Si Mahosot Ancient City is considered one of the most important ancient cities in eastern Thailand and is a crucial piece of evidence reflecting the development of early communities in the Bang Pakong River basin. Archaeologists hypothesize that the city began to flourish around the 11th–12th centuries CE, or approximately 1,200–1,500 years ago, during the early Dvaravati culture. Inhabitants continued to live there, later influenced by Khmer art and beliefs. Numerous archaeological artifacts have been found within the site, including religious structures, earthen mounds, artifacts, inscriptions, sculptures, and an ancient water management system, all demonstrating the city's past prosperity.

The city plan of Si Mahosot is unique, differing from other ancient cities. It is a somewhat elongated rectangular shape with rounded corners, oriented in a northeast-southwest direction. It is approximately 700 meters wide and 1,550 meters long, covering an area of ​​about 742 rai (approximately 255 acres). The city is clearly surrounded by a large moat and earthen embankment, visible in aerial photographs, revealing a systematic approach to city planning and defense. Furthermore, numerous ponds and earthen mounds have been found throughout the city. Reflecting the ingenuity of irrigation engineering and water resource management of the people of the past,

One of the most important points of this ancient city is the "Sra Morakot Archaeological Site," a religious center during the Dvaravati period. Within the site, a pair of Buddha footprints carved into natural laterite stone were found, considered among the oldest Buddha footprints in Thailand. A distinctive feature is the hole in the center, which archaeologists speculate may have been used for placing a ceremonial umbrella or sacred symbol in religious ceremonies. These footprints reflect the influence of Buddhism spreading into the region and demonstrate the flourishing of Sri Mahosot as an early cultural and religious center in Southeast Asia.

In addition to Buddhist evidence, the city also reveals traces of Hinduism and ancient Indian cultural influence, such as the discovery of Ganesha sculptures, temples, and artifacts in the South Indian style. This reflects the ancient trade and cultural relationship between this region and India. Sri Mahosot is therefore considered an important inland port city playing a significant role in connecting trade routes and the spread of religion in the Suvarnabhumi region. Many scholars view this city as one of the earliest centers of the Dvaravati culture that has preserved its original traces relatively well compared to other important ancient cities in Thailand.

Currently, the ancient city of Si Mahosot is registered as an important national historical site and is under the care of the Fine Arts Department. Within the area, numerous historical sites are scattered both inside and outside the moat, such as various numbered archaeological sites, ancient mounds, ancient ponds, and remnants of old earthen embankments that still offer opportunities for study. Tourists can visit year-round. The atmosphere around the city remains peaceful, surrounded by local communities and natural areas, making it an important historical, archaeological, and cultural learning site for Prachinburi province and Thailand.

• From Prachinburi city center, take Highway 319 (towards Phanom Sarakham) for about 20 km. Upon reaching Si Mahosot district, follow the signs and turn left into the ancient city area and Sra Morakot site.

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense heat.

• Start your trip at the Sra Morakot archaeological complex first.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven ground and grassy areas.

• Bring a hat, umbrella, or sunglasses due to limited shade.

Admission Fees:

• Free admission.

Opening Hours:

• 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM (Open daily)