Prachuap Khiri Khan means 鈥榯own among the mountain chain'. Although little more than a fishing port; the town - which; depending on who you speak to; is either the last provincial capital in Central Thailand; or the first provincial capital in the south - has a distinct charm to it; and is well off the beaten tourist track. That is; tourists pass through all the time; but they rarely stop.

In historical terms; Prachuap is significant as one of the seven landing points where Imperial Japanese troops stormed ashore in 1941; on their way south to occupy Malaya and Singapore. Today; however; the town is a pleasant; laid-back fishing port with colorfully-painted fishing vessels at anchor in the harbor and an attractive waterfront walking street with some very good and reasonably priced restaurants. These aside; there is no nightlife worth speaking of. The town is ringed on the land side with rugged limestone mountains; one of which - Khao Chong Krajok; or 鈥榤irror tunnel mountain' - is pierced with a natural opening that appears not unlike a giant mirror; and which is perhaps the town's most famous natural landmark.

Perched atop Khao Chong Krajok; high above the town; and at the top of a long flight of stone stairs; a revered temple called Wat Thammikaram serves as Prachuap's most revered site; and offers - besides spiritual enlightenment - fine views across the town and the bay.