Readme before you journey
The hiking season on Phu Kradueng Mountain is approaching. Let's conquer Phu Kradueng together! Phu Kradueng National Park is open for tourism and overnight stays on the summit from October 1st to May 31st of each year.
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This is my second time visiting Phu Kradueng, while it's my girlfriend's first. The inspiration for our trip came from... the sound of the wind chimes, "Ting, ting, ting," at the entrance to Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei Province. The starting point of this friendship trip was sparked by seeing a beautiful picture of Phu Kradueng posted by a friend on Facebook. I shared it on my own page, and then...
Ui (my girlfriend): Toeng wants to go to Phu Kradueng?
Tong (myself): No, the picture of her is beautiful.
Uai (my girlfriend): Let's go, I want to go.
Tong (myself): Then let's stare at the ticket. And the journey of this trip begins.
Read the travelogue and the details under the pictures. There is a detailed summary at the end of the review. The approximate cost (including travel expenses) is around 4,000 baht per person. Note: There is a detailed summary at the end of the review.
Phone information: 042-810833 Reservation: 042-810834
**National Park Entrance Fees:** * Thai citizens: Adults 40 baht, Children 20 baht * Foreigners: Adults 400 baht, Children 200 baht **Recommendations:** * Bring massage oils, topical pain relievers, oral pain relievers (muscle relaxants), and injectable medications, as you may experience significant muscle soreness. * Bring a flashlight.
This trip coincided with the New Year's holiday for salarymen like us. We set off from Ayutthaya to Phu Kradueng in Loei province on New Year's Eve. At four o'clock in the afternoon on New Year's Day, we traveled from Ayutthaya, the city of Sri Lang, to Bangkok. We took the Don Mueang International Airport bus from Mo Chit 2 at 10 pm. We arrived at the airport at 6 pm and waited around.
We traveled by Sunbus, which cost 582 baht for a round trip ticket.
Our first experience with Sunbus was great. We slept the whole way. We arrived at Pha Nok Khao (Jek Kim's shop) at 4:00 AM, even though the ticket said we would arrive at 5:00 AM. We were an hour early. As soon as we got off the bus, we had to grab our jackets. The air was cool and comfortable, just like my hometown in Japan. (Just kidding, I heard you're from Buriram.) There were already a lot of people in front of Jek Kim's shop. I wondered what time they had arrived. Seeing the crowd, we asked the red songthaew driver what time the next one would leave. He said we could charter it for 300 baht and leave right away. I shouted excitedly, and a bunch of people followed us.
Day 1: After a 20-minute drive, we arrived at Phu Kradueng National Park. Our group of 10 paid 30 baht each for the ride. The park opened for ticket sales at approximately 4:30 AM for our 7:00 AM ascent. With time to spare, we freshened up but skipped the shower to avoid getting cold. We then headed to the "Army of the Fat" restaurant to fuel up before the hike. After breakfast, we enjoyed a cup of coffee at a local shop run by a friendly lady. (The picture shows her shop.)
Day 1:
7:00 AM: Ticket sales for mountain access and tent reservations begin. (If you haven't brought your own tent, you must reserve one here and then take the receipt to collect it at the top of the mountain. The park tent rental fee is 225 baht per night.)
After securing your tickets and tent reservation, hire a porter. Carrying your own gear up the mountain like we did in our younger days might not be feasible. Porters charge 30 baht per kilogram. You can pay them at the top when you collect your bags.
Day 1: Let's go!
Before we start our hike, let's take a picture to remember this moment. Just kidding, we're not that old yet. We'd like to introduce our new friend, Eve, who traveled all the way from Narathiwat (that's a long way!). She's got a real charm to her, just like Khao Phukradueng National Park. Eve came alone and we met her at Mo Chit Bus Terminal.
P.S. Eve ended up being our travel companion for the entire trip. She's got a really sweet personality.
Day 1: Mountain trail and incline level
Day 1: A 5.5 km Hike to the Top
Our journey begins with a 5.5 km hike to the summit of Phu Kradueng. We started our ascent at 7:22 am, eager to see how long it would take us to reach the top. This is not my first time on Phu Kradueng, but for my companion, Uei, it's a brand new experience.
