"Phraya Nakhon Cave" (Phraya Nakhon Cave) It is not only a world-renowned tourist attraction famous for the pavilion light phenomenon, but it also has a long history linked to several Thai kings, especially as the site of the "Phra Thinang Khuha Kharuhat" pavilion, a four-sided royal pavilion that has become a symbol of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province today.
Dating back to the early Rattanakosin period (likely during King Rama I’s reign), the cave’s name comes from "Phraya Nakhon," the governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat. While sailing to Bangkok, a severe storm forced his boat to seek shelter at Bang Pu Beach, where he discovered this large, uniquely beautiful cave. Since then, it has been called "Phraya Nakhon Cave."
The most prominent feature of Phraya Nakhon Cave is Phra Thinang Khuha Kharuhat which is afour-sided wooden pavilionstanding gracefully atop a sand mound in the cave. This pavilion was built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) in 1890 CE. Importantly, the king graciously ordered the pavilion’s components to be made in Bangkok and then assembled inside the cave, with Phraya Chonlayut Yothin overseeing the work. King Rama V personally lifted the pavilion’s spire and inscribed his royal cypher "จ.ป.ร." (J.P.R.) on the cave’s northern wall, which remains clearly visible today.
Phraya Nakhon Cave is a historic site where three Thai kings have toured:
King Rama V visited four times and built the Phra Thinang Khuha Kharuhat pavilion.
King Rama VII King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) also visited and inscribed his royal cypher "ป.ป.ร." (P.P.R.) on the cave wall.
King Rama IX King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) toured the cave on 22 June 1981.
For anyone planning to experience the wonder of "Phraya Nakhon Cave" in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, in 2026, preparation is key. This is not just an ordinary cave; it requires the right timing and physical readiness. Thairath Online has compiled a complete guide from travel tips to the golden moment of sunlight.
The main highlight of visiting Phraya Nakhon Cave is witnessing sunlight shining onto Phra Thinang Khuha Kharuhat. The optimal times are:
Visitors must pass two main points: "Bang Pu Beach" to "Laem Sala Beach" (rest point before hiking up to the cave)
Footwear is crucial: Avoid flip-flops or flat fashion shoes due to slippery and sharp rocks in some areas. Use sneakers with good soles or specialized hiking shoes.
Beware of local monkeys: There are many long-tailed macaques along the trail and beach. Do not feed them and keep valuables and food securely stored to prevent theft.
Managing drinking water: Bring at least one bottle per person and maintain cleanliness by taking all plastic bottles back down for proper disposal, following park policy.
Best time: The sunlight shines through the mountain to illuminate Phra Thinang Khuha Kharuhat best from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. (season dependent). Arriving later means the light moves away from the key spot.
Crossing the beach: If choosing the boat around the cape (weather permitting), be cautious of water splashes when boarding and disembarking. Always check weather conditions with officials.
Phraya Nakhon Cave is more than just a beautiful photo spot; it is a "natural museum" telling the story of the bond between Thai monarchs and the land. The journey by boat and on foot over 500 meters uphill tests one’s devotion to witness the most beautiful "light illumination" of a lifetime.