Prachin Buri attractions

Attractions in Thailand

Operating day: Daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

The Phra Phakdi Decha Monument in Prachinburi Province is an important memorial built to honor the bravery and sacrifice of Phra Phakdi Decha, also known as Thao Uthen, a local war hero of Prachinburi. He was originally the son of Thao Soi Pia Mueang Saen and migrated from Vientiane to Siam during the reign of King Rama III in 1826. Later, he settled at Ban Dong Yang (Ban Mueang Kao) in Prachantakham District.

In 1833, Thao Uthen was appointed governor of Prachantakham and received the noble title of Luang Phakdi Decha. His remarkable military service, especially during the war against the Yuan forces invading Phnom Penh, earned him the role of front-line commander under Chao Phraya Bodindecha (Sing). His courage led King Rama III to bestow upon him the title Phra Phakdi Decha. However, he eventually fell on the battlefield, and his legacy was preserved as a symbol of loyalty and sacrifice.

Today, the Phra Phakdi Decha Monument stands in Prachantakham District, Prachinburi, serving as both a historical landmark and a spiritual center for the local community. Every year on December 25, a memorial ceremony and ritual offerings are held at the monument. These ceremonies are attended by provincial officials, military and police officers, students, and local residents, creating an atmosphere of reverence and gratitude. The annual event not only commemorates Thao Uthen’s heroism but also serves as an opportunity for younger generations to learn about the history of sacrifice and loyalty in Thailand.

For visitors, the monument is more than just a historical site—it is a place that reflects the pride and cultural heritage of Prachinburi, making it a meaningful stop on a journey to explore the province.

Name	Phra Phakdi Decha Monument (Thao Uthen)
Location	Prachantakham District, Prachinburi Province
Characteristics	Memorial honoring the heroic deeds and sacrifice of Phra Phakdi Decha
Period	Reign of King Rama III (1826–1851)
Key Evidence	Historical records of the Yuan war and noble appointment documents
Name Origin	Named after Phra Phakdi Decha (Thao Uthen), a local war hero
Travel	Accessible by car from Prachinburi town, approximately 20–30 minutes
Current Status	A major landmark and venue for annual memorial ceremonies
Contact Number	037-291-809, 037-410-388

Year (B.E.)	Key Events
2369 (1826)	Thao Uthen migrated from Vientiane to Siam during King Rama III’s reign
2376 (1833)	Appointed as Governor of Prachantakham with the title “Luang Phakdi Decha”
Late 1830s	Led the frontline troops in the war against the Yuan under Chao Phraya Bodindecha (Sing)
End of Life	Killed in battle and remembered as Phra Phakdi Decha, the war hero of Prachinburi
2534 (1991)	The Phra Phakdi Decha Monument was constructed in Prachantakham District
Present	Annual memorial and offering ceremonies are held every December 25

FAQ

Why was the Phra Phakdi Decha Monument built?

It was built to honor the bravery and sacrifice of Phra Phakdi Decha (Thao Uthen), the war hero of Prachinburi.

Who was Phra Phakdi Decha?

Originally named Thao Uthen, he was the son of Thao Soi Pia Mueang Saen from Vientiane. He migrated to Siam, became Governor of Prachantakham, and was later bestowed the noble title Phra Phakdi Decha for his bravery in battle.

When is the memorial ceremony held?

The annual memorial and offering ceremony takes place every year on December 25 at the monument.

How can visitors travel to the monument?

The site is about 20–30 minutes by car from Prachinburi town, located in Prachantakham District.

Phra Phakdi Decha Monument Map