Four days three nights

Get your car ready for a long journey up and down the hill. Leave Chiang Mai town by taking highway No 107 to go up north towards Mae Rim district and Mae Taeng district. Before turning left onto highway No 1095 to go to Mae Hong Son’s Pai district, you should go straight a bit further to fill petrol. It is a precautionary step in case you empty your tank before reaching the destination as the whole stretch towards Pai has only one small petrol station and the road is quit steep uphill.

Turn left onto highway No 1095 and go straight for some time, then turn right to the Mae Malai market to shop for food and go back the same way to turn right at the red-light intersection to go to Pai district. Highway No 1095 is a newly-constructed asphalt road but it is quite winding and has several steep sharp bends. It takes about 2-3 hours to drive 110 kilometres to Pai.

Before heading to see the beauty of “Nam Tok Mok Fa” or Mok Fa Waterfall, drop by to sip a coffee at “Paen Kled Coffee Corner” in a relaxing atmosphere at 20 km, which is the entrance to the waterfall. The distance from the entrance to the waterfall is only 2 km and you can reach there by cars on a well-paved asphalt road.  The one-floor waterfall cascades beautifully throughout the year. Visitors have to pay an admission fee to enter the park.

Tip: Keep the ticket to enter Pong Duad Pa Pae, Huai Nam Dang National Park and Ta Pai hot spring on the same day.

Continue the journey till you reach a curve at 42 km. There is a sign: “Pong Nam Ron Pong Dueat” or “Pong Dueat Pa Pae”. Drive anotbher 6 km till you reach the car park. Toilets and restaurants are nearby. From the car park, follow the natural walkway for 300 metres before you arrive at the country’s biggest and highest hot spring. Near the car park, there is a hot spring in which you can soak your feet or legs to loosen up tense muscles.

At 65 km on highway No 1095, turn right and go straight for 6 km onto the asphalt road, which goes up and down the hill to the office of the “Huai Nam Dang National Park”. Some stretches of the road are very narrow. Drive carefully and use low gear. Check into the hotel and enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains, the beauty of flowers, white floating fog and cool climate of the high altitude. Winter multiplies the beauty of the place with more captivating views of the sea of fog that blankets the mountain ranges. There are two panoramic viewpoints – at Doi Kiew Lom, and Doi Chang, the highest mountain top. To get closer to nature, bring food and tents to camp out in the national park. But if you prefer proper accommodation, contact the Royal Forestry Department’s National Park Division. (0-2579-5734, 0-2579-7223)

Wake up to see the sunrise and the famous panoramic view of the fog at Huai Nam Dang National Park. After breakfast, start the journey on highway No 1095 to head to Pai. On the way, you will pass “Khun Mae Ya”, also known as the Pink Mountain, because when the wild Himalayan cherry (Prunus  cerasoides  D.  Don) – locally known as the Thai Sakura – is blossoming, you will see the mountains covered with pink flowers. At 67 km, which is the Khun Mae Ya checkpoint, turn left and go straight for 8 km on a gravel road to Khun Mae Ya Water Management Division.

Some parts of the road are so steep and rough that they are not accessible by cars and vans that cannot run over ruts. Even four-wheel-drive vehicles cannot access the road during rainy season. The best time to visit this place is when the Thai Sakura blossoms. However, no one knows the exact month or date that the flower would blossom as it depends on the weather. Mostly, it blossoms between mid-December and mid-January.

At 80 km on highway No 1095, there is a left turn to highway No 1265 to go to “Ban Wat Chan Pine Forest”. It takes 41 km to reach there but the road is well-paved for the first 10 km and the last 15 metres is bending and very steep. Do not drive more than 40 kph on dangerous curves. If you go in winter, you can behold the beautiful sight of trees sporting leaves and flowers of myriad colours along the stretch till you reach Moo Ban Wat Chan.

From the village, if you go back on the same route for 5 km, you will see the Forest Industry Organisation situated in a pine forest. You can rent a mountain bike for Bt100 per day to ride around and catch a glimpse of nature and pine trees or click some pictures if you like. The weather is cool throughout year. In winter, you might get to see the Thai Sakura here. Call 0-5324-9349 for the Forest Industry Organisation, which provides toilets and a nice and large area to erect tents.

Take highway No 1095 till you reach 88 km where the Tha Pai Hot Spring is situated. Take a right turn and drive a further 2 km onto a narrow asphalt road to reach the hot spring. You will find both a well and geysers that are over 80 degrees Celsius. The place provides bathrooms for tourists to take a hot spring bath amid the greenery of the teak forest. You can erect tents to stay overnight but there other facilities are not available.

Go back the same way to highway No 1095 and turn right to Pai. You will enter Pai through a historical bridge that is like a gateway. The bridge is a World War II memorial. Click some pictures to remember the green bridge that stands in contrast to the red river, blue sky and the mountains as a background.

After crossing the bridge, go a little further. On the left is Kong Laen or the Pai Canyon. You have to park the car and walk 200 metres to reach the Kong Laen carved by soil erosion spanning across five rai. You can visit this place at any time of the year.

Take a break at 95 km to freshen up with a cup of coffee at “Coffee in Love”. Click some pictures of the shop beautifully situated on the hill with panoramic views of mountain ranges as a backdrop.

Pai is a small peaceful town where people live a simple life on the bank of the Pai River. Time moves slowly in Pai and that is what attracts Thai and foreign tourists to find guesthouses here or the nearby areas to experience the simple way of life. Since a number of tourists go there in winter, which is a high season, it is recommended that you reserve accommodation. Most inexpensive accommodations are walk-in type. You can find a number of guesthouses along the river or in the town. Check the room first before deciding to book. If you arrive there at noon or in the afternoon, driver further to the district office.

BOX:  Visit a somtam shop in front of the district office because it offers a variety of somtam for you to taste. If you go later than 2pm, you may not find anything left because this shop does roaring business of this popular Thai-style salad. The shop opens late and closes early. Opposite the somtam shop is the tourist centre where you can get information about tourism attractions and accommodations in Pai.

Park the car and take a stroll or rent a bicycle to ride around a riverside market where food, snacks, herbal drinks and tea are sold on the street. You can even have dinner in the market.

Box: Buy souvenirs such as bags, hand-woven cloth from hill-tribe villagers at the night market situated on the main street. You will find lots of goods and hand-made products, including inexpensive postcards sold on the streets.

Feel the atmosphere of Pai. Stroll along the bank of the river. Click pictures of beautiful resorts and the Pai River that glitters with the reflection of the orange sunlight on the water surface. Walk further to sip a coffee or have breakfast at the famous coffee shop, “All about coffee”, opposite Mit Thai shop. The shop sells not just coffee but both food and other drinks. If you want to send postcards to loved ones, just cross the road to the Mit Thai shop that impresses tourists with its unique and lovely designs and decorations as well as the hospitality of the shop owner. Many postcards featuring Pai in every corner are for sale here. You can write the postcards and mail them right at the shop.

Start the journey to Wat Nam Hoo, which is 3 km west-bound from Pai, beyond Pai Hospital ((0-5369-9211), in Tambon Wiang Tai. The temple houses the 500-year-old Luang Phor Un Mueang, a Buddha statue whose head is filled with water and can be opened from the top of the head. A pagoda is situated at the back of the statue. History has it that King Naresuan the Great built the statue to keep the remains of his older sister, Phra Supan Kanlaya

Go a bit further; and you will reach Ban Santichon or Yunnan Chinese Cultural Centre village, formerly a drug trade centre of the Wa, the Burmese ethnic group. The area was declared a red zone but now it is a popular tourist attraction, which has more than 1,000 Chinese hill-tribe villagers. Every one wears hill-tribe costumes and lives in mud houses. Khun Bunlor (08-1024-3982), the community leader, has introduced new jobs to the villagers such as agro-tourism and operating Chinese Yunnan restaurants. Do not miss one of the popular dishes – braised pork’s leg with Chinese bread. Support the community by buying local souvenirs. Take a horse ride for sightseeing. Mud houses for two are for rent at Bt1,000 per house, two-bed houses for four at Bt1,500 and six-bed houses for 12 people is at Bt4,000.

