The Journal of the Siam Society Vol. XLIV, Part 1-2, 1956 - Khamkoo

'l'HE LOFTY SANCTUARY OF KHAO PHRA VIHAR 29
There is a character in the Sanscl'it Rami'i,yana of Valmiki,
by name Guha who is described as a forester living in the wilderness
and who gave help to Rama in his exile.
A similar character appears in the Siamese Ramakien, named
Kukhan the J!'orester who lived "at Buril•am which was surrounded
by a range of hills". Those who know Buriram, will recall that a
physical feature of the neighbourhood is a semi.circular range which
almost encompasses the town.
'l'he link between Khao Phra Vihar and the Forester Kukhan
who lived at Buriram would appear to have a stronger relationship
when it is recalled that our sanctuary is within the amphoeship of
Kukhan in the province of Srirakes, indeed the whole province
was at one time known as Kukhan. This connection, together with
the name of Old Man Kuhe, suggests that something more than the
mere coincidence of namBS unites the monntain templo with the
epic and legend.
I am indebted for this reference to H .. H. Prince Dhani who
drew my at,tention in the first instance tu the le-gend of Khao Phra
Vihar in "'l'he Royal History ef Oaru bodia".
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