About Phetchaburi Province
Phetchaburi (often written Phetburi) is one of Thailand's oldest and most culturally rich provinces, an hour south of Bangkok and rarely given the attention it deserves. The provincial capital contains more than 30 ancient temples — several dating to the Khmer period — concentrated in a compact old town that is genuinely walkable. Khao Wang, the hillside summer palace of King Rama IV with its multiple chedis and royal residences, dominates the skyline. Kaeng Krachan National Park — Thailand's largest, covering over 2,900 square kilometres — begins just inland, offering some of the country's best birdwatching and wildlife encounters. Phetchaburi is also famous for its traditional Thai desserts, especially those made with palm sugar and coconut.
Key facts
- Population
- 482,950 (2022)
- Area
- 6,225 km²
- Density
- 78 / km²
- Districts
- 8
- Capital
- Phetchaburi
- ISO code
- TH-76
National parks (1)
Kaeng Krachan National Park
All 8 districts
Ban Laem · Ban Lat · Cha-am · Kaeng Krachan · Khao Yoi · Mueang Phetchaburi · Nong Ya Plong · Tha Yang
Top Highlights
Khao Wang (Phra Nakhon Khiri)
hilltop royal palace with panoramic views over the old town
Kaeng Krachan National Park
Thailand's largest national park, outstanding wildlife and birds
Old town temple circuit
30+ ancient temples within walking distance
Traditional Thai desserts
palm sugar sweets, diamond cookies, and coconut-based confections
Getting There
Phetchaburi is 150 km south of Bangkok. Trains from Hua Lamphong take 3 hours; buses from Mo Chit take 2–2.5 hours. The city is also accessible from Hua Hin (60 km north) by bus or taxi. Kaeng Krachan is 60 km west of the city by road.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources
Facts on this page last checked 1 August 2026.
- 1.Q244699 — population, area, districts, coordinates — Wikidata (Wikidata), retrieved 1 August 2026
- 2.Background reading — Wikipedia (Wikipedia), retrieved 1 August 2026Linked for context; no text is reproduced from it.
- 3.Official provincial website — Provincial administration (Official source), retrieved 1 August 2026
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