Continue the journey on Highway 1095 to Pang Ma Pah heading to the Royal initiative Pang Tong 2 Project, known as “Pang Ung”, passing Tham Pla National Park – Namtok Pa Sua (0-5369-2055, 0-5361-9036). The cave has a stream running throughout the year. The entrance of the cave is 2 metres wide and 1.5 metres deep. A shoal of Soro Brook Carp, a large-size of grey-black, and blue fish called Pla Mung or Pluang, live in the cave. Villagers do not catch these fish because they believe they are sacred fish.

Namtok Pha Sua is a medium-sized waterfall, 10 metres high and 15 metres wide, cascading from the Sa-nga River. The waterfall cascades fully down the cliff in the rainy season looking like a mat but the water runs dry in the dry season but the areas still hold the charm of the beautiful rocks around.

This stretch of the road is paved with concrete and then gravel. The road is winding, up and down the hill. In winter, thick fog reduces the visibility of the road. Stay overnight at Pang Ung. Call the Royal initiative Pang Tong 2 Project: 0-5369-2056, 0-5368-1740, 0-5368-1323 for reservation of accommodation, which range from Bt1,500 to Bt2,000. Tents are for rent from Bt250 to Bt400. A huge area is provided to erect tents. Or you can opt for home stay. Parking area is provided and cars are not allowed to be parked at the reservoir area.

Ruam Thai Guest House (0-5361-1244) offers rooms with a beautiful-lake view at Bt250 per night. Walk a bit further to Ban Lung Pa La home stay (0-5369-2144) to experience the local way of life. The room with breakfast and coffee is between Bt100-350 per night. Please reserve the room seven days in advance.

Watch the beautiful dawn. In winter, the lake is filled with thick fog. The golden sunlight, the green pine trees as a backdrop and the mountain ranges reflected in the lake offer a beautifully view. The weather is cool throughout the year. In winter, the temperatures hover around 10 degrees Celsius. The place is dubbed the Switzerland of Thailand.

Go back using the same direction heading towards Mae Hong Son. On the way there is enough time to try a mud mask on your face at Phuklon Country Club Health Mud Spa 1, one of the “Unseen Thailand” destinations and only one of the world’s three mud and mineral spas. With temperatures of around 90-140 degrees Celsius, it was discovered under ground in 1995. The boiling black mud is used to mask the body and face to get clear, glowing and youthful complexion. The rich-mineral mud also helps promote blood circulation. The place offers natural spa service in a natural mineral pool all year round (0-5361-2265, 0-6198-0722). To reach there, turn right at 191 km and go straight for 4 km to Mooban Kung Mai Sak-Ban Huai Na Kan.

From Phuklon Country Club Health Mud Spa, drive 6 km to Mae Hong Son. If you do not have enough petrol, stop over at a petrol station and have lunch at Fern shop, located at the centre of the town.

Box: Take a certificate that shows you have won the victory by driving through 1,864 curves to Mae Hong Son. Just show your identification card and pay a Bt20 fee to officials on the second floor of the Provincial Chamber of Commerce, opposite Fern shop.

Drive around to see an old temple, Wat Phra That Chong Kham – Chong Klang, situated at the centre of the town, near Nong Chong Kham Public Park. The temple was built in 1827 in a beautiful Thai Yai (Burmese) art style. Not far from the temple is Wat Chong Klang that houses a replica of Phra Phuttha Sihing with beautiful gold leaves attached all over the statue. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu to see the Thai Yai architecture, formerly known as Wat Plai Doi, a temple dating back to ancient times. Also, this hill-top temple affords an exceptional aerial view of the city and surrounding mountains and valleys.

Continue the journey to Doi Mae U-kho (96 km). On the way, you can drop by to visit the famous long-neck Karen hill-tribe at Huai Sua Thao. From Muang district, take highway No 108 to Mae Hong Son Provincial Hall, the same way to Khun Yuam. As you drive past the provincial hall, you will see Mae Hong Son Gate and a T-junction. Take a right turn and drive straight to the main road to cross a bridge over Pai River and pass a helicopter landing path and turn left to take the path parallel to the landing path. The distance from the town to Huai Sua Thao is about 12 km. The path is narrow and has water spillways.

Continue the journey on highway 108 heading towards Khun Yuam district. The distance is 67 km. One km before you reach Khun Yuam district, there is a Krung Thai Bank, opposite Khun Yuam District Police Station (0-5369-1115). Not far from the bank, there is a junction. Turn left to highway No 1263, drive straight for 27 km to see the Dok Bua Tong (wild sunflowers) at Doi Mae U-kho. The road is well-paved but the last 13 km is narrow and very steep in some stretches and has many turns. The blossoming Dok Bua Tong, spanning over 1,000 rais of land, beautifully paints the entire hilly area of Doi Mae U-kho.

Box: The Dok Bua Tong blooms from November to December painting the mountains in a brilliant yellow. The tourist attraction is facilitated with restrooms and tents as well as restaurants. A large area is provided to erect more than 100 tents. Thung Bua Tong tourist centre has tents for rent.

Box: If you come to see the Dok Bua Tong when they are in full bloom, you should camp out overnight on the hill to get close to nature, otherwise, staying overnight in the town is recommended. The next morning, go straight to Muang district to Tham Kaew Komol without stopping over at Doi Mae U-kho.

The next morning take the same route back to highway No 108 to Mae La Noi District to T-junction of Mae La Noi Hospital (0-5368-9060). Take a left turn to highway No 1266 at 132-133 km and drive on for another 5 km to Tham Kaew Komol Park (0-5361-2078). The route is a concrete, well-paved road, but do not drive too fast while passing the village.

Tham Kaew Komol Park (Calcite Crystal Cave) is another of the “Unseen Thailand” destinations. Calcite Crystal is found in the cave. White fluoride covers the surface of the cave’s wall and that why it is called ice cave as the fluoride glitters beautifully when reflecting with light. This type of cave is found only in the three countries – Australia, China and Thailand.

Tip: Since air inside the cave is thin, only 20 visitors are allowed to go in each time. In winter, the place attracts a number of tourists. Fee for adults is Bt40, and for children Bt20. The cave opens every day from 8.30am to 4.30pm. Car parking in front of the cave is limited. Find more parking at the tourism centre of Mae La Noi Tambon Administrative Organisation. Then catch a local bus to the cave.

Leave for Chiang Mai in the afternoon by taking highway No 108 down to Mae Sariang district. Continue the journey on highway No 108 to go to Hot District then go to Chom Thong district, San Pa Tong district and Chiang Mai Muang district.

3 Days 2 Nights

Start the journey in Chiang Rai by using highway No 1 to Mae Chan district. Drive another km and turn left to hit highway No 1089 and go for 23 km to Pha Dua Village. Take a break and enjoy shopping hill-tribe handmade products. Then proceed to E Kor T-junction, turn left and keep driving on the tar road for 18 km to Doi Mae Salong. It is situated in Mae Fa Luang district. Visit tea plantations and educate yourself on the hill-tribe way of living. Don’t miss pork leg and Doi Mae Salong tea, which can also be excellent souvenirs.

Box – December to February is the time when Nang Phraya Sua Krong flowers and the small sakuras are in full bloom along the way up the mountain.

Use the same route back to highway No 1. Turn left to highway No 1149 and drive for 15 minutes to Doi Tung Palace. Built in mixed Lana and Swiss styles, the palace served as a royal winter retreat for the Princess Mother who passed away in 1995. The royal balcony has a spectacular scenic view and is a fine spot to take pictures. Inside the building, there is an exhibition in the royal history room. Mae Fa Luang garden features various winter plants. Before departure, don’t forget to buy some souvenirs.

The palace is open daily from 7am to 6pm. Admission to Doi Tung Palace is Bt70 per person. The Mae Fa Luang admission fee is Bt50. Package ticket is Bt100. It is not open to the public from July to September (053-767-015-7).

