The Ancient Fortress City and a Key Guardian of Thailand’s Historical Heartland
Kamphaeng Phet Province is a historically significant province in Northern Thailand, renowned for its role as a strategic fortress city of the Sukhothai Kingdom. Famous for ancient ruins, laterite walls, and national parks, Kamphaeng Phet represents Thailand’s military, architectural, and cultural strength during its classical era.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Kamphaeng Phet played a crucial defensive role in early Thai history.
Key Historical Timeline
| Year/Period | Major Event |
|---|---|
| 13th century | Founded as a frontier city of the Sukhothai Kingdom |
| 14th–15th century | Flourished as a military stronghold |
| 15th century | Integrated into Ayutthaya Kingdom |
| 18th century | Becomes part of Siam |
| 1933 | Established as a modern Thai province |
The city’s name literally means “Diamond Wall”, reflecting its fortress role.
🧭 Basic Provincial Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Kamphaeng Phet Province |
| Capital City | Kamphaeng Phet |
| Region | Lower Northern Thailand |
| Governor (2025) | Appointed by Ministry of Interior |
| Area | ~8,607 sq km |
| Population (2025 est.) | ~730,000 |
| Time Zone | UTC +7 |
| Main Languages | Thai, Northern Thai |
| ISO Code | TH-62 |
⚖️ Government & Administration
Kamphaeng Phet operates under Thailand’s provincial administrative system.
| Level | Authority |
|---|---|
| Province | Governor |
| District | District Chiefs (Amphoe) |
| Local | Municipalities & Subdistrict Administrative Organizations |
Administration is coordinated from Kamphaeng Phet Provincial Hall.
🗺️ Administrative Districts of Kamphaeng Phet
Kamphaeng Phet Province consists of 11 districts (Amphoe):
Mueang Kamphaeng Phet
Sai Ngam
Khlong Lan
Khanu Woralaksaburi
Khlong Khlung
Phran Kratai
Lan Krabue
Sai Thong Watthana
Pang Sila Thong
Bueng Samakkhi
Kosamphi Nakhon
These districts include historic towns, agricultural plains, and forested areas.
🌐 Geography & Environment
Topography: River plains, hills, forests
Major River: Ping River
Borders: Sukhothai, Tak, Phitsanulok, Nakhon Sawan
Natural Features:
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Khlong Lan National Park
Mae Wong National Park
Forest reserves & river basins
Kamphaeng Phet balances heritage sites with rich natural landscapes.
🏘️ Local Government Structure
Local administration includes:
Kamphaeng Phet City Municipality
Town municipalities (Khlong Lan, Khlong Khlung)
Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (TAO/SAO)
Urban planning emphasizes historical preservation.
🧩 Provincial Development & Priorities
Kamphaeng Phet focuses on:
Heritage conservation & tourism
Agriculture (rice, sugarcane, cassava)
Eco-tourism & national parks
Regional logistics & trade routes
Cultural education
The province promotes heritage-led development.
🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Kamphaeng Phet Provincial Police | Law enforcement |
| Forestry & Park Rangers | Environmental protection |
| Disaster Prevention Units | Flood & drought response |
The province maintains a stable and safe environment.
🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religion | Buddhism (Theravada) |
| Cultural Identity | Sukhothai–Ayutthaya heritage |
| Local Language | Thai |
| Traditional Events | Temple festivals, historical commemorations |
Major Religious & Historical Sites:
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park
Wat Phra Kaeo
Wat Phra That
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Rice, sugarcane, cassava |
| Tourism | Historical & eco-tourism |
| Forestry Products | Wood & non-timber products |
| Trade | Regional commerce |
Kamphaeng Phet’s economy is rooted in agriculture and heritage tourism.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Higher Education | Kamphaeng Phet Rajabhat University |
| Vocational Training | Agriculture & trades |
| Major Hospitals | Kamphaeng Phet Hospital |
Educational institutions support regional development.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Roads | National highways linking north & central Thailand |
| Nearest Airport | Phitsanulok Airport |
| Public Transport | Buses & local services |
Kamphaeng Phet serves as a transport bridge between regions.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Attractions:
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park (UNESCO)
Khlong Lan Waterfall
Mae Wong National Park
Ancient city walls & forts
Ping River viewpoints
The province attracts history lovers and eco-tourists.
🌍 Regional & Historical Role
Strategic fortress of Sukhothai Kingdom
UNESCO World Heritage province
Agricultural supply region
Gateway between Northern & Central Thailand
📝 Summary
Kamphaeng Phet Province stands as a monument to Thailand’s ancient strength — a land of fortress cities, UNESCO heritage ruins, fertile plains, and national parks. Its historical importance and natural richness make it a cornerstone of Northern Thailand’s identity.
📢 News & Articles
“UNESCO Heritage Preservation in Kamphaeng Phet”
“Eco-Tourism Development Around Mae Wong”
“Historical Cities of the Sukhothai Era”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, delivering structured, accurate, and expandable provincial documentation.