T H E P U
M Y S T I C O F K T I E N
About 17 kilometres North of Cha-Am Puktien Beach is a unique attraction with the recognition of the most famous Royal Poet of Thailand, Phu Sunthon. This poet wrote in the 19th Century an epic poem about Phra Apai Mani, a prince who was kidnapped by the female giant pee Seue Samut. She was a deceptive and manipulative creature who transformed herself into a beautiful woman so that Phra Apai Mani fell in love and he became the father of a son.
and intends them to drown. It’s true to say there are strong currents at the beach so swimmers beware! There are more statues both off shore and on dry land relating to this epic drama and of the poet himself. Puktien is a quiet precinct although on weekends it is a popular destination for Bangkok travellers, often corporate groups and families, wanting a taste of this famous legend and to chill out by the ocean.
After many years Phra Apai Mani found out the truth, grabbed his son and ran away from her. A family of mermaids helped him and Phra Apai Mani fell in love with the beautiful daughter of the mermaids and became the father of his second son, Sutsakhon.
There are accommodation options, the most obvious being the Puktien Cabana Resort. This modern and perhaps romantic retreat overlooks the small islands just off shore where the statues are in clear view. It’s also quite tidal so at low tide visitors can get up close and personal.
Pee Seua is now a 6 metre statue off shore she points towards the rock where Phra Apai Mani sits and plays his magic flute. With her right hand she beckons him and according to the legend is still angry about her loss.
This is a recommended day trip or overnight stay surrounded by the legion created by Phu Sunthon.
She still tries to attract men into the water with evil intent