A secluded hamlet nestled amidst towering mountains, shrouded in the mists of time, where echoes of the past linger.

Once a thriving mine, now a legend, the mine has come alive again, becoming a popular tourist destination where people yearn for a slow and easy life. 'Pi LoK' has become a village that makes me and everyone else envy the locals.

The natural environment boasts clean, fresh air that will leave your lungs feeling refreshed. The cool evenings offer stunning views of the stars, and there are magnificent viewpoints to explore. Evidence of past civilizations can be found throughout the area. The journey is not too far, taking approximately 5 hours from Bangkok to Thong Pha Phum District. And so, the adventure of Lost Somewhere Together begins...


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Jogkradin Waterfall: A Bustling Oasis

Jogkradin Waterfall, located approximately 5 kilometers from Thong Pha Phum National Park, offers a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Upon arrival, visitors can park their vehicles and embark on a short 600-meter walk to reach the cascading falls.

Due to its proximity to Bangkok, Jogkradin Waterfall attracts a significant number of visitors, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons. The vibrant atmosphere is palpable, with the sounds of laughter and splashing water filling the air. Distinguishing between people and water becomes a playful challenge, as they seem to blend seamlessly amidst the lively crowd.

While the photographs presented here may not fully capture the extent of the crowds, they offer a glimpse into the waterfall's captivating charm. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, visiting during weekdays or off-season periods is recommended.

This location offers a fantastic swimming experience, with many people enjoying the water. Visitors are encouraged to bring their swimsuits for a refreshing dip.


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**Pilok Mine**: The origin of this village's former prosperity lies in this very mine. Numerous remnants of machinery serve as a reminder of its past. This area was once a thriving center for various mineral industries, and the local population historically worked in this mining empire. However, economic hardship forced the mine to close, leaving Pilok a tranquil village nestled within the valley.

Once a place of booming mines and bustling activity, this location has transformed into a tranquil haven for travelers seeking a slower pace of life. Free from the clamor of industry, it offers a serene atmosphere and a simple existence. Its idyllic setting makes it one of the most desirable destinations in Thailand for those seeking a peaceful and unpretentious lifestyle.

Visitors are welcome to explore and capture photos at their leisure, embracing the serene ambiance.


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E-Tong Market: A must-visit spot for visitors, this market offers a variety of local snacks, unique souvenirs, and a chance to experience the local culture. The market also features an old cinema, although it was crowded during my visit and I was unable to explore it further.

Market Hours: Daily, from morning until 9 PM.

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Evening Atmosphere: The nighttime here offers a different kind of warmth. Feel free to take a stroll or relax and enjoy the ambiance.

Homestay accommodations are plentiful here, but there is one rule: no showering between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM. You might wonder if I would try to sneak in a shower. Of course not! Despite my appearance, I do maintain good hygiene.

The reason for the bathing restriction is due to electricity concerns. Local residents are worried about insufficient power supply. If your accommodation has an electric water heater only, you may shower after 10 pm. Otherwise, power outages may affect the entire Pilok town.

Imagine taking a warm shower and suddenly the power goes out, plunging the entire city into darkness. Oh, the horror! However, if your accommodation has a gas-powered water heater, you're in luck. You can shower whenever you want. Fortunately, my accommodation had a gas water heater, so I was able to take a shower at 10 pm, which was perfect timing.


The Nighttime Atmosphere at the Mine

The following describes the atmosphere at the mine at night. I entered to take pictures of the stars, a departure from my usual daytime explorations.

The solitude was slightly eerie, with an absolute silence and darkness. The only sound was the chanting of monks. It happened to be the day of a funeral at a nearby temple. Some say that being near monks brings peace of mind and eliminates fear, but the sound of funeral chants floating through the air… well, imagine how comforting that was. 5555+

A charming and cozy little restaurant and homestay where you can relax and enjoy the evening sky and water.


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**Elephant Tusk Hill Viewpoint:** This is truly a highlight of any visit to Pilok. **From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of both Thailand and Myanmar.** It's an excellent spot to witness the sunrise, offering stunning and panoramic vistas.

If you come at the right time and season, you are guaranteed to see a sea of fog to your heart's content. Today, the fog may not be as thick and fluffy as I would like, but there is still enough to make you happy. There is still more fog than people who come to see it, hahaha. People are everywhere, making the camping area really full.

Initially, I considered sleeping in a tent, but they were all occupied. I wondered if there were any available cabins, and fortunately, there was one. It seems that most people prefer to sleep in tents.


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Morning Alms Offering: I know that offering alms to monks is not something new or exciting. But believe it or not, these ordinary things are things that we rarely get to touch or do in our daily lives.

The fast-paced life in the capital city leaves little time for people to engage in traditional practices like offering alms to monks. Commuting to work on time is already a challenge, with traffic congestion and the need to rush. Finding opportunities to perform such rituals becomes nearly impossible.

Let's give it a try... Coming here to slow down and enjoy life, with plenty of time to do ordinary things we never got around to. Being able to sit and offer alms with a full heart, taking the opportunity to do something good for the soul, it wouldn't hurt, right?

Plus, another easy 2-day, 1-night trip where I didn't have to sweat my way through like I did before.

Contrary to popular belief, I do not exclusively enjoy challenging outdoor adventures. I appreciate a diverse range of travel experiences, including both adventurous and relaxing options. It is important to embrace variety and explore different environments to enrich one's life.

If you are looking for a bustling and vibrant atmosphere with a wide range of activities and attractions, similar to Pai or Chiang Khan, then Pilok might not be the ideal destination for you.

If you ever feel weary and long for a tranquil escape, a change of scenery, and a slower pace of life, immerse yourself in the serene rhythm of the locals and savor the warmth of their hospitality. Here, you'll find a sanctuary free from the hustle and bustle, a place where you can truly unwind and reconnect with your inner peace. This is the perfect destination for those seeking a genuine and authentic experience.

Follow the journey of the lost person again on the next trip. Let's wait and see if I will take you through hardship or comfort. 5555+...Thank you for following. (:

For further travel discussions, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/Lost.Somewhere.Together

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