Ancient City of Ban Khu Bua No. 8, Ratchaburi Province, is considered one of the largest and most important Dvaravati-era religious sites in western Thailand. Located within the ancient city of Khu Bua, a large ancient community in the Mae Klong River basin, archaeologists believe the city flourished around the 13th–15th centuries CE and served as a center of religion, trade, and culture for the Dvaravati community in the region. Khu Bua is characterized by a rectangular moat and earthen embankment, and numerous archaeological sites have been discovered within its walls. Archaeological site No. 8 is considered one of the most outstanding in terms of size, architectural style, and artistic evidence found during archaeological excavations.

A major excavation by the Fine Arts Department took place in 1961 under the guidance of Somsak Rattanagul, a pioneer in the archaeological study of Khu Bua. The excavation was conducted in several phases, revealing a clearer architectural plan. The site is constructed of large bricks in the Dvaravati style, with a large square base approximately 20 meters on each side, composed of several tiered levels. The structure features projecting corners or angles on all four sides, reflecting architectural development influenced by Indian and Southeast Asian art of the same period. Some scholars compare this style to the "candi" of Central Java or early Cham and Khmer religious structures, demonstrating cultural connections and trade contact in the ancient Suvarnabhumi region.

A key factor that has made Archaeological Site No. 8 famous in Thai archaeology is the discovery of numerous stucco and terracotta sculptures, particularly decorative motifs on the base of the stupa. These include figures of people, dwarves, musicians, deities, animals, and floral patterns. These fragments clearly reflect the artistic skill of Dvaravati artisans in terms of proportion, movement, and decorative detail. Furthermore, they demonstrate the influence of Buddhism and Indian beliefs spreading to Thailand during that time. The evidence discovered at Kubua has helped historians better understand the development of Dvaravati art in western Thailand, especially regarding the construction of large religious structures used as centers for religious ceremonies.

Many artifacts discovered at Archaeological Site No. 8 are currently preserved and displayed at the Ratchaburi National Museum and the Bangkok National Museum to prevent deterioration and loss of this important historical evidence. Visitors to the site today will only see the restored and landscaped brick base of the ancient monument, which has been renovated by the Fine Arts Department. Although the top of the pagoda has been lost over time, the size and style of the base still clearly reflect the grandeur of this religious site. The surrounding area remains tranquil, surrounded by an old community and agricultural land, allowing visitors to experience both the historical value and the local way of life of the Kubua community today.

The ancient city of Kubua and Archaeological Site No. 8 are considered important evidence of the flourishing of the Dvaravati civilization in Thailand hundreds of years before the Sukhothai era. This area reflects the religious, artistic, and trade relations between communities in the Suvarnabhumi region and the outside world, especially India and Southeast Asia. The discovery of numerous archaeological sites and artifacts in Kubua has led to its recognition as one of the most important Dvaravati archaeological sites in Thailand, and it remains invaluable for studying the history, art, and development of ancient communities in the Mae Klong River basin to this day.

• From Ratchaburi city center, take Highway 3339 towards Khu Bua Sub-district. Cross the railway tracks and continue for approximately 5 kilometers. Follow the signs to Ban Khu Bua Ancient City; Site No. 8 is located near Wat Khlong Suwannakhiri.

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

• Bring a hat or umbrella since the site is mostly open space.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on brick and grass surfaces.

• Combine your visit with the local museum at Wat Khlong Suwannakhiri.

Admission Fees:

• Free admission.

Opening Hours:

• Open Daily: 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM

• Note: If you visit on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, the nearby "Khu Bua Community Market" (Ancient Market)