The salty scent of the Nan salt pans.

Salt lick at Bo Kluea, Nan Province

"Beyond the salt pans, there is not only salt, but also the scent of salt."

Bo Kluea District is another district in Nan Province that enjoys pleasant weather year-round. The mornings and nights are particularly cool, sometimes even cold, while the winter season brings chilly temperatures throughout the day. On some days, the temperature can drop so low that hoarfrost, known locally as "mae kaning," forms.

When it comes to salt wells, one must think of "Sintawe Salt Well", the only wonder of mountain salt in the world!!

Salt of the Earth

Sea salt is produced using water that is naturally saltier than regular water, sourced from natural springs. These springs are enclosed in wells, which are currently made of concrete and cover the original wooden wells. The wells are approximately 2 meters high and have a derrick with ropes and equipment to draw water from the well and store it in earthenware jars.

The brine is then boiled to crystallize, after which it is scooped into a basket suspended over a pan to drain. This process has provided a livelihood for local residents, who sell the resulting rock salt.

Upon boiling the water until it crystallizes into sea salt, the large crystals at the top, known as fleur de sel, are separated from the regular salt, which is very fine, pure white, and has a less salty taste than sea salt. This salt can be used for cooking, or for body scrubs and foot soaks.

Alternatively, consider trying salt-boiled eggs. Simply boil eggs in salted water to achieve a slightly salty and subtly oily flavor, offering a unique culinary experience.

Salt Mine Tour

Beyond the various types of rock salt available for purchase, upon entering, one encounters a large bamboo bridge adorned with a dazzling array of calabash fruits.

Crossing the bridge, you will encounter a row of wooden houses with thatched roofs, which are community shops. It is very lively on Saturdays and Sundays, and some shops still sell goods on weekdays. The goods sold are mostly local products according to the season, such as ma taew or chompoo, which are available in honey-roasted, syrup-boiled, and fresh forms. Another option is ma lamot (salot thao, mak lamot, ba lamot, som lamot), a wild fruit commonly found in northern and northeastern Thailand. The ripe fruit is red, similar to a tomato, and has a sour and astringent taste. It has seeds inside, similar to those of a tamarind. Try it with rock salt, it's delicious! There is also grilled pork with ma kwaen, which is a type of herb with a spicy, hot flavor similar to chili peppers. It is popular in northern Thailand and is used in dishes such as laab, nam prik, and various curries.

Mang River

This community is traversed by a flowing stream, teeming with fish visible due to the crystal-clear water. Visitors can purchase fish food and enjoy feeding the fish while relaxing by the stream.

Peering into the river, one can spot several large woks submerged beneath the water. Intrigued, we inquired with the locals and learned that these woks were used for boiling brine to extract rock salt. After the salt has fully crystallized, the woks are placed upside down in the river, mimicking their position on a stove. The flowing water gradually washes away the remaining salt, eliminating the need for manual scrubbing. This ingenious technique exemplifies the unique local wisdom that characterizes this region.

Wat Bo Luang

The community boasts a temple in the Thai architectural style, Wat Bo Luang. Established around 1765 by villagers who migrated from Mueang Yon (Chiang Saen), it was originally named Wat Sutharam. Situated on the Mae Nang River, Wat Bo Luang has been continuously developed and maintained by the residents of Ban Bo Luang community.

The Scent of Salt Restaurant

This area is home to numerous cafes and beverage shops, but the largest establishment that combines both a cafe and a restaurant is "Scent of Salt."

The scent of salt has been wafting for 3 years. It is a shop located in the Bo Kluea Tai area, opposite the Sin Taw salt factory. The atmosphere of the shop is airy and comfortable, being on the ground floor of a two-story building. It is spacious and has fans.

A Culinary Oasis: Exploring the Flavors of Glin Aoi Klua

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Bor Klua Salt Mine, Glin Aoi Klua offers a delightful culinary experience for every visitor. With a diverse menu featuring savory dishes, delectable pastries, freshly baked bread, and a refreshing selection of hot and cold beverages, the restaurant caters to every palate.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of meticulously crafted dishes entice visitors to indulge in a gastronomic adventure. Each dish is a testament to the chef's dedication, showcasing a harmonious blend of flavors and meticulous presentation. The menu boasts a variety of options, ensuring that every diner finds something to satisfy their cravings.