Use highway No 1149 up the north, which passes the Mae Fa Luang botanical garden to 17.5 km to visit Wat Phra That Doi Tung. It is where the left collarbone of the Lord Buddha is kept. For the first time, relics of the Buddha were enshrined in a temple in Lana or the northern part. During the construction of the Phra Stupa, a 1,000-metre long centipede flag was installed atop the Doi Tung or “Tung” in local dialect.

Drive straight for 23 km to Mai Sai district. Use highway No 1149, which is opposite Tha Khi Lek district in Burma, widely known as the border market. Park your car and enjoy shopping products of the two countries. Burmese vendors cross the border to sell food and desserts. You can cross over to the other side to walk in the Burmese market.

A 200-metre walk up the market would lead you to Phra That Doi Wao, the second oldest after Phra That Doi Tung. Remainders of the hair of the Lord Buddha is kept there. You can have a panoramic view of the entire landscape of Mae Sai and Thai Khi Lek in Burma.

Highway No 1149 is a narrow, old tar road. Be careful about vehicles coming from the opposite direction. It’s more convenient to drive up than to drive down as the route is on the hill. It’s the border between the two countries and hence has military check-points along the way. Travelling after 6pm is not recommended.

Thai citizens can cross the border everyday from 6.30am to 6.30pm. Use ID card or other official cards. Admission fee is Bt40. Foreigners must carry their passport.

After shopping, return to the Chiang Rai Muang district to visit Phu Chi Fa, which has the cliff facing towards Laos. Phu Chi Fa is 1,628 metres above sea level. Use highway No 1020 to Thoeng district, travelling a total distance of 64 km. Change to highway No 1021 Thoeng-Chiangkam and drive for 24 km. Six km ahead of Chiangkam, there is an intersection that leads to Phu Chang Waterfall National Park-Ban Yuak, which is 19 km away from highway No 1093. Continue driving another 30 km to Phu Chi Fa. You need to walk one km on a steep trail to reach the viewpoint.

Another route offers a shorter option. From Thoeng, drive 6km and turn left at Ban Pi to highway No 1155. Continue for 41 km to Phu Chi Fa and pass Mong village on the way. Although the road is wider and in better condition compared to other routes, it is steep and winding up the mountain. Use low gear and low speed and also be careful about vehicles coming from the opposite direction. It takes some 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach the site.

Ban Rabiang Fa is located near the view point. Electricity and water is available 24 hours. Price, including dinner, is at Bt450/night for adult and Bt250 for children under 8. Contact Khun Waew (089-850-6303) and Khun Pe (081-737-3155).

The sea of mist viewpoint can be accessed in two ways: at the Tourist Service in Ban Rom Fa Thai and at the Water Source Unit and the Arts and Crafts Centre Work Centre in Ban Rom Fa Thong.

At dawn, walk up to the summit to watch the stunning mist and sunrise. Take memorable pictures and come back for breakfast and pack your bags. Follow the same route back to highway No 1 to Muang Chiang Rai district. There are many petrol stations between 816 km and 825 km. For LPG cars, you can go to Pure at 824 km. After that, head in the southern direction to Chiang Mai and stop by at Wat Rong Khun on the way. The temple is located at 817-818 km, about 12 km away from Chiang Rai downtown. Turn left to highway No 1211 and drive for 100 metres to arrive at the temple. It is designed by Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat, one of the country’s leading artists. The white Ubosot is made of cement carved in Thai pattern and decorated with glasses. Don’t miss the murals by Ajarn Chalermchai inside the Ubosot.

Resume the journey by heading to Mae Lao district. Move past Mae Lao Hospital (053-603-100) 3-4 km to turn right at the intersection to hit highway No 118. An Esso petrol station is expected after the turn. Drive past Mae Suai district, Mae Suai Hospital (053-786-017), Wiang Pa Pao district and take a break at 65 km. Visit Mae Kha Jan Hot Springs, the natural hot springs and have your meal or shop for souvenirs at the market nearby.

Take highway No 118 to Doi Saket district in Chiang Mai province and keep moving to the Muang Chiang Mai district. Go further to highway No 11 superhighway until you reach Rin Kam intersection. Turn right and head for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to pay respects to the holy Buddha statue of the province. The temple oversees the entire picturesque view of the town below. The 12 -km route up to the mountain is steep and winding.

A wide parking area is provided. During high season, you might have to park your vehicles along the road side but don’t forget to pull the gear, turn the wheels a little but and use some rocks to block the tyres. Test your fitness by walking up some 300 steps. If you prefer convenience, cable cars are on service and can take you inside the temple area.

Use the same route back. Notice a Thai-style restaurant on your left ahead of the Mae Rim intersection. Its specialty is pork and chicken Kao Soi. Don’t forget to order pork satay (053-212-700).

After lunch, proceed to Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest mountain in Thailand. Fill the tank at petrol stations on the superhighway. From Chiang Mai downtown, use highway No 108 Chiang Mai- Chom Thong via Hang Don, San Pa Tong and Doi Lo districts. At km 57, turn right to highway No 1009 Chom Thong-Inthanon for a total distance of 48 km. The fine tar route is winding up the mountain. Take precautions in some parts and use low gear on your way back down the mountain. Don’t change the gear too often, which can damage the brake. Traffic jams can occur during the rainy season.

Travellers must pay a fee at a police check-point at 8 km to enter the park. Continue driving to 9 km, past Tourist Service Centre where restaurants and necessary items are available. There is an area for camping but booking should be made 7 days in advance. In winter, early booking is necessary and can be made at the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department of the Royal Forest Department (02-579-7223 or 02-579-5734).

After checking in, drive to 30 km and turn right to highway No 1284, which is an asphalt road. Go a km further to reach the Doi Inthanon Royal Project, which is located in Kun Klang village. Catch a glimpse of fantastic flower plantations including asters, carnations and gypsohpilias grown by hill tribes under the royal project. Go to bed early as you need to wake up at dawn to experience the sea of mist at the highest point in Thailand at 31 km.

Use highway No 1009 and drive to 37 km where you will find a T-junction. Turn right and stay on highway No 1009. Toilet is available at police check-point No 2. Drive 3 km further past Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Phumisiri to stop at the far end of the route. This is the summit of Doi Inthanon with a wide parking space. Don’t forget to use some rocks or logs to prevent the tyres from moving if you park in the sloping area.

Witness the mist and feel the chill on the summit, which is 2,565 km above sea level. Don’t forget to take pictures with the “Highest Spot in Thailand” sign. Take the same way back to km 42. Slow down and keep left to park on the opposite side of the Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Phumisiri. Walk across the road to catch the magnificent scenery of the sites which oversee the landscape of Doi Inthanon.

Drive back to 31 km near the park accommodation. On the left is the hill-tribe market, where vegetables, fruits and local products are sold. On the other side of the road is the Bird-watching Information Centre or Lung Daeng Shop where you can inquire details about birds, bird-watching trails and bird pictures.

On the same road, drive to 21 km and look for a sign “Namtok Wachirathan”. Turn left and park your car on a spacious ground. There are many restaurants here.

Take the same route back to Chom Thong district. Turn right to highway No 108 to visit Namtok Mae Ya, which is a huge picturesque waterfall. The water falls from the 280-metre high cliff while you can swim in the pond below. The weather is not too chilly.

Mae Ya Waterfall is 1 km from Chom Thong- Inthanon T-junction. Drive 14 km further to the site and park your vehicle. To access the site, you have to go 200 metres on foot. Use highway No 108 back to Chiang Mai downtown.

……………………………

3 Days 2 Nights

Use highway No 21 from Saraburi province to Lom Sak in Si Thep district. Drive until you reach 102 km, then turn left to highway No 2211. Continue for 9 km and you will see the entrance to the Si Thep Historical Park on the right.

The Si Thep Historical Park, formerly known as “Muang Sapaisalee”, is an ancient city, which prospered during the reign of Khmer or between the 11th to 18th Buddhist centuries. The city is believed to be over 1,000 years old and was deserted after a plague.

Si Thep was of the Dharavadee and Lop Buri period. Human statues with heads of singha, water buffalo and monkey, which resemble dwarfs, provide an exotic experience. It is open daily from 8am to 4.30pm. Admission fee is Bt10 for Thai and Bt30 for foreigner. An additional fee of Bt50 is charged per car for those who wish to drive in. For group visit with a personal guide, contact the park (056-820-122).

