Phraya Nakhon Cave is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park in Thailand. This majestic cave has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, drawing visitors from all over the world with its stunning beauty and fascinating history.
The cave is named after Phraya Nakhon, a nobleman who served as the governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan during the reign of King Rama V. Legend has it that Phraya Nakhon was hunting in the area when he discovered the cave and decided to build a pavilion inside it.
The pavilion, known as the "Phraya Nakhon Pavilion," was completed in 1890 and became a popular spot for the king and other members of the royal family to visit.
Today, the pavilion remains one of the main attractions of the cave, and visitors can hike up to it to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area. However, the journey to the pavilion is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a steep climb up a rocky path and a trek through a dark and humid cave.
The pavilion, known as the "Phraya Nakhon Pavilion," was completed in 1890 and became a popular spot for the king and other members of the royal family to visit.
Today, the pavilion remains one of the main attractions of the cave, and visitors can hike up to it to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area. However, the journey to the pavilion is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a steep climb up a rocky path and a trek through a dark and humid cave.
Photo: Impressive cave system at the Phraya Nakhon
Despite the challenging trek, visitors to Phraya Nakhon Cave are rewarded with some of the most awe-inspiring views in all of Thailand. As they make their way through the cave, visitors will be surrounded by towering stalagmites and stalactites, some of which are illuminated by streams of sunlight that filter in through holes in the cave's roof.
The Royal Chamber
At the heart of the cave lies the famous "Royal Chamber," a vast cavern that is home to the Phraya Nakhon Pavilion. The pavilion is perched atop a small hill inside the chamber, and visitors can take in its beauty from all angles as they explore the chamber.
The pavilion is a stunning example of Thai architecture, featuring intricate carvings and ornate decorations that are sure to impress even the most seasoned traveler.
The Royal Chamber
At the heart of the cave lies the famous "Royal Chamber," a vast cavern that is home to the Phraya Nakhon Pavilion. The pavilion is perched atop a small hill inside the chamber, and visitors can take in its beauty from all angles as they explore the chamber.
The pavilion is a stunning example of Thai architecture, featuring intricate carvings and ornate decorations that are sure to impress even the most seasoned traveler.
Photo: The majestic looking pavilion
While the Phraya Nakhon Pavilion is undoubtedly the main attraction of the cave, there is plenty more to see and explore in this incredible natural wonder. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the cave's twisting tunnels and caverns, marveling at the natural beauty that surrounds them. Along the way, they will encounter all manner of unusual and fascinating rock formations, from towering columns to delicate formations that look like frozen waterfalls.
Old civilizations
For those who are interested in the history of the cave, there is much to discover as well. The cave has been used by humans for thousands of years, and visitors can find evidence of ancient civilizations throughout the caverns. In particular, the cave was an important site for the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion, a Buddhist shrine that dates back to the Ayutthaya period. Visitors can still see the remains of this shrine today, including a large statue of Buddha that is carved into the cave's walls.
Old civilizations
For those who are interested in the history of the cave, there is much to discover as well. The cave has been used by humans for thousands of years, and visitors can find evidence of ancient civilizations throughout the caverns. In particular, the cave was an important site for the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion, a Buddhist shrine that dates back to the Ayutthaya period. Visitors can still see the remains of this shrine today, including a large statue of Buddha that is carved into the cave's walls.
Photo: The Phraya Nakhon Pavilion dates back to 1890.
Overall, the Phraya Nakhon Cave is a truly awe-inspiring destination that should be on every traveler's bucket list. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and wonder, this incredible natural wonder is sure to leave a lasting impression.
So if you find yourself in Thailand, be sure to set aside some time to visit the Phraya Nakhon Cave – you won't be disappointed!
So if you find yourself in Thailand, be sure to set aside some time to visit the Phraya Nakhon Cave – you won't be disappointed!
Tip ! make sure to go early in the day as you will experience the most beautiful sight at around 11 am when the sunlight directly hits the roof of the royal pavilion.
How to get there
Phraya Nakhon Cave is located in the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, which is approximately 45 kilometers south of Hua Hin. There are a few different ways to get to the cave from Hua Hin, but the most popular options are by car or by organized tour.
By Car:
If you have access to a car or are willing to rent one, driving to Phraya Nakhon Cave is relatively easy. From Hua Hin, you can take Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) south towards Prachuap Khiri Khan. After passing through Pranburi, look for signs indicating the turnoff to the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. The entrance to the park is located about 3 kilometers down a side road from Highway 4.
Once inside the park, you will need to park your car and hike to the cave. There are two different trails that lead to the cave, but the most popular is the one that starts at the Laem Sala Beach area. The trail is approximately 1.5 kilometers long and includes a steep climb up a hill and through the cave itself.
By Organized Tour:
If you prefer not to drive or are looking for a more guided experience, there are a number of organized tours that can take you to Phraya Nakhon Cave from Hua Hin. These tours typically include transportation to and from the cave, as well as a guided hike through the park and into the cave itself.
You can find a number of different tour options by searching online or asking at your hotel or a local tour agency. Just be sure to read reviews and compare prices to ensure that you are getting a good deal and a reputable tour operator.
No matter how you choose to get there, visiting Phraya Nakhon Cave is a must-see experience for anyone traveling to the Hua Hin area. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Phraya Nakhon Cave is located in the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, which is approximately 45 kilometers south of Hua Hin. There are a few different ways to get to the cave from Hua Hin, but the most popular options are by car or by organized tour.
By Car:
If you have access to a car or are willing to rent one, driving to Phraya Nakhon Cave is relatively easy. From Hua Hin, you can take Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) south towards Prachuap Khiri Khan. After passing through Pranburi, look for signs indicating the turnoff to the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. The entrance to the park is located about 3 kilometers down a side road from Highway 4.
Once inside the park, you will need to park your car and hike to the cave. There are two different trails that lead to the cave, but the most popular is the one that starts at the Laem Sala Beach area. The trail is approximately 1.5 kilometers long and includes a steep climb up a hill and through the cave itself.
By Organized Tour:
If you prefer not to drive or are looking for a more guided experience, there are a number of organized tours that can take you to Phraya Nakhon Cave from Hua Hin. These tours typically include transportation to and from the cave, as well as a guided hike through the park and into the cave itself.
You can find a number of different tour options by searching online or asking at your hotel or a local tour agency. Just be sure to read reviews and compare prices to ensure that you are getting a good deal and a reputable tour operator.
No matter how you choose to get there, visiting Phraya Nakhon Cave is a must-see experience for anyone traveling to the Hua Hin area. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.