Wat Phra Kaew is located in the heart of Kamphaeng Phet and is a significant temple situated next to the royal palace area. It is comparable to Wat Phra Si Sanphet in Ayutthaya and Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai. It served as the city’s royal temple and forms part of the Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Sukhothai Historical Park under the name “Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns.”

Most structures are constructed from laterite, a unique feature of Kamphaeng Phet. The temple walls consist of round laterite pillars about 1 meter high. The layout of the temple is rectangular, aligned parallel to the city walls. While some sections of the walls are damaged, the interior structures remain predominantly made of laterite.

At the center of the temple stands the main Lanka-style bell-shaped chedi, surrounded by square bases with niche archways that once housed lion sculptures. Most of the lions are now damaged. The temple also includes one Elephant-Circled Chedi, a style popular during the Sukhothai period. Visitors can observe details of the chedi bases, niche archways, lion decorations, and various-sized vihara to study Kamphaeng Phet’s architectural style.

Archaeological excavations have uncovered 35 chedi bases, 8 large and small vihara, and 3 ubosot bases, demonstrating the temple’s historical importance. The main vihara once enshrined Phra Attharot, a standing Buddha image. According to legend, the Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew Morakot) was once enshrined in Kamphaeng Phet, and if true, it may have been located at this temple.

Visitor Information and Internal Routes
Visitors can follow the main paths around the central chedi, vihara, and Elephant-Circled Chedi. The open-air paths are suitable for walking and photography. Along the way, visitors can study architectural details and ancient chedi bases. Elderly visitors or children should take care on uneven surfaces and steps.

Symbolism and Sculptures

• Elephant-Circled Chedi: Represents city power and protection

• Niche archways and lion decorations: Symbols of strength and safeguarding religion

• Phra Attharot: A large standing Buddha symbolizing the temple’s spiritual authority and role in religious ceremonies

Visitors can learn about Sukhothai-Kamphaeng Phet artistic style through chedi bases, vihara, and sculptures around the temple.

Activities and Festivals
Wat Phra Kaew continues to host annual traditional events, including:

• Nop Phra Len Phleng Festival: A local tradition to honor Buddha images and foster community unity

• Thai Banana Festival (Sart Thai Kluai Kai): A harvest and religious offering ceremony that allows visitors to experience local culture

These activities allow tourists to appreciate the temple’s history, art, and local culture simultaneously.

Historical Significance
Wat Phra Kaew was not only a religious center but also a venue for royal religious ceremonies performed by kings and nobles, reflecting the close relationship between religion, governance, and local culture.

By Car:

• From Kamphaeng Phet city center, take Phitsanulok–Nakhon Chum Road heading east across the Ping River

• Continue on the main road to Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park

• Parking is available at the park, then walk to Wat Phra Kaew

By Public Transport:

• Visitors can take city songthaews or tuk-tuks to the historical park

• Tell the driver to go to Wat Phra Kaew or Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park, which are adjacent

By Bicycle or on Foot (for nearby accommodations):

• Wat Phra Kaew is located in the old city area

• Walking or cycling around the ancient city and nearby monuments is recommended

• Paths are open and suitable for sightseeing

• Allow ample time to explore the large open-air temple complex

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing

• Observe architectural details such as the Elephant-Circled Chedi, niche archways, and lion decorations

• Participate in local traditions such as the Nop Phra Len Phleng Festival or Thai Banana Festival

• Take photos from elevated angles or around the temple grounds

Admission Fee:

• Thai nationals: 20 THB

• Foreign visitors: 100 THB

• Combined ticket (both historical parks): Thai 40 THB, Foreigners 150 THB

Opening Hours:

• 08:30 – 16:30 (according to Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park)

• Open daily