Rating: 3.4/5 (7 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 06:00 – 18:00

 

King Rama V Inscription on Khao Chong Tako is a significant historical landmark of Ta Phraya District, Sa Kaeo Province. It sits on a hillside within Moo 5, Ban Mai Thai Thavorn, Taphaya Subdistrict. The site features the royal cypher of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) carved onto a rock face, associated with royal journeys and inspections along the Thai–Cambodian frontier in the late 19th to early 20th century. Its importance lies not only in the carved royal monogram but also in how it reflects Siam’s effort to organize governance along the margins, in line with the emergence of modern border demarcations across the Phanom Dong Rak range.

 

The name “Khao Chong Tako” reflects a pass-like terrain with undulating ridgelines long used by villagers for travel and farming. The royal cypher carved on a sloping rock surface underscores that this route once served strategic purposes for both military and administrative reasons, with views stretching across forest toward the border. Reaching the spot requires a short uphill walk from the parking area, lending the visit a calm, contemplative feel amid open mountain scenery.

 

The inscription embodies the state’s “self-declaration” during King Rama V’s reign, using the royal monogram as a visible marker for local communities—a sign of sovereignty and care for border residents. Standing before it, visitors sense time layered together: the past etched in stone, nature still encircling it, and the present as we face the same letters people once gazed up at over a century ago.

 

In its surroundings, the carving lies on a brownish–gray sandstone face weathered by the elements. Natural patina deepens the letter grooves under slanting light in the morning and late afternoon. Those hours also bring clearer shadow lines than at midday and make for a pleasant pause over tiered hills and the forest below.

 

Local histories often pair the Khao Chong Tako inscription with accounts of King Rama V’s inspections of provincial towns and borders in Siam’s east. Key themes include recording routes, geographic features, and the status of border communities for administration and protection. Some records referencing journeys and surveys around here note the roles of local officials and villagers who guided and provisioned the parties, reflecting ties between the state and communities far from the center.

 

Khao Chong Tako’s landscape is a low ridge with gentle knolls, open woodland, and drought–tolerant species such as Shorea and Dipterocarpus, scattered with shrubs. Underfoot are gravelly soils and sandy patches with exposed rock ledges in places. From the parking area, the short footpath to the inscription calls for shoes with good grip, drinking water, and refraining from clambering directly on the cliff for safety and to protect the carved surface.

 

The best time to visit is late rainy to early cool season, when skies are clearer and trails less slippery. From late year into the new year, northerly winds often open up long views across layered hills. Morning light is soft, while evenings bring warm golden tones; tree shadows cast across the rock help highlight the incised grooves.

 

For conservation, such inscriptions are vulnerable to scratching and touch. Sweat, oils, and abrasion can hasten deterioration. Respectful viewing is essential: keep a safe distance, avoid climbing the cliff, and do not use sprays, chalk, or powders to “bring out” the lines; do not rub with leaves or sand either, as this can cause permanent damage. Avoid open fires and littering of any kind.

 

Though not a large tourist site, its compactness makes the experience personal and focused. The short walk lets you hear wind, birds, and sometimes junglefowl or squirrels. Photographers might bring a mid–range lens (35–85 mm) for both landscape and detail shots. Journal keepers may jot a few field notes to capture the feel of a late afternoon on the hillside.

 

Along the main approach, Thonwithee Road (Highway 348) links Ta Phraya to Non Din Daeng, with small shops and fuel stations along the way. It’s wise to refuel and pack water and snacks in town, as there are typically no shops near the trailhead. Groups should coordinate with local authorities in Taphaya in advance for route advice and parking.

 

Ultimately, this small place matters because it fuses the state’s narrative with the landscape. The heart of the visit isn’t only seeing the letters but understanding why this point was chosen and how that act mirrors the country’s transitions. On the way down, a glance back at the path shows how just a few steps can draw us closer to the past.

 

Getting There From Ta Phraya District, take Highway 348 (Thonwithee Road) toward Non Din Daeng, follow signs to Taphaya Subdistrict and Ban Mai Thai Thavorn (Moo 5), then continue on local community roads to the Khao Chong Tako trailhead. Park on packed earth/gravel. From the parking area, walk a short uphill path (follow onsite signage). The trail is sandy with exposed rock in places; wear grippy footwear and avoid flip–flops in the rainy season.

 

 

 

 

A: Yes. It is open daily from 06:00–18:00. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or thunderstorms for safety.

 

A: No. It is an open natural site with no admission fee.

 

A: Morning and late afternoon, when slanting light casts shadows into the grooves for better visibility.

 

A: No. Bring water and essentials from Ta Phraya town; there are no shops near the trailhead.

 

A: Yes. The main approach is paved; the final stretch uses local community roads. Parking is available at the foot of the hill.

 

A: Around 10–15 minutes on a slightly steep but manageable trail.