Get back to the road and take highway No 21 up the north. Drive past Wichian Buri, Sam Phan, and Nong Phai districts for a distance of 130 km. Stop for lunch, get supplies and refill the petrol tank at stations on both sides of the road along the way. Head to Khao Ko by using highway No 21 Petchabun-Lomsak.

Keep driving to 236 km to the Na Ngua three-way conjunction. Turn left to highway No 2258 Na Ngua-Sadaopong. The tar route up to Khao Kho is fine.

To drive up to Khao Kho, use high-power-engine cars, pickups or vans that are in good condition. Carefully check the brake and clutch as the route is steep, narrow and winding.

The “Amazing hill” is at 17.5 km and is a place where drivers love the amazing experience. At this spot, stop your car and release the gear. Incredibly, your car will move up the hill for 10 metres, which is considered an illusion by some. After that drive past an intersection for 1 km, slow down at the curve and keep left. Turn left and proceed up to the Phra Tamnak Khao Kho. Drive slowly and use low gear on the steep route.

Phra Tamnak Khao Kho is a palace built for His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of their royal visit. You need permission from officials to look around the vicinity. Young guides, who are students in the area, will bring you around the palace and give information.

Along the way up to the palace, you can see the Phaya Sua Krong trees, which bloom during winter. The road is one way and circular in shape, using the same point for entrance and exit.

Leave the palace by using the same way back to the intersection. Turn left and take highway No 2196. After a 5-minute drive, you will arrive at the Ruenruedee T-junction, turn left and go along the steep road up the hill for 3 km to visit the Armoury Museum (Than Itthi), which is on the right. It was the army base for fighting terrorists in Khao Kho in 1981. A wide range of weapons is on display. The museum is open daily from 7am to 5pm. Admission fee is Bt10 per person.

The Khao Kho Sacrificial Monument, built to honour heroic deeds of those who sacrificed their lives, is 500 metres diagonally across Than Itthi. Study the history of the battle and enjoy beautiful Khao Kho view.

Use the same route back to highway No 2196 towards Khao Kho district. The way is steep and winding hence drive

carefully and slowly. Enjoy the scenic view of Khao Kho, which is reminiscent of Switzerland.

Spend overnight on Khao Kho and breathe the pure air. It is said an overnight sleep on Khao Kho makes you live 10 years longer. A wide range of resorts and accommodation are open for service.

The next morning leave Khao Kho district for Phu Thap Boek by using highway No 2196 to Camp Son. On the way you will pass the Phra Borom That Jedi Pisek, which stands strikingly beside the road. Stop by to pay respects to the sacred Buddha statue and pray for good luck. Ring the range of bells in the monastery, which is believed to expand longevity. Just make sure you hit every bell.

Return to highway No 2196 and drive towards Son Camp, which connects to highway No 12. Turn right to Lom Sak district. At 126 km, turnleft at the three-way conjunction and change to highway No 2372. Keep on for another 12 km and turn left at the intersection towards Phu Thab Berk and Ban Wang Baan on highway No 2331. Drive for 16 km on tar road, which is steep, winding and rough at the end of the route. Drive slowly and keep your eyes on the road. Be careful about vehicles coming from the opposite direction. Thap Boek Toll fee is on the way. After that, turn right to Thap Boek Village for 2 km on concrete road. At the summit of Phu Thap Boek, witness the sea of mist, cabbage plantations and wild flowers as well as enjoy shopping Mong hill-tribe products. For more information about viewing Thap Boek mist, contact 056-709-465 or contact the Phetchabun Tourism Association (056-701-736).

Follow the same way back to highway No 2331 then connect to highway No 2011. Turn right to highway No 203 towards Lom Kao district. Stop for lunch on your way.

Do not miss Lom Kao fermented noodles. Boon Mee shop, on Lom Sak-Leoi road, serves Lom Kao fresh fermented noodles with herbal red curry, sweet curry and non-coconut milk curry in clay bowls. It’s open daily from 8am to 5pm (056-709-274, 089-643-2775).

From Lom Sak district, use highway No 12 Nam Nao-Chum Phae to head for the Nam Nao National Park, which is a total distance of 94 km. From Phor Khun Pha Muang intersection, drive along a fine tar but winding road up the hill. Drive carefully, especially at the curves, and be careful about the cars from the other lane. You will pass the gate to the Northeast at 18 km.

At 21 km, there is a resting area on the left hand. The spacious spot oversees the scenic mountain ranges, which are the borders between Petchabun and Chaiyaphum. Hill-tribe products can be bought at shops in the area. The park vicinity starts from 28 km but the entrance is at 49 km. Turn left to the Nam Nao National Park and stay on the road for 1.5 km to reach the park office. Shops and Tourist Service Point are inside the park, which is open daily from 8am to 4.30pm. The park covers an area of 603,750 rais with attractions and viewpoints scattered around.

After checking into your room, drive back to highway No 12 Lom Sak-Chum Phae. Stop at the Tham Pha Hong at 39 km. Park your car before proceeding on foot to the summit about 200 metres above to see the picturesque view and stunning sunset.

For the best sunrise spot, drive to Phu Kho at 46 km. It oversees Phu Kum Khao pine forest and deep forest. At the far end is Phu Kra Dueng and Phu Pha Jit. Follow the 4 km trekking trail to study nature.

After breakfast, drive to Phu Kum Khao pine forest whose entrance is at 53 km Lom Sak-Chum Phae. Drive along the asphalt road for 15 km. The area is purely covered with a huge pine forest with prairie below. In summer, the prairie will turn from green to dark brown and return to green during the rainy season. Phu Kum Khao can be seen in the middle of the forest.

Continue to Tham Yai Nam Nao or Phu Nam Rin situated on 60 km. Drive another 3 km to reach the 66 National Park Protection Unit. Tham Yai Nam Nao is a limestone cave, 955 metres above the sea level. The magnificent stalactites and stalagmites provide an unusual experience. Another strange feature is little currents that flow off the cave.

Nam Tok Heo Sai Waterfall is your next stop at 67 km. But you must proceed 1 km on foot to reach the waterfall, which is 20 metres high. You can swim in a deep pond at the waterfall. About 500 metres away is the fantastic Sai Thong Waterfall, which is 30 metres wide and 4 metres tall.

On your way back to highway No 12 Lom Sak-Chum Phae between 63 km and 70 km, you will see the picturesque forest at the Nam Nao National Park, which is splendidly colourful during December and January.

For further information about accommodation, contact the Nam Nao National Park office (081-962-6236, 02-562-0760). If you bring your own tents, you have to pay a fee of Bt30 per night. Room at the park is available between Bt1,000-3,500.

…………………….

Accommodation

Khao Kho Talae Phu, Tumbon Thungsamer, Khao Kho district Phetchabun; Tel 056-750-061-2

Rai Jan Ram Resort, Khao Kho district, Phetchabun; Tel 056-728-050-1

Rim Doi Resort 1, Muang district, Phetchabun; Tel 056-560-183

Rai Sin Ting, Nam Nao district, Phetchabun; Tel 056-718 – 229.

Restaurant

Salathai Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken) Wichian Buri district, Phetchabun; Tel 056-567-015.

Krua Ban, Muang district, Phetchabun; Tel 056-723-017

Kanom Jeen Khun Ta (Fermented Noodle), Muang district, Phetchabun; Tel 056-720-553

Suan Camp Son Khao Kho Valley, Khao Kho district, Phetchabun; Tel 056-287-291

Hospitals

Muang Petchabun Hospital: Tel 056-748-030-40

Khao Kho Hospital, Khao Kho district: Tel 056-728-059

Pho Khun Pha Muang Hospital, Muang district: Tel 056-721-812-3

Police Stations

Muang Phetchabun Police Station: Tel 056-711-005

Khao Kho Police Station: Tel 056-728-061

Nam Nao Poice Station: Tel 056-779-030

4 days 3 nights

From Phrae downtown, drive along Cho Hae road on highway No 1022 for 9 km to Phra That Cho Hae. It is a pagoda where the hair and relic of the left elbow of Buddha is enshrined. The chedi is a holy place of the province and houses the Buddha relic for the year of tiger. Between the 9th to the 15th waxing moon of the fourth lunar month or around March, an annul worship ritual is performed at the site.

