One thousand five hundred kilometers with the travel edition Northern Trip has come to an end. Friends can go back and read the travel log Northern Ten Million to the Land...Phu Langka Episode 1 here (click here).

Many times, small 'beginnings' lead us to great 'destinations'.

A single image from a review by a traveler [whom we don't know] can create an unstoppable 'pull', leading us to explore the [world] they have been to. We can say that emotional 'inspiration' is everywhere, and sometimes it is in a photograph that we happen to see, an article that we happen to read, or even... a story that surrounds us and invites us to follow in its footsteps.

Come to think of it, I like 'coincidences' like that too. Because this trip also has 'origins' like that. :)

"Phu Langka Resort" may be a name that some people are not familiar with. Is it far or near? Where is it located in Thailand?

From the name 'name' it sounds quite far away, the journey there is probably not easy. But here it is, one of the Dream Destinations for many travelers. And today, 'here' has become the 'destination' of our journey.

The road that led us here is breathtakingly beautiful, like a small car climbing a road that cuts through high mountains, close to the sky, as if you could reach out and touch it. The scenery at this moment seems to make the fatigue from the journey to get here...disappear.

It was almost 5:00 p.m. when we looked out the front window of the car and saw that the sky was overcast. It seemed like it would get dark earlier than usual today. We were afraid that if we arrived at our destination after dark, there might not be any restaurants open, so we stopped at a convenience store on the side of the road. We stocked up on food, including rice, snacks, and water for the night, and then