Shrine of Tham Kratai Thong, Kamphaeng Phet Province, is a sacred site that reflects the local beliefs and legends of the people of Pran Kratai District. The shrine’s significance lies not only in the beauty of its architecture but also in the rich historical and cultural stories it embodies. According to legend, a young hunter once went to hunt in the lowland forest near the present-day Wat Pho. He encountered a golden rabbit with strikingly beautiful fur. Although he tried to catch it, he could not. Impressed by the rabbit’s beauty, he went to inform his relatives, who also attempted to catch it. However, the golden rabbit ran into the bushes and eventually disappeared. This event led the young man and his family to relocate and settle in the area, giving rise to the Pran Kratai community. The legend of the golden rabbit thus became the foundation for local faith and cultural significance.

 

Visitors to the Shrine of Tham Kratai Thong believe that paying respects and making offerings can bring luck, success, and protection from danger. Many also come to pray for prosperity, good health, and the safety of their families. During important festivals and the local New Year, ceremonial activities and merit-making are held to bring auspiciousness. Therefore, the shrine is not only a sacred place but also a cultural and social center for the people of Pran Kratai.

 

Traveling to the Shrine of Tham Kratai Thong is convenient by car or public transport. From Kamphaeng Phet city, take Highway 101 (Kamphaeng Phet–Sukhothai Road) for about 25 kilometers. At the Pran Kratai intersection, turn right into the district center and follow signs to the shrine. Visitors interested in historical and cultural tourism can pay respects to the sacred site, learn about local legends, and enjoy the peaceful rural atmosphere of Kamphaeng Phet Province.

 

The Shrine of Tham Kratai Thong is a must-visit destination, not only for its sacredness but also as a symbol of the golden rabbit legend and the local people’s connection to nature and culture. Visiting the shrine offers both a spiritual experience and valuable insights into the region’s local history.