Phayao Magic Mountain on the Bhulangka Trail

Trip to Chiang Rai in July 2018

This short trip in July 2018 was a whirlwind adventure through the stunning landscapes of northern Thailand.

Travel:

• Flights: AirAsia from Bangkok to Chiang Rai and back.
• Car rental: AVIS.

Itinerary:

Day 1:

• Morning: Depart from Chiang Rai on Highway 1020, passing through the charming town of Thoeng.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Chiang Kham, Phayao province, and visit the Pang Khon Royal Project.
• Evening: Ascend to Phu Langka National Park and enjoy breathtaking views before descending to the Magic Mountain accommodation.

Day 2:

• Morning: Explore Tham Sa Kaew National Park, known for its stunning cave formations.
• Afternoon: Return to Chiang Kham and visit the historic Nantha Ram Temple.
• Evening: Depart from Chiang Kham and return to Chiang Rai.

Highlights:

• The scenic drive along Highway 1020, offering glimpses of rural life and lush landscapes.
• The breathtaking views from Phu Langka National Park, a hidden gem in northern Thailand.
• The exploration of Tham Sa Kaew National Park and its impressive cave formations.
• The visit to Nantha Ram Temple, a historical and cultural landmark in Chiang Kham.

Overall:

This short trip to Chiang Rai provided a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion. The efficient use of time allowed for exploration of diverse landscapes and historical sites, leaving a lasting impression of the beauty and charm of northern Thailand.

Let's journey together.

The scenic route of Chiang Kham is breathtaking, with lush greenery stretching as far as the eye can see across the rice fields.

Upon entering Pong District, the atmosphere begins to shift as the road ascends into the mountains.

The route to Phu Langka National Park passes through the Pang Kua Royal Project.

We stopped here for lunch, arriving just at noon.

Initially, I thought the Royal Project restaurant was closed due to its quietness.

As expected, during the low season, there were no tourists. We were the only ones there for lunch that day. It was quiet, which I enjoyed.

Royal Project Food, delicious everywhere.

This was once a guesthouse for the Royal Project, open to tourists.

This year, it seems that Royal Projects are no longer open to the public for accommodation. What a pity.

After a satisfying meal, they ascended to Phu Langka.

Just a short distance from the Royal Project, you will reach the Phu Langka Forest Park headquarters.

Contact the officer. It appears that the mountain is closed due to rain and slippery roads.

We rented a four-wheel drive vehicle specifically for the purpose of ascending the mountain peak, but now we are unable to do so.

The officer said that the climb up wasn't too bad, but the descent was dangerous because the path was muddy and slippery.

Okay, I understand. Here is the translation of the sentence:

"Alright, that's fine. Let's try again next time."

Explore the area around the office a bit. There are huts to stay in and a tent camping area.

The officer instructed us to drive up to the viewpoint above the office. We parked the car in the designated area.

Then walk up a little further.

The view is breathtaking, the air is incredibly fresh, and it fills you with a sense of peace and joy.

This is a camping ground, but there are no visitors at the moment. It is truly quiet.

The night sky here must be dazzling with stars. I'd love to come back and camp here sometime.

After descending from Phu Langka, head straight to your accommodation.

Magic Mountain is located near the renowned Phu Langka Resort, approximately 30 kilometers from Phu Langka (the exact distance may vary).

Run down Highway 1148, which leads to Nan. Magic Mountain is located on the roadside at the border of Nan and Phayao.

Located right on the side of the road, park on the other side of the street and walk across.

Yes, Magic Mountain is a famous coffee shop. They have two rooms available for rent.

That day, we were the only guests, and the silence we desired was truly blissful.

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And this is the room section.

The door opens to this view, which is simply amazing.

The room has a balcony where you can relax and unwind.

Private seating area for guests only.

The room has an ensuite bathroom, but the sink is located outside the bathroom.

Compact room with mosquito net. Fan is available but rarely needed due to cool weather.

The room has a water heater but no TV or refrigerator. This is not a problem for us, as we are not concerned with having a TV or refrigerator. We are here to enjoy the atmosphere.

Let's take a walk around and explore. Where has everyone gone?

There were many birds, but we couldn't take pictures in time. We're not good at taking pictures of birds.

This area is for customers to have dinner. The room rate here includes dinner and breakfast.

Our dinner is this: Moo Jhum, which perfectly complements the atmosphere.

However, I have seen other people's reviews of the food being different, or perhaps it changes with the seasons.

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That's enough for two people, and there's even some leftover.

In the evening, I hoped to see the stars twinkling, but there were none.

But the moon was rising, huge and magnificent.

At first, I didn't know what it was. I saw a soft yellow light above the mountain peak of Tham Sa Kaew National Park.

(The view from Magic Mountain is Tham Sakae National Park.)

Intrigued by the light, I wondered what it could be. It was above the mountain peak, and it didn't seem to be coming from the village below.

The sentence describes a scene where someone is looking at a brightly lit city on top of a mountain. The light is getting brighter and brighter.

Here is the translation:

Is there a city on top of that mountain? It's so bright. The light is getting brighter and brighter.

The soft, yellow curve of the moon's edge peeked over the mountaintop. A gasp escaped my lips - the moon was truly magnificent.

I barely had time to grab my camera and take a picture, but I managed to get a good one.

The balloon ascended rapidly after emerging, disappearing into the clouds in a flash.

I'm glad I got this picture. As far as I can remember, I've only seen the moon this big once before, at Hat Sai Kaew in Songkhla.

But that was a long time ago, probably thirty years ago.

I only got one picture, and I'm as happy as if I'd won the lottery. Is that an exaggeration?

Just this, I will sleep soundly and dream well. I wonder if the fog will come in the morning to show off its beauty.

Morning

Upon awakening,

Oh, oh, the mist comes, slowly spreading out.

