Travel like the wind : Suchart Choolee
Upon entering Phetchaburi, the sight of pristine white buildings crowning three prominent peaks signals an arrival in a land of glorious history. This is Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park, affectionately known by the people as “Khao Wang” (Palace on the Hill). The hilltop royal city stands as a precious legacy, a creation born from the far-sighted vision of King Mongkut (Rama IV).
Phra Nakhon Khiri is not merely a royal retreat but a reflection of the genius and passion of a scholar king fascinated with Western science, especially astronomy. The Mahai Sawan Hilltop (Khao Samana) thus became the site for both the royal residence and a personal observatory, a place where the heavens and the earth were connected through the King’s own eyes.
The ascent to Khao Wang today is made easy by a cable car, yet every step upwards still allows one to feel the lingering aura of the past, wafting through the trees. Rows of frangipani trees (Leelawadee) especially contribute, blooming in unison to release their sweet fragrance in the summer. The architecture across the three peaks is a harmonious symphony of blended cultures.
- The eastern peak is home to Wat Phra Kaew Noi, a royal temple within the palace grounds modeled after Bangkok’s Temple of the Emerald Buddha. A principal Phra Suttha Sela Chedi stands as a testament to faith and exquisite craftsmanship.
- The central peak enshrines Phra That Chom Phet, a large white stupa containing Buddha relics. This structure serves as the spiritual heart and iconic image of Phra Nakhon Khiri, visible from all corners of the city.
- The western peak holds the royal residential halls, including the Phetphum Phairot, Pramot Mahaisawan, and Wetchayan Wichian Prasat Throne Halls. These halls elegantly merge Thai, Chinese, and European Neoclassical art. Now functioning as a national museum, the complex reveals traces of history and past royal regalia.
Gazing down from the throne hall terraces offers a sweeping panorama of Phetchaburi city—the houses, fields, and distant mountain ranges. Time seems to stand still in this place. While one must be mindful of the mischievous four-legged locals, the monkeys, their presence adds a lively charm and is part of life on this palace hill.
Phra Nakhon Khiri is therefore more than just a tourist destination; this place is a significant chapter in Thai history, a monument to a great king’s vision. A setting where art, nature, and the Thai spirit merge into one, waiting for visitors to ascend and experience the profound beauty and meaning of this sacred city on the hill.
Phra Nakhon Khiri is a historical park in Phetchaburi, Thailand, located on a hill overlooking the city. The name Phra Nakhon Khiri means Holy City Hill, but locals know it better as Khao Wang, meaning hill with palace.
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