Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang)

The most famous historical site in Phetchaburi Province, and thus an unofficial symbol of the province. The beauty of Phra Nakhon Khiri has been evident since the reign of King Rama IV, when he visited this hilltop palace. He was so pleased that he ordered Chao Phraya Sri Suriyawong (Chuang Bunnag) to oversee the construction of the palace on the hilltop. It was completed in 1860 and named "Phra Nakhon Khiri", although most locals have long affectionately called it "Khao Wang" (Palace Hill) up to the present day. Inside Khao Wang, there are palaces, temples, and various groups of buildings with a beautiful blend of Neoclassical and Chinese architecture. Each of these is situated on three hilltops: **East Hill:** Starting from the foot of the hill is Wat Mahathat Worawihan, an ancient temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period. The temple is renowned for its murals painted by Khrua In-khong, displayed inside the ordination hall. At the top of the hill is Wat Phra Kaew, the temple of Phra Nakhon Khiri, consisting of a small, marble-adorned ordination hall. Behind it is the Phra Buddha Selachedi Pagoda, and in front is a small, octagonal bell tower. **Middle Hill:** Home to Phra That Chom Phet, a 40-meter-tall pagoda containing relics of the Buddha. From this vantage point, you can admire the palaces and the panoramic view of Phetchaburi town. **West Hill:** Features the royal residences, including Phra Thet Phetphum Pairoh, Phra Thet Pramot Mahaisawan, Phra Thet Wetchayan Wichianpraphat, Phra Thet Ratchathammasapha, Ho Chatchawan Wiang Chai, Ho Phiman Phet Mahēswon, Phra Thet Santhakarasatharn, Ho Chatuwet Paritat, and Sala Thatsananakattayuk. Additionally, there are facilities such as the Royal Stable, Horse Stables, Royal Guards' Pavilion, Officials' Pavilion, Guard Post Pavilion, Cool Pavilion, Elephant Guard Post, and Kitchen, all built in the style of a royal palace. The palace is surrounded by four fortresses: Thatarat Phongsopon to the east, Wirunhok Borirak to the south, Wirupak Praphan to the west, and Wessuwan Raksa to the north. Furthermore, the Fine Arts Department has utilized parts of the western hilltop palace to establish the Phra Nakhon Khiri National Museum. The museum houses various artifacts, including royal paraphernalia of King Rama IV and King Chulalongkorn, bronze and brass statues used for decorating the palace chambers, and porcelain from China, Japan, and Europe. **Visitor Information:** Tourists can visit Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park (Khao Wang) by walking or by taking the electric tram (round-trip ticket). **Admission Fees:** * Thai Nationals: Adults 80 Baht, Children 15 Baht * Foreign Nationals: Adults 230 Baht, Children 15 Baht (These prices include the electric tram service up and down Khao Wang.) The Phra Nakhon Khiri National Museum is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For more information, please call 0 3242 5600.