Pha Sadet is a site of great importance in the history of Thailand’s transportation system. It is located beside the Northeastern Railway Line in Kaeng Khoi District, Saraburi Province. This area serves as a historical monument reflecting the early development of Thailand’s railway network, which played a crucial role in connecting regions and fostering national progress.

A significant historical event took place on 22 December 1896, during the construction of the Bangkok–Nakhon Ratchasima railway. On this occasion, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), accompanied by Queen Saovabha Phongsri, traveled by royal train to the Pha Sadet area. At that time, the surrounding landscape was still dense jungle, notorious for its harsh conditions, malaria, and natural dangers, known as “Dong Phaya Fai.”

The most remarkable feature of Pha Sadet is the rock inscription bearing the royal monogram “Jor Por Ror”, together with “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 graciously ordered by the King to be carved on a large rock cliff extending close to the railway track, as an auspicious act and to boost the morale of railway workers who endured immense hardship while clearing forests, excavating tunnels, and laying tracks deep within the jungle.

Following this auspicious event, the name of the forest gradually changed from “Dong Phaya Fai,” which conveyed danger and hardship, to “Dong Phaya Yen,” symbolizing coolness, peace, and good fortune. This change reflected the faith, hope, and determination of the people involved in the nation’s development during that era.

Today, the area surrounding Pha Sadet has been developed into a historical public park. A shrine known as Luang Pho Pha Sadet Shrine and a statue of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) have been established, allowing visitors to pay their respects and commemorate the King’s benevolence. The atmosphere is peaceful, surrounded by limestone mountains and forests that have once again become lush and green.

Nearby, the Pha Sadet Tunnel now stands as a symbol of modern transportation development. With a length of approximately 5.4 kilometers, it is the longest double-track railway tunnel in Thailand, clearly reflecting the evolution of Thai railways from their pioneering beginnings in the reign of King Rama V to the modern railway system of today.

For historians and railway enthusiasts, Pha Sadet is an unmissable site for learning about the foundations of Thailand’s railway history. For general visitors, it is a popular stop to experience the site’s solemn atmosphere and to view the original historical inscriptions that remain clearly visible on the rock surface, even after more than a century.

Pha Sadet is therefore more than just a tourist attraction; it is a place where history, faith, and the enduring spirit of Thailand’s ancestors are united upon a resilient stone cliff, inviting visitors to retrace the past and appreciate its lasting significance.

Private Car:

• From Saraburi, take Mittraphap Road towards Korat. At Thap Kwang (KM 131-132), turn left into the local road following signs for "Pha Sadet Railway Station." Drive in for about 9 kilometers.

Public Transport (Train):

• Take a local or ordinary train that stops at Pha Sadet Station, then walk to the historic cliff (about 50-100 meters from the station).

• Most areas are outdoors; bring an umbrella or hat and visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

• Please view the carvings with respect. Do not climb the cliff or add any inscriptions to the ancient rock.

• As the new double-track tunnel is now in operation, most passenger trains no longer pass this cliff. To see a train pass by, you may need to wait for cargo or specific local trains.

• This site can be visited along with Wat Tham Phra Phothisat, which is located in the same vicinity.

Admission Fee

• Free (No charge)

Opening Hours

• Open Daily: 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM