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Unlocking Kamphaeng Phet: The Ultimate Exploration Guide
- Welcome to Kamphaeng Phet
- Where is Kamphaeng Phet?
- What is the main street in Kamphaeng Phet?
- Best Time to Go to Kamphaeng Phet
- How to Get to Kamphaeng Phet
- What to Do and See in Kamphaeng Phet
- Hike in Khlong Lan National Park
- Relax by the Ping River
- Visit Phra Ruang Hot Springs
- Explore the Nakhon Chum Heritage Market
- Visit Wat Phra That
- Explore Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park
- See Wat Phra Si Ariyabot
- Visit Kamphaeng Phet National Museum
- Admire Wat Phra Borommathat Nakhon Chum
- Explore Mae Wong National Park
- Where to Eat in Kamphaeng Phet
- Ban Chang Park, Pang Sila
- Wooden Household
- Friend's Shabu Shop
- Aunt Sri Noodle Shop
- Cha Kangrao Night Bazaar
- Where to Shop in Kamphaeng Phet
- Wang Takhian Market
- Robinson Lifestyle Kamphaengphet
- Big C Supercenter Kamphaeng Phet
- Variety Superstore
- Makro Food Service
- Where to Stay in Kamphaeng Phet
- Three J Guesthouse
- La Riva Boutique Hotel
- White Wall Riverfront Café and Hotel
- Mountain View คลองลาน
- Rainbow House Resort
- FAQs about Kamphaeng Phet
Welcome to Kamphaeng Phet
Kamphaeng Phet is a charming town in Thailand with a rich history, beautiful natural landscapes, and vibrant local culture.
Here, you can explore ancient ruins, relax by the Ping River, and enjoy delicious Thai cuisine. The town offers a mix of experiences for every traveler, with hidden gems, bustling markets, and a welcoming atmosphere!
Where is Kamphaeng Phet?
Kamphaeng Phet is located in the lower northern region of Thailand, about halfway between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Nestled along the banks of the Ping River, this town is easily accessible by car or bus, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the country.
It’s a perfect destination for those looking to experience the authentic charm of rural Thailand.
What is the main street in Kamphaeng Phet?
The main street in Kamphaeng Phet is located in the Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District. This bustling area is the heart of the town, filled with shops, restaurants, and local businesses.
It’s a great place to take a stroll, try street food, and soak in the local culture. The district also leads to several key attractions, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the town.
Best Time to Go to Kamphaeng Phet
The best time to visit Kamphaeng Phet is during the cool season, from November to February. During this period, the temperatures are cooler, making it comfortable to visit outdoor locations.
One of the highlights during this season is the Banana Festival, celebrating Kamphaeng Phet’s status as the “banana capital” of Thailand.
This festival features a variety of activities, food stalls, and cultural performances centered around the region’s famous “egg bananas” (kluai khai in Thai). These bananas are small, oval-shaped, and highly aromatic, making them a unique local delicacy.
The Banana Festival provides a fun and engaging way to experience the local culture and enjoy the distinctive flavors of Kamphaeng Phet.
How to Get to Kamphaeng Phet
Getting to Kamphaeng Phet is easy and convenient. You can reach this charming town by several means of transportation:
- By Car: If you prefer driving, Kamphaeng Phet is about a 5-hour drive from Bangkok or Chiang Mai. The highways are well-maintained, making for a smooth journey.
- By Bus: Regular buses run from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal and Chiang Mai’s Arcade Bus Station to Kamphaeng Phet. The journey takes around 6 hours and is a budget-friendly option.
- By Train: While Kamphaeng Phet doesn’t have its own train station, you can take a train to Phitsanulok or Nakhon Sawan and then continue by bus or taxi for the remaining distance.
What to Do and See in Kamphaeng Phet
Hike in Khlong Lan National Park
Media from shbabalif
Address: Khlong Lan Phatthana, Khlong Lan District
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 4:30 PM
Contact number: +66884079915
Fee:
- Thai citizens – 40 THB
- Foreigners – 200 THB
Hiking in Khlong Lan National Park is a blast. The greenery and trails were like something out of a nature documentary.
The best part was definitely the Khlong Lan Waterfall—it was perfect for cooling off after our hike. You can see some wildlife along the way, so bring your binoculars!
Relax by the Ping River
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Spending a day by the Ping River is exactly what’s needed if you want to chill out. Pack a picnic and find a sweet spot along the riverbank to relax and be calmed by the sound of the waters—so peaceful!
Visit Phra Ruang Hot Springs
Media from phromthep
Address: MF59+8RV, Lan Dokmai, Phran Kratai District
Opening hours: Daily 8:30 AM to 6 PM
Contact number: +6655741787
Fee: Starts at 30 THB
After a day of exploring, hitting up Phra Ruang Hot Springs is just what you’ll need. Soaking in the natural hot springs was super relaxing and apparently good for you, too.
The hot water feels amazing on tired muscles, so you’ll feel rejuvenated afterward. The place was clean and not too crowded, which made it even better.
Explore the Nakhon Chum Heritage Market
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Address: FFMV+7HF, Nakhon Chum, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
Nakhon Chum Heritage Market is buzzing with energy, with vendors in traditional Thai clothes adding a cool vibe. You’ll find unique handmade goods all over the place.
Shopping for local stuff is super fun, and the snacks are a must-try—you won’t be able to stop eating!
Plus, the variety of flavors is amazing, making every bite a new adventure. You’ll leave with bags full of goodies and a big smile. The whole market has a fun, lively atmosphere, perfect for soaking up the local culture.
Visit Wat Phra That
Media from thorn
Address: FGQC+233, Nai Mueang
Fee: 20 THB
You should check out Wat Phra Kaeo in Kamphaeng Phet—a chill and spiritual experience. The temple’s architecture is seriously impressive and beautifully crafted, showing off ancient Thai craftsmanship.
Here, you can stroll around, soak in the peaceful vibes, and admire all the intricate details. The whole atmosphere is super calming. If you’re into Thailand’s cultural heritage, this temple is a must-see.
Explore Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park
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Address: GG59+682, Nong Pling, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours: Daily 6 AM to 6 PM
Contact number: +6655854736
Fee:
- Thai citizens – 20 THB
- Foreigners – 100 THB
You should definitely check out Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park—it’s like walking through history. The ancient city walls, moats, and fortifications are seriously impressive and tell so many stories.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park makes total sense—it’s packed with history and beauty. You can spend hours there and still feel like there’s more to see. It’s both educational and awe-inspiring. If you’re a history buff, this place is a must-see!
See Wat Phra Si Ariyabot
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Address: GG27+GVG, Nong Pling, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Fee: Starts at 20 THB
Wat Phra Si Ariyabot is a must-visit spot, especially if you’re into historic sites with a bit of charm. The famous standing Buddha faces west, so visit in the afternoon for those perfect photo ops. The place is a complex of ruins with baths, drinking areas, and pools, which is pretty unique compared to other sites.
Admission is free, which is always a nice bonus. You can even spot some temple dogs, adding a fun touch to your visit. The whole site can be explored by car or on foot, giving you the flexibility to choose how you want to experience it.
Visit Kamphaeng Phet National Museum
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Address: 120 Pindumri Alley Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM
Fee:
- Thai citizens – 20 THB
- Foreigners – 100 THB
Kamphaeng Phet National Museum is packed with fascinating info and artifacts. You’ll learn so much about the area’s history, from ancient sculptures to everyday pottery and tools. The museum is really well-organized, making it easy to explore different periods and themes.
The exhibits are super interesting, and you’ll walk away with a much deeper understanding of Kamphaeng Phet’s cultural significance. It’s a must-visit for anyone into history!
Admire Wat Phra Borommathat Nakhon Chum
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Address: FGH6+V5R, Nakhon Chum, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours: 24/7
Contact number: +66817853826
Admiring the ancient chedi at Wat Phra Borommathat Nakhon Chum is a highlight of any trip. The architecture is stunning, with intricate details showcasing the skills of ancient craftsmen.
The temple grounds are peaceful and well-kept, making it a lovely place to explore. Here, you can spend a lot of time just wandering around and soaking in the history and beauty. This significant religious site offers a glimpse into Thailand’s rich spiritual heritage, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
Explore Mae Wong National Park
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Address: 26QM+J9F, Pang Ta Wai, Pang Sila Thong District
Opening hours: Daily 6 AM to 6 PM
Contact number: +66610484837
Exploring Mae Wong National Park is an adventure yyou won’t forget. The park is full of lush forests, wildlife, and breathtaking views. Here, you can hike to the summit of Mokoju, which is covered in a mystical fog that will make everything look magical.
