For those who want to find something beyond the beaches in Phetchaburi, this programme is an interesting alternative. We will visit some local communities and take part in their daily routines, while enjoying the natural surroundings.
- Day 1
- 1 Admire the European architecture of Phra Ram Ratchaniwet Palace (Wang Ban Puen).
- 2 Enjoy a sweet experience at the sugar palm plantation of Uncle Thanom.
- 3 Relax and rejuvenate at the Kanghuntong Salt Spa.
- Day 2
- 4 Learn about a plant bank and engage in fun activities at the Ban Tham Suea community.
- Getting there
- Driving from Bangkok to Phetchaburi takes about three hours. You can also use van or bus services from both the Mo Chit and Southern Bus Terminals.
Day 1
Phra Ram Ratchaniwet Palace (Wang Ban Puen)
Originally called “Wang Ban Puen,” this white baroque and art nouveau style palace was constructed at the command of King Rama V the Great to be used as his rainy season residence.
The elegant two-storey building was designed by German architect Karl Deurring. The ground floor houses a beautiful green hall, a dining room, and a kitchen. The second floor is where the bedroom and study are located. (Please note that most of the furniture has been removed.) A statue of King Rama V the Great stands at the front of the building.
Free admission
Taking photos inside is not allowed.
- Tambon Ban Puen, Amphoe Mueang, Phetchaburi
- Open daily from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- 0 3242 8506-10 ต่อ 259
- https://goo.gl/maps/ypgnYY1yDCmQo3wMA
Uncle Thanom’s sugar palm plantation
Sugar palm trees are synonymous with Phetchaburi, so we cannot miss visiting the sugar palm plantation of Thanom Phu-ngern, commonly known as Uncle Thanom, who is determined to preserve the sugar palm as a provincial symbol. The plantation is also meant to serve as a learning centre for interested members of the public.
About 400 sugar palms are planted in neat, orderly rows and visitors can walk around or explore on their own. 🥰
You will see how the palms are collected and how the palm sugar, and Khanom Tan – palm rice flour cakes – are made. This is not merely a demonstration for visitors, but the authentic way of life of people in this plantation.
For a complete experience, try palm juice, and freshly made Khanom Tan that are available for sale to visitors.
- Tambon Tam Rong, Amphoe Ban Lat, Phetchaburi
- Open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- 08 7800 7716
- https://goo.gl/maps/C3uHrEJxNLV3S8P47
Kanghuntong Salt Spa A producer of spa salt, Kanghuntong uses salt harvested in Phetchaburi. Its body cleansing products made from fleur de sel mixed with herbs are well received by customers.
Kanghun (windmill) tong (gold) refers to how in the past the sea water was channeled to make salt, and the fleur de sel derived was comparable to gold.
Visitors to Kanghuntong can see a demonstration of the spa salt making process. You can also try your hand at making spa salt for a foot soak and body scrub. Please note that the massages are offered on weekends and holidays only. Call one day in advance if you come for a massage on weekdays.
A variety of products are available for sale. Buy something to pamper yourself at home!
- Tambon Bang Kaeo, Amphoe Ban Lam, Phetchaburi
- Open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- 086 544 4473
- https://goo.gl/maps/ePeU1nbHMtEycTxK9
If you are looking for simple accommodation close to nature, Ban Tham Suea Homestay fits the bill. The homestay is part of the Ban Tham Suea community, where we will be exploring and doing some activities the following day.
Day 2
Ban Tham Suea Community
This particular community in Phetchaburi is a model for nature conservation efforts. It has adopted the plant bank project of the BAAC that encourages community members to plant trees and practice integrated farming. Visitors to Ban Tham Suea have many choices of activities to try during their visit.
Please contact the community at least three to five days in advance. For a minimum number of five people a group, the fee is 650 Baht per person.
The activities arranged are visiting the plant bank, planting trees by shooting slingshots, making salted eggs, and Thong Muan – Thai crispy roll, and rafting.
A local lunch cooked with fresh produce from the community will be served for those who have made a reservation to join the activities.
The community also sets aside a food zone for general visitors, but we recommend you contact them in advance.
Photo Credit : โฮมสเตย์ บ้านถ้ำเสือ อ.แก่งกระจาน
- 8 Tambon Kaeng Krachan, Amphoe Kaeng Krachan, Phetchaburi
- Open daily from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Camping allowed from 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.)
- 0811303835
- https://goo.gl/maps/ePeU1nbHMtEycTxK9