Pha Sadet Railway Station is a third-class railway station on the Northeastern Railway Line, the first railway line in Thailand, and holds significant historical importance in the nation’s transportation history. The station’s name originates from “Pha Sadet Phak,” commonly shortened to Pha Sadet, a large rocky cliff that extends close to the railway track and serves as an important historical landmark associated with Thailand’s monarchy.

In 1896, during the construction of the Bangkok–Nakhon Ratchasima railway, the route had to pass through a dense forest known as “Dong Phaya Fai,” the former name of what is now Dong Phaya Yen. At that time, the area was notorious for its harsh conditions, malaria, winding terrain, and serious dangers faced by railway workers. During this period, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and Queen Saovabha Phongsri paid a royal visit to the Pha Sadet area on 22 December 1896.

On this historic occasion, the King graciously ordered the carving of the royal monograms “Jor Por Ror”, “Sor Por”—representing Queen Saovabha Phongsri—and the number “115,” referring to the year in the Rattanakosin Era (R.S.) of the royal visit. These inscriptions were made on the rock face to bestow auspiciousness and to encourage the railway workers who were laboring under extremely difficult conditions. The carvings remain an invaluable historical record to this day.

The Pha Sadet historical inscriptions are located approximately 50 meters southwest of the railway station. Today, the surrounding area has been carefully landscaped and secured with protective fencing. A shrine known as Luang Pho Pha Sadet Shrine has been established, along with a statue of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), allowing visitors to pay their respects and commemorate the King’s benevolence.

Another major development in the area is the opening of the Pha Sadet Tunnel in 2024, as part of the Mab Kabao–Muak Lek double-track railway project. The tunnel consists of twin single-track tunnels with a total length of 5.41 kilometers, making it the longest railway tunnel in Thailand. This project significantly reduces travel time, improves safety, and bypasses the steep gradients of the former mountainous route through the Dong Phaya Yen area.

Despite modern infrastructure development, Pha Sadet Railway Station has retained the charm of its traditional station architecture. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and a peaceful natural environment, the station serves not only as a historical site but also as a cultural tourism destination and a tranquil retreat for those fascinated by the history of Thailand’s railway system.

By Private Car:

• From Saraburi, take Mittraphap Road towards Korat. Pass through Kaeng Khoi to Thap Kwang (KM 131-132). Turn left into the local road (same way as Wat Tham Phra Phothisat, but follow the signs for Pha Sadet Station). Drive in for about 8-10 km.

By Train:

• You can take local or ordinary trains (such as trains 233/234 or 135/136) that stop at Pha Sadet Station to experience the historical journey.

• If you plan to view the inscription and the cliff, bring a hat or umbrella as the open-air area can be very sunny.

• Currently, most passenger trains use the new tunnel (which does not pass the original station or the cliff). If you wish to see the station and the cliff specifically, it is better to travel by car or check for local trains that still use the original track (mostly cargo or specific local lines).

• Recommended visiting time is 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM.

Admission Fee

• Free (Public area under the care of the State Railway of Thailand)

Opening Hours

• The cliff area is accessible all day, but daylight hours are recommended for safety and clarity of the inscription.