For months I’d wanted to visit Phraya Nakhon Cave and on the very day of my birthday, the moment had finally arrived. My huge expectations were met almost immediately, as this beautiful cave temple is situated right along a stunning beach!
Phraya Nakhon Cave
Out of breath and sweating profusely after an tough hike, we entered the enormous cave. Looking around we could hardly believe our eyes. For one, we were all alone at this amazing site!
We could hear birds singing and the gigantic trees swaying in the breeze, while bright rays of sunlight beat down on their leaves. The calmness of the cave washed over us.
More about the Phraya Nakhon Cave
This cave was only discovered 200 years ago. A Thai man was seeking cover from the rain and accidentally stumbled across it. The cave was promptly named after him: Chao Praya Nakhon Sri Thammarat.
The cave’s eye-catcher is the small temple in the middle of one of its chambers (Kuha Karuhas pavilion). It was built at the end of the 19th century in honor of a visit of then King Chulalongkorn the Great (Rama V).
Unfortunately, we arrived too late, as between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM the sun is said to shine directly overhead the temple.
But irrespective of when or what time you go, a visit to Phraya Nakhon cave is something you’ll never forget. It’s been one of the absolute highlights of our trip – so far. So please enjoy some of the photos we took:
Getting to Phraya Nakhon Cave
The Phraya Nakhon Cave is located just outside of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, about 45 minutes from Hua Hin’s town centre. You can rent a motorbike or take a taxi (± 1,300 Thai Baht for a return trip)
The route to the cave has two parts.
The first part starts on Bang Pu Village’s parking lot. You can either go by boat (400 baht return) or walk. We chose to walk, which was pretty easy. Along the way we enjoyed incredible views of beaches and different islands. It took us about 20 minutes to finish part 1.
Once you arrive at the second part, there are no more shortcuts. The hike to reach the cave takes about half an hour and is quite challenging, but ultimately worth it!
