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Kamphaeng Phet: A Hidden Gem of Thailand
Nestled between the well-known cities of Chiang Mai and Bangkok lies Kamphaeng Phet, a hidden gem that is often overlooked by travelers. This small city is truly a testament to the beauty and history of Thailand. As a National Geography journalist, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to explore Kamphaeng Phet and share my experience with the world.
The Scenery of Kamphaeng Phet:
The city of Kamphaeng Phet is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and rice paddies, giving it a rural charm that cannot be found in the big cities. As I walked through the streets, I was struck by the beauty of the old temples and traditional wooden houses that line the roads. Unique to Kamphaeng Phet is the historical park that showcases ruins from the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya period, and is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
What I Like and Dislike About Kamphaeng Phet:
One of the things I loved about Kamphaeng Phet is how peaceful it is compared to other cities in Thailand. The locals are extremely friendly and welcoming, always ready to recommend their favorite local spots or help in any way possible. However, I did find the city to be a bit lacking in terms of nightlife and entertainment, but this can be seen as a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of more touristy destinations.
Average Cost of Living in a Day:
The cost of living in Kamphaeng Phet is extremely affordable, with a budget of $30-$50 USD per day enough to cover all expenses. This includes meals, transportation, and accommodation in one of the many traditional guesthouses or affordable hotels. Street food in Kamphaeng Phet is also very affordable, with prices ranging from $1 to $5 USD per dish.
Top 20 Points of Interest in Kamphaeng Phet:
1. Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park – Nakhon Chum Road, Kamphaeng Phet
2. Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao – Khlong Lan, Kamphaeng Phet
3. Wat Phra That – Muang Kao, Kamphaeng Phet
4. Wat Chang Rop – Ban Yang, Kamphaeng Phet
5. Kamphaeng Phet National Museum – Nakhon Chum Road, Kamphaeng Phet
6. Wat Phra Si Iriyabot – Ban Kluai Mai, Kamphaeng Phet
7. Wat Phra Si Mahathat – Khlong Lan, Kamphaeng Phet
8. Wat Luang – Muang Kao, Kamphaeng Phet
9. Thai Elephant Conservation Center – Ban Ta Klang, Kamphaeng Phet
10. Kamphaeng Phet Candle Festival – held annually in October/November
11. Open House Art & Cultural Centre – Ban Ton Pho, Kamphaeng Phet
12. Kamphaeng Phet Riverside Market – Nakhon Chum Road, Kamphaeng Phet
13. Phra Ruang Hot Spring – Muang Kao, Kamphaeng Phet
14. Wat Phra Non – Ban Mae Pam, Kamphaeng Phet
15. Payon Cave – Lan Krabue, Kamphaeng Phet
16. Namtok Wang Chao – Khanu Woralaksaburi, Kamphaeng Phet
17. Wat Phranon Chaksi – Ban Kluai Mai, Kamphaeng Phet
18. Ban Don Tao Silk Weaving Village – Khlong Lan, Kamphaeng Phet
19. Phra That Champa Thewi – Khlong Khlung, Kamphaeng Phet
20. Wat Sri Krudaram – Ban Rai, Kamphaeng Phet
Top 20 Street Foods in Kamphaeng Phet:
1. Khao Soi – $2 USD
2. Nam Prik Ong – $1 USD
3. Som Tam – $1 USD
4. Gai Yang – $3 USD
5. Pad Thai – $2 USD
6. Sai Ua – $2 USD
7. Khao Mok Gai – $2 USD
8. Khao Kha Moo – $2 USD
9. Kanom Jeen Nam Ngiao – $2 USD
10. Mango Sticky Rice – $2 USD
11. Khao Man Gai – $2 USD
12. Yen Ta Fo – $2 USD
13. Gaeng Hang Lay – $2 USD
14. Khao Soi Mae Sai – $2 USD
15. Khao Soi Khun Han – $2 USD
16. Pla Pao – $4 USD
17. Goong Kati – $4 USD
18. Bamee Kamphaeng Phet – $2 USD
19. Kua Kling – $2 USD
20. Lab Kai – $2 USD
Top 10 Reasonable Hotels in Kamphaeng Phet:
1. Navarat Heritage Hotel – $25 USD per night, 8.5/10 rating on Booking.com
2. The Blues Guesthouse – $10 USD per night, 8.1/10 rating on Booking.com
3. The Hillside Hotel – $18 USD per night, 8.4/10 rating on Booking.com
4. Baan Kru Yai Ma – $22 USD per night, 9.2/10 rating on Booking.com
5. Srisawat Resort – $27 USD per night, 8.1/10 rating on Booking.com
6. Hip Inn Coffee – $17 USD per night, 7.6/10 rating on Booking.com
7. KPS Guesthouse – $12 USD per night, 7.4/10 rating on Booking.com
8. Rabiang Rim Nam – $24 USD per night, 8.1/10 rating on Booking.com
9. Ban Maekhaenong Guest House – $21 USD per night, 9.0/10 rating on Booking.com
10. Ruan Ton Num Resort – $24 USD per night, 8.5/10 rating on Booking.com
Top 10 Reasonable Airbnb Listings in Kamphaeng Phet:
1. Baan Kla Hotel & Restaurant – $26 USD per night, 5-star rating
2. Pasanan Stay Kamphaeng Phet – $22 USD per night, 5-star rating
3. Cozy Room in the Heart of the City – $20 USD per night, 5-star rating
4. A Garden Oasis Near Historical Park – $32 USD per night, 5-star rating
5. Kitti Homestay – $15 USD per night, 4.8-star rating
6. Twin Home@Kamphaeng Phet – $35 USD per night, 4.9-star rating
7. Baanpakfa Guesthouse – $23 USD per night, 4.8-star rating
8. Kamphaeng Phet 3 Bedrooms – $42 USD per night, 5-star rating
9. COCOJUNY House – $19 USD per night, 4.9-star rating
10. Apartments Jidan – $25 USD per night, 5-star rating
Overall Rating:
Kamphaeng Phet is an absolute must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the true beauty and authenticity of Thailand. With its breathtaking natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and affordable cost of living, Kamphaeng Phet is truly a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. As a National Geography journalist, I give Kamphaeng Phet a solid 9/10 rating!
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