The Phetchaburi River bridge in front of Wat Mahathat, known as Saphan Yai (The Big Bridge), has been in use for a long time. Originally built from wood, the bridge collapsed due to damage from fire and flooding. Previously, passenger boats were used to cross the river. However, the Phetchaburi Municipality built a new reinforced concrete bridge that allows automobiles to cross.

Begin your walking journey from Saphan Yai by looking for a bright red steel pole with the words “Phetchaburi Riverfront Market” and a WABU sign. Scan the QR code, then start your walking journey of over 400 meters to discover a vibrant collection of street art paintings.

Local artists created the paintings, which tell the story of the Chinese-Thai community, images captured during the flood, Khao Chae, the colorful market culture, “Nong Tanoad,” the Phetchaburi Province mascot, a royal painting of King Rama IX, and various cats for cat lovers to enjoy.

Travel Tip: Saphan Yai is a wonderful place to take photos with the majestic five-spire prang of Wat Mahathat as the backdrop.

Parking: Visitors can park their cars in Wat Mahathat’s parking lot.

The riverfront market’s delicious Khao Chae is made using a secret recipe passed down from Mae Orn’s grandmother. Mae Orn learned how to make Khao Chae as a child and has been selling it ever since. She follows her grandmother’s original recipe, which is painstaking in every detail.

Starting with the rice, the grains must be beautifully separated, not too hard or too mushy, and polished until clear and free of mucus before soaking in scented water mixed with candle smoke and jasmine, with floating ylang-ylang flowers to add a refreshing fragrance. Mae Orn’s offers three kinds of side dishes: sweet fried stingray, shrimp paste balls, and stir sried sweet preserved radish. All of these need talent and knowledge to create. The dishes are ideal for enjoying at the stall or purchasing as souvenirs.

Opening hours: Daily from 8:30 to 16:00

For almost 60 years, the renowned Mae Dang Tod Mun shop in the riverside market has been sharing its cherished recipe from mother to daughter. The key to superb flavor lies in the carefully selected ingredients of pure Indian mackerel, with no flour to dilute the taste, complemented by the genuine Phetchaburi chili paste.

Fried to perfection, it offers a hot, firm, and chewy texture, bursting with the rich taste of curry paste, complemented by crispy fried basil leaves that boost the flavor experience. On top of that, it’s just 30 baht for a set! To truly enjoy the flavors of Phetchaburi, combine tod mun with khanom jeen, then drizzle with a sweet and sour sauce that has a hint of spice, and add cucumber and ground peanuts for a further punch of flavor. Missing this dish is like you haven’t truly experienced Phetchaburi.

Opening hours: Every day from 8:00 until 16:00.

A historical bridge that King Rama IV commissioned during the construction of Khao Wang, also known as Phra Nakhon Khiri, serves as an important link for Phetchaburi residents commuting to the city center, spanning the Phetchaburi River. This bridge holds significance not just for its stunning architecture but also for its unique opening ceremony, where 9 elephants were brought to walk across it as part of the inaugural festivities. The elephants were tied to the bridge for three days and three nights, demonstrating its capacity to withstand such enormous weight. The locals have since fondly dubbed the bridge “Elephant Bridge.”

This traditional teak house has proudly stood for 120 years on the banks of the Phetchaburi River and was once the residence of an affluent family. Now transformed into a guesthouse and restaurant named “Rabiang Rim Nam,” it beautifully preserves its original architectural charm. During the backpacker boom, this location gained recognition in the famous guidebook Lonely Planet, turning it into a sought-after spot for international tourists.

It became popular again in 2010 when it served as a location for the film “A Little Thing Called Love,” leading to a steady influx of fans keen to visit. The restaurant offers an impressive selection of traditional Phetchaburi foods, featuring dishes like “Kaeng Kua Hua Plee” (spicy palm curry with ginger and chile) and “Keaw Whan Pla Krai” (green curry with snakehead fish), along with many other dishes. The restaurant also serves “Khanom Tan,” a local beloved dessert made by the owner herself.

Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-00:00.

Wat Phlap Phla Chai was built in the late Ayutthaya period. Initially, the site served as a venue for military meetings and soldier training rather than functioning as a temple. A royal pavilion also graced the banks of the Phetchaburi River. The temple’s construction took into account the unique features of its location, leading to the name “Wat Phlap Phla Chai,” which helps people recall its historical importance.

The museum, nestled within the Phra Khanthararat Temple, stands out as one of the temple’s attractions. This collection showcases 32 ancient shadow puppets, crafted by ‘Luang Pho Rit,’ the abbot, along with his dedicated disciples, who are committed to keeping this captivating performing art alive in the hearts of all who visit.

Opening hours: By appointment only, 08 6344 4418 (Phi Noi)

Sunthorn Phu Memorial Park is located on the waterfront behind Wat Phlap Phla Chai. This is believed to be the location where the celebrated poet once sailed, as indicated in his final poem, Nirat Mueang Phet.

The newly constructed ‘Phetchaburi River Bridge’ is adjacent to the park, and the Royal Property Market is located on the opposite side of the river. The design is inspired by the unique art style of Phetchaburi craftsmen. The purpose of this project is to promote tourism, protect the riverfront community’s lifestyle, and connect the people on both banks of the Phetchaburi River.

On the Khlong Krachaeng community side, you’ll find two interesting street art locations. The first one illustrates an impressive painting that illustrates the history of Phetchaburi, spanning from the Sukhothai period to the present by ‘Ziam Type’, a famous group of typeface designers.

The second site features a painting of Thailand’s beloved actor ‘Mitr Chaibancha’, who sadly passed away in 1970 while filming the final scene of Insee Thong, leaving behind a legacy of 266 acting works. What makes Mitr Chaibancha so special? It is because this extraordinary actor is Phetchaburi’s favorite son.

A trip in the Khlong Krachaeng neighborhood concluded with a delicious meal at Kuay Jap Na Wat Mahathat, a little eatery favored by locals and travelers alike.

Its appeal lies not only in its wonderful flavor but also in its charming nostalgia. This shop began as a humble street vendor in Ton Chan Alley, where the owner diligently saved money to transform it into a diner within a commercial building, preserving its original charm for nearly 80 years. The pork belly and pork rind roasted over charcoal truly stand out; each piece is infused with aroma, the offal is fresh and free of any unpleasant smells, and the soup strikes a perfect balance. You can choose between thick or clear soup.

Opening : Thursday to Tuesday, from 10:30 to 16:00

This historical temple is considered a precious treasure of Phetchaburi. Historians suggest that it was constructed during the Dvaravati period. For a considerable time, it stood deserted until the reign of King Rama VI, who undertook extensive renovations and elevated it to the status of a royal temple in 1916.

This temple stands out for its rich history, art, and archaeology, especially the iconic “5-spire prang,” a true landmark in Phetchaburi’s old city, which can be clearly seen from every perspective of the town. Within, one can find a relic of Lord Buddha. The covered walkway features 193 stunning Buddha images, predominantly crafted in the late Ayutthaya and Phetchaburi styles, each showcasing its own unique charm.