ping River. The park is divided into two districts: the area within the city wall and the area outside the city wall. It contains a large number of ancient sites that have been declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO, including Wat Chang Rob, Wat Phra Ariyabot, Wat Phra Non, Wat Phra Kaeo, and Wat Phra That. These sites are known for their important archaeological and historical significance.
City Pillar Shrine
Kamphaeng Phet City Pillar Shrine is an important holy place that has been a part of the city for more than 700 years. The shrine is a tetrahedron-shaped building made of reinforced concrete, with a laterite-colored sand marble floor. The City Pillar itself is a round laterite pillar about 2 meters long, buried about 2 meters below the ground, with a statue on top of it. The people of Kamphaeng Phet consider the City Pillar to be a symbol of the Chao Pho City Pillar Shrine. If you visit the shrine on a weekend morning, you might see people offering flowers and other items as a sign of respect to the pillar. It’s a colorful and interesting event to witness. To get there, you can simply bike to the shrine.
Wat Sadet
Wat Sadet is a temple located at the intersection of Thesa Road and Ratchadamnoen Road. Inside the temple is a replica of the Buddha’s footprint, which is an ancient relic used to store inscriptions, legends, and amulets. The temple is also known for its association with Somdej Phutthachan To Phromrangsri and Wat Rakhang, and it is said that King Chulalongkorn used to visit the temple.
Shrine of the Tiger God
Shrine of the Tiger God is a significant and revered sacred site located in the Mueang district of Kamphaeng Phet. Many people in the city believe that those who visit the shrine and pay their respects will have their wishes fulfilled, including prosperity and good fortune for their descendants, wealth, and good health. The shrine is considered to be an important and powerful source of blessings for the people of Kamphaeng Phet.
Shiva Shrine
Shiva Shrine is located in the city of Kamphaeng Phet, behind the provincial court. The shrine’s base is made of rectangular laterite and is raised to a height of 1.50 meters. According to history, during the reign of King Rama V, some Germans visited Kamphaeng Phet and secretly took the head and hand of the idol and sent them to Bangkok. Upon learning of this, King Rama V asked for the head and hand to be returned and offered to make replicas of the idol in exchange. One of the replicas was enshrined at the Shiva Shrine, while the other was given to the Germans. The original idol was restored and is now on display at the Kamphaeng Phet National Museum as a special and valuable art treasure of the city.
Wat Phra Borommathat Chediyaram
Wat Phra Borommathat Chediyaram is located in the Mueang Kamphaeng Phet district of the city. It was built at the same time as the city of Nakhon Chum and serves as the city’s main temple. One of the most important features of the temple is the Phra Borommathat Nakhon Chum Maha Chedi, a beautiful pagoda with a glittering gold exterior and intricate architectural details. It is said to be similar to the Shwedagon Pagoda in Burma and contains 9 relics of the Lord Buddha. Many people believe that visiting the pagoda is like meeting the Lord Buddha in person.
Phra Ruang Hot Spring
Phra Ruang Hot Spring is located in the Mueang Kamphaeng Phet district of the city, about 22 kilometers from the city center. It has been developed as a tourist attraction for health and relaxation, with facilities for mineral baths and foot soakings. The hot spring features 5 underground springs with water temperatures ranging from 40 to 65 degrees Celsius. The water is free from contaminants and meets the safety standards set by the Ministry of Public Health. Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the hot spring while also taking in the beautiful surrounding landscape.
Nakhon Chum retro market
Nakhon Chum retro market is located in the Nakhon Chum district of the city, in an old commercial area that was once a thriving hub of activity. The market features a variety of food and desserts that are unique to the community, as well as local products and demonstrations of traditional cooking. Visitors to the market can also experience the atmosphere of the past by dressing in Thai costumes and exploring the retro-themed market. The market is held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. during the first month of the year.
Ping River
The Ping River, which is located in the downtown area of the city, is a popular spot for relaxation and enjoying the cool breeze and pleasant weather. Visitors can walk or bike to the river from their accommodations and spend time by the water, either in the morning or evening. On the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, there is a walking street event held along the river, where visitors can shop, taste delicious food with a variety of flavors, and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere at night, with the lights reflecting on the water. The Ping River is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
Nakhon Chum Amulet Making Learning Center
Nakhon Chum Amulet Making Learning Center is an important part of the city of Kamphaeng Phet, which is known for its production of amulets. There are many amulets that have been excavated in the region, including the famous Kru Thung Setthi amulets, which include Phra Kamphaeng Soom Gor, Phra Kamphaeng Med Khanun, and Phra Kamphaeng Plu Jeeb. The learning center is owned by Uncle Sommai, who is a professional amulet maker and offers classes on ancient amulet making. Admission to the learning center is free, but there may be a surcharge for certain services.
Blue Pond
Blue Pond is located in the Nong Pling sub-district of the Muang district of Kamphaeng Phet province. It is a large gravel pit that is filled with turquoise water with beautiful gradient colors resembling the sea. The pond has become a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful atmosphere and stunning views, which make it an ideal spot for taking pictures and sharing on social media. Many tourists visit the Blue Pond specifically to take pictures and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Pang Sila Thong District
Mae Wong National Park
Mae Wong National Park is located in the area that covers Pang Sila Thong District in Kamphaeng Phet province, as well as Mae Wong District and Mae Poen District in Nakhon Sawan province. The park is known for its beautiful scenery and various tourist attractions, including the popular cold compartment and various viewpoints where visitors can see the fog drifting along the hillside. Another popular spot for tourists is Mokoju, the highest peak of the park, which is a great place for hiking and climbing. Overall, Mae Wong National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature and outdoor activities.
Khlong Lan District
Khlong Lan National Park
Khlong Lan National Park is located in Khlong Lan District and the city district of Kamphaeng Phet province and covers the Khlong Lan forest area. The park is known for its steep and complex mountain terrain, as well as its many streams and rivers, such as Khlong Khlung and Khlong Suan Mak, which flow into the Ping River. One of the main attractions of the park is the Khlong Lan Waterfall, a beautiful and scenic waterfall that is popular with visitors. Overall, Khlong Lan National Park is a great place to enjoy nature and the outdoors, and is a valuable source of water for the region.