Day 1: "Warping" to Sam Haeng. This is my first time here, so I'm starting to feel tired. (Spoken in Isan dialect)
Day 1: Throughout the journey, we constantly encountered our porter brothers and sisters, ranging from young adults to seasoned uncles and aunties. They carried everything on their backs, from food supplies to gas canisters. For those who believe that food on the mountain is expensive, think again. Consider the effort these porters exert to transport these goods (even carrying myself uphill left me begging for mercy).
Day 1: Traveling companion "Eve"
Day 1: Throughout the ascent to the mountain, there were food vendors selling various snacks and treats. We indulged in quite a few of these, with the highlight being the incredibly delicious "khai song khrueng" (a Thai dish of eggs cooked with various spices and herbs). It was truly a delightful experience.
Day 1: We finally arrived at Pha Lang, feeling exhausted.
The most popular phrase while climbing the mountain was "Just a little more, keep going!" We'll be there soon. 555 It's good that I've been here before.
P.S. The last waterfall before Pha Lang was amazing. I'm telling you.
But the charm of climbing Phu Kradueng is the opportunity to talk to so many people, greet each other, smile, and help each other, even though we've never met before. It's heartwarming to see.
We have not yet reached the campsite at Na Ja. We still need to travel 3.5 kilometers on flat terrain.
Day 1: We have finally arrived!
Day 1:
Upon arrival, the first thing to do is choose a tent. Early arrival grants priority in choosing a campsite. Remember to rent a sleeping bag and blanket, as it gets quite cold at night. If the park's tents are fully booked, there are tents available for rent from local villagers.
Day 1: We would like to express our gratitude to our fellow traveler, Eve, who arrived earlier and kindly set up the tent for us. In total, our journey took approximately 5 hours, including numerous food stops along the way.
Day 1: After setting up the tent, we were starving and immediately went in search of lunch. To our surprise, every restaurant we tried at Phu Kradueng served incredibly delicious food. We wondered if there was a culinary school there, as the cooks must have some kind of "deliciousness certification." Seriously, everything was amazing. Don't forget to try the "khai khatha" (fried egg dish) – it's so good, it'll make you forget about cows and buffaloes! Don't take our word for it, though – you have to try it yourself.
Day 1:
After lunch, let's take a nap to recharge. We have an appointment to watch the sunset at Pha Mak Duk at 4 pm.
Note: Our luggage will arrive 2-3 hours later than us.
Day 1: 4:00 PM We set off for Pha Mak Duk to watch the sunset, a 2-kilometer walk from the campsite. On the way, we met a man we had spoken to earlier at the campsite. He was walking back alone.
Uei: Would you like to walk with us again?
Man: Sure.
And so we became companions for the rest of the trip.
Day 1: This is the guide I mentioned, his name is Ton. He is very friendly and has a good personality. He was our guide and took good care of us throughout the trip until the end. I secretly took this picture of him. Permission granted, Ton.
Day 1: Pha Mak Duk
Day 1: At Pha Mak Duak, there are bicycles for rent at the campsite for those who love cycling and don't enjoy walking.
Day 1: I waited for my brother at Pha Mak Duak since 4 pm, but he didn't come out until the sky gradually changed color and it got dark. In the end, I didn't get to see the sunset, but the atmosphere was very cool and relaxing.
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Day 1: As darkness descended upon us at Pha Mak Duk, we realized we had forgotten to bring a flashlight. Fortunately, Eve and P'Ton had theirs with them, saving us from a potentially treacherous journey back to our accommodation. This incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared, especially when venturing into unfamiliar territory.
Our dinner tonight was a delicious "Moo Kata" (Thai BBQ) at Phu Kradueng National Park. The set menu for 500 baht included a large plate of fried rice with egg. It was so good! After a satisfying meal, we went to sleep. P.S. I took a shower at 8pm, and the water was freezing cold.
I woke up this morning feeling cold from the previous night.
Day 2: At 5:00 AM, we have an appointment with the staff to watch the sunrise at Pha Ngern. Be on time! As soon as 5:00 AM hits, the staff will set off. We will have to walk 1.6 kilometers.
