About Phetchaburi Province
Phetchaburi (often written Phetburi) is one of Thailand's oldest and most culturally rich provinces, an hour south of Bangkok and rarely given the attention it deserves. The provincial capital contains more than 30 ancient temples — several dating to the Khmer period — concentrated in a compact old town that is genuinely walkable. Khao Wang, the hillside summer palace of King Rama IV with its multiple chedis and royal residences, dominates the skyline. Kaeng Krachan National Park — Thailand's largest, covering over 2,900 square kilometres — begins just inland, offering some of the country's best birdwatching and wildlife encounters. Phetchaburi is also famous for its traditional Thai desserts, especially those made with palm sugar and coconut.
Top Highlights
Khao Wang (Phra Nakhon Khiri)
hilltop royal palace with panoramic views over the old town
Kaeng Krachan National Park
Thailand's largest national park, outstanding wildlife and birds
Old town temple circuit
30+ ancient temples within walking distance
Traditional Thai desserts
palm sugar sweets, diamond cookies, and coconut-based confections
Getting There
Phetchaburi is 150 km south of Bangkok. Trains from Hua Lamphong take 3 hours; buses from Mo Chit take 2–2.5 hours. The city is also accessible from Hua Hin (60 km north) by bus or taxi. Kaeng Krachan is 60 km west of the city by road.
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Senior Travel Writer · Bangkok · 12+ years in Thailand
James has lived in Bangkok since 2014 and has visited all 77 Thai provinces. He specialises in destination guides, itinerary planning, and transport logistics. Before moving to Thailand, he worked as a travel journalist in Hong Kong and Singapore. He speaks conversational Thai and is a certified PADI divemaster.
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