The trails here are challenging but so worth it, with stunning panoramas at every turn. It’s a great place for anyone who loves nature and adventure.
Plus, you can put up a tent, and the bathrooms and showers are adequate. There are also welfare shops selling food, snacks, and necessary items—the food prices are not high, the taste is good, and there’s fresh coffee for sale.
Where to Eat in Kamphaeng Phet
Ban Chang Park, Pang Sila
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Address: 289 Hin Dat, Pang Sila Thong District
Opening hours: Daily 9 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +66864459398
Pricing: ฿
Ban Chang Park in Pang Sila serves absolutely delicious food, and the service is top-notch. The whole place is surrounded by trees and mountains, so the scenery is incredible.
And get this—they even have a karaoke room! The view of the mountains was stunning, and the resort opposite the coffee shop was the perfect spot for us to relax.
Wooden Household
Media from jeab_kanitta
Address: 3C85+XW6, Hin Dat, Pang Sila Thong Distric
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 8:30 PM
Contact number: +66897067313
Pricing: ฿
You’ve got to check out Wooden Household if you’re into authentic Thai food but can’t handle too much spice. Plus, the prices were a steal for the quality and portion sizes they offered.
The atmosphere is cozy, and it’s conveniently located along the road, so it was really easy to find. It’s ideal for families looking to enjoy a great meal without breaking the bank!
Friend’s Shabu Shop
Media from tonkauw
Address: 119 3, Khlong Nam Lai, Khlong Lan District
Opening hours: Daily 11 AM to 9 PM
Contact number: +66962303253
Pricing: ฿
Friend’s Shabu Shop offers some seriously affordable shabu-shabu, and thank goodness it’s air-conditioned because we’re not fans of sweating over our food. The dipping sauces were delicious—they were dunk-worthy!
The place was spotless, and the service made us feel like VIPs. They had a great selection of fresh ingredients, so we were dunking and cooking up a storm.Bonus points for ample parking space, which is always a win in busy areas.
Aunt Sri Noodle Shop
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Address: 6873+3FC, Khlong Nam Lai, Khlong Lan District
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 3 PM
Pricing: ฿
Finding Aunt Sri Noodle Shop was like a treasure hunt, and it was so much fun—no sign, just follow your nose to the house! Once inside, we were treated to homemade noodles in a traditional Thai rural style.
They offer both pork and beef, and the meat was tender and absolutely delicious. The ingredients are top-notch, especially the beef—it’s so good that any meat lover would give it a big thumbs up.
Even though the shop is a bit off the beaten path, the quality of the food more than makes up for it.
Cha Kangrao Night Bazaar
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Address: Tesa 1 Rd, Nai Mueang, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours: Daily 4 PM to 9 PM
Pricing: ฿
Cha Kangrao Night Bazaar is a bustling traditional market with tons of food options. It’s perfect for grabbing a quick bite or sitting down by the Ping River for a relaxing snack session with friends.
Along the main road, there are many food stalls offering everything from fish and meat to fruit and soft drinks. You can easily fill up just by strolling along there, but if you venture deeper into the market, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of shops selling clothes, accessories, and more.
The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends when it gets packed with people. Prices are budget-friendly, so that’s a big plus!
Where to Shop in Kamphaeng Phet
Wang Takhian Market
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Address: 5FQ8+JRH, Ang Thong, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Wang Takhian Market is a cool local flea market with everything from consumer goods to fresh food, all at wallet-friendly prices. It felt like a community hub with its bustling atmosphere and lively evening fresh market at the community center.
We had a blast browsing through a wide variety of items, tempted by affordable deals left and right. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a few hours just exploring and enjoying the vibe.
Robinson Lifestyle Kamphaengphet
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Address: 651/1 Charoensuk Rd, Nai Mueang, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours: Daily 10 AM to 9 PM
Contact number: +6655867160
Robinson Lifestyle Kamphaengphet isn’t your typical grocery store—it’s more like a full-fledged shopping mall with loads of small vendors and a bustling food park. The place is huge, smack dab in Kamphaengphet Province, and it’s packed with everything from clothes to gadgets.
Upstairs, they’ve got a computer shop that sells everything from laptops to TVs—quite the upgrade from your average grocery run!
The mall itself is vibrant and busy, with a ton of fashion outlets, food stalls, and electronics stores to explore. It’s like a one-stop shop for all your shopping needs, plus a foodie’s paradise with all those tasty options in the food park.
