Baan Pha Po, also known as Baan Hang R.5, was built around 1886 (B.E. 2429) by Pha Po, a wealthy Burmese/Karen merchant engaged in the timber trade along Khlong Suan Mak in Nakhon Chum during the reign of King Rama V. He purchased the house from Phraya Ram. The house served as a center for timber trading and a meeting place for merchants, reflecting the economic and social life of Nakhon Chum at that time.

In 1906 (B.E. 2449), King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) visited Kamphaeng Phet and paid a visit to Baan Pha Po. This royal visit led to the house being known as Baan Hang R.5, emphasizing its historical and social significance.

Architecture and Art:
The house is a two-story teakwood building made of high-quality teak, decorated with exquisite wood carvings combining Thai and Western (gingerbread) architectural styles. It features Thai-style roofs and verandas alongside Western-style windows and door frames. The carvings and room layout reflect the wealth and taste of timber merchants during King Rama V’s reign.

Nearby Attractions:
Visitors can explore Baan Pha Po along with nearby historical sites in Old Nakhon Chum, such as:

• Wat Sawang Arom – an important religious and cultural center

• Khlong Suan Mak – former hub of timber trade

• Other historical sites in Nakhon Chum – giving insight into the timber trade and traditional lifestyle

Literary Connection and Inspiration:
Baan Pha Po inspired the famous novel “Chua Fa Din Salai.” The story reflects the prosperity and societal changes of the King Rama V era. Visitors interested in literature can connect their visit with reading the novel to better visualize the life of timber merchants and the old-town atmosphere.

Current Status:
The house is currently abandoned and in a dilapidated state. Visitors can admire the architectural beauty only from the outside, as the interior is unsafe.

By Private Car:

• From Kamphaeng Phet city, drive toward Nakhon Chum and cross the bridge to the west side of the Ping River.

• Upon reaching Old Nakhon Chum, head toward Khlong Suan Mak. Baan Pha Po is located at the mouth of the canal near Wat Sawang Arom.

• Parking is available along public streets; visitors can walk to view the house from the outside.

By Public Transport / Van:

• From Kamphaeng Phet city, take a songthaew or van to Nakhon Chum.

• Get off near Wat Sawang Arom or Khlong Suan Mak and walk about 5–10 minutes.

• View from Outside: Only explore the exterior for safety; do not enter the house.

• Historical Context: Visit along with Wat Sawang Arom and other historical sites in Nakhon Chum.

• Photography: Daytime provides good lighting for capturing the teakwood architecture.

• Comfortable Shoes: Surrounding area may have uneven ground.

• Learn History: Read about Pha Po and the timber trade for better understanding.

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge (viewable from the outside)

Opening Hours:

• Open Hours: No fixed hours; the house is abandoned. Best viewed from outside during daytime.

• Days Open: Open every day