Khao Kho Royal Palace is located high in Khao Kho, Phetchabun Province, near the summit of Khao Ya, considered one of the most famous viewpoints in the upper region of the province. The surrounding area features a complex mountain range covered in pine forests, and enjoys a cool climate year-round, giving the palace a tranquil and beautiful atmosphere unlike most tourist attractions in northern Thailand. Originally, Khao Kho was a strategically important area and a site of past political conflict before being developed and restored into a significant natural and historical tourist destination in Phetchabun Province today.

This palace was built through the cooperation of government agencies, the military, the police, and local residents as a tribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, to serve as their residence during their visits to Khao Kho to monitor development projects and visit the people. King Bhumibol's royal activities in Khao Kho significantly contributed to improving the quality of life for the mountain villagers in various aspects, including agriculture, water resources, transportation, and vocational training. Transforming a once remote area into a stable community capable of sustainable tourism development.

The architecture of the royal residence is simple, harmonizing with nature and utilizing the mountainous terrain. The building is designed to maximize airflow and offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The area surrounding the residence is beautifully landscaped, featuring gardens of temperate flowers, ornamental pines, and various shrubs that change color with the seasons. Especially during the late rainy season, early winter, and winter, the area is filled with blooming flowers and morning mist blankets the valleys, creating a breathtaking atmosphere that has become one of the iconic images of Khao Kho tourism.

One of the most popular highlights is the nature trail leading to "Ya Peak," located above the royal residence. Tourists can climb stairs and sloping paths through a pine forest to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view. From the top, the mountain ranges of Phetchabun province and surrounding areas are clearly visible. During the early mornings of the rainy and winter seasons, a sea of ​​mist often covers the valleys, making this viewpoint extremely popular with photographers and those seeking a close encounter with nature. Furthermore, the weather on Ya Peak is pleasantly cool year-round, especially during the winter when temperatures can drop to a level resembling winter.

In addition to its natural beauty Khao Kho Royal Palace also reflects another dimension of Khao Kho's history, as the surrounding area was once a military operational site and a strategically important location during past unrest. Today, these areas have been developed into educational tourist attractions and natural viewpoints. Visitors can not only experience fresh air and beautiful scenery but also learn about history, community development, and the royal activities that played a significant role in transforming Khao Kho into one of Phetchabun's most popular destinations today.

• From Phetchabun city center, take Highway 21 towards Lom Sak District. Turn left onto Highway 12 (Phitsanulok-Lom Sak), continue straight to the Khaem Son Intersection, and turn left onto Highway 2196. Drive past the Khao Kho District Office, follow the signs, and turn left onto Highway 2258. Follow the slightly steep winding road up the mountain until reaching the entrance of the royal palace.

• Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see the sea of mist.

• The rainy and winter seasons offer the most beautiful scenery.

• Bring a jacket because mornings can be quite cold.

• Wear comfortable sneakers for hiking up Khao Ya Peak.

Admission Fees:

• Free admission.

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM.