Kamphaeng Phet Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kamphaeng Phet with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring information on places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Kamphaeng Phet

Located in Lower Northern Thailand, Kamphaeng Phet is a small city with a rich history and plenty of natural beauty. It is surrounded by lush jungles, ancient ruins, and tranquil rivers, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

List of Places to Visit in Kamphaeng Phet

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kamphaeng Phet has a rich cultural heritage and boasts many historical sites that are worth a visit. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site features ruins of old temples and city walls that date back to the 13th century.
  • Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao: This temple is home to one of Thailand’s most sacred Buddha images, the Emerald Buddha. It is said to have been housed here before being moved to Bangkok in the 18th century.
  • Kamphaeng Phet National Museum: This museum showcases the region’s history through a range of exhibits including artefacts, art, and photography.

Natural Attractions: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for something more adventurous or scenic, Kamphaeng Phet has that too. Here are some natural attractions that you won’t want to miss:

  • Khlong Lan National Park: This park is home to a stunning waterfall and a network of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.
  • Kaeng Koh Mae Pan: This is a popular spot for white water rafting and kayaking.
  • Sukhothai Historical Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located about an hour from Kamphaeng Phet and boasts ancient ruins and beautiful gardens.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kamphaeng Phet

Kamphaeng Phet is a great destination for those who love hiking and biking. Here are some great trails that you can explore:

  • Mae Wong National Park: This park features some of Thailand’s highest peaks as well as stunning waterfalls and dense jungle trails.
  • Khao Yai National Park: This park features some beautiful mountain and jungle trails as well as opportunities for bird watching and overnight camping.
  • Sukhothai Historical Park: This park features a network of bike trails that runs from the old city to the new city.

Best Things to Do in Kamphaeng Phet: Activities and Tours

In addition to the sites listed above, there are plenty of other things to do in Kamphaeng Phet. Here are some ideas:

  • Visit the local night market and try out some street food.
  • Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Thai dishes.
  • Go on a river cruise and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Visit the local hot springs and take a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich waters.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kamphaeng Phet

If you’re planning a visit to Kamphaeng Phet, here’s a suggested itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Explore Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park
2 Hike in Khlong Lan National Park
3 Visit Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao and Kamphaeng Phet National Museum
4 Take a cooking class and go on a river cruise
5 White water rafting at Kaeng Koh Mae Pan
6 Visit Sukhothai Historical Park
7 Relax at the local hot springs

Food and Drink Scene of Kamphaeng Phet

The food scene in Kamphaeng Phet is diverse and delicious. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Khao Soi Kamphaeng Phet: This is a spicy noodle soup that is made with chicken or beef and served with crispy noodles.
  • Tom Yam Kung: This is a spicy and sour soup that is made with shrimp, lemongrass, and chili.
  • Sai Ua: This is a spicy sausage that is made with pork and a variety of herbs and spices.
  • Green Curry: This is a Thai classic that is made with coconut milk, green chilies, and plenty of fresh herbs.

As for drinks, don’t miss out on the following local beverages:

  • Thai Iced Tea: This sweet and creamy tea is made with condensed milk and served over ice.
  • Chang Beer: This is a popular Thai beer that is known for its smooth taste and affordable price.

Where to Stay in Kamphaeng Phet: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kamphaeng Phet offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some options to consider:

  • Navarat Heritage Hotel: This is a luxurious hotel that is housed in a restored century-old building.
  • The Old House: This is a charming guesthouse that offers comfortable and affordable rooms in a traditional Thai setting.
  • Baanrai Chern Ma: This is a riverside eco-resort that offers simple but comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding jungle.

What to Buy in Kamphaeng Phet: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kamphaeng Phet is known for its pottery, silk weaving, and traditional crafts. Here are some things to consider buying as souvenirs:

  • Ceramics and Pottery: Kamphaeng Phet’s ceramics are famous for their intricate designs and rich colours.
  • Silk Products: From scarves to bags, Kamphaeng Phet’s silk products are of the highest quality.
  • Local Crafts: From woven baskets to traditional wooden toys, Kamphaeng Phet has a range of local crafts that make for great souvenirs to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kamphaeng Phet

Thailand is known for its friendly and welcoming culture, and Kamphaeng Phet is no exception. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples.
  • Remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home.
  • Don’t touch someone’s head, as it is considered a sacred part of the body in Thai culture.

Best Time to Visit Kamphaeng Phet

The best time to visit Kamphaeng Phet is between November and February when the weather is cool and dry. However, if you don’t mind the heat, you can visit year-round. Keep in mind that the rainy season from May to October can make outdoor activities more challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kamphaeng Phet

Do:

  • Try the street food.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Take lots of photos.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Touch someone’s head.
  • Disrespect the local culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kamphaeng Phet

Kamphaeng Phet is generally a safe city, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Here are some tips to stay safe:

  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.
  • Only use licensed taxis.

Health in Kamphaeng Phet

There are no specific health concerns in Kamphaeng Phet, but it is always a good idea to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations before travelling. It is also a good idea to purchase travel insurance in case of medical emergencies.

Getting to Kamphaeng Phet: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kamphaeng Phet

The nearest airport to Kamphaeng Phet is Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Sukhothai Airport and then take a bus to Kamphaeng Phet.

Bus Stations Near Kamphaeng Phet

There are several bus stations in Kamphaeng Phet that offer connections to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

You can also take a train to nearby cities and then take a bus to Kamphaeng Phet.

How to Get Around in Kamphaeng Phet

The best way to get around Kamphaeng Phet is by motorbike or bicycle, both of which can be rented in the city. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared taxis) are also available for short trips.

Where to Go Next from Kamphaeng Phet: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time in the area, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting. Here are a few ideas:

  • Chiang Mai: This is a popular destination in Northern Thailand that is known for its historic temples, vibrant markets, and beautiful scenery.
  • Bangkok: Thailand’s capital city has plenty to offer, from its many grand temples to its lively nightlife.
  • Ayutthaya: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is just a few hours from Kamphaeng Phet and boasts ancient ruins and beautiful gardens.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Kamphaeng Phet has plenty to offer. From ancient ruins to scenic hikes, this city is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Thailand.

Wat Chang Rop, Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park Wat Chang Rop, Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park Main entrance to the historical park (UNESCO World Heritage) Main entrance to the historical park (UNESCO World Heritage) Wat Phra Kaeo, Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park Wat Phra Kaeo, Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park Ruins of Wat Sing Ruins of Wat Sing Wat Phra Borommathat Wat Phra Borommathat San Lak Mueang San Lak Mueang Clock tower Clock tower "Egg bananas" from Kamphaeng Phet Banana market Banana market ''Chao Kuai'' (grass jelly) ''Chao Kuai'' (grass jelly) ''Mu kratha'' (barbecue/hot pot) ''Mu kratha'' (barbecue/hot pot) Khlong Lan waterfall Khlong Lan waterfall