Khao Praya Phai Ruea

Khao Phraya Phai Ruea is a limestone hill in the Lan Sak district of Uthai Thani, rising on its own out of the surrounding farmland to about 257 m. Seen from a distance it is said to resemble a Chinese junk, and a natural moat-like channel runs around part of its base. Local legend explains the name — “the lord who paddled a boat” — with a story of a nobleman who fled a palace scandal over an affair with a royal concubine and hid in a cave here. It’s a quiet, non-commercial spot rather than a climbing destination — the draw is the hill itself, its caves and the views from the top.

A network of small linked caves runs into the hill — among them Tham Kaew, Tham Si Chomphu (the “pink cave”), Tham Thong Phra Rong and Tham Phutthasathan — with electric lighting fitted so visitors can see the stalactites and stalagmites without their own torch. A temple, Wat Khao Phraya Phai Ruea, sits at the site, giving it the feel of a working local shrine as much as a viewpoint. Steps and paths lead up to points that look out across a patchwork of rice fields and the low hills running west toward the Huai Kha Khaeng forest, and the forested slopes are good for birdlife.

The atmosphere is rural and unhurried, with more local visitors than tourists. Mornings are cooler and clearer; the light late in the day is best for the view over the fields. There is little development at the site, so come prepared to make your own way around.

Khao Phraya Phai Ruea is about 59 km from Uthai Thani town, signed off Highway 3438 in Lan Sak district, and easiest reached with your own transport. Entry is free and it is open through the day. Bring water, sun cover and shoes with grip for the steps, plus a torch for the cave. It sits near other Lan Sak sights — Hup Pa Tat, Khao Pha Raet and Thap Salao Dam — for a fuller day in western Uthai Thani.