Day 2: Swallow's Cave
Day 2: Pha Nok Aen, where we were taking photos when the rain started to pour. Hey! The white mist came rolling in.
Day 2: We opted for a different route on our way back, as we wanted to stop by the Emerald Buddha Temple to pay respects and make wishes for the new year. The distance for this route was 2.1 kilometers.
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Day 2: The Camaraderie of the Journey
Day 2: After returning from Pha Nok Aen, the first thing we did was find something to eat. After eating, it is recommended to order food in advance, as there will be no food stalls on the way to Pha Luam Sak. Today, we have to walk a long distance again. An army marches on its stomach.
Day 2: Don't miss this coffee shop! The owner is very kind. (All the vendors at Phu Kradueng are very friendly and generous, I guarantee it.)
The translation of the text is:
Day 2: Red maple in winter at Phu Kradueng National Park.
Day 2: Pine cone
Day 2: Travel companions
Day 2: En route
Day 2:
The trail to Pen Pom Mai Waterfall is 1500 meters long. When we went, there was no water and the maple leaves had already fallen. Even without water, it was still beautiful. Imagine how beautiful it would be with water! (You think I'm exaggerating? No, I'm not exaggerating. Don't believe me? Go see for yourself.)
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Translation:
Day 2: The Phaen Waterfall, located approximately 500 meters from the Phaen Waterfall (New).
Day 2:
Phonopphabha Waterfall: I secretly took a picture of P'Ton. He took very good care of me on this trip.
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Day 2: Maple in the deep forest
Day 2: The inevitable decline with the passage of time.
Day 2: Maple leaves are still visible.
Day 2: Tham Yai Waterfall, the water is almost non-existent. 555 I'll have to come back during the rainy season next time.
Day 2: On the way to Pha Lom Sak (Waterfall Trail)
Day 2: Pine tree views along the trail to Pha Lom Sak (Waterfall Trail)
The translation of the text is:
Day 2: She kept snacking on the way and started to feel hungry.
Day 2: Khao Jii Kai, a dish that will leave you speechless with its deliciousness.
Day 2: Savanna grasslands
Day 2: On the way
Day 2: Finally reached the lunch break point, Sa-Ano-Dad pond. Nang Krin is eating rice. Ugh! This meal is so delicious! I'm so hungry and tired, my feet are aching. Let's eat, take some medicine, and soak our feet in the cool water of the pond. I wish I could stop time here. The weather is so nice and cool.
Day 2: En Route
Translation:
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Day 2: 5 more kilometers to Pha Lom Sak
Day 2: From Sa-Ano-Daad, the next destination is So-Nua Waterfall.
Translation:
The original text is in Thai and describes the beauty of a waterfall during the rainy season. Here's the translation:
Day 2: The Saoเหนือ Waterfall must be incredibly beautiful during the rainy season.
Day 2: After a grueling 13-kilometer trek to Pha Lom Sak, my legs were aching and stiff. But the pain was worth it, as the views from this iconic viewpoint are simply breathtaking. Don't miss the chance to visit Pha Lom Sak, or you'll regret it! While you're there, be sure to stop by the charming Chompoo Ma Meow coffee shop for a delicious cup of coffee and a slice of their famous brownie. The owner is incredibly friendly and is also the administrator of the "Love Phu Kradueng" group.
Translation:
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Day 2:
A complete picture with four people.
From left to right: Ton, Eve, Moo Uai, and T. Tong.
Day 2: Pink Guava Coffee Shop, Pha Lom Sak
Day 2: Chompoo Ma Meow Coffee Shop, Pha Lom Sak
The brownie at Chompoo Ma Meow Coffee Shop in Pha Lom Sak is absolutely delicious! If you're craving a brownie, be sure to order one in advance, as they sell out quickly. You can place your order through the shop's Facebook page.
A special thanks to Mr. Ton for sharing his brownie with us! It was truly a treat.
If you're visiting Pha Lom Sak, be sure to stop by Chompoo Ma Meow and try their brownie. It's only 30 baht and well worth the price.
Day 2: The weather is perfect!
Day 2: Pha Luam Sak, another park we visited together.