Proceed to Phae Mueang Phi by using the same route on highway No 101 in Nong Muang Khai district. Drive for 12 km until at 143 km, turn right to take highway No 1134 for another 6 km to reach the site. Phae Muaeng Phi is a wide tree-less area. Because of subsidence and erosion of soil, the harder elements remain and are formed into the shapes of exotic-looking mushrooms. The name Phae Mueang Phi is believed to come from a local dialect. Phae means “grove” and Muang Phi refers to “desolated”.

Resume the journey by using highway No 101 to enter Rong Kwang district. Arriving at the intersection, turn left to highway No 103 and go for 18 km. You will pass Rong Kwang Hospital (054-597-115, 054-597-398) and after that switch to highway No 1154 to Song district. Drive another 3 km to visit Phra That Phra Lo, which is over 400 years old. It was built as a testimony to the immortal love between Phra Lo, ruler of Maen Suang, and his lovers Phra Phuen and Phra Phaeng of Muang Srong. The Thai literary work “Li Lit Phra Lo” is based on their romance.

Take the same route back until you reach the intersection. Turn left to highway No 101 to Rong Kwang district. When you arrive at the three-way conjunction, turn right to highway No 1216 until you reach Nanoi district in Nan. Take highway No 1083 and drive 18 km. Turn left and go straight for 2 km on the narrow concrete road to reach Pha Chu where the Si Nan National Park is located.

Highway No 1216 is winding with some parts steep and isolated. There is no village and no lights. Drive very carefully especially at night time.

Pha Chu is a high cliff inside the park. Legend says it is the spot where a dramatic love triangle ended. On the top of the cliff there is the national flag with the longest flagstaff in Thailand.

Doi Samer Dao and Pha Hua Sing is another popular site. Drive back on the same route to 16 km. Go along the asphalt road for 650 metres and you will see a viewpoint, which oversees Nan River and a range of mountains. It’s the best spot to have a glimpse of picturesque sunrise and sunset. A spacious area is provided for camping and watching stars at night. Visitors should bring their own supplies and camping equipment. There are numerous trekking trails to study nature. For further details contact Si Nan National Park (054-701-106).

In the morning, head towards the town to pay respects to a Buddha image by using the same route back. Drive to Na Noi district and connect to highway No 1206 in Wiang Sa district before changing to highway No 101 to Muang district. When in town, drive along Mahayos road, past Wat Suan Taan. Turn right to Pha Kong road. Go past Phumin temple, which is on right near the National Museum.

Phumin is a royal temple with a unique design. It features a 4-portico, single building housing both the Ubosot and Vihara. The wall murals, locally called “Hoop Taem”, were designed in Thai Lu style. It is considered highly valuable and depicts the legends of Lord Buddha. Four Buddha statues with their heads against each other are installed in the main hall facing four directions. The doors are delicately carved in splendid Lana or northern design.

From Nan downtown, cross the Nan River bridge. Take highway No 1168 Nan-Mae Charim for 3 km to go to Wat Phra That Chae Haneg, a monastery built in bell shape. It represents the Year of Rabbit. Lana people pay respects to the Phra That of their Year of Birth, or “Chu That”, hoping for great results.

Have a lunch break in Nan town before heading to Doi Phu Kha National Park. Leave from Muang Nan district by using highway No 1080 via Wang Pha district. When arriving in Pua district, stay on the tar road for 60 km and then connect to highway No 1256. Go to the Bo Kluea district for another 25 km to reach the site where an extensive parking area is provided.

The summit of Doi Phu Kha is the highest in Nan, 1,980 metres above the sea level. It is the source of several steams with magnificent views. Temperature drops to 5 degrees Celsius between December and January.

The route from Pua district to the park is winding and steep up the mountain. Drive carefully and use low gear. Brakes can go out of order if you step on them too often.

Accommodation and camping are available at Doi Phu Kha National Park. Contact the National Park, Wildlife and Plan Conservation Department (02-562-0760).

The next morning, absorb the fresh air at the park. After breakfast, depart for Phu Lanka Forest Park in Phayao province. Use the old route back to Pua district to get to highway No 1080 back to Tha Wang Pha district. Next, take highway No 1097, and then to No 1148 via Song Khwae. Stop to get your supplies and drive to Pong district in Phayao. The road is winding and steep. There are no lights on parts of the route at night.

At 90 km, turn right where a big sign “Entrance to the Phu Lanka Forest Park” can be noticed. Go down the fine tar road for 12 km then a red dirt road, which is winding and steep. Be careful with the cars coming from the opposite lane as the route is narrow. Traveling in a 4-wheel-drive car is therefore suggested. Four-wheel-drive cars can be rented up to the Phu Lanka at the Chiang Kham Song Theow Queuing Spot. Normal car can make it only to the park office but to reach the park accommodation area, a pickup is needed. Or you can proceed on foot and enjoy the beautiful nature along the way. Pickup service is also available.

Up the park, accommodation is available and so is a camping area. Bicycles are for rent. You can ride along the trails and study nature, watch birds and enjoy the beautiful scenery. However, only a limited number of rooms and tents are available. It’s a good idea to contact the park office ahead of the journey on 081-830-0307.

Spend a night at the park accommodation. Wake up at 4am and walk up to the summit of Phu Lanka, or use a pickup service. Experience the sea of mist on the Phu Nom summit and catch a glimpse of the beautiful sunrise and picturesque view. The park is open from 5am to 6pm.

Phu Lanka is the most beautiful summit and is 1,720 metres above the sea level. It is the highest summit among the San Pun Nam Thai-Lao mountain ranges. Up the north is a rain forest, which is the source of Yom River. It’s another perfect spot to watch the sea of mist, sunrise and sunset as well as the striking wild flowers, especially between the end of rainy season and the beginning of winter. Weather is fine all year round. Nearby is the Phu Nom summit, which is 1,600 metres above sea level, and offers a 360-degree view.

Get back to the journey by using highway No 1148 to Pong district and turn right to reach the three-way conjunction, which meets highway No 1092 and go straight until you reach Pong district.

From Pong district, change to highway No 1091 towards Jun district. After driving past Jun hospital (054-459-035), take a break in Jun district before resuming the trip. Take highway No 1021 to Dok Kam Tai district until you reach highway No 1 in Muang Phayao district.

Pay respects to Phra Chao Ton Luang at Wat Si Khom Kham on the side of highway No 1 in Tumbon Wiang, Muang district. The temple houses the largest Buddha statute of Lanna Thai or Phra Chao Ton Luang, which is a sitting Buddha with a lap width of 14 metres and height of 16 metres. The statue was built between 1491-1524 and regarded as the sacred item of the Lana kingdom.

Stroll along Kwan Phayao, which is the North’s biggest fresh-water lake, where you can see the Doi Luang mountain ranges from the distance. “Kwan” in the local dialect means lake. It is a fresh-water fishing area. Rent a boat to pay respects to Phra Klang Nam at the Wat Ti Lok Aram. The wat is an ancient temple located in the middle of the lake for hundreds of years. A ferry charge is Bt20 per person. Finally, sit back and relax by the lake to view the stunning sunset.

