Rating: 3.7/5 (6 votes)

Opening days: Daily

Opening hours: 07:00–18:00

 

Prince of Chumphon Shrine (Pak Nam Prasae) When traveling into Rayong Province via the main Sukhumvit Road toward the eastern coast, you’ll find a landmark turnoff at kilometer 278, opposite the entrance to Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park. Turn right and follow the local road for about 10 kilometers to reach the Prince of Chumphon Shrine—a revered sacred site for locals and passersby alike, and one of the key stopovers for paying respects in Klaeng District and the Pak Nam Prasae community.

 

This shrine was built in memory of Admiral Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, Prince of Chumphon, affectionately known by the people as “Sadej Tia,” the Father of the Royal Thai Navy. He played a pivotal role in laying the foundations of Thailand’s naval forces, with expertise in naval strategy, navigation, and traditional medicine. He is also revered as a spiritual protector—especially by those who work at sea—who come to pray for safe journeys and success in life.

 

As you enter the shrine grounds, you’ll see a clean, tiled courtyard adorned with naval flags and shaded by trees. At its center stands a life-sized statue of the Prince in full naval regalia, set upon an elegantly decorated pedestal. Visitors commonly offer garlands, roses, incense, candles, and model boats, praying for smooth sailing in life—particularly among seafarers or those embarking on long marine journeys.

 

On weekends and important occasions—such as the Prince’s memorial day on May 19 each year—the shrine becomes lively with ceremonies attended by the public, naval officers, and local residents. The celebrations include firecrackers, live performances of Royal Thai Navy music, and offerings from devotees nationwide, creating an atmosphere filled with dignity and pride in Thai history.

 

A long-held belief says that those who pay respects to the Prince with sincere intentions and steadfastness in doing good often have their wishes fulfilled—be it exams, entering public service, seafaring, or family matters. Locals recount how many return to give thanks, offering model boats and firecrackers in vow-redemption ceremonies, which has become a familiar sight here.

 

The shrine sits where you can view the Prasae River gently flowing toward the Gulf of Thailand. Lush mangrove forests stretch to the horizon. The soft sound of waves and a sea breeze lend the place a quiet calm—ideal for a moment of rest—before continuing on to nearby attractions such as Tung Prong Thong (Golden Mangrove Field), the Samae Phu Mangrove Forest, and the HTMS Prasae Memorial, all within just a few kilometers.

 

Beyond the main shrine, the grounds include smaller altars for offerings and incense, as well as community shops selling souvenirs and ritual items such as incense, candles, model boats, garlands, and scented water. Part of the proceeds supports shrine maintenance and community activities, making this not only a sacred site but also a focal point of local spirit.

 

The Prince of Chumphon Shrine at Pak Nam Prasae is closely intertwined with the history of this coastal community. Elders recall that in the past, this area served as a stopover for fishing and trading boats. When storms brewed or seas turned rough, fishermen would pray to the Prince for protection and, many times, they returned safely. In gratitude, villagers built the shrine, passing down their faith to this day.

 

The shrine also anchors local merit-making events such as almsgiving, fish releasing in the river, and offerings to the Prince and other local deities. These activities help connect younger generations to their roots and local history while boosting cultural tourism in Rayong Province.

 

Getting to the shrine is straightforward. From Rayong city, take Sukhumvit Road toward Chanthaburi; you’ll see clear signs at the turnoff. Turn right onto Rural Road RY.4026 (entrance to Pak Nam Prasae) and drive about 10 kilometers. The shrine sits by the roadside before the village. Without a private car, you can take a songthaew (local truck-bus) or rent a motorbike from Klaeng town. The route offers scenic views throughout—passing fruit orchards and historic fishing communities.

 

Most visitors plan a half-day or full-day trip—starting with paying respects at the shrine and enjoying the sea breeze, then continuing to Tung Prong Thong, a renowned eco-mangrove attraction. In the evening, stop for fresh seafood at community restaurants and watch the sunset near Prasae Pier—often called the most peaceful and beautiful moment of the trip.

 

The Prince of Chumphon Shrine is not merely a religious site; it embodies the Thai people’s faith and spirit toward those who served the nation. Visitors can feel a lineage of reverence carried across generations—through displayed objects, local stories, and a serene atmosphere scented with sea salt and wind. It’s a destination where auspiciousness and natural beauty come together.

 

As cultural tourism, the shrine is part of an itinerary to “visit coastal communities, learn history, and conserve nature,” connecting with nearby landmarks such as temples, the old Pak Nam Prasae quarter, and the Prasae Community Museum—which houses stories of fishing life, historic wooden boats, and rare archival photos. A stop at the shrine is like opening a chapter to both the spiritual and communal narratives of Prasae.

 

Photography enthusiasts will find beautiful light in both morning and evening. At dawn, the sun rises from the sea, casting warm light on the Prince’s statue and creating elegant reflections. At dusk, a golden glow washes over the water—perfect for landscape or portrait shots with a river and fishing-boat backdrop. On some days, you’ll see flocks of waterfowl returning to roost, adding to the natural calm.

 

What makes the shrine memorable is its simple yet powerful presence. There’s no extravagance in the architecture, but every element reflects sincere devotion. The white shrine contrasts with the blue sky and green river, evoking calm and steadiness. Many visitors sit quietly for a while, offer thanks to the Prince, and then continue their journey.

 

Getting there From Sukhumvit Road (Rayong–Chanthaburi), look for the marker at kilometer 278 opposite Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park’s turnoff. Turn right onto the rural road for about 10 kilometers. You’ll find the shrine along the roadside before entering the village. From Klaeng town, you can also take the direct Pak Nam Prasae road, with clear signage and smooth pavement throughout—ideal for cars or motorcycles. Without a private vehicle, you can charter a songthaew from Klaeng Market at a reasonable fare; travel time is about 20–25 minutes.

 

 

A: Open daily from 07:00–18:00. No admission fee.

 

A: Take Sukhumvit Road (Rayong–Chanthaburi) and turn right at km 278 onto Rural Road RY.4026 for about 10 km, or use the main entrance route to Pak Nam Prasae. Signage is clear along the way.

 

A: A life-sized statue of the Prince, historical plaques, worship altars, and community stalls selling offerings such as model boats, garlands, and souvenirs.

 

A: Yes. A spacious parking area in front of the shrine accommodates private cars and medium-sized tour buses.

 

A: Dress modestly. Avoid tight or overly short clothing out of respect for the sacred site.

 

A: Yes. Community shops and seafood restaurants are within a short walk—no more than 300 meters from the shrine.

 

A: Tung Prong Thong (3 km), Samae Phu Mangrove Forest (4 km), and the HTMS Prasae Memorial (5 km).

 

A: From November to May, when the weather is clear, seas are calmer, and conditions suit culture-focused trips.