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Parks

Khao Phra Wihan National Park Area

4.3 · 1,290 reviews
A quiet place for scenic contemplation and historical observation.
Khao Phra Wihan National Park Area, Sao Thong Chai, Kantharalak District, Si Sa Ket 33110, Thailand
Interesting facts
1

Pha Mo E-Daeng features an ancient bas-relief of three figures carved directly into the cliffside sandstone.

2

The site sits at an elevation that creates a distinct microclimate, often resulting in a sea of fog during the cool season.

3

The park serves as a historical monitoring point for the international border dispute regarding the Preah Vihear Temple site.

4

The surrounding landscape is primarily tropical dry dipterocarp forest.

5

Pha Mo E-Daeng is one of the few places in Thailand where ancient Khmer sandstone carvings can be viewed outside of a formal temple complex.

Overview

Khao Phra Wihan National Park is located in the Dângrêk Mountains along the Thai-Cambodian border in Si Sa Ket province. The park's most prominent natural feature is the Pha Mo E-Daeng cliff, which provides panoramic views of the Preah Vihear Temple complex situated on the Cambodian side. Visitors can explore sandstone carvings dating back to the Angkorian period, specifically the 11th-century relief depicting three figures. The park area includes dense forest terrain and localized hiking trails leading to various geological formations. It serves as a conservation area for diverse flora and fauna within the Phanom Dong Rak mountain range. The site is geographically separated from the actual Preah Vihear temple ruins by a restricted border zone.

Photo spot

The observation deck at Pha Mo E-Daeng looking toward the Cambodian horizon.

Insider tips

Bring high-powered binoculars to get a clearer view of the distant Preah Vihear Temple complex.

Carry identification documents, as security checkpoints are present near the border zone.

Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the rocky paths near the cliff edges.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to cross into the restricted border zone surrounding the temple, as this is strictly prohibited.

Etiquette

Maintain a respectful distance from military security personnel; follow all signage regarding restricted zones.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning during the cool season (November to February) to witness the fog and avoid midday heat.
Address
Khao Phra Wihan National Park Area, Sao Thong Chai, Kantharalak District, Si Sa Ket 33110, Thailand
14.416, 104.690
Get directions
Details
Geological FeaturesSandstone cliff formations
Historical Significance11th-century Khmer bas-reliefs

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning during the cool season (November to February) to witness the fog and avoid midday heat..

The observation deck at Pha Mo E-Daeng looking toward the Cambodian horizon.

Close by you'll find ผามออีแดง ประเทศไทย, Preah Vihear Temple, Prasat Preah Vihear Gopura 4.