Although this review is based on a visit from last year, the experience has left a lasting impression that I felt compelled to share. For those seeking a truly exceptional experience, look no further. This is a must-visit destination that will exceed your expectations.
As the semester drew to a close, we found ourselves immersed in travel reviews rather than textbooks. After our exams, we embarked on a quest for the perfect getaway. Coincidentally, one of our group members stumbled upon a captivating thread on Pantip, a popular Thai online forum, where a young man embarked on a journey to find his girlfriend on Phu Kradueng, a stunning mountain in northeastern Thailand. Inspired by this tale, we decided to follow in their footsteps and explore the wonders of Phu Kradueng ourselves.
After searching for a place to go to the beach and enjoy the fresh air, I decided to cancel my plans and go hiking up a mountain instead. It's only 10 km, so it should be a breeze. After finishing my exams, I booked a tent at the park's campsite through their website (although you can also book it in person). I also booked a bus ticket online with the State Transport Authority (only for the trip there, I'll figure out the way back when I get there). My trip is scheduled for December 6-9, 2015.
Our journey began at Mo Chit Bus Terminal, heading towards the Northeast region, at 8:30 PM.
The car was slightly delayed in its departure, arriving at its destination around 4:00 AM. Please consider this an approximate time.
They got drunk and dragged their own souls off the tour bus, along with the cool air. Brrr.
Following the locals' reviews, we waited at the front of Mr. Kim's shop. We took a moment to freshen up.
The girls on the trip couldn't resist the freshness (beauty) of their own faces, so they went for it.
Gather for breakfast and drinks at 6:30 AM. Aim to have 10 people in total. We will then rent a car to go to the park, which will cost 300 baht per person.
The journey to Phu Kradueng National Park takes approximately 15 minutes.
We waited for the park to open to rent a tent and pay the entrance fee (there was a 50% discount on park entrance fees during this period). After browsing some souvenirs, we were physically and mentally prepared to take some photos and start our adventure.
The trail features rest stops at regular intervals. The natural terrain of the ascent can be challenging, leaving hikers breathless. These rest stops, known as "sam," are named after various features and total five in number. Each "sam" offers refreshments, snacks, and drinks, with prices generally increasing at higher elevations.
Along the way, we encountered porters, incredibly strong individuals who carried loads of several tens of kilograms. It was truly remarkable, as even with our light backpacks, we were struggling to catch our breath.
We started our hike at 7:30 am and arrived at the campsite around 12:00 pm. The trail was relatively flat, but it was still a 3-kilometer walk. Despite the distance, we enjoyed the leisurely pace and the beautiful scenery.
Upon arrival at the accommodation, it was approximately 13:30.
We then proceeded to set up our tents and bedding.
Charging services for phones, power banks, and cameras were available on-site. However, I do not recall the pricing.
Accommodation is arranged. Let's wash our hands and find something to eat. What are we waiting for?
The park has many restaurants to choose from. We ate at the same old place, Uncle Kim's.
The restaurant owner was very friendly and gave us many recommendations for places to visit. We had a great time and would definitely recommend this restaurant to others.
As the evening approached, we followed the restaurant owner's recommendation and went to watch the sunset.
There are actually many scenic spots on the top, but due to the leg strength, the time of 1 night and the long distance to sleep, it is still very far away.
Let's take a closer look. As before, we will travel on foot.
While there is a bicycle rental service available, we are feeling strong and would prefer to walk.
Our destination was Pha Mak Duk, where we witnessed a breathtaking sunset.
Upon returning to our tents, we braved the frigid temperatures to take a shower before heading out for dinner. We opted for a delicious Thai-style barbecue, enjoying a medium-sized set for 500 baht while seated at a Japanese-style table. The cool evening breeze and the ambiance created a truly memorable dining experience.
The park will turn off the lights and announce a quiet time at 9:58 PM. They are quite strict about this.
For those who want to watch the sunrise in the morning, the park will have staff to guide you to the Pha Nok Aen viewpoint at 5:00 AM.
The reason why staff need to accompany you is because there is a risk of encountering wild animals, such as elephants.
After returning from Pha Nok Aen, we packed up our belongings, returned the tent and blankets, and looked for something to eat. It was already 9:30 AM. We then descended from Phu Kradueng and arrived at the bottom earlier than expected, around 1:30 PM. We bought some souvenirs and then waited for the red car to return to Je Kim's shop.
I believe that the Je Kim shop offers a comprehensive range of services. It has bathrooms, food, drinks, and even bus tickets. We bought our bus tickets next to the Je Kim shop. Initially, we planned to go straight to Bangkok, but we had to wait until 7 pm. So, we bought tickets to Korat and then took a connecting bus to Bangkok. We left Pha Nok Khao around 3:45 pm and arrived in Bangkok at midnight. That concludes our trip to Phu Kradueng!
Trip Expenses Summary
This review summarizes the transportation and accommodation costs incurred during the trip. Food expenses are excluded.
:: Transportation Fee ::
The bus fare from Bangkok to Pha Nok Khao is 347 baht.
The red car fare (300 baht per trip) round trip 600 baht, the car will wait until 10 people are full, pay 30 baht per person.
The bus fare from Chiang Khan to Korat is 207 baht.
The bus fare from Korat to Bangkok is 196 baht.
:: Accommodation Fee ::
The park entrance fee is 20 baht per person.
Tent rental is 225 baht per tent, which can accommodate 3 people.
Bedding cost: 50 baht per blanket.
This concludes our review. See you on the next trip! Goodbye!
#Thank you for the laughter all the way #Thank you to all the lovely people on the trip #Thank you for the kindness of the people there #Thank you for coming with me, my friends #ด้ว #pohteytuktakmintpuppiesdooatloei #mistertobaccoandfriends
mistertobacco
Friday, September 27, 2024 10:39 AM