Phetchaburi

Travel Guide

Photo by Elaine Tan

Home to a rich cultural heritage and Thailand’s largest national park, this region remains remarkably untouched by tourism despite its many charms. 

Phetchaburi is one of Thailand’s oldest towns with a historic riverside area dotted with old temples and traditional shop houses. Venture into rolling, green forests towards the west, near its border with Myanmar or explore the beaches on the east coast.

Several major Southeast Asian kingdoms have ruled Phetchaburi throughout its long history. Notice how these various cultures have left their mark on Phetchaburi’s architecture. Distinguished by its 138-foot (42-meter) white shrine, the temple of Wat Mahathat shows noticeable Khmer influences. Visit Wat Yai Suwannaram temple, which is known for its beautiful Ayutthaya-period murals.

Spend some time exploring the 19th-century Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park, a palace that is still occasionally used by the Thai royal family. Spread across several hilltops, the former Royal Residence has been converted into an interesting museum. Watch out for the intrusive wild monkeys that also call these hills home.

See the reclining Buddha statues in the Tham Khao Luang caves and visit the region’s beaches, including Haad Puk Tian . While these beaches don’t compare to the jaw-dropping beauty of those found further south, they’re still pleasant places for strolling along the water or enjoying some fresh seafood.

Explore Kaeng Krachan National Park, an almost endless stretch of caves, waterfalls and craggy slopes. An unusual mix of tropical evergreen and deciduous forests, this park is able to support an incredibly diverse array of wildlife. Look for Asian blac k bears, elephants, tigers and some of the more than 400 bird species . Phetchaburi is generally overlooked by Western tourists, which means that this stunning park remains pristine and undisturbed.

Located on the main route for trains heading south from Bangkok, Phetchaburi is an easy stopover on the way to the Thai islands. It’s best to avoid visiting during the rainy season from August to November, when the wet conditions can prevent exploration of Kaeng Krachan National Park. Don’t forget to try khanom mo kaeng, the town’s famous dessert, a sweet egg custard.

Pimchanok Resort
Pimchanok Resort
2.5 out of 5
1/3 Moo 5 Tonmamuang, Phetchaburi, Phetchaburi
Stay at this hotel in Phetchaburi. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Big C Superstore and Baan Peun Palace are located ...
"Beautiful and unique room. Easy check in with private parking in front of the room."

Reviewed on Sep 16, 2022

Pimchanok Resort
Seaman Resort
Seaman Resort
3.5 out of 5
80/8 Moo 1, Anamai road, Ban Laem, Phetchaburi
Stay at this 3.5-star beach hotel in Hat Chao Samran. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Laem Phak Bia Royal Project and ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (27 reviews)
"Room was spacious and comfortable. Nice beach and pool. Lounge and pool chairs were uncomfortable and no shade umbrellas. Restaurant was very expensive and breakfast buffet disappointing. A two minute walk on the beach or the road you will find a very good local restaurant."

Reviewed on Jan 25, 2025

Seaman Resort
Vala Hua Hin - Nu Chapter Hotels
Vala Hua Hin - Nu Chapter Hotels
4.5 out of 5
849/21 Phetchkasem Road, Cha-am, Phetchaburi
The price is ¥16,616 per night from Jul 16 to Jul 17
¥16,616
¥20,513 total
Jul 16 - Jul 17
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Cha-am. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Cha-am Beach and Cha-Am Beach South are ...
9/10 Wonderful! (71 reviews)
"The property and staff are wonderful!! The surrounds not so much, if you want to just relax in the same premises for all your stay then it’s perfect"

Reviewed on Apr 24, 2025

Vala Hua Hin - Nu Chapter Hotels
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
W-town Apartments
W-town Apartments
3 out of 5
28/25 Village Mueang PhetchaburiDistrict, Phetchaburi, Phetchaburi Province
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Phetchaburi. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and dry cleaning or laundry services. Popular attractions Big C Superstore and Baan ...
W-town Apartments
Wan Villa
Wan Villa
3.5 out of 5
337, Moo.2, Hat Chao Samran, Mueang, Chao Samran Beach, Phetchaburi, Phetchaburi
Stay at this 3.5-star villa in Phetchaburi. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and private pools. Popular attractions Chao Samran Beach and Laem Phak Bia Royal Project ...
Wan Villa
Baan Par Pern Hadchaosamran
Baan Par Pern Hadchaosamran
3 out of 5
269/68 Moo.2 T. A.Muang Haad Chao Samran, Phetchaburi
Stay at this 3-star villa in Phetchaburi. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and private pools. Popular attractions Chao Samran Beach and Laem Phak Bia Royal Project ...
"สะอาด สวย ใกล้หาด สิ่งอำนวยความสะดวกเยอะ"

Reviewed on May 29, 2021

Baan Par Pern Hadchaosamran
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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