Prachuap Khiri Khan

Introducing Prachuap Khiri Khan

Framed by limestone cliffs and islands, and studded with colourful fishing boats, the sleepy seaside town of Prachuap Khiri Khan is a charming place to get off the faràng trail for a while. The town is actually the provincial capital, but the ambience is nicely small-town relaxed. Attractions, with a small ‘a’, include climbing to a hill-top wat while being shadowed by a troop of monkeys, taking a leisurely motorbike ride to the excellent beaches north and south of town, or just enjoying some of Thailand’s freshest (and cheapest) seafood.

Development is coming slowly to Prachuap, and a few recent guesthouse openings have improved the level of accommodation. The local council has even splashed out on a ritzy new corniche (beachfront walkway). Blur your eyes just a bit (well, maybe a bit more), and you could almost be in the south of France.

Prachuap, specifically Ao Manao, was one of seven points on the gulf coast where Japanese troops landed on 8 December 1941 during their invasion of Thailand. Several street names around town commemorate the ensuing skirmish: Phithak Chat (Defend Country), Salachip (Sacrifice Life) and Suseuk (Fight Battle).

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009