Day 2: Pha Luam Sak
Permission granted to the younger sibling in the picture. This adorable group of students from Thammasat University met us at the start of our climb up Phu Luang. They were also juniors of our leader, Ton. We encountered them throughout the journey and returned together. They took excellent care of one another. I must share this story: one of the group members suffered an ankle sprain, but the others did not abandon her. They looked after her the entire time, demonstrating true friendship.
Day 2: Create a Landmark
Day 2: Pha Luam Sak
Day 2: Sunset at Pha Lom Sak
The sky was already dark as we began our 10-kilometer trek back from Pha Lom Sak. Our legs were aching, and the return journey along the cliff edge in the darkness was challenging. We didn't see any white elephants, which was a disappointment considering we had spent two nights there. We'll have to come back and try again. By the time we reached our campsite, our legs were practically destroyed, and we were in agony. If you're not used to strenuous exercise, like us, be sure to bring plenty of medication: pain relief cream, massage oil, and painkillers. We used everything we had that night, the pain was unbearable.
Day 3: Waking up this morning, my legs were so stiff that I wasn't sure if I could walk down. Do we need to arrange for a porter early in the morning or inform the staff the night before? Because I don't think I can carry my own backpack down. After sorting out our bags, we had breakfast before heading back down. The fried egg dish at Phu Kradueng was delicious. I'm sure there's a cooking school here. In conclusion, everything we ate was delicious.
Day 3: After eating, coffee is a must.
Day 3: After finishing our meal, we decided to descend the mountain. With plenty of time to spare, we took the opportunity to capture some photos. We snapped a few pre-wedding shots, including some lovely couple portraits.
Day 3: May I stay longer?
Day 3: Conquering Phu Kradueng, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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The translation of the provided text is:
Day 3: Once in our lives, we conquered Phu Kradueng. Thank you for the good friendship and the good memories that happened here.
Day 3: Before leaving
P'Ton: Shall we go for a walk at the reservoir?
Moo Uai: Is it far?
P'Ton: No, it's only 500 meters.
Moo Uai: I don't think I can go. Can I wait here?
I almost didn't come, but it's so beautiful, like a painting. The Phu Kradueng Reservoir.
The translation of the sentence "Day3: อ่างเก็บน้ำภูกระดึง" from Thai to English is:
Day 3: Phu Kradueng Reservoir
Day 3: Perhaps we will have the opportunity to travel together again, Eve and Ton.
Translation:
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Day 3: There are also red maples in front of the tourist service center.
Day 3: Farewell, Phu Kradueng. We will be back when we have the chance. We descended from the mountain around 11:30 AM.
Day 3: Permission granted for the use of the image of the child.
The following is a translation of the provided text from Thai to English:
Day 3: Don't forget to capture every moment on our way back, okay?
Day 3: Stopped by Laem Phak Nam after a long time.
Day 3: Selfie with the maple tree behind the house.
Day 3: Maple behind theแป
Day 3: Excuse me, ma'am. You're doing great! You look amazing climbing up. Could you please pose for a picture?
Day 3:
We descended from the mountain at 11:30 AM and reached the base around 5:00 PM. After collecting our luggage and showering at the park, we took a red songthaew to the front of Je Kim shop to wait for our return transportation.
Estimated Expenses for a 3-Day, 2-Night Trip to Phu Kradueng
Medicine: 580 Baht (purchased in Ayutthaya with pharmacist consultation; includes various medications, massage balm, topical cream, oral medication, and spray)
Transportation:
- Ayutthaya to Mo Chit: 200 Baht (100 Baht per person)
- Bus (Sus Bus) from Bangkok to Phanoen Khao (drop-off point for Phu Kradueng): 2,328 Baht roundtrip (1,164 Baht per person; 528 Baht one-way)
- Red Songthaew: 60 Baht (30 Baht per person; shared with 8 other people; recommended fare is 300 Baht per person, but waiting for a full group is advised)
Park Entrance and Accommodation:
- Park entrance fee: 80 Baht (40 Baht per person)
- Tent rental: 225 Baht per night (450 Baht for 2 nights)
The translation of the Thai text is:
The price of porterage depends on the weight of each person's luggage. 30 baht per kilogram.
Our two bags weigh a total of 13 kilograms, which costs 390 baht. The total cost for both the ascent and descent is 780 baht.
