Situated on the western shores of the Gulf of Thailand, Phetchaburi
is best know for its beach resort of Cha-am, an established
favorites for family vacations by the sea.
Aside from its long
sandy beach, the province also boasts both historical and scenic
attractions of considerable interest. Phetchaburi town, today a
small provincial capital, has a distinguished history as witnessed
in ancient Khmer ruins and a number of venerable temples, including
Wat Yai Suwannaram and Wat Ko Kaeo Suttharam, which contain some
fine mural paintings. There is also a 19th–century hilltop palace
built by King Rama IV, and an enchanting grotto enshrining Buddha
images.
The province’s natural beauty is best showcased at Kaeng Krachan
National Park, Thailand’s largest protected area covering 2920 sq.km.
of well-watered forested hills and valleys, and home to some 40
mammal species, including Malayan sun bear, Asiatic black bear,
clouded leopard, tiger and elephant. The park also encompasses the
scenic 45 sq.km. Kaeng Krachan Reservoir.
