Have you ever felt the need to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? To take a break, relax, and recharge your batteries? As a busy professional with limited vacation days, finding the time and resources for a long getaway can be challenging. However, a short trip of just two days and one night can be the perfect solution. This itinerary offers a nearby escape with a peaceful atmosphere, affordable accommodations, and readily available food options, making it ideal for a quick and rejuvenating retreat.

"Phitsanulok, a province often associated with temples and national parks, offers a plethora of captivating attractions for those seeking a tranquil and unpretentious slow-life experience. Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Nakhon Chum, visitors can immerse themselves in an atmosphere reminiscent of home, where simplicity reigns supreme."

**"Nong Krut Chum"** is a small village nestled in a valley in Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province. This peaceful village boasts fresh air and friendly locals. A 2-day, 1-night stay allows visitors to experience the simple life and learn about the history of Nakhon Chum from the village elders, who claim it to be the origin of Thailand. Activities abound, including rice planting, weaving, making traditional snacks, riding an "e-taek" (a modified tractor) through rice fields, and hiking up Khao Pok Loen for breathtaking 360-degree views and a sea of mist at dawn.

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Our journey began on a cool Friday evening. We boarded a 20:30 bus, arriving at Phitsanulok Bus Terminal at 4:00 AM. We rented a motorbike from Ja Ek shop (https://www.facebook.com/PhitsanulokMotorBikeAndCa...) and embarked on a 128-kilometer ride to Nakhon Thai district.

Transportation:

Drive along the Phitsanulok - Nakhon Thai route, approximately 100 kilometers from Phitsanulok city. Then, continue driving to Nakhon Chum Subdistrict for another 28 kilometers. Alternatively, contact the Nakhon Chum Subdistrict Administrative Organization at 055-009808 for further inquiries.

I'm on the road with this Zoomer X.

The weather was fantastic during the journey, with a cool breeze blowing on our faces. It was truly exhilarating. Light rain fell intermittently. After driving for a while, we entered the Nakhon Thai district. On the left side, we noticed the monument of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, also known as King Sri Indraditya, the founder of the Thai nation. We stopped to pay our respects and seek good fortune before entering the city of Nakhon Chum (flowers, incense, and candles are available here).


After paying respects to King Bang Klang Hao (King Sri Indraditya), I rode my motorbike for about 20 kilometers into the city of Nakhon Chum. The road was lined with green rice fields, creating a romantic atmosphere. A gentle breeze blew, and a light rain fell.


The Historical Significance of Nakhon Chum, Phitsanulok

Nakhon Chum, a sub-district in Nakhon Thai district, Phitsanulok province, was originally known as "Nakhon Sum" or "Mueang Bua Chum." This strategic town served as a frontier outpost for King Bang Klang Hao, the first Sukhothai monarch. Surrounded by mountains on all sides, Nakhon Chum offered a natural defensive advantage.

Local legend holds that King Bang Klang Hao resided in Nakhon Chum before establishing his reign in Bang Yang. He entrusted the defense of Nakhon Chum to Khun Harn Hao, also known as Thao Saeng Muang, a skilled military leader. The town's strategic location, providing a clear view of the surrounding landscape and potential battlefields, made it an ideal training ground for soldiers. This strategic advantage led to the town's name, "Nakhon Sum," which translates to "concealed city," eventually evolving into the present-day "Nakhon Chum."

Every year, on April 13th, a flag-raising ceremony is held on the summit of Pok Khlong Mountain to commemorate the heroic deeds of King Bang Klang Hao and to promote tourism in the historic district of Nakhon Chum. The hiking trail also features significant landmarks such as the Tiger Trap Pit, the Sacred Water Well, and the Pha Pong Cave. In addition to the refreshing air, visitors can experience the warm hospitality of the Nakhon Chum community.


Before entering the village, there is a sign that says "R่องเขาแห่งนครชุมและจุดชมวิว". Take a picture and check in before entering the village.

The viewpoint before the village entrance offers a panoramic view of Nakhon Chum.

After riding a motorbike for a while, you will reach a photo spot in front of the health station called "Khao Rong of Nakhon Chum".

It is colorful, just like the picture on the page. So, let's take some pictures.

Nestled amidst the rugged mountains, this humble abode offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The serene surroundings provide the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation, allowing weary souls to recharge and revitalize their spirits.

The immaculate village, devoid of litter, reflects the close-knit community where residents share a strong bond. With only one entrance and exit, the village effectively eliminates the threat of theft, ensuring the safety and security of its inhabitants.

After passing the health center, continue for another 2 bridges. After crossing the 2nd bridge, look to the left.
* * Look for the yellow house with a jackfruit tree in front. * *
This is "Auntie Ting & Uncle Yong Homestay", my accommodation for tonight.

Today, we will explore the village. What activities can we do here?

--> Visit the Uncle Chuang Museum, which houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts for our exploration and learning.

--> Freshly made palm cakes, prepared right here.

--> Trying to learn how to weave. I want to try, but I'm afraid of breaking your grandfather's things, so I just sit and watch.
One day, your grandfather made one piece for 60 baht (it takes a day to order).


