Cha-am: If you happen to drive south through Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province, your eyes will likely be drawn to a series of strangely shaped limestone mountains stretching out in a form resembling a colossal "woman lying on her side." This is no mere coincidence of nature, but the origin of the famous tragic love legend from Thai literature, Sang Thong, and the birthplace of "Khao Nang Phanthurat National Park."
According to Thai News Agency, the history of this mountain is closely intertwined with Thai literature. The story tells of Nang Phanthurat, a kind-hearted giantess who lovingly adopted "Phra Sangkh" as her foster son, concealing her giant form as a human. One day, Phra Sangkh secretly bathed in a golden pond, donned the traditional attire of a forest dweller, and flew away.
Nang Phanthurat tried to find and pleaded for her beloved son to return, but Phra Sangkha, fearing the giant, refused to come down to her. She was so heartbroken that she died at that spot. Her body then transformed into the large limestone mountain we see today, with her head, torso, and legs clearly visible.
Upon entering the national park, you will experience the atmosphere of legend through real-life locations such as The Mirror of the Lady, a large gap in the canyon believed to be where Nang Phanthurat used to look in the mirror before getting dressed. This is a popular photo spot with a cool breeze and beautiful views of the scenery below.
Other highlights include Meru Nang Phanthurat, a wide stone platform resembling a cremation pyre, which legend says was where the body of a female giant was cremated. The Pond Where Prince Sangkh Washed His Body is a small pond that, according to legend, is where Prince Sangkh washed himself until his entire body turned gold. For the adventurous, there are nature trails leading to scenic viewpoints on mountaintops, where you can see rare plant species and troops of monkeys living in their natural habitat.
Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park, located in the Khao Yai Subdistrict of Cha-am District, covers an area of approximately 1,562 rai. The majority of the area consists of limestone mountains, featuring unique and beautiful natural sculptures that stretch in a north-south direction, resembling a reclining giantess (Phanthurat). If you're looking for a getaway not far from Bangkok that offers a blend of history, literature, and pristine nature, Khao Nang Phanthurat is the answer.