Ox's Hump Conquers the Mountain Peak, Conquering the Hearts of Hikers

What preparations are needed for the trip, and how do I contact the organizers?

The steep and challenging trails of Khao San Nok Wua, the highest peak in Kanchanaburi province, beckon adventurous hikers. This renowned destination offers a thrilling experience for those seeking a test of their physical and mental limits.

The Allure of Khao San Nok Wua: A Peak Worth the Climb

Khao San Nok Wua, the highest peak in Kanchanaburi province, beckons adventurous souls with its challenging terrain and breathtaking views. The path leading to the summit is a constant dance of ascents and descents, testing the limits of even seasoned hikers. However, the reward for those who persevere is an unparalleled panorama that stretches across the verdant landscape.

To fully appreciate the majesty of Khao San Nok Wua, it is crucial to approach the climb with proper preparation. Adequate rest and a hearty breakfast are essential for tackling the strenuous journey. Remember, the mountain's allure lies not only in its scenic beauty but also in the sense of accomplishment it offers to those who conquer its slopes.

2. There is a water source on top, but you have to fetch it from the stream, which is not far from the campsite (maybe 555).

4. The toilet is a pit toilet, and the condition is well... 5555. If you've seen one elsewhere, you can probably imagine. If you haven't seen one yet, I recommend going to see one in person. Don't worry, don't let it be an excuse to keep you from experiencing the beauty of Thailand (am I being too dramatic?).

5. Food: Prepare all meals yourself. However, if you are worried about not knowing how to cook rice, don't worry. The porters can help you with that, as well as with other food preparation. Just bring the ingredients (and some extra for them).

6. Cooking Equipment: In addition to food, remember to bring your own cooking equipment, such as spoons, plates, camping pots, and cups.

Camping Equipment:

The park offers tents for rent that can accommodate 1-2 people. However, if two people are sharing a tent, it is recommended that they be close friends as the space is quite limited. Sleeping mats are also provided, but pillows and sleeping bags are not. It is highly recommended to bring a sleeping bag, as the nights can be chilly.

While bringing a sleeping mat is optional, it is important to consider that it can be cumbersome to carry during the hike. If you choose to bring one, it is best to have a porter carry it for you to avoid any inconvenience.

Setting up the tent on the soft grass is a comfortable option. Alternatively, inflatable mattresses can also be used for added comfort.

8. It is highly recommended to bring a warm jacket. Do not underestimate the weather. While it may be hot at the bottom of the mountain, it can be extremely cold and windy at the summit. We learned this the hard way when we didn't bring a jacket and were freezing cold.

How to get there
1. Khao Laem National Park will be open for climbing the Nang Kwak Ridge from November to February. The opening date will be determined based on water sources and the wildlife's foraging season. Please follow the park's Facebook page for updates. Once the park is open for booking, you can call to make a reservation.

The park will open for reservations on a month-to-month basis. For example, if you want to climb in January, you can start booking in late December or January. The park will not allow you to book in advance, such as booking in November for a climb in January. The park will announce on Facebook when reservations for a particular month are open.

3. To make a reservation, call Khao Laem National Park in Kanchanaburi Province at 034510431. This is the park's official phone number. If you experience any problems with the signal or are unable to connect, the park will post an alternative phone number on their Facebook page. You can follow them on Facebook by clicking on the image (link provided).

There is a trick: At the beginning of the month, many people call to make reservations, causing the phone lines to be overloaded. When you finally get through, the slots are already full, and you miss out. Don't be discouraged! Keep calling every week or call closer to the date you want to go. Some groups may cancel their reservations, freeing up slots for you. When they cancel, there will be enough space for you to join.

Upon successful phone contact, inform the park of the intended date and number of participants. Please note that, as per park regulations, a maximum of 7 participants are permitted per park guide.

6. Please inform the park officials if you require porters and how many you need. The park will arrange them to support you. It is recommended that you hire porters. Their prices are similar to other places, but they will take care of everything for you, including building fires, finding water, keeping you company, and even looking after you if it rains.

Let's embark on our journey.

February 23, 2018

Those who think that Kanchanaburi is just a short distance from Bangkok should be aware that it takes approximately 8 hours to reach the Khao Laem National Park in Sangkhla Buri District, Kanchanaburi Province. Therefore, it is advisable to allocate an additional half to one day for travel time.

As we are going on a Friday, we will take a half-day leave and depart at noon. We will stay at the garden house of a fellow traveler near Kanchanaburi city for one night. Then, we will travel to the national park in the morning. Rest is essential for hiking, and our bodies need to be prepared.

This trip was not a backpacking trip because we had a kind adult who traveled with us. He volunteered to drive, so we were able to benefit from his good deeds. This was the first time I traveled with people I didn't know before. We met through the internet. It was a new experience and I made new friends. The members' faces are in the picture. It was a very good trip.

February 24, 2018

Our journey begins at Pom Pi, where the park charges a small entrance fee and parking fee. Upon arrival, we register our names, the number of people in our group, and the number of porters requested. The park staff will then arrange everything for us. We can also rent tents from them. Each porter will have a tag, and we keep one tag while the porter keeps the other. This helps us identify our belongings and easily locate our porters once we reach the campsite.

After arranging the communal supplies for the porters and carrying our personal belongings, we waited for the vehicle to arrive. This vehicle would transport us to the starting point of our trek, approximately 20 minutes away.

The excitement was palpable as we reached the starting point. We were one of the last groups to set off on the 8 km hike. We started walking around 11:30 am and arrived at our destination at 2:30 pm.

