Readme before you journey
Ep.5
Jungle Trekking to the Mountain Peak
The End
Continuing from the previous post, which had 4 parts. I've been busy working for a long time, but now that I have some free time, I've compiled the rest of the series to complete it.
Although the weather was cold, we were unlucky to experience overcast skies for a few days during our trip, as mentioned in the title. However, we were determined to make the most of our visit and continued our journey.
Continuing from our campsite in the park below, we woke up early and prepared to travel to Doi Pha Hom Pok. We went to the park office to book a ride to the summit by signing up and waiting for other passengers to share the cost. Each truck can accommodate around 8 people in the back. The truck picked us up around 2 pm for a roundtrip fare of 250 baht per person.
While waiting, you can grab a bite to eat. There are several restaurants in the park to choose from, including rice shops and cafes.
This is a horizontal rule, which is used to separate different sections of text.
Once we were full, we packed up our belongings and prepared to set off. We went to sit and wait for the car at the office, and there were already friends who had come to find a car full. We were just waiting for the appointed time.
After the car arrived, we loaded our belongings and got in. We chose to sit in the back to capture some of the atmosphere during the journey.
After a short distance on the main road, there will be an entrance.
When riding in the back of a pickup truck, be cautious of flying objects or low-hanging branches that could strike you. In my group, we encountered a low-hanging branch that the driver initially believed was high enough to clear. As I noticed the branch, I shouted a warning, and most of us were able to duck. However, one woman was not quick enough and was struck in the forehead, resulting in a significant bump and a near-laceration. Tears welled up in her eyes, and we had to stop for first aid.
After a while, we continued our journey. The road was winding and unfinished in some sections.
After a while, we arrived at a rest stop with a scenic view.
After taking some photos, we continued our journey. We were not far from our destination.
This is as far as we can go for tonight's accommodation.
Upon arrival, I naturally sought out a spot to pitch my tent before nightfall. I opted for a secluded corner, hoping for a good night's sleep, as I had to embark on a pre-dawn hike to the summit at 4:00 AM.
I came here with a fully charged camera battery, hoping to capture the view from the mountaintop if the weather permits.
After setting up the tent, the sun began to set, so I took a few pictures.
After that, I walked to the front of the office to find something to eat. There was one shop open, which was only selling food during the festival. The office also offered bedding for rent. Even though it was only around 10 degrees Celsius, it was freezing because of the strong wind.
There are no significant activities tonight, so I will just go to bed early to conserve energy.
After waking up, I washed my face and brushed my teeth with cold water. Then, I roasted 2-3 sweet potatoes and dipped them in chocolate. I packed water and my camera in my bag and set off. I met up with two friends at the tents near the trailhead around 4:30 AM, and we started our hike.
Those who plan to go must bring a flashlight, as the forest is very dark.
It was so dark that I didn't even bother taking out my camera. It usually takes 2-3 hours to travel.
The distance is about 4 km, with 3-4 very steep sections, some of which are quite long.
For those who are not used to hiking, it is recommended to walk and rest.
Especially during humid periods, the thin air will make you tired more easily.
This photo was taken during the descent, as it was too dark during the ascent.
We continued walking, eating chocolate along the way to keep our energy up. We walked and rested, and by around 6 pm, we reached the summit. The women in our group were amazing, reaching the top in such a short time. But as I mentioned before, the sky was overcast.
The place was almost full that day, nearly reaching the peak. We sat down and ate the roasted sweet potatoes we had brought while waiting for the sunset. The air up there was incredibly refreshing, with the mist constantly brushing against us. After waiting for an hour, it seemed like the sky would remain overcast, and we wouldn't see the sunset. So, we started walking around, taking pictures instead of heading back empty-handed.
The fog that hit us hasn't cleared up even after almost an hour of shooting.
Do not walk near the edge, as it is a steep drop.
They are so close, yet they can barely see each other.
The descent into the mist-shrouded forest, accompanied by the biting cold, created a truly unique and unforgettable atmosphere.
I encountered Ferin Puaek along the way. She looked beautiful, and I haven't seen her in this forest for a while.
He then walked down to the bottom.
The highest campsite in Thailand
We packed up the tent and waited for Uncle's car to pick us up. We then went down to the bottom. This was another kind of trip, with a different atmosphere. I promise to come back again and capture the beauty of the open sky next time.
Thank you to everyone who has visited or followed us.
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ThaiTripper
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 10:03 PM
