Khao Lom Muak is situated within the area of Wing 5 Air Force Base, a site of profound military and national historical significance, as it was the location of the "Battle of Prachuap Khiri Khan" during World War II. This critical engagement took place on December 8, 1941, when Japanese forces landed at Ao Manao. The Thai airmen stationed at the Prachuap Airfield fiercely resisted the invasion for over 33 hours, led by Squadron Leader M.L. Pravat Chompunut. The fighting continued until the central government issued a ceasefire order on the morning of December 9, 1941. The outcome underscored the immense sacrifice: the Thai side suffered a total of 38 casualties, including airmen and civilians, while the Japanese forces suffered over 200 casualties. This sacrificial resistance is recorded as a great act of heroism and remains the highest pride of the Royal Thai Air Force.

Additional Activities and Interesting Facts:

Historical Commemoration: Inside Wing 5, visitors can find the Heroes Monument and the Wing 5 History Museum, which showcase the artifacts and stories of the era. A grand annual memorial ceremony is held every year on December 8th to honor the fallen heroes of the battle.

Ao Manao Activities: The adjacent Ao Manao Bay, the historic landing site of the Japanese forces, is a beautiful and safe beach. Tourists can swim, relax on the beach, or cycle/jog within the airbase perimeter, which is maintained to high standards.

Spectacled Langurs: Khao Lom Muak is famous for being a habitat of the Spectacled Langur (Dusky Leaf Monkey), a rare animal distinctive for the white rings around its eyes, giving it a 'spectacled' look. They are often easily observed near the base of the mountain in the morning. A critical note for conservation is that visitors must never feed the langurs human food.

• From Prachuap town, take Salacheep Road toward Wing 5. Continue to Ao Manao and register with officers to enter the Khao Lom Muak hiking area. Private cars and motorcycles are allowed.

• Arrive before the permitted hiking time to secure your spot

• Wear proper hiking or sports shoes with good grip

• Bring water and avoid climbing during intense midday heat

• Those with health issues should assess their physical readiness

• Follow all military area regulations strictly

Admission Fee

Local/Foreign Visitors: There is no official admission fee (free entry) but there is a 40 THB activity maintenance fee (which includes the cost for receiving the peak conqueror certificate).

Opening Hours

• Open only during long official public holidays (3 days or more). (Please check announcements from Wing 5 or related agencies before traveling.)

• Opening time for ascent: 06:00 AM

• Last time allowed for ascent: 10:00 AM

• Time required to descend the mountain: Before 12:00 PM