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Kamphaeng Phet had played a major role as strategic front-line frontiers since Sukhothai was the kingdom's capital down through the times of Ayutthaya and early Rattanakosin (Bangkok) eras. In fact, the name Kamphaeng Phet actually means as strong as walls or forts make of diamonds.
To its East are riverine flatlands while the western areas are made up of high mountains lush with fertile forests where a number of national parks have been established.
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park features several historic temples within the old walled city. There is also Kamphaeng Phet National Museum housing sculpted Buddha heads, earthenware and celadon pottery.
Slightly to the north, a second portion of the park features more ancient temples, including the large Wat Chang Rop with its myriad elephant heads on a small hill, and Wat Phra Si Iriyabot, with Buddha images in four attitudes in front of a pond.
In the hills of Khlong Lan and Mae Wong national parks there are fast rivers ideal for rafting, trekking routes, waterfalls and some rock-climbing stations which is popular for camping. |