About Phraya Nakhon Cave
Phraya Nakhon Cave is a large collapsed cave located in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park in Sam Roi Yot District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. It is famous for the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion, a royal pavilion built in 1890 inside the main chamber. Sunlight streams through the collapsed roof illuminating the pavilion, making it one of Thailand's most photographed natural attractions.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a boat ride from Bang Pu Village to Laem Sala Beach followed by a steep 430-meter uphill hike to the cave entrance. Inside are two large collapsed chambers with stalactites, stalagmites, and forest growth. The main chamber houses the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion illuminated by sunlight through the open roof. The site offers photography, nature viewing, and exploration of the cavern interior.
Key highlights
- 01
Kuha Karuhas Pavilion built in 1890 for King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) inside the main chamber
- 02
Sunlight beam illuminating the pavilion through the collapsed cave roof, best around 10:00-11:30 AM
- 03
Two large chambers with stalactites, stalagmites and natural forest inside the cave
- 04
Scenic hike and boat access via Laem Sala Beach in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park
- 05
Historic royal visits by King Rama V, King Rama VII and King Rama IX