………………………

Accommodation

Nakhon Phrae Tower in Muang district, Phraep; Price Bt600-1,800; Tel 054-511-122, 054-521-321

Upkaeo Resort Hotel in Pua district, Nan; Tel 054-756-588-9

Juthamas Resort in Muang district, Nan; Price Bt100-1,500; Tel 054-797-044

Bua Resort in Muang district, Phayao; Price Bt400-1,400; Tel 054-481-596

Souvenir shops

Pa Sin Hom Yom Mue Group (hand-made cotton) in Muang district, Phrae; Tel 054-522-937

Wood Powder Moulding Group in Song district, Phrae; Tel 089-429-5525, 054-642-053

Jansom Karn Thor in Wnag Pha district, Nan; Tel 054-771-515

Fai Ngern in Munag district, Nan; Tel 054-741-564

Water Hyacinth Hand-Products Lady Group in Muang district, Phayao; Tel 054-461-289

Police Stations

Muang Phare Police Station: Tel 054-511-089

Muang Nan Police Station: Tel  054-710-004, 054-710-033

Muang Phayao Police Station: Tel 054-431-143, 054-431-888

Jun Police Station: Tel 054-459-239

Hospitals

Phrae Hospital: Tel 054-533-492-4

Nan Hospital: Tel 054-710-138

Phayao Hospital: Tel 054-410-501-11

Whitewater rafting along Keg River, visit to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park and Phu Soi Dao National Park - Phitsanulok - Uttaradit

4 Days 3 Nights

Start your journey in Phitsanulok, also called “Song Kaew City”, at Wat Phra Si Rattana Hahathat Woramahawihan or locally dubbed as “Wat Yai”. Take highway No 12 towards Sukhothai and when you arrive at Nan River bridge, turn right. You will see the entry gate to the temple.

“Wat Yai” is the royal temple built during the reign of Phra Maha Thamma Racha I of Sukhothai. Pay respects to the most beautiful and highly sacred golden sculpture of Phra Phutthachinnarat, portrayed in the posture of subduing evil.

There are annual celebrations of the Phra Phutthachinnarat statue between the 6th to the 12th of the third lunar month (around October). Activities include a long-tailed boat race in Nan River in front of the temple.

Drive along the road next to the temple up the north and you will see a noodle shop called “Hoi Kha Song Kaew”, which is famous around the area. Customers are required to take off their shoes before entering. You can sit facing the Nan River.

Head for the downtown area by using Wisutikasat Road. Stop by at the Sgt-Major Dr Thavi-Folklore Museum (055-212-749), which is opposite the Buddha Casting Foundry. Explore a private collection of antique items representing Thai rural life. The museum houses more than 10,000 artifacts, including woven items, potteries, kitchenware farming and trapping equipment. Regarded as a historical treasury, the museum was granted the Excellence in Tourism Award by the Tourism Authority of Thailand in 1998. Dr Thavit was presented a “Kon Dee Sri Phitsanulok” award for his contribution to the province’s arts. The museum is open daily, except on Mondays, from 8am to 4.30pm. Admission fee is Bt50 for adult, Bt20 for children and Bt100 for foreigner.

There are many restaurants along highway No 12 in Wang Thong district. You can let your legs lap the water to relax while having your meal at these restaurants. All food shops are situated on the bank of the river with a view of the steam-like showers from the waterfalls and Keg River.

June to October is the perfect time for adventurous whitewater rafting along Keg River. Adventure lovers will find it exciting on rubber rafts, which sail along the winding currents among scattered rocks. Enjoy the natural scenery of the rich forest while rafting.

The rafting trip starts at Tumbon Sapraiwan and ends at Kang Song waterfall. The total course of 8 km takes two and a half hours to complete. The level of rafting difficulty is from 1 to 5. A demonstration is conducted ahead of the trip by highly skilled rafters. Accompanied by two navigators, each rubber raft can accommodate 4-8 passengers. Only sober passengers and children over 12 are permitted to raft.

Rim Kaeng Tour arranges the rating trip at Bt750 per person. Rim Kaeng restaurant, situated at the end of the rafting course, provides delicious indigenous cuisine. For further information, contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phitsakulok Office.

The next morning, head for Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, which is situated in Nakhon Thai district. Use highway No 12, where you will pass Muang Ban Yaeng Police Station (055-268-119). Turn right at the Ban Yaeng three-way conjunction at 68 km and then connect to highway No 2013 and drive for 28 km. When you arrive in Nakhon Thai district, take highway No 2331 for 31 km to reach the park.

The routes from Nakhon Thai district to the national park is winding and steep. Careful driving is recommended, especially in the last 10 km, which is very steep.

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is located amidst abundant forests and borders three provinces – Phitsanulok, Phetchabun and Loei. The area was once the headquarters of the biggest Communist Party in the northern part, which spread communism through Phu Khor, Phu Khat and Phu Miang and consequently affected political stability. Attractions nearby include the Communism Party of Thailand museum. Trek along the Lan Him Pum and Lan Hin Taek trails, an area of jutting rocks, to catch a glimpse of beautiful nature. Follow another trail to Pha Chu Thong, the cliff where a red fag was raised every time the CPT gained a victory. Witness the remains of a rustic meeting hall, the administrating building and the political school.

Waterfall lovers can relax at Romklao-Paradorn, Sripatcharin and Mun Daeng waterfalls within the park. See the beautiful pink Lin Mung Korn flowers on the fifth level of the waterfall. Blossoms are expected around the middle of August. If you wish to visit Mun Daeng waterfall, you must inform a navigator in advance. Prepare your supplies as it is far and steep. Trekkers are advised to cover their legs with plastic bags to prevent slugs from getting into their pants. A round-trip takes a day. Spending a night at the park is suggested.

BOX Accommodation in the national park compound is in the form of tents and houses. Contact the National Park Division, Forestry Department at (02-579-5734, 02-579-7223) or visit www.dnp.go.th

In the afternoon, depart from the national park to Uttaradit province by following the same route or highway No 12. At the Indo-China intersection, turn right to highway No 11 towards Uttaradit. Many petrol stations are along the way. Fill up the tank and have supper before going to Uttaradit, which takes an hour and a half.

Pay respects to the Praya Pichai Dap Hak Memorial installed in front of the city hall on Prachanimit road. It was constructed to honour Praya Pichai for his bravery, patriotism and sacrifice to the country.

Drive along highway No 102 to Laplae district. Use the Uttaradit-Sukhothai route to visit Wat Phra Thaen Sila At in Ban Thaen, Tumbon Yung. The temple is situated on the hill, 14 km from the town. You can drive up the hill and park the car within the monastery compound and stroll around.

The temple was built in the Ayutthaya period and houses the base of a sermon platform built with laterite. According to legend, Lord Buddha practised meditation here. Also featuring in the temple is a museum of ancient products, which represent ways of lives of the royalty and northern folks.  It is open daily from 8am to 7pm and there is no admission fee.

A festival is held yearly between the eighth and the 15th waxing moon of the third month to celebrate the sermon platform. It’s a merit-making tradition, which has been carried on for many generations.

During the festival, monks install and stay in their tents near the temple. They receive alms and share food with folks, which marks a great outdoor merit-making ritual every year.

Visit local museums within the monastery. Structures are designed in traditional Lana or northern style. The front area is decorated with flower plants, bushes and herb gardens. Souvenirs such as herbal products are available. Watch demonstrations on making cotton fabrics making, weaving machine and other ancient utensils. It is open from 8am to 5pm (055-442-192).

At night, find a place for dinner and stay at Rim Nan market or enjoy shopping at shops in front of the Uttaradit Rajabhat University.

Grand Wana Hotel, located in the Uttaradit town, provides standard rooms featuring water heater, air-conditioner, wireless Internet and cable TV at Bt470 per night, including breakfast (055-403-333).

The next morning, pay respects to the Luang Pho Phet statue at Tha Thanon Temple. Luang Pho Phet, built in Chiang Saen style and cast in bronze, is the principal statue of the province. The temple is situated opposite the train station on Kasemrat road.

Depart from the Uttaradit town and drive past Uttaradit Rajabhat University. At the Uttaradit School intersection, turn left to highway No 1045, which is a bypass, and stay on the route until you reach highway No 11. Turn right towards the south to Bo Lek Nam Phi mine.

Drive across the Nan River bridge and keep straight until you see an intersection. Turn left to highway No 1047 and drive 20 km to reach highway No 1244. Turn right and go along the 3 km-concrete road that runs past Moo 1 village, Tumbon Nam Phi, Thong Saen Khan district. A spacious parking lot is in front of the site. Souvenir shops sell Phra Khan, beads, charms and amulets.

