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Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park

The memorial park in Ban Nam Khem, the fishing village north of Khao Lak that the 2004 tsunami nearly destroyed, with a curved wall of victims' names. Free.

4.3(1,741)
Directions

Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 08:00–20:00

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.

Details

Full opening hours
Monday08:00–20:00
Tuesday08:00–20:00
Wednesday08:00–20:00
Thursday08:00–20:00
Friday08:00–20:00
Saturday08:00–20:00
Sunday08:00–20:00

Why go, and how to do it well

Ban Nam Khem was a fishing village on the coast north of Khao Lak, and on 26 December 2004 the tsunami nearly wiped it out. The memorial park built in its memory centers on a long curved wall, shaped to recall the wave, set with plaques bearing the names of more than a thousand of the people who died in the area. There's also a seated Buddha.

It's a quieter, more personal place than Police Boat 813 in Bang Niang, about 25 km to the south, and it's the one I'd add if the boat leaves you wanting to understand more. Some of the displays have faded, and the wall is the reason to come.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026

Stay within reach of Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park

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Experience hints

Pair your visit. After Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park, round out your day in Khao Lak with contrasting stops nearby.

V758+M3G, Amphoe Takua Pa

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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

Mind Your Feet

Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.

Ask Before Photographing

Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.

Go Early Morning

Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.

Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park worth visiting?

Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park holds a 4.3★ rating from 1,741 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Khao Lak.

What are the opening hours of Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park?

Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park is typically open 08:00–20:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park?

The best months to visit Khao Lak are December – March (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February (strong European family season) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: August – October (the wettest months, Similans closed).

Where is Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park located?

Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park is at V758+M3G, Amphoe Takua Pa, in Khao Lak. Getting around Khao Lak: Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway); Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road).

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