“A massive military base and the command center for Thai infantry training, which holds immense historical significance, and is the location of important national heroes' monuments.”
Thanarat Camp is the site of the Infantry Center (IC), the main unit of the Royal Thai Army responsible for training and developing infantry personnel. The camp was founded in 1960 during the premiership of Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat and was named in his honor. Thanarat Camp is thus considered the heart of the Thai infantry, having produced high-quality officers and soldiers who have served the nation for many years.
Key Sites and Activities within the Camp: Within the vast grounds of Thanarat Camp, besides being a large training field, there are important sites open for public visitation and learning, such as the Monument of Thai Heroes. This monument was built to commemorate the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives defending the nation, particularly in crucial battles. It is a place filled with military history and demonstrates the pride and honor of the armed forces. Additionally, there is the Infantry Museum, which showcases the history of the infantry corps, the weaponry used in the past and present, and the Royal Thai Army’s role in maintaining national security.
Shooting Experience: A popular and exciting activity for tourists is visiting the Thanarat Camp Shooting Range, which is open to the general public who wish to practice or try shooting firearms in a standard and safe environment. This shooting range is closely supervised by expert Infantry officers, ensuring user safety and providing an opportunity for patrons to receive proper shooting guidance. It is a unique chance to engage in a military-related activity under the supervision of a national-level unit.
Even though Thanarat Camp is a government military facility, it allows the public to visit designated areas during appropriate times. The atmosphere within the camp is notably orderly, clean, and tranquil, characteristic of a military establishment. A visit to the camp offers an opportunity to absorb knowledge of military history in a disciplined environment.
This site is highly interesting for those keen on Thai political and military history and also serves as a learning ground to instill patriotic awareness in families. Besides viewing the Monument of Heroes, visitors can also participate in the safe shooting activity.
We invite everyone to visit Thanarat Camp to pay respects at the Monument of Heroes, learn about the nation's military history, and experience the exciting shooting activity at this honorable Infantry Center.
How to Get There
Private Car:
- Thanarat Camp is located right next to Phetkasem Road (Highway 4). Drive south from Hua Hin towards Pranburi; a large sign for the camp entrance is clearly visible.
Public Van/Bus:
- Take a van or bus from Bangkok or Hua Hin to Pranburi District and ask the driver to stop at the front of Thanarat Camp.
Travel Tips
Dress Code:
- As it is a government military facility, visitors should dress politely and modestly to show respect for the location.
Photography:
- Photography might be restricted in certain areas. You should ask officials before taking pictures, especially near office buildings and training areas.
Visiting:
- For visiting the museum or monument areas, it is advisable to contact the Infantry Center officials in advance for exact timings and entry regulations.
Souvenirs:
- There may be shops nearby selling military-related souvenirs (if available).
Admission Fee
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General Visitors: Free
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(The areas like the monument and permitted museum sections are usually free of charge, but you should double-check with the IC officials.)
Opening Hours
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General Area (e.g., internal touring): Usually open daily from 08:30 AM to 06:00 PM.
Infantry Museum:
- Open for group visits daily from 08:30 AM to 04:00 PM.
- Individual visitors can visit on Mondays to Fridays only.
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Thanarat Camp Shooting Range: Open daily from 08:30 AM to 04:30 PM.