Thread: Memory Lane (In my own language)

Pra Nakhon Kheeree …

… is a historical park in Petchaburi Province siting on a hill overlooking the province area. The name Pra Nakhon Kheeree means 'holy city hill' but locals know it better as “Kao Wung” which means 'hill with palace'.

The park consists of three building groups on the three peaks of the 95 m. high hill. This complex was built as a summer Palace by King Mongkut (King Rama IV; 1804-1868). It was finished in 1860.

On the western peak is the King’s Palace which consists of the Throne Hall, the King’s personal living quarters, a private place for his worshiping and his observatory tower.

Apart from these, there are a number of smaller buildings used as stables, quarters for the guards and servants and a kitchen. The Palace was protected by a fort on each corner of the complex.

The central peak holds a 40 meter high white chedi called Pra Tat Chom Pet. The chedi is believed to contain relics of the Buddha. This peak is a great place to view the Royal Palace on the Western peak and the Wat Pra Kaew Temple on the Eastern peak.

The Eastern peak is where the Wat Pra Kaew is located. It was built in the same style, but smaller, as the Wat Pra Kaew in the Grand Palace in Bangkok (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and is therefore in classical Thai architectural style. The huge red pagoda, Chedi Daeng, is very recognizable and can be seen from far away.

The complex was registered as a historical park on 27 August 1979, with two of the palace buildings now housing a branch of the Thai National Museum.

Getting to the top is easy. There is a cable car service that costs some Baht for a round trip. Walking to the top is another option but this can get pretty hot quickly in the heat of the day.

Also, on your way up you will probably encounter some monkeys that live on the hill. Be careful not to show food, as they are pretty cheeky and might try to grab it.


Taken in 1946