There is only one word for this place: Go.
Only a few hours south of Bangkok, this is the quintessential definition of a weekend getaway from Bangkok. Here’s a few reasons why:
- Stunning views, proximity to nature
- Few tourists
- Exposure to Thai culture and history
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Affordable location
Major sites to see in this area:
- Phraya Nakhon cave – with the royal pavilion being the major drawcard
The Royal Pavilion inside Phraya Nakhon Cave
- Khao Daeng viewpoint – the definition of scenic lookout
Khao Daeng View point
- Sai Cave – easy access cave of stalactites and stalagmites
- Kaeo Cave – if you’re looking for adventure
The top of Kaeo Cave
- Wetlands – on the other side of the peaks but worth the visit for sunset.
Where to stay:
Travel Bunny stayed at Sweet Honey Resort Pranburi for 600 Baht/night. Definitely worth a stay there. They have a cafe onsite and the staff are friendly and welcoming. The manager Dar went above and beyond during our stay.
There are a number of resorts facing the beach which cost more and a variety of home stays in the area as well. For price and location, Sweet Honey was perfect for Travel Bunny.
How to get there:
The easiest ways are:
- Mini-van from Sai Tai Mai Bus terminal in Bangkok or from the airport if you are arriving between 7am – 7pm to Pranburi. Then private taxi to your accommodation in Khao Sam Roi Yot
- Train from Hualamphong train terminal to Hua Hin and then mini bus from there to Pranburi, then taxi to your accommodation.
- Rent a car and drive. Takes about 4 hours.
Budget
200 Baht entry per day into the National Park
300 Baht for motorbike hire (+100 baht for petrol depending on how far you go) or song teaw transfers to get around per day
Food costs are tourist prices in most restaurants 150 baht average for dishes and 100 baht for drinks
Travel to/from: Mini van from Bangkok is 180 Baht each way. Private taxis depend on negotiation estimate 300 Baht. Trains vary from 44 Baht (3rd class indirect train) to 412 Baht for air-conditioned express train.
For the weekend, Travel Bunny spent about AUD$180, all-inclusive – as at January 2017.
Recommended: Definitely! Do prepare some basic Thai as not everyone speaks English there.
Cute monkey alert: Dusky Langurs are native around here and are the cutest animals to watch if you can be still and silent as they are shy!
Dusky Langurs playing in the National Park