Flower power comes to Chaiyaphum

The Siam tulips, better known as dok krachiao, come into full bloom during the early part of the rainy season and cover than 1,000 acres of green space in Pa Hin Ngam National Park in Thep Sathit district and Sai Thong National Park in Nong Bua Rawe district.

Chaiyaphum, which is spread over an area of 12,800 square kilometres, is the third largest province in the Northeast and has earned a reputation for its spectacular Krachiao Flower Festival.

Jamlong Phosuk, deputy governor of the province, says that while the flowers also are found elsewhere, the soil and climate in Chaiyaphum gives them added beauty.

This year, the festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a range of special activities, including "Krachiao Kuean Tung", a project that aims to encourage Thais to show their respect for nature by planting specially bred dok krachiao.

Visitors can also enjoy Pa Hin Ngam National Park's impressive rock garden. This 10 square kilometres of natural sandstone has been sculpted by the sun, wind and rain over thousands of years into curious shapes. There is Nail Rock, Castle Rock, Elephant Rock and even Laser Rock.

Take time too to enjoy the panoramic view from Sut Phaen Din, a steep cliff that connects the Northeast to the Central Region, as well as the Thep Prathan and Thep Phanom waterfalls, which are at their loveliest in the rainy season too.

Sai Thong National Park, which covers 340 square kilometres in the Phang Hoei mountain range, is known for its waterfall and smooth rocks, and during the rainy season also boasts a field of dok krachiao.

A mini-marathon is being held in Sai Thong on July 8. Runners can choose between a 10.5km event or the shorter 3km fun run. There will also be a car rally on July 14 and 15 along the road from Chaiyaphum to Sai Thong National Park to Pa Hin Ngam National Park. The fee is Bt1,800 for two participants and Bt800 for an additional passenger. The event also features cliff rappelling, entertainment and a sale of local products.

For more information call (044) 822 502, (044) 811 511 or (044) 213 3030 or visit www.tat.or.th/northeast01.

Nattaporn Luangpipat

The Nation