Not the sea of mist as seen in the pictures, but just a light mist.

That's enough to make me happy. I am a person who is easily satisfied, and I am content with what I have.

The sun has risen.

Gazing into the distance, the Tham Sakae National Park.

Rushing to find a photo spot, it was quite good that there was no one else around. Usually, this area is crowded.

Bask in the radiant sunlight.

It's breakfast time. This morning, I'm having breakfast at a coffee shop.

The meal consists of rice porridge with side dishes, hot tea, and coffee. It is filling, warm, and delicious.

The fog came and went quickly, vanishing in the blink of an eye.

Tham Sa Kaew National Park awaits us. Let's go down there.

Goodbye, Magic Mountain

Tham Sakoen National Park is located in Nan Province.

Drive down Highway 1148 from Magic Mountain for approximately 10 kilometers.

The scenery around here is beautiful.

This is the limestone mountain that we are looking down from our accommodation.

Is this a weir? It's beautiful. I'd love to slide down from the top.

"I'm not sure what this place is called, there's no sign, but it's beautiful so I took a picture."

Upon entering the park, a cave is visible on the cliff face. How do we access it?

The lush greenery lining the road fills me with joy.

The park is quiet again, it's just the two of us. The park ranger said that people usually visit during the winter.

Yet, we snails adore the rainy season. We relish its dampness.

Thaksin Shinawatra's Political Influence in Thailand

Thaksin Shinawatra, a controversial figure in Thai politics, has had a significant impact on the country's political landscape. His rise to power, policies, and subsequent exile have sparked ongoing debates about democracy, populism, and corruption in Thailand.

Rise to Power and Policies:

Thaksin, a telecommunications tycoon, entered politics in the late 1990s and quickly gained popularity. His populist policies, such as cheap healthcare and microloans, resonated with rural voters, leading him to a landslide victory in the 2001 election. As Prime Minister, he implemented various economic and social reforms, including universal healthcare and debt relief for farmers. These policies contributed to Thailand's economic growth and poverty reduction, solidifying his support base.

Controversies and Exile:

However, Thaksin's administration was also marred by controversies. Accusations of corruption, cronyism, and human rights abuses tarnished his image. In 2006, a military coup ousted him from power. He went into exile to avoid corruption charges, which he maintains are politically motivated.

Thaksin's Legacy:

Despite his exile, Thaksin remains a powerful figure in Thai politics. His sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, served as Prime Minister from 2011 to 2014, continuing his populist policies. However, political divisions deepened, culminating in another military coup in 2014. The current military government has implemented policies aimed at curtailing Thaksin's influence, including a new constitution that limits the power of elected officials.

Ongoing Debates:

Thaksin's legacy continues to be debated. His supporters view him as a champion of the poor and a modernizer who transformed Thailand's economy. Critics, however, see him as a corrupt and authoritarian leader who undermined democratic institutions.

Conclusion:

Thaksin Shinawatra's political influence in Thailand remains significant, despite his exile. His policies and controversies have shaped the country's political landscape, sparking ongoing debates about democracy, populism, and corruption. The future of Thai politics will likely be influenced by how these issues are addressed.

The nature trail is closed during the rainy season, only the waterfall trail is accessible.

Pha Thar Waterfall has six tiers, but we only reached the first. Such is the impermanence of our physical bodies.

From the first floor parking lot, it's almost a kilometer walk into the forest.

Before reaching the sixth floor, I might die first. Let me get back in shape first, then I'll go again.

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Park here and walk into the forest.

There is a large tree.

The banana tree is very tall, its neck is straight and upright.

I met a friend too. There he is.

We finally arrived at the first floor, everyone was panting heavily.

I'd love to continue, but I'm the only one here. I'm worried about getting lost.

The rain started to drizzle, and I was worried about flash floods. Let's just take one floor, okay?

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The park offers accommodations, camping grounds, and clean restrooms.

The Ambiance of Tham Sakaeang National Park: A Tranquil Escape for Nature Enthusiasts

This sentence describes the serene atmosphere of Tham Sakaeang National Park, highlighting its lack of crowds and abundance of dense forest. It recommends the park to individuals seeking tranquility and a deep immersion in nature.

Return to the original route to enter Chiang Kham.

This green path is truly good for the soul.

Nantharam Temple

Located in the heart of Chiang Kham, this temple showcases Tai Yai artistry. Its viharn, entirely constructed from golden teakwood, stands as a testament to the region's cultural heritage.

Magnificent and impressive, it is said to be the only one of its kind in Thailand.

The interior of the temple is magnificent, solemn, and mystical.

The interior houses a museum zone showcasing ancient artifacts.

Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or tight clothing.

If someone happens to be wearing shorts, they will be provided with a long skirt to wear.

If you are only visiting Chiang Rai, you can also stop by.

Due to its proximity to Chiang Rai, Chiang Kham is easily accessible.

It's only afternoon, but I'm already hungry after leaving the temple. Why are all the shops around here closed on Sundays?

The city is remarkably quiet, which we appreciate as it conveys a sense of tranquility.

Wandering around in search of food, I stumbled upon a small noodle shop.

The name of the shop is Kim Hiang or Kim Eang, something like that.

Try a bowl each, water is self-service.

Delicious, indeed. Two bowls each, then.

Full and satisfied, I returned to Chiang Rai.

Having booked the latest flight, I arrived in Chiang Rai with plenty of time to spare.

I have visited all the different temples in the city.

Not yet, let's find something to kill time before we head to the airport.

J. Charoenchai, as usual, near the airport, let's savor it.

After returning the car, they entered the airport, having spent a considerable amount of time at the sugarcane field.

Checked in and waited... That concludes the Phayao trip. See you on the next trip.

Thank you all for visiting this thread.