Big C Supercenter Kamphaeng Phet
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Address: 613/1 Charoensuk Rd, Nai Mueang, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours: Daily 9 AM to 9 PM
Contact number: +6655853888
Big C Supercenter in Kamphaeng Phet is a one-stop-shop for just about everything you need. They’ve got a huge variety of items—from frozen foods to fresh groceries—so you could practically move in and never leave!
Upstairs, there’s a nice shopping centre with a few places to grab a bite or a drink. The prices might not be the cheapest in town, but the sheer range of stuff they have makes up for it.
Also, parking was easy, with plenty of spots, especially around the back. But what impressed us most was how wheelchair-friendly it was, from the parking lot to the entrance—super convenient!
Variety Superstore
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Address: 132/4 Moo 1 Sa Kaeo Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 6 PM
Contact number: +66933567616
Variety Superstore in Kamphaeng Phet is a booming local shop that has everything under one roof, from snacks to household goods. They’re even expanding the building—talk about going big!
It’s like a treasure trove for shoppers, though they don’t have fresh produce. But for everything else you need, it’s all conveniently in one place.
Makro Food Service
Address: 889 Ratchadamnoen Road Nai Mueang, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Opening hours: Daily 6 AM to 10 PM
Contact number: +6655021301
Makro Food Service is a real lifesaver for stocking up on supplies. It’s cheap and cheerful, perfect for buying in bulk—like Costco, but with a Thai twist. They’ve got everything under the sun, from groceries to household essentials, making it a convenient one-stop shop for all our needs.
The selection is pretty comprehensive, catering to all tastes and preferences. However, the catch is they only accept cash, so leave those credit cards at home or bring plenty of greenbacks.
Where to Stay in Kamphaeng Phet
Three J Guesthouse
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Address: 147 Rachavitee 1, Nai Mueang, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Contact number: +6655712520
Pricing: ฿
Three J Guesthouse is a beautiful place with quaint and clean rooms, though a bit on the pricey side. It’s full of unique character and charm—definitely not your typical hotel.
If you’re looking to connect with the local community, this is the place to stay. The owner spoke both Thai and English and was super friendly.
Overall, it’s perfect for couples or solo travellers looking for something simple yet authentic.
La Riva Boutique Hotel
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Address: 33, 3, Nakhon Chum, Muang
Contact number: +66897071360
Pricing: ฿
La Riva Boutique Hotel is a charming spot with great amenities. The rooms are clean and spacious, and the beds are super comfy for a good night’s sleep. It’s perfect for a stopover if you’re driving between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, making the long journey more manageable.
The staff here are really friendly, and everything is spotless. We loved that it’s just a five-minute walk to a nice restaurant by the river. The hotel even offers a free pickup from the bus station, which is super handy.
You can also hire a car and driver by the hour, and there’s a decent swimming pool for a quick dip.
White Wall Riverfront Café and Hotel
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Address: Wang Yang Nakhon Chum, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Contact number: +66803614656
Pricing: ฿
White Wall Riverfront Café and Hotel has a cosy, boutique vibe that’s really inviting. The view of the river from their rooms is fantastic, and while the room is clean, some guests commented that it did have a few rough spots.
The hotel’s rustic design adds to its charm, and breakfast is included, which everyone says is delicious. The coffee was spot-on, too!
Mountain View คลองลาน
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Address: 87 moo16, Khlong Nam Lai, Khlong Lan District
Contact number: +66992709079
Pricing: ฿
Mountain View in Khlong Lan offers standard but spacious and comfortable rooms with a fantastic view. It’s a very clean place in the countryside with affordable room rates. The only downside is that the hotel doesn’t sell food.
On the bright side, they offer free transportation to nearby resorts, which is a nice bonus. The rooms have all the essentials: a refrigerator, air conditioner, sofa, desk, flat-screen TV, and a few bottles of drinking water.
With great facilities like car parking, security, a 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi, this place is a steal for budget travelers.
Rainbow House Resort
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Address: FGFP+RHR, Tesaban 2 Soi 2, Mueang Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District
Contact number: +6655712001
Pricing: ฿
Rainbow House Resort is a nice, quiet, and affordable option close to the city center. The rooms are cool, and the best part is they have hot showers. The price is economical, and they even include breakfast and coffee in the morning.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly spot with the basics, this is a solid choice.
