Kamphaeng Saen Ancient Town (Mueang Kao Kamphaeng Saen)

History & Significance

Kamphaeng Saen Ancient Town dates back to the Dvaravati period. Constructed in a rounded rectangular shape with a width of approximately 750 meters and covering an area of around 400 rai, it was established by ancient Nakhon Chai Si. Its primary purpose was to control canal trade routes and serve as a maritime trading port for Nakhon Chai Si. Consequently, the prosperity and eventual decline of Kamphaeng Saen paralleled that of Nakhon Chai Si.

Highlights & What to See

While no brick or stone architectural ruins remain at the site today, visitors can observe the exceptionally well-preserved ancient moats, earthen mounds, and dirt ramparts. Historical aerial photographs from December 17, 1975, clearly reveal four main gates:

• North Gate: Pratu Tha Nang Song
• East Gate: Pratu Tha Phra
• South Gate: Pratu Tha Chang
• West Gate: Pratu Tha Talat

The interior of the ancient town features large trees, ponds, and an abundance of Takhona (Ebony/Persimmon) trees, giving it the atmosphere of a lush forest. It functions as an arboretum and a provincial scout camp. Thanks to its landscape of earth mounds and natural water sources, the site is a popular destination for bird watching, housing numerous species of both forest and open-field birds.

Visitor Information

The site is open daily to the public from 09:00 to 17:00. Admission is free of charge. On-site facilities include designated parking areas. For further inquiries, visitors can contact 0 3475 2846.

How to Get There

Kamphaeng Saen Ancient Town is situated at Moo 5, Thung Khwang Subdistrict, Kamphaeng Saen District, Nakhon Pathom Province, approximately 24 kilometers north of Mueang Nakhon Pathom District. Khlong Tha San - Bang Pla lies to the north of the site, while the Suphan Buri railway line and Kamphaeng Saen Railway Station are located to the west.