Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
13/08/2025
Ahoerstemeier, Wikimedia Commons
Phetchabun is a tranquil mountainous province in Thailand, known for its refreshing cool climate and spectacular "sea of mist" vistas. Beyond its natural beauty, the destination presents rich cultural experiences through sites like the unique Wat Phra That Pha Son Kaew and the historically significant, UNESCO-listed Si Thep Historical Park.
Phetchabun primarily appeals to Thai visitors, so opportunities for socializing with other international tourists or backpackers are limited. However, the Lom Sak Walking Street, held on Saturday evenings, offers a lively local atmosphere, perfect for experiencing regional food and culture.
Top 5 Things to do in Phetchabun
Phetchabun provides a blend of spiritual exploration, historical immersion, scenic mountain vistas, and authentic local market experiences.
1. Wat Phra That Pha Son Kaew
Experience the architectural marvel of Wat Phra That Pha Son Kaew, a Buddhist temple adorned with over five million colorful mosaic tiles and pottery pieces. Perched on a hillside in Khao Kho, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, often enveloped in a mesmerizing 'sea of mist'. Exploring the main pagoda and the iconic five white Buddha statues provides a unique spiritual and visual experience.
Cost: Entry to the temple is free. Parking is generally available for approximately 20 THB.
Transport: Located in Khao Kho, reaching the temple is best done by private vehicle or hired Songthaew (pickup truck taxi) from nearby towns like Lom Sak or Phetchabun City. A Songthaew round trip to Khao Kho can cost between 1,000-1,500 THB. Public buses may reach Khao Kho, but further local transport would be required to the temple itself.
2. Si Thep Historical Park
Step back in time at Si Thep Historical Park, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site recognized in 2023. This ancient city showcases significant ruins from the Dvaravati and Khmer civilizations, dating back over 1,000 years. Explore monuments like Prang Si Thep and Prang Song Phi Nong, offering a glimpse into Thailand's rich historical tapestry.
Cost: The entrance fee for foreigners is 100 THB, with an additional 10 THB for a tram service to explore the park.
Transport: From Bangkok, direct buses are available to Ban Klang (Si Thep District Market), costing approximately 220-430 THB and taking around 3.5 hours. From Ban Klang, local transport like a taxi or motorcycle taxi is needed for the final 9-kilometer journey to the park.
3. Phu Thap Boek
Journey to Phu Thap Boek, the highest peak in Phetchabun Province, standing at 1,768 meters above sea level. This destination is renowned for its panoramic 'sea of mist' views, particularly in the early morning. Visitors can enjoy the cool climate year-round and witness the expansive Hmong cabbage plantations covering the mountain slopes.
Cost: There is no specific entrance fee for Phu Thap Boek itself. Costs would be for personal expenses, camping, or accommodations.
Transport: Access to Phu Thap Boek involves steep, winding roads, making private vehicles or hired local transport the most practical options. Public transport is not readily available for direct access to the summit.
4. Khao Kho Viewpoints and Exploration
Immerse yourself in the 'Switzerland of Thailand' by exploring Khao Kho's numerous viewpoints, which offer stunning panoramic vistas and opportunities to witness the iconic 'sea of mist'. Popular spots include Khao Takian Ngo Viewpoint and Tanrak Viewpoint. The area also features vast wind farms, adding to the unique landscape, and offers a cooler climate year-round.
Cost: Most viewpoints are free to access. Cafes in the area may have a minimum spend.
Transport: Khao Kho is a sprawling mountainous area with attractions spread out. A private car or hired local transport is essential for convenient travel between viewpoints and other sites. Public transport options within Khao Kho are very limited.
5. Lom Sak Walking Street
Experience the vibrant local culture at the Lom Sak Walking Street, a lively night market held every Saturday evening in Lom Sak town. This bustling street is an excellent place to sample authentic local delicacies, discover handmade goods, and witness traditional cultural performances, offering a genuine taste of regional life.
Cost: Entry to the walking street is free; costs are only for purchases of food and goods.
Transport: If staying in Lom Sak, the walking street is easily accessible by local transport or on foot. From other parts of Phetchabun, a taxi or private vehicle would be required to reach Lom Sak town.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