At first, everyone will look bright and excited like this. The real fun will begin after this. Haha.

The trail features alternating uphill and downhill sections, which can be physically demanding, especially for individuals with low stamina. The presence of five rest stops provides opportunities for recovery, with the fifth stop marking the final resting point before the most challenging ascent known as "Dog Retreat Hill."

While we were at the rest stop, we took some photos. Why not? We didn't have to rush anymore, so we just relaxed and enjoyed ourselves.

We had not even walked halfway when we took out sticky rice to eat. We ate it without any side dishes, but luckily the person next to us shared a piece of pork with us. We felt like we were about to faint. We thought we hadn't eaten enough rice in the morning, so we had to eat some rice to垫肚子before we felt better. Then we continued walking.

After a long and tiring journey, we finally reached the fourth rest stop. It was time for a real meal, and we all dug in with gusto. Refreshed and re-energized, we were ready to continue our journey with renewed vigor.

However, the weather did not cooperate, and it started to rain unexpectedly. This was despite the fact that it was the middle of winter. The day before I arrived in Bangkok, it was very cold. However, on the day of my arrival, the weather forecast predicted rain. To make matters worse, I had brought a raincoat but had left it with a street vendor. Despite this setback, I was determined to continue my journey.

Our guide, Solo, took some of our belongings to carry for us. He was worried about them getting wet, so he improvised a DIY solution in the middle of the forest. It was amazing to see how nature provides for us.

This is the last rest stop. We are about to enter the most challenging part of the trail, the Dog Retreat Hill.

After walking uphill for a while, the rain started to pour heavily. It was really fun and exciting. My shoes and clothes got wet, but luckily my bag didn't. The path was quite steep and slippery due to the wet soil, so we had to be careful.

The heavy rain forced us to seek shelter with other teams until it stopped.

However, after taking shelter for a while, the guide from another group started to persuade and challenge us to continue our hike in the rain. Their words ignited our enthusiasm, and we decided to continue our journey despite the downpour. It was an exhilarating experience, hiking uphill in the rain. We were soaked from head to toe, but it was undeniably fun.

The back of the picture below is supposed to be a mountain range, but it's completely covered by rain clouds. Anyway, I'll take a picture for now, even though I can't see it.

The trail remains steep at this point, with occasional stretches of flat terrain. As you continue through the forest, you will eventually reach your resting point. Fortunately, it did not rain while we waited for our supplies and tents from the porters. While waiting, we decided to conquer the Sanoi Ridge, also known as the Father's Ridge, the highest point in Kanchanaburi province.

From the top of Khao Son Nok Wua, we could see Khao Son Nok Wua Luk on the right-hand side, which is lower. Then, at the back, we saw Khao Ra Da. We finally understood what it looked like.

The fresh air up here is truly invigorating, especially after a tiring climb. It's incredibly relaxing.

It's time to walk to the ridge. If you come to the ridge, you will see the father's ridge like this. It's really grand and magnificent. Seeing this picture makes me feel less tired.

That tent section is where we sleep.

Taking turns taking photos, having fun.

We brought instant food packets with us, which is convenient. Let's gather around and eat. There's plenty of food and a variety of flavors. (This is not a sponsored message.)

Simply boil water and immerse the entire pouch to warm it.

Not only that, there was also grilled chicken and boiled eggs. Everything was delicious at that moment.

After a satisfying meal, we retired for the night, exhausted from the day's activities. We planned to wake up early to observe the stars, reenergized from a good night's sleep.

Wake up early to watch the stars.

February 25, 2018

4:00 AM, I woke up to a sky full of stars, not a single cloud in sight. It was so clear that I could have sworn I saw an elephant in the sky. This was my first attempt at photographing the Milky Way, and as a beginner, the noise was quite high.

The sun began to rise, and the fog started to roll in. The weather was extremely cold, and I hadn't brought a jacket. I was wearing a thin T-shirt and standing in the wind to take pictures. Solo was kind enough to offer me a blanket, but I didn't want to be a bother, so I just stood there shivering while we waited for the sunrise. But it wasn't a problem, haha. I'm tough, and I can handle it.

Don't underestimate the weather in the mountains. It can be cold even during the hot or rainy seasons. It can be very, very cold.

The fun part was when Solo came along and we asked him to shine a light on us so we could take a picture with the stars. He did it for us! His flashlight was super powerful, so we looked like we had an aura. We tried our best and took several pictures, but they all turned out the same. Here's an example below.

The sun has risen. It is beautiful.

Turning to the left, I saw a scene of mist flowing down from the mountain ridge, flowing endlessly. Haha, it's also beautiful in its own way.

Not only that, but also the hump of the cow's calf, a good angle, a beautiful angle, good light, good color.

After capturing some beautiful photos in the morning, we prepared to head back. The walk back was the same as before, and the fatigue was just as intense. Haha!

Before leaving, we took a group photo at the popular viewpoint of Khao Nok Wua Look. Capturing the beautiful atmosphere and new friendships, it brings joy every time we look back at it.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Solo for building the fire, setting up the rain tarp, carrying our belongings, guiding us, and taking us stargazing in the early morning.

Thank you to all the brothers and sisters, Nok, Ko, Koy, Juice, Meow, Fong, and friend Por, who shared the hardships of life together for 3 days and 2 nights, sleeping at home for 1 night and sleeping in the forest for 1 night. See you again on the next trip ^^