Khao Yoi

Khao Yoi (เขาย้อย) is a district in the northern part of Phetchaburi Province, covering 305 km² with a population of about 38,000. Established in 1897 as Huai Luang, it was renamed Khao Yoi in 1903 after the distinctive limestone hill that rises beside Phet Kasem Highway.

The district takes its name from Khao Yoi hill, which contains several caves including one converted into a cave temple with a notable reclining Buddha. Khao Yoi is also home to communities of the Lao Song (Thai Song Dam) ethnic group, whose ancestors migrated from Laos. Their traditional villages, particularly Ban Nong Prong and Ban Thap Khang, preserve distinct culture, dress, and cuisine.

The best time to visit is November to February. The hot season (March–June) is dry and dusty; the rainy season (July–October) brings lush hills.

By Plane

The nearest airports are Suvarnabhumi (BKK), about 130 km northeast, and Hua Hin (HHQ), about 70 km south.

By Train

Khao Yoi has its own railway station on the southern line, with regular services connecting to Phetchaburi and Bangkok. The journey from Bangkok takes about 3 hours.

By Car / Road

Khao Yoi sits on Phet Kasem Road (Highway 4), the main north-south highway, about 15 km north of Phetchaburi town. Buses running between Bangkok and Hua Hin/Phetchaburi stop at Khao Yoi. From Phetchaburi, it is a 15-minute drive north.

Songthaews connect the town with surrounding villages. The district centre is small and walkable, but a private vehicle is useful for visiting the Thai Song Dam villages and Tham Khao Yoi.

• Tham Khao Yoi (ถ้ำเขาย้อย) — The namesake limestone hill with several caves containing Buddha images. King Mongkut (Rama IV) practised meditation here while in the monkhood. The main cave has a large reclining Buddha.

• Lao Song / Thai Song Dam Tribal Villages — At Ban Nong Prong and Ban Thap Khang, communities of ethnic Lao Song preserve traditional Lao culture, dress, and cuisine. In April they hold the Thai Song Dam Festival with folk plays and entertainment.

• Wat Kuti (วัดกุฏิ) — Temple with a bot (ordination hall) made entirely from carved teak wood, the outer surface carved into scenes from the Buddha's life.

• Huai Sai Wildlife Breeding Centre — 14 km east of Cha-am at km220 on Phet Kasem Road, then 4 km down a branch road. A conservation centre for wild mammals and birds in a shady area.

• Thai Song Dam Festival (ประเพณีไทยทรงดำ) — Held annually on 18 April at Song Dam Village. Features merit-making, folk plays, authentic Thai Song Dam cuisine, and villagers in traditional costumes.

• Cave exploration at Khao Yoi — Explore the limestone caves with their stalactites and Buddha images.

Small restaurants in the town serve standard Thai dishes. During the Thai Song Dam Festival, authentic Lao Song cuisine is on offer, including grilled meats and sticky rice.

Fresh coconut water and fruit shakes from local markets. Bottled water is recommended.

Accommodation in Khao Yoi is limited to basic guesthouses, 300–600 baht. Most visitors stay in Phetchaburi town or Cha-am and visit Khao Yoi as a day trip.

Khao Yoi's local markets sell agricultural produce, crafts from the Thai Song Dam community including traditional textiles, and local snacks. Palm sugar and fresh fruits are available.

• Phetchaburi (15 km south, 15 min) — Provincial capital with Khao Wang Palace, historic temples, and traditional market.
• Ban Lat (10 km south, 15 min) — District known for palm sugar production and countryside cycling.
• Ban Laem (20 km east, 25 min) — Coastal district with salt farms, birdwatching at Pak Thale, and fishing villages.
• Amphawa (25 km northeast, 30 min) — Famous floating market in Samut Songkhram with firefly boat tours.