Khao Khian is a fascinating historical landmark located in the heart of Phang Nga Bay. The site resembles a natural open-air gallery where ancient people left visual records of their lives and beliefs on limestone cliffs facing the sea.

The rock paintings are found on the walls of caves and limestone cliffs positioned slightly above sea level. These images were created using natural pigments, mainly red and black colors derived from tree resin and mineral materials.

The paintings display a wide variety of subjects, including animals such as fish, dolphins, and land animals, as well as human figures and geometric symbols. Archaeologists estimate that these artworks are over 3,000 years old, making them some of the most important prehistoric cultural evidence in southern Thailand.

These ancient drawings reflect the lifestyle, beliefs, and close relationship between early humans and the marine environment. They also suggest that Phang Nga Bay was once an important settlement and travel route for ancient communities navigating the Andaman coast.

The atmosphere surrounding Khao Khian is peaceful and surrounded by vast mangrove forests. Visiting the site usually involves traveling by boat through narrow channels between towering limestone karsts. Along the way, visitors can admire natural rock formations, stalactites, and the dramatic cliffs that define the landscape of Phang Nga Bay.

Seeing the ancient paintings preserved on these cliffs while surrounded by sea breezes and tranquil waters creates a unique experience that blends natural beauty with deep historical significance.

Today, Khao Khian is protected as part of Ao Phang Nga National Park, where conservation measures are in place to prevent damage from direct contact or excessive moisture. Visiting the site is therefore both an educational journey and an opportunity to appreciate ancient art while supporting the sustainable preservation of the bay’s natural and cultural heritage.

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How to Get There

• Tour Boat: The only way to reach Khao Khian is by boat. Visitors can hire a long-tail boat or join a tour from Phang Nga Customs Pier (Ban Dan Pier) or Surakul Pier in Mueang Phang Nga District. Khao Khian is commonly included in Phang Nga Bay boat tours that also visit Ko Panyi and Khao Tapu (James Bond Island).

• Canoe: Some visitors prefer exploring the area by sea canoe, allowing a closer and quieter experience while observing the cliff paintings and surrounding caves.

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Travel Tips

• Khao Khian can be visited year-round, but during low tide the paintings are easier to view at eye level.

• Recommended activities include photographing the ancient paintings (without flash), observing limestone cliff formations, and canoeing through the mangrove forests.

• Visitors should never touch the paintings or write on the rock surfaces, and should avoid leaving trash in the surrounding waterways.

• Nearby attractions include Ko Panyi, Tham Lod (Sea Cave), Khao Ma Chu, and Khao Tapu.

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Entrance Fee:
Ao Phang Nga National Park entrance fee:

• Thai visitors: Adult: 60 THB / Child: 30 THB

• Foreign visitors: Adult: 300 THB / Child: 150 THB

Opening Hours:

• Accessible according to boat tour schedules, generally between 08:00 – 16: