When Does Khao Khitchakut Open in 2026? Check the Schedule and Travel Tips for a Pilgrimage Trip

When does Khao Khitchakut open in 2026? For pilgrims wishing to travel up to worship and seek blessings at the Buddha's footprint on Khao Khitchakut (Phra Bat Pluang) to enhance their good fortune, this article provides the opening dates and times, travel methods, and useful information.

History of Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi Province

Khao Khitchakut (English: Khao Khitchakut) is located within Khao Khitchakut National Park, Pluang Subdistrict, Khao Khitchakut District, Chanthaburi Province, and is home to the Buddha's footprint.

According to legend, a man named Ting and his group journeyed up the mountain to find fragrant wood to sell. While resting on a rocky plateau, they found a large ring. Clearing the grass around it revealed a spiral-shaped mark and a Buddha's footprint engraved on a large rock slab. To the southeast, a large 'Buddha's foot' stone also stands.

Besides the footprint area, there is the "Red Cloth Platform," a highlight spot for making wishes. Originally, red cloths were tied there as a warning symbol for the steep terrain, but nowadays, many write their wishes on the red cloths to pray for their fulfillment.

Moreover, Khao Khitchakut in Chanthaburi was first discovered in 1854 CE. Later, Luang Pho Khian (Khian Khantasaro) pioneered the pilgrimage route to the Buddha's footprint to enable devotees to visit and receive blessings, establishing a tradition that continues today.

When does Khao Khitchakut open in 2026 and for how long?

Khao Khitchakut National Park in Chanthaburi has announced the pilgrimage schedule for the 2026 worship season at the Buddha's footprint (Phra Bat Pluang), open from 19 January to 19 March 2026, with the opening ceremony (forest closing and mountain opening) on 17 January 2026.

How many kilometers is the hike at Khao Khitchakut?

There are two ways to reach Khao Khitchakut: by shuttle van or on foot, with the distances as follows.

• On foot From the Phra Sivali area, it is approximately 6.6 kilometers to the Buddha's footprint, then an additional 1.6 kilometers to the Red Cloth Platform.
• Shuttle service The shuttle covers about 5.6 kilometers to the Phra Sivali area, then visitors walk another 1-2 kilometers to reach the Buddha's footprint and Red Cloth Platform. Shuttle vans depart from Wat Pluang or Wat Krating.

Khao Khitchakut 2026 shuttle service fares

Those wishing to use the shuttle service up and down Khao Khitchakut can check the rates below.

• Shuttle service fare up and down Khao Khitchakut Price: 200 THB per person
• Entrance fees for Khao Khitchakut National Park, Chanthaburi

- Thais: Children (3-14 years) pay 20 THB each; adults pay 40 THB each; seniors 60+ enter free.
- Foreigners: Children (3-14 years) pay 100 THB each; adults pay 200 THB each.

Payments at the park are accepted in cash only.

Recommendations for preparing to climb Khao Khitchakut in 2026

• Prepare your physical condition, as some parts of the trail are steep or involve climbing.
• Dress modestly and appropriately; wear suitable footwear for hiking.
• Bring personal items such as a flashlight, drinking water, and any necessary medications.
• Strictly follow the staff's instructions and always keep the area clean.

Khao Khitchakut in Chanthaburi opens for pilgrimages from 19 January to 19 March 2026. It is recommended to plan your trip and prepare well, as many visitors travel during this period, and some trail sections can be steep or involve climbing.

Thanks for the images and information from the Facebook fan pageKhao Khitchakut National Park, Chanthaburiandthe Fine Arts Department.