There is an exhibition on the origin of ores. Two existing mines are nearby. One is the Phra Saeng mine believed to have been used to make swords for kings. The other is called the Phra Sung mine.

A worship mine is where a bait made from magnetic stone is thrown to attract steel. This steel is for worship and is believed to protect the owner from harm.

From the Bo Lek Nam Phi, turn right to highway No 1045 to Chan Cave National Park. Drive 20 minutes to Nam Pat district. Turn left and continue for 2 km on the narrow winding concrete road. The parking lot in front of the national park office can accommodate more than 20 cars.

According to history, the magnificent stalagmites and stalactites found inside the cave were believed to be the result of the Pha Chan tree in front of the entrance. The cave was therefore named after the tree. Eight caves are nearby but Chan Cave is the biggest.

Proceed to highway No 1047, turn left and drive for 15 more minutes. A big sign of Sak Yai or Big Teak Tree Forest Park will be seen on the left. Turn left and stay on a narrow concrete route for 9 km. The park is located in Pang Klau village, Tumbon Nam Krai, in Nam Pat district. It covers an area of 1,000 rai. The main attraction is the world’s largest teak tree with a circumference of 9.8 metres, which is believed to be more than 1,500 years old. Despite the damaged top due to storm, the trunk remains in original shape.

Head for Phu Soi Dao National Park by proceeding on highway No 1047 to Nam Pat district. Go past Nam Pat hospital (055-481-574-7) and turn right at the downtown intersection to connect to highway No 1239. Keep driving for 15 km to highway No 1212 three-way conjunction. Find highway No 1239 and drive 47 km. At the Ban Huay Mun intersection, turn right to highway No 1268 and continue for 18 km to reach the Phu Soi Dao National Park office (055-436-001-2). The total distance is 133 km. The Phu Soi Dao waterfall is within the office area.

At present no accommodation is provided at the Phu Soi Dao National Park. But there is an area for camping. Visitors are advised to bring their own tents.

If you come to Uttaradit between August and September, find two extra days to explore the beautiful Ngon Nak (Murdannia giganteum) prairie on top of the park, which is 1,633 metres above sea level. Visitors are allowed to walk up the park from 8am to 1pm only. It might be unsafe to trek after 1 pm as you would arrive at the pine forest in the dark due to the steep trails, which takes approximately 4-6 hours depending on your fitness.

On the way you will pass 5-level waterfalls, some of which are very steep and therefore named “Noen Song Yat” (seeing off relatives) to “Noen Morana” (death). Some say this is more challenging than Phu Kradueng (in Loei). You should bring your own lunch and water as by the time you arrive on top it will be around 3pm. Also stock yourself with water, tents and sleeping equipment as there are no shops and places to stay. In addition, bring raincoats during the rainy season. However, carrier service is available and can be contacted at the park office. Price depends on the weight of your belongings.

At Lan Son Summit, take pictures with the beautiful Ngon Nak flower (Murdannia giganteum). There is a Thai-Lao border stone, which features national emblems of the two nations. It is a popular point for tourists to take pictures as you can across the border in just one step. The pine forest in the mist and sunset on the cliff can be seen on your way back. The park is open only from July 1 – January 5, 8 am to 2pm for safety reasons.

……………………….

Restaurant

Phae Ahard Fah Thai in Muang district, Phitsanulok; Tel 055-242-743

Sam Sian (Pork noodles, chicken calf egg noodles and fried chicken rice), Muang district, Uttaradit; Tel 055-513-189

Krua Ta Ka Yai (Thai food) Muang district; Tel 055-440-298)

Accommodation

Sappraiwan Grand Hotel and Resort, Wang Thong district Phitsanulok; Price Bt1,500-3,700; Tel 055-293-293

Wanathara Health Resort & Spa, Wang Thong district, Phitsanulok; Price Bt1,000-4,500; Tel 055-293-411-5

Thai Thana Resort, Muang district, Uttaradit; Price Bt 480; Tel 055-443-222, 055-443-234

Police Stations

Muang Phitsanulok Police Station: Tel 055-258-777

Muang Uttaradit Police Station: Tel 055-411-1038

Souvenir Shops

Ruen Thai Jamlong, Aranyik, Muang district, Phitsanulok; Tel  055-214-347

Kan Kluaymai, Muang district, Phitsanulok; Tel 055-241-983

Kanokmanee, Muang district, Uttaradit; Tel 055-411-295

Lao Sun Seng, Muang district, Uttaradit; Tel 055-411-294

5 days 4 nights

Use highway No 115 in Kamphaeng Phet Muang district and connect through to highway No 1280 to reach Sai Thong Wattana district after 20 km. Visit Ban Noanjan Glass Blowing Centre where you can witness glass-blowing techniques by locals. Products are available in various designs – animal, flower and fruit shapes – which are sold locally and internationally. Then, return to highway No 115 by using the same direction in order to reach Kamphaeng Phet town.

From highway No 1, turn left and drive past the Banana and Handicraft Market until you reach 346 km. Turn left again at the Khlonga Mai Lai market and stay on highway No 1117 and Khlong Mai Lai-Umphang road for 46 km. At Khlong Lan intersection, turn right and drive for 4 km to reach Khlong Lan National Park. It covers the last most abundant Khlong Lan forest in the province and is the source of several streams. Nearby are Khlong Lan and Khlong Nam Lai waterfalls.

BOX – Talat Kluai Khai (Banana Market) is on the Kamphaeng Phet-Nakhon Sawan highway No 343. It sells raw and ripe small bananas and a wide range of products, including sweet, fried bananas, baked honey bananas, fried tapiocas and woven rattans, which are top-quality souvenirs of the Chakungrao city, the province’s ancient name.

From the Kamphaeng Phet town, take highway No 101 for 5 km along the Kamphaeng Phet-Phran  Kratai road, turn left and go straight until at 360 km, you will arrive at Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park The huge archaeological site is made of bricks and features the planning concept of the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods. Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park and the Si Satchanalai Historical Park were declared World Heritage Sites by Unesco in 1991. It is open daily from 8am to 4.30pm. Admission fee is Bt10 for Thais and Bt40 for foreigners. An extra Bt50 is charged per car for visitors who wish to drive through. (055-711-921).

P Resort on the bank of the Ping River is available at Bt350-500 per night. Each room has air-conditioning, a refrigerator, water heater with free coffee and 24-hour Internet service (055-701-288).

From the Municipality Stadium intersection, turn left, and go along highway No 1084 for 3 km. Kamphaeng Phet Hospital (055-711-234) is on the right side. From the Municipality Stadium intersection, go straight along highway No 101. Turn right to the Muang district office, which is diagonal to the Muang Kamphaeng Phet Police Station (055-716-868).

The next morning, prepare supplies for your trip to Thi Lo Su Waterfall. Booking for accommodation can be made at the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary. Bring your own tents but you have to pay Bt20 fee per person for camping. In case you have no tents, they are available at the site.

Drive along highway No 1 and move past Kluai Khai Market from 346-350 km. Fill up your car tank at petrol stations of your choice: PTT, Bangjak, Caltex or Shell. After that, head towards Muang Tak district by using highway No 1. Shortly before reaching Tak town, turn left at the intersection to take highway No 105. Keep driving for 70 km on a tar, winding road up the mountain. Be prudent as many cars are expected on this main route. Before Mae Sot intersection, there is a PTT petrol station. Move past the station, turn left to take highway No 1090 towards Umphang district.

It takes 165 km and approximately 3-4 hours to reach Umphang, depending on the car and the acquaintance of the drivers with the route, which is winding and narrow.  This two-lane road features a total of 1,219 curves. A resting point is provided for travellers at the halfway stage. About 88 km further is the Baan Umpiam immigrants’ community where you can stop by for taking pictures of houses built on mountainside.

Before Umphang district, turn right at the intersection to visit the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary located on the Umphang-Maeklong Mai-Mae Chan road or highway No 1167. At 20 km, turn left and drive along the asphalt road in the forest for 26 km to get to the sanctuary.

BOX: Those who wish to enter the Thi Lo Su Waterfall area driving a personal car, must ask for a permission card from the Umphang Tourism Promotion Office (055-561-338).

Tip : The office closes the inbound route between June 1-October 31 to prevent accidents due to the heavy rains during the period. If you wish to enter the area, take a raft service and continue on foot. The way can be very muddy when it is raining.

Raft service is widely available in Umphang district. Price includes meal and accommodation. Cars can be parked within the office area.

BOX: The route to Thi Lo Su is narrow with chasms on both sides. Travelling with a pickup or a four-wheel-drive car is recommended. Avoid evening or night journey. You should arrive at the Muang Umphang Police Station before afternoon. (055-561-1011).

Thi Lo Su Waterfall is located within the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, 1.8 km away from the Umphang Tourism Promotion Office. It is a limestone waterfall 500 metres in width and 300 metres in height. Amidst the evergreen forest, Thi Lo Su is rated as one of the six most beautiful in the world. It is open until 5pm. Food, plastic bags and bottles and foam boxes are not allowed.

BOX: There is an area for camping outside the Umphang Tourism Promotion Office. In case you arrive in the late afternoon, you will be allowed to walk up to the waterfall only the next morning.

After breakfast the next morning, you can spend half a day enjoying the waterfall. After lunch, go back to Umphang district. On the way, stop by at the Takobi cave with children in the area as your guides. After you pass the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary exit, turn right and follow the same route back to Umphang district. You can stop at the orange orchard for photographing or shopping for fresh oranges. At the Umphang district area, you can take a coffee break and buy some souvenirs at Kru Sun shop. Advance room reservation is suggested if you wish to stay overnight in the district. For those who reserve rooms at hotels near the river, you can have extra activities such as a swim tube cruise.

Get up at dawn or before 5am to watch the beautiful sunrise at Doi Hua Mot. Use the Umphang route towards Baan Palatha for 10km. At km 9, you can observe a beautiful view but it’s a 20-minute drive up the hill. If not, move right to km 10 and walk for a few minutes to reserve a spot to witness the stunning sunrise and take magnificent pictures.

Return to your accommodation to pack your stuff, eat breakfast and leave for Mae Sot district by taking highway No 1090. At 37 km, you will notice a sign saying “Pha Charoen Waterfall National Park” on the right hand. Turn right and go along a small concrete road for 700 metres to reach the site. Pha Chaproen is abundant with water all year round. It’s 97-tiered limestone waterfall where a special area for capturing the picturesque views is provided.

Drive along highway No 1090 to Mae Sot. Mae Sot Police Station (055-531-112) is on this route. Stop for lunch at Rimmeoy Market, which is near the border between Thailand and Burma’s Myawaddy city. The Thai-Burma Friendship Bridge is used for people from both countries to cross from one side to another. A wide range of food, products and jewellery, the famous items of the area, are available at the market as well as reasonably-priced home decors and furniture.

If you wish to cross the border to Burma, here are the procedures:

Thai citizens can use their identity card to make a temporary pass at the Thai-Burma Bridge Immigration Office. Passport is not accepted for non-Thai citizens. Show the border pass to officials at the immigration office to cross the border. You must not take pictures or record VDO inside any of the Burmese government offices.

To cross the Mae Sot border in a car, car ownership document and two copies must be presented. Only the owner of the car is allowed to bring the vehicle out of the kingdom unless the driver shows the power of attorney of the owner.

The fee for driving across the border and insurance (required by Burma) is Bt250 per four-wheel car and Bt500 for over four-wheel vehicles. Road fee is Bt50 for less than four-wheel car and Bt100 for over four-wheel car. Municipality tax is Bt50 per car and passenger fee is Bt10 per person.

From Mae Sot, make a transit to highway No 105 in Muang Tak district and connect through to highway No 12 towards Sukhothai province. Sukhothai Historical Park is situated across from Ramkamhaeng National Museum. Witness the grand structures of the ancient city, which was prosperous in olden times. It is open from 6am to 9pm (ticket sales close at 6pm). Light show is open from 7pm to 9pm. Entrance fee is Bt10 for Thais and Bt40 for foreigners. Package ticket is Bt30 for Thai and Bt150 for foreigner.

For guide, contact the Sukhothai Historical Park office.

Box:  The Sukhothai Loy Krathong and Candle Festival is grandly celebrated on the full-moon night every November. Cultural arts and traditional Thai musical performances, lighting of lanterns, and the light and sound presentation of the Sukhothai Kingdom during the prosperous time, which is the highlight, are featured in the festival.

Ruen Thai Hotel, which is built from wood in Thai style, offers a standard room at Bt1,000- Bt 1,200 per night (055-612-444).

Don’t miss Sukhothai noodles, which tastes identical with the ancient flavour. Ran Mai Klang Krung in the Sukhothai Muang district is recommended (055-612-855).

In the morning, leave from Sukhothai Muang district for Si Satchanalai district by using highway No 12 and then connect to No 101. Shell petrol station is at 34 km and PTT petrol station at 26 km. Drive for 40 km past Si Samrong district, Sawankhalok district to Tombon Tachai in Si Satchanalai district. Experience the making of gold and silver ornaments, ancient-looking gold and silver products, which are entirely hand-made by distinguished skilled goldsmiths. A wide variety of uniquely designed items such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, bangles, bags and caskets which are made of 99.99 per cent pure gold make spectacular souvenirs.

Orn-anong Thong Bolaan, a gold shop, is located at the Tha Chai market on highway No 101. Ready-to-wear products are displayed in the shop and made-to-order requests are accepted (055-679-229, 055-631-631).

Proceed along highway No 101 until 18 km. Turn left to use highway No 1201, which is a two-lane concrete route running through a village. Drive over the Yom River bridge, turn right and continue for 1.5 km to reach Si Satchanalai Historical Park. It’s an ancient city, which was the administrative centre during the reign of Phra Ruang. Inside the city lie several main historical sites such as Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Temple, alternatively called Phra Borommathat Muang Chaliang Temple or known as “Pha Prang Temple” by the locals. Another significant site is Chang Lom Temple, which features a huge bell-shaped chedi supported by 39 elephants. Chedi Chet Thaeo Temple constructed in different artistic styles and influence makes it the most outstanding temple in the province.

The Si Satchanalai Historical Park (055-697-310) is open daily from 8am to 5pm. Admission fee is Bt30 for Thai and Bt40 for foreigner. Package ticket is available at Bt30 for Thai and Bt150 for foreigner. If you wish to bring your vehicle into the park, you have to pay a fee between Bt10-50.

Have lunch at restaurants along the bank of Yom River where you can catch a glimpse of the currents which flow past thousands of stones called “Kaeng Luang”.

Drive up the north along the Yom River for 5 km, you will see remains of Sangkhalok stoves on both sides of the road before the entrance to Sangkhalok Stoves Study and Reserve Centre in Ban Koh Noi. After the discovery of numerous Sangkhalok ceramics and potteries, some in perfect condition and some damaged, the centre has put these historical items, which represent the development of ancient potteries, on display. It is open daily from 9am to 4pm. Admission fee is Bt10 for Thai and Bt40 for foreigner.

Take highway No 1201 up north for another 7 km. Drive past PTT petrol station until the Si Satchanalai Hospital (055-630-039) three-way junction. Turn right and cross the Yom River bridge, go past Muang Si Sachanalai Police Station (055-671-234), turn left at the Government Savings Bank three-way junction to get back to highway No 101 (If you turn right, you will find a Shell petrol station within one km distance) to Tumbon Hat Siao, Si Satchanalai. Drive for 2 km to central market, you will find Sathorn shop, which sells gold products and good quality hand-made fabrics, across the market. Hat Siao fabric comes with an embossed-end, done by descendants of the Thai Phuan community, which migrated from Vientiane, Laos. Nearby is a Caltex petrol station, which is next to the Wat Bot temple. It is the last petrol station before departing Si Satchanalai district to Phrae or Uttaradit provinces.

Kanom Kliow (Crispy Twist) is the famous snack of Sukhothai. Fried nuts of Si Sam Rong district is original and has been sold for over 200 years. Hat Siao fabrics are valuable souvenirs.