This is a rental on the mountain.
The rental fee for the sleeping mat is 20 baht per night. We rented 2 mats and we slept for 2 nights, so it cost 80 baht.
The rental fee for the large blanket is 50 baht per night. We rented 2 blankets and we slept for 2 nights, so it cost 200 baht.
The rental fee for the large blanket is 30 baht per night. We rented 2 blankets and we slept for 2 nights, so it cost 60 baht.
The return fare for the red songthaew is 80 baht, which is half the price of 40 baht.
The taxi fare from Rangsit to Ayutthaya is 450 baht.
The total cost, excluding our food expenses for two people, is 5,348 baht, or 2,674 baht per person.
This trip cost us a total of 7,900 baht, so our food expenses for two people amounted to 2,552 baht (even though we ate constantly).
Rice on the mountain costs around 60-70 baht per plate.
Translation:
Total Hiking Distance for the Entire Trip:
Day 1:
- Distance from the foot of the mountain to the first campsite: 5.5 kilometers (steep and challenging)
- Distance from the first campsite to the second campsite: 3.5 kilometers (flat terrain)
- Distance from the second campsite to the viewpoint for sunset: 2 kilometers one way, 4 kilometers roundtrip (flat terrain)
Total distance hiked on Day 1: 13 kilometers
Day 2
- Distance from the campsite to Pha Ngern Aen to watch the sunrise in the morning: 1.6 kilometers one way, 2.1 kilometers back (flat terrain)
- Distance from the campsite to Pha Lom Sak to watch the sunset via the waterfall route: 13 kilometers (flat terrain with some slight uphill sections)
Very tiring, I must say.
Distance from Pha Lom Sak back to the campsite: 10 kilometers. The return route is flat along the cliff edge and dark, so it is advisable to have a light source and walk with caution.
On Day 2, we walked a total of 26.7 kilometers.
Day 3
- Distance from the campsite to the reservoir: 500 meters, round trip 4 kilometers (flat)
- Distance from the campsite to the back of the field: 3.5 kilometers (flat)
- Distance from the back of the field to the foot of the mountain: 5.5 kilometers (both steep and scary), legs were very sore on the way down
On Day 3, we walked a total of 10 kilometers.
This trip covered a total distance of 49.7 kilometers.
Note: The actual distance may be greater as we made several detours along the way.
**Hiking Adventures on Phu Kradueng** 1. **Challenging Ascent to After Pang:** The arduous climb to After Pang tested our endurance. 2. **Engaging Conversations on the Trail:** Throughout the ascent and descent, we encountered numerous individuals, sparking lively conversations. 3. **Camping at Wang Kwang:** We pitched our tents at Wang Kwang, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of nature. 4. **Endless Hiking:** Our journey was characterized by continuous hiking, exploring the diverse trails of Phu Kradueng. 5. **Sunset at Pha Mak Duk:** We witnessed a breathtaking sunset from the scenic viewpoint of Pha Mak Duk. 6. **Sunrise at Pha Ngern:** The panoramic sunrise from Pha Ngern painted the sky with vibrant hues. 7. **Waterfall Trail and Red Maple Hunt:** We ventured along the waterfall trail, searching for the elusive red maple leaves. 8. **Relaxing at Sa Ano Dat:** We basked in the cool breeze at Sa Ano Dat, enjoying the serene atmosphere. 9. **Sunset at Pha Lom Sak:** We marveled at the iconic sunset from Pha Lom Sak, a landmark of Phu Kradueng. 10. **Delicious Treats at Chompoo Ma Meow:** We indulged in delectable brownies and coffee at Chompoo Ma Meow, a charming café near Pha Lom Sak. 11. **Conquering Phu Kradueng:** We proudly posed with the "Once in a Lifetime" sign, signifying our successful conquest of Phu Kradueng. 12. **Savory Local Cuisine:** We relished the flavorful local dishes, including the delectable pork and egg skillets. **Gratitude and Farewell** We express our heartfelt gratitude to Phu Kradueng for the unforgettable experiences and the opportunity to forge meaningful connections. We eagerly anticipate our return to this enchanting destination.
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Wednesday, October 9, 2024 6:00 PM
