Rating: 4.4/5 (7 votes)

Open Days: Every day

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Ancient Skeleton Cemetery in Moo 9, Khao Samsip Subdistrict, Khao Chakan District, Sa Kaeo Province, is an important archaeological site in Eastern Thailand. Set on low plains near the foothills of Khao Samsip, the site holds great historical and anthropological value thanks to evidence of prehistoric human burials accompanied by grave goods such as earthenware vessels, stone beads, metal ornaments, and animal bones. Together they reflect burial customs and beliefs in an afterlife held by the communities of the distant past.

 

According to surveys by the Fine Arts Department and local authorities, the site occupies an oval earthen mound about 60 × 150 meters, rising roughly 2 meters above the surrounding terrain – comparable to a compact ancient settlement. Excavations uncovered numerous human skeletons aligned in rows, typically laid on their backs with heads to the south. Some burials had pottery placed beside the body, while carnelian stone beads and multicolored glass beads were found around the head and wrists. These finds are key indicators of long-distance cultural exchange with the Indian subcontinent in antiquity.

 

In addition to artifacts, traces of animal bones, charcoal, and burned soil were recorded, possibly linked to pre-burial rites or offerings to the spirits of the deceased. Such evidence points to sophisticated spiritual practices in late prehistoric society, involving veneration, dedication of goods, and preparing necessities for the journey into the next world.

 

The area surrounding the site is predominantly agricultural, retaining a quiet rural atmosphere. It suits travelers interested in history and archaeology as well as those seeking the charm of the Eastern Thai countryside. While this is not a fully commercial tourist attraction, it preserves the tangible “marks of time” that allow visitors to appreciate human presence in Sa Kaeo thousands of years ago.

 

Getting There From the Chanthaburi–Sa Kaeo Road, turn off at Ban Wang Ri in Khao Chakan Subdistrict and drive into the village for about 1.5 kilometers to reach Moo 9, Khao Samsip, where the site is located. Private cars or motorcycles can access the route, which alternates between concrete and laterite/gravel. Drive carefully, especially in the rainy season when surfaces can be slippery and some sections may hold water.

 

For deeper study, contact the Sa Kaeo Provincial Cultural Office or local archaeological authorities, who typically hold conservation details and excavation reports. General visitors should respect the site, avoid disturbing or moving any cultural objects, and limit photography to areas outside excavation zones so that this cultural heritage may be preserved for the future.

 

 

A: Yes. It is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. However, please notify local authorities before visiting, as some zones are sensitive archaeological areas requiring special care.

 

A: Based on archaeological evidence, it dates to the late prehistoric period, approximately 2,500–1,500 years ago.

 

A: From the Chanthaburi–Sa Kaeo Road, turn at Ban Wang Ri (Khao Chakan) and drive about 1.5 km into Moo 9, Khao Samsip.

 

A: Combine your visit with Wat Tham Khao Chakan (bat-watching at dusk), or head to Pang Sida National Park and Lalu, both within roughly an hour’s drive.

 

A: Yes. Options in Khao Chakan include Coffee Hills Cafe’, Wood House, and Sonne Resort, all about 10–15 minutes away.