Sa Kaeo

Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush forests, Sa Kaeo is a hidden gem in Thailand waiting to be discovered. This tranquil province offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic Thai experience.

History of Sa Kaeo

Sa Kaeo

Sa Kaeo's past stretches back centuries, whispering tales of ancient civilizations. Archaeological evidence suggests settlements thrived here during the Neolithic and Metal Age. Fast forward to the 6th century, and Sa Kaeo finds itself playing a pivotal role as a major center of the Khmer Empire.  Magnificent Khmer temples, like those found at Phanom Rung Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand as testaments to this era's architectural and artistic brilliance.

Sa Kaeo's story continues through the rise and fall of various Thai kingdoms.  For a period, it even served as a satellite town to the prominent Prachinburi province.  Finally, in 1993, Sa Kaeo earned its well-deserved recognition as a standalone province, ready to write its own future while preserving its rich historical tapestry.  Today, Sa Kaeo offers a unique blend of Khmer and Thai influences, inviting visitors to explore its captivating past alongside its natural beauty.

Attractions of Sa Kaeo

Places to Visit in Sa Kaeo

• Prasat Sdok Kok Thom: An ancient Khmer temple from the 11th century, bearing a strong historical and architectural mark.

Prasat Sdok Kok Thom

• La-lu: A pristine land with majestic red rock hills, suitable for exploring and taking pictures.

La-lu

• Prasat Khao Noi: A small temple on a hilltop, offering stunning natural scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.

Prasat Khao Noi

• Pang Sida National Park: A vast nature reserve with a diverse ecosystem, where you can explore caves, waterfalls, and many other outdoor activities.
• Khao Chakan: A majestic limestone mountain range with many mysterious caves and breathtaking scenery, attracts adventurous tourists.

Khao Chakan

Food

Sa Kaeo's cuisine is a delightful mix of Khmer and Thai influences. Here are some local favorites:

• Khao Soi Sa Kaeo: Unique twist on the classic Khao Soi curry noodle soup.
• Pla Ra (bold flavors): Fermented fish dish with a strong aroma, a local specialty.
• Aep Pak Miang: Spicy jungle salad with a refreshing mix of vegetables.
• Kai Yang: Simple yet flavorful grilled chicken marinated in herbs and spices.
• Yum Kai Dao: Zesty minced chicken salad with a perfect balance of flavors.

Khao Soi Sa Kaeo

Traveling Cost of Sa Kaeo

Sa Kaeo offers a budget-friendly travel experience compared to other popular destinations in Thailand. Here's a breakdown of estimated costs to help you plan your trip:

Accommodation:

• Budget guesthouses: $5-10 per night
• Mid-range hotels: $20-50 per night
• Luxury resorts: $50+ per night

Food:

• Street food: $1-3 per meal
• Local restaurants: $5-10 per meal
• Mid-range restaurants: $10-20 per meal
• Fine dining: $20+ per meal

Transportation:

• Bus from Bangkok: $5-10
• Train from Bangkok: $5-10
• Car rental: $20-30 per day
• Taxi: $1-2 per km

Activities:

• Phanom Rung Historical Park: 200 baht admission fee
• Khao Yai National Park: 400 baht admission fee
• Ta Muen Temple: Free admission
• Sa Kaeo Zoo: 100 baht admission fee

Other expenses:

• Souvenirs: $10-20
• Sim card: $5-10
• Travel insurance: $10-20 per day

Best Time to Visit Sa Kaeo

Best Time to Visit Sa Kaeo

Sa Kaeo welcomes visitors year-round, but to truly maximize your experience, consider the weather:

• The Cool Season (November - February): Arguably the best time to visit, this period offers comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and sunshine, ideal for exploring historical sites like Phanom Rung and hiking in Khao Yai National Park.
• The Shoulder Seasons (March & October): These months offer decent weather with slightly higher temperatures and a dip in tourist crowds, making it a good option for budget-conscious travelers who prefer a quieter atmosphere. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Festivals and Events:

• February: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Sa Kaeo Zoo Fair, featuring animal presentations, cultural performances, and delicious food stalls.

How to Get to Sa Kaeo

Sa Kaeo boasts good accessibility from Bangkok, offering convenient options:

• By Bus: Numerous comfortable and affordable buses depart from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours and costs around $5-10.
• By Train: Several daily trains connect Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station to Aranyaprathet station in Sa Kaeo province. The train ride is a scenic option, taking roughly 4-5 hours and costing $5-10.
• By Car: If you prefer the freedom and flexibility of a road trip, driving from Bangkok takes 3-4 hours depending on traffic. Car rental companies in Bangkok offer various vehicle options, with prices starting at around $20-30 per day.

Explore Sa Kaeo with Asia King Travel!

From the magnificence of ancient Khmer temples like Phanom Rung to the lush beauty of Khao Yai National Park, Sa Kaeo offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and culture.  

Contact Asia King Travel today and let us craft your dream Sa Kaeo adventure!