פטאבורי

The cooler months from about November to February are best for walking between sights. The hot season is strong in the open, so start early.

The rainy season brings showers, though visits are still possible.

• Khao Luang Cave is a large cave with Buddha images, lit by light falling through openings in the roof.
• Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park is a hilltop palace complex above the old town.
• Mrigadayavan Palace is a wooden palace near the coast, built as a royal retreat.
• Golden Buddha is a golden Buddha statue near the old town.

• Hilltop palace: Walk the paths above the old town.
• Cave visit: See Buddha images in a natural cave.
• Beach day: Relax at Cha-am.
• Temple stroll: Visit several in the old town.

• Old town walk: temples and shops within a short distance.
• Cha-am beach: a seaside town to the south.
• Hua Hin: a bigger resort within easy reach.

• Hua Hin is a popular seaside resort to the south.
• Khao Sam Roi Yot is a coastal national park further south.
• Kanchanaburi is a river town to the northwest.

• By bus or minivan: Services run from Bangkok.
• By train: The railway line stops in the old town.
• By car: The drive from Bangkok is straightforward.

• Walking and bikes: The old town is easy to cover.
• Songthaews and taxis: Available for hill and cave sights.
• Hired car: Handy for beach trips.

• Is a car worth it?: Helpful for the coast and caves.
• Driving side: Traffic drives on the left.
• Roads: Main roads are paved and busy near holidays.

The province is known for sweets made with palm sugar, and for seafood on the coast. Old town markets sell local snacks.

• Monkeys: Macaques near the hill palace can grab food and bags.
• Heat: Bring water and a hat.
• Temples: Dress modestly.
• Royal family: Do not speak or write badly about the monarchy. It is a serious crime in Thailand.

The old town has long been a stop for royal travel, and kings of the Bangkok era built retreats on the hill and along the coast.

Quick practical facts for Thailand at a glance: