![[Talk] The Ancient Town of Si Thep in Thailand: A Crossroads of Indianization](https://www.southeastasianarchaeology.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/the-ancient-town-of-si-thep-in-thailand-a-crossroads-of-indianization-502-120x86.jpg)
via Thai PBS, 30 January 2024: Khao Thamorrat, a mountain near Si Thep in Phetchabun province, Thailand, holds a significant place in history as a sacred site and natural landmark. The mountain, accessible by a steep trail, features a cave with ancient Buddhist sculptures and active stalagmites and stalactites. Despite the challenges of the climb, locals and visitors continue to make the pilgrimage to worship at Thamorrat Cave, keeping alive a tradition that dates back over a thousand years.
The mountain was also a sacred place of worship for the residents of Sri Thep, with the buildings all constructed to face Khao Thamorrat. Evidence of its religious importance can still be seen today in the low-relief sculptures in Dvaravati style lining a small cave at its peak.
Surprisingly, though, the trail that leads to the top of the undisturbed mountain might start in Sri Thep District but the cave itself is in Wichian Buri District.
From the monastery at the foothill, visitors can climb the mountain, which stands 500 metres above sea level, using the original natural walking tracks. The distance is around 1.5 kilometers but it is very steep and can be tough for those unused to such exertion.