--> Learn the language of Nakhon Chum in the era of King Khun with Auntie Ting

My favorite part was probably dinner (didn't have time to take a picture of the food, I was too hungry).
Dessert was fresh, crisp, and delicious fruit from the backyard garden. Most importantly, it felt like being at home.



Our room tonight has a fan but no air conditioning. The air is not hot, so we can sleep comfortably. We have an appointment with Mr. Tum to pick us up at 5:30 AM to conquer the bald mountain and see the sea of fog in the morning.

5:20 AM Forgot to set the alarm clock. . .

Oh my god!! We woke up with a start at 5:20 am, thinking we were dead. Will Tum be on time? We rushed to take a shower, get dressed, and prepare to watch the morning mist (5555 +++) That's what we thought. But in reality, we just washed our face, brushed our teeth, put on some powder, and put on a jacket. That's all. Then Tum came and shouted our name. He was right on time.

The ascent to the viewpoint at Khao Pok Gloen, located on the side of the village, offers panoramic views of the natural landscape and the sea of mist. The hike is approximately 2 kilometers, but the trail is steep and slippery due to the rocky terrain. It is recommended to depart from your accommodation around 4:30 AM. The viewpoint is a rocky outcrop.

Then, Tum took us on a motorbike to the starting point of the climb up Khao Pok Loen. Let me tell you, the path was super rough, full of potholes. The motorbike almost couldn't handle the bumps. We struggled our way to the starting point of the climb up Khao Pok Loen around 6:00 am. I couldn't help but wonder, where did the sun and the fog go?

The journey begins with a walk through a rubber plantation. Villagers tap rubber late into the night, and mosquitoes are abundant. The air is thick and humid. * * * To reach the sea of mist, it is best to leave the homestay at 4:30 am. The starting point is a 2-kilometer hike from the homestay. * * *







Villagers prepare to enter the forest to find lingzhi mushrooms during the rainy season when they are abundant.


The trail is easy to navigate and allows for a leisurely pace. As we walked, Brother Tum shared the history of Nakhon Chum, making the experience even more enjoyable.


The morning mist is incredibly beautiful, making it worth waking up early to see it.




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Tiger Pit, according to local legend, is a pit where tigers would come to drink water and accidentally fall in, unable to escape.


The ascent to the summit of Khao Pok Loen involves traversing the treacherous Crocodile's Back Ridge.


Golden Water Well, a sacred well that can cure diseases. ** Located in the tent camping area. **




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The weather is incredibly pleasant, around 28 degrees Celsius. This curve is all ours, so let's reserve some space and take pictures from every angle! 5555


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The weather in Nakhon Chum is pleasant in the late rainy season, with temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius in the mornings and evenings.


Thank you, P'Tum (the handsome guide), for sharing the history and leading us through various activities (including taking photos for us).






Offering breathtaking 360-degree views, this spot allows visitors to admire the cityscape of Nakhon Chum in front and the majestic Khao Kho mountains behind. During the winter season, the area transforms into a mesmerizing sea of fog.



On some mornings, you can see a sea of fog flowing from the head of the village to the end of the village.
But during the winter, you can see it every day (** I am very lucky to have seen all the atmospheres **)



Waking up to fresh air and million-dollar views, we were lucky to experience all the elements - from a sea of mist to sunshine and a light drizzle.


The fog began to move in and cover the area.

Reach for the sky

The highlight of his bald head is the flag that the villagers will help weave and hang every April 13th of each year.

After capturing the breathtaking sunrise and sea of mist, our stomachs began to rumble. We descended the mountain, which took approximately 15 minutes, and hopped on our motorbikes to return to Auntie Ting's house.

Our breakfast today~ Simple food but the taste is amazing


Special menu from Auntie Ting "Fried Egg with Crispy Noodles" is only available in Nakhon Chum.

After taking photos until we were exhausted, we returned to fill our little stomachs. We were very full and very satisfied.

After a hearty meal, we indulged in a variety of fruits from the backyard garden, including rambutans, seedless guavas, custard apples, dragon fruits, and mangosteens.

Auntie Ting was incredibly kind and allowed us to climb the trees and pick the fruits ourselves, making the experience even more enjoyable.

It's time to go home, but I don't want to leave yet. It was a relaxing trip without much to do, but it was good for my soul.


Nakhorn Chum may be an ordinary homestay that few people know about because it is hidden in a mountain valley. However, if you have the opportunity to visit, I am sure you will fall in love with it just like me.

2-Day, 1-Night Program: 450 Baht/Person

Accommodation:

  • Stay at "Pa Ting & Uncle Yong's Homestay" with fresh fruits from their backyard available throughout your stay.

Activities:

  • Immerse yourself in the local community life by learning about basket weaving, making traditional snacks, and experiencing rice planting.
  • Discover the history of Nakhon Chum through local storytelling.
  • Enjoy two meals (dinner and breakfast).
  • Hike up Khao Pok Lone with a guide for 100 Baht per person.
  • Enjoy the convenience of Wi-Fi access.

Contact Information:

For those interested in experiencing Nakhon Chum Homestay, please contact:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nakhonchumhomestay/?fref=mentions

Note: This translation focuses solely on the provided text and does not include any additional information or questions.

095-568-3380

# Phitsanulok # Nakhon Chum
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