Si Thep Historical Park

📍 Location of Si Thep Historical Park 🚘 Directions to Si Thep Historical Park

About Si Thep Historical Park

The Si Thep Historical Park, one of the 11 historical parks in Thailand, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. Despite not being as popular as other parks, it is well-maintained and holds a wealth of historical significance. The park has been recognized for its cultural importance and is on Thailand’s list of “tentative” UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The ancient city of Si Thep, located within the park, is divided into two sections, both surrounded by moats and walls. The park is expansive, and visitors are advised to use the free shuttle service provided to reach the park highlights. The entrance fee for foreign visitors is 100 baht. The city was surveyed by Prince Damrong Raanubhab in 1904, who discovered historical references to the town, which had been abandoned and reclaimed by vegetation.

Although not many ruins remain, the ones that do are quite fascinating. The Prang Song Phi Nong and Prang Si Thep, dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries, are particularly noteworthy. The laterite and brick monuments that date back to the 8th century are also of interest. The base of Khao Klang Nai is adorned with stunning stucco motifs, and despite looting over the years, several remain beautifully intact.

The large Khao Klang Nok Monument, located about 2 kilometers north of the main ancient city of Si Thep, is a sight to behold. It's comprised of a massive laterite base, measuring 64 meters square and 20 meters high. On top of the laterite base are the remains of what was once a huge brick stupa, now collapsed into a pile of brick rubble.

The Si Thep Historical Park also administers the Tamorat Cave, which reportedly contains some fabulous ancient stone carvings. However, the cave site is not set up for tourists and can only be visited with special approval that must be requested at least 7 days in advance. The cave site is about 15 kilometers west of Si Thep and there are no signs leading to it.

The ancient city of Si Thep is located near Petchabun. The extensive site has an inner town and outer town, both surrounded by moats. There are a number of ruins but only three large structures. Prang Si Thep and Prang Song Phi Nong are Hindu temples while Khao Klang Nai is a Buddhist temple. The Museum near the entrance houses some interesting artefacts.

Despite some visitors finding the park poorly organized, others appreciate the small and splendid ruins. After visiting the museum at the entrance, which tells the history of the place, visitors can explore the ruins. The Siblings Pagoda, with its splendid mural of Shiva and his wife, is a highlight. The park is not well-known even among Thai people, making it a unique destination for those traveling to the North-eastern region of Thailand.

The park is a nice place for a short visit, especially in the late afternoon when the visitor center is still open and the ruins can be explored in the cooler temperatures. The park is quiet and peaceful, with trees providing some shade. A quick visit to the visitor center can be quite informative and interesting. The grounds are well kept and the ruins are worth a quick look.

The Si Thep Historical Park deserves to be more well-known. It is easy to find and offers a unique experience for visitors. Some of the plaster moldings remain intact, unlike at many of the more famous places. A trip here is well worth it, and can be enjoyed by both adults and children alike.