DESTINATION OF THE DAY
Kamphaeng Phet

Nestled along the Ping River in lower northern Thailand, Kamphaeng Phet ("Diamond Wall") stands as a silent sentinel of Siam's past. This UNESCO World Heritage site rivals Sukhothai in historical significance, boasting ancient temples wrapped in jungle vines, formidable 13th-century fortifications, and a landscape where banana plantations meet misty mountains. Beyond its archaeological wonders, the province thrums with hot springs, vibrant markets, and Thailand's richest banana harvests—a perfect blend of culture and nature.

A Glimpse into the History

A Bastion of Ancient Kingdoms

Kamphaeng Phet rose to prominence as a strategic military outpost during the Sukhothai (13th-15th century) and Ayutthaya (14th-18th century) kingdoms. Its name reflects its purpose: a diamond-strong fortress defending against northern invasions. Archaeological evidence reveals even deeper roots—prehistoric tools, Bronze Age artifacts, and Dvaravati-era pottery (6th-11th century) prove this land nurtured civilizations for millennia before becoming a Sukhothai stronghold.

The city flourished under King Lithai of Sukhothai, who built Phra Si Rattana Mahathat temple and enshrined a sacred Bodhi tree here in 1357 CE. Later, as Ayutthaya expanded northward, Kamphaeng Phet became a critical border garrison, famously repelling a 15th-century siege by Chiang Mai's forces. Its hybrid architecture—Sukhothai's lotus-bud stupas blended with Ayutthaya's laterite walls—tells the story of shifting powers.

From Ruins to World Heritage

After centuries of neglect, Kamphaeng Phet's revival began in the 1960s when Thailand's Fine Arts Department excavated and restored 18 key sites, including the iconic Wat Phra Kaew and the elephant-encircled Wat Chang Rob. In 1991, its historical park joined Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for showcasing "human creative genius" through its unique blend of military and religious architecture. Today, visitors wander among 3.8 sq km of preserved ruins, where ancient city gates still whisper tales of warriors and monks.

Things To Do In Kamphaeng Phet

Walk Through 700 Years of History

Meet the Elephant Temple Guardians

Visit the Heart of the City

Find Peace in the Forest Monastery

Be amaze at the Golden Panorama

Other Attractions To Visit

• Khlong Lan National Park is a pristine wilderness in Kamphaeng Phet, spanning 300 sq km of misty mountains and virgin jungle. Its crown jewels are the dramatic Namtok Khlong Lan (95-meter waterfall) and the nine-tiered Namtok Khlong Nam Lai, fed by crystal-clear streams that eventually join the Ping River. Adventurers can camp overnight, marvel at the surreal Kaeng Ko Roi rock formations, or trek through lush forests teeming with wildlife.

• Phra Ruang Hot Springs bubble up with mineral-rich waters (40-65°C) amid local legends of Prince Phra Ruang magically creating them to cook a jungle fowl. Tested safe by health authorities, these steamy pools are believed to bring luck to visitors who take the waters home. The site gained royal significance when its waters were used in King Bhumibol’s 5th-cycle birthday ceremonies.

• Wat Phra Kaeo stands as Kamphaeng Phet's grandest temple, its 400-meter layout reflecting its status as a likely state temple during the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods. Visitors today marvel at its unique blend of architectural styles, from the Sri Lankan-style chedi with elephant carvings to the distinctive Kamphaeng Phet-style Buddha images in the mondop, characterized by their square faces and almond-shaped eyes. Though time has worn most statues to their laterite cores, the temple's imposing scale and hybrid Lanna-Ayutthayan features whisper tales of its past as a cultural crossroads.

• Hor Trai Wat Khu Yang stands as a beautifully preserved wooden scripture library, elegantly built over a canal in traditional Kamphaeng Phet style. Dating back over 400 years, this rare structure features intricate fish-scale tiles, stucco decorations, and an elevated design that once protected sacred Buddhist texts from insects. Today, it serves as both a historical treasure and an active center for Dhamma studies in the province.

Best Places To Eat & Drink In Kamphaeng Phet

1. Mango House Cafe and Restaurant

   

   Mango House Cafe & Restaurant offers riverside dining in Kamphaeng Phet, blending Thai-fusion cuisine with garden relaxation by the Ping River. Awarded the Thai Select Certificate, it serves authentic dishes alongside specialty coffees in both air-conditioned and open-air settings. Part of the top-rated Mango House Resort, it's ideal for meals, weddings, or simply unwinding with scenic river views.

   📍Nakhon Chum, Mueang, Kamphaeng Phet

2. Oasis Bar and Restaurant

Oasis Bar & Restaurant serves up delicious Western favorites like juicy steaks, wood-fired pizzas, and flavorful pasta dishes in a relaxed outdoor setting. Guests rave about the quick, friendly service and ice-cold draft beer that perfectly complements meals. With its inviting ambiance and tasty menu, this spot truly lives up to its name as a refreshing dining oasis.

📍143-3 Moo 10 Nakhon Chum Subdistrict, Kamphaeng Phet

3. The Burger Co.

The Burger Co. serves up juicy, flavor-packed burgers blending Asian and Western tastes at wallet-friendly prices. Famous for their premium beef patties, this casual spot offers a tasty break from Thai cuisine with super-friendly service. It's the perfect pitstop on the Chiang Mai-Bangkok route, with convenient takeaway options for travelers on the go.

📍AH 1 Highway Bangchak Filling Station, Kamphaeng Phet

4. Tasty Restaurant

Tasty Restaurant stands out as one of Kamphaeng Phet's top dining destinations, serving exceptionally delicious Thai food with attentive service in a spotlessly clean, professionally managed setting. Their expansive menu offers a rich selection of Thai, European, and Chinese dishes, all expertly prepared in a spacious open kitchen that inspires confidence. With bilingual (English/Thai) menus and consistently marvelous flavors across all cuisines, this is one meal you won't regret.

📍115-119, Tesa 1 Road Nai Mueang, Kamphaeng Phet

5. Baan Rim Nam

Baan Rim Nam has been serving authentic Thai flavors since 1995 as a beloved family-run riverside eatery. Dine on their floating deck or riverbank tables while enjoying generous portions of spicy classics and sunset views over the water. With its chilled vibe, friendly service, and air-conditioned VIP room, it's the perfect spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.

📍42 Moo 2 Nakhon Shum Subdistrict, Kamphaeng Phet

Classifieds

Robin Hood, Pattaya - Enjoy the best food & drink Pattaya has to offer at the fully airconditioned restaurant on the 2nd road - View the Robin Hood HERE

Scruffy Murphys, Bangkok - A traditional Irish pub in the center of Bangkok, yes please, there’s always a warm welcome, great food & a fantastic menu. Take a look at Scruffy Murphys HERE 

Amber Sauna, Koh Samui - There’s something steamy going on just on the outskirts of Chaweng, enjoy a red hot sauna, healthy steam room or take the plubge in their ice plunge. PS did we mention their delicious menu? See what you’re missing out on HERE

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.