Glin Aoi Klua's commitment to quality extends beyond the food. The restaurant's ambiance is warm and inviting, creating a perfect setting for a relaxing meal. The friendly staff is always ready to assist with recommendations and ensure a memorable dining experience.

Whether you're exploring the wonders of Bor Klua Salt Mine or simply seeking a delightful culinary escape, Glin Aoi Klua is a must-visit destination. With its diverse menu, affordable prices, and commitment to excellence, the restaurant promises a satisfying and memorable experience for every guest.

"Spicy Shrimp Paste Dip Set"

This beautifully presented set, priced at 150 baht, features a flavorful shrimp paste dip with a subtle shrimp paste aroma and a perfectly balanced sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavor profile. It caters to both those who enjoy spice and those who prefer a milder experience.

Accompanying the dip is a generous selection of fresh and crispy vegetables, including cucumber slices, a whole steamed and fried fish with firm flesh, bite-sized pieces of fried acacia omelet, battered and fried eggplant slices, and a variety of fresh salad greens.

Deep-Fried Fish with Chu Chee Curry Sauce

This dish features your choice of red tilapia or climbing perch, priced by weight. The whole fish is expertly filleted and deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior. The fish is then artfully arranged on a plate, resembling its original form, and generously drizzled with flavorful chu chee curry sauce.

"Salt-fried chicken" uses chicken wings, tender chicken meat, and crispy chicken skin. It can be eaten without dipping sauce, or it can be dipped in sauce for a more delicious taste when eaten with hot rice.

This simple dish of stir-fried cabbage with fish sauce may appear unassuming, but its flavor is truly exceptional. The perfectly balanced salty and sweet notes create a harmonious taste, while the stir-fried cabbage retains a delightful crunch, showcasing the vegetable's freshness.

"Iced Latte" The beverage I tried was an iced latte, made with freshly ground coffee beans. The aroma was intoxicating, filling the air as the barista prepared the drink. The taste was sweet and creamy, and despite not being a coffee enthusiast, I found myself enjoying the subtle coffee flavor. The sweetness and creaminess were perfectly balanced, making it a delightful and surprisingly refreshing drink.

Accommodation: Scent of the Sea

If you seek a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, a place where nature's embrace and fresh air invigorate your senses, where crystal-clear waters invite you to play, and where the cool air, especially in the mornings and evenings, offers a refreshing respite even during non-winter months, then look no further than Bo Kluea. This idyllic haven, nestled amidst lush greenery, provides a sanctuary for those seeking rejuvenation and a connection with the natural world.

In addition to its restaurant, bakery, and fresh coffee, "Scent of the Sea" also offers accommodations in wooden houses.

The accommodation comprises 5 rooms located on the second floor of a wooden house within the same building as the restaurant, but with separate entrances. The rooms are situated close to each other but not directly adjacent, and there is a shared common area designed as a Lanna-style living room. This space features wooden tables and chairs with cushions and pillows covered in authentic northern Thai woven fabrics.

Each room can accommodate two guests and is equipped with amenities that complement the atmosphere and blend seamlessly with the traditional wooden houses of the northern community. The rooms feature comfortable beds, pillows, blankets, floor fans, and bottled water.

The bathroom is a shared space with exposed concrete and wood finishes. It is clean and tidy, and features a hot water heater.

One of the classic features of this place is the stained glass. Each room, including the bathroom, has a window with stained glass in yellow, creating a warm and visually striking atmosphere.

"Scent of the Sea"

Address: 42 Moo 1, Bo Kluea Tai Subdistrict, Bo Kluea District, Nan Province

Room Rates:

800 Baht/room (November - January: 1,000 Baht/room)

Includes breakfast

Opening Hours: Restaurant 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Facebook: Scent of the Sea

Phone: 086 556 3966

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Getting to Bor Klue

There are two routes available from the city center:

Route 1:

This route takes you to Pua District via Doi Phu Kha National Park (Highway 1256). You will arrive at Ban Bo Luang community, where you should turn right towards Bo Kluea. After approximately 100 meters, you will smell the salt on your left, opposite the "Bo Kluea Sin Taw Mountain Salt" sign.

Route 2

Head towards Santisuk district and continue on Highway 1081 to Bo Kluea Tai. Ascend the road until reaching Bo Kluea Sinthao, where the scent of salt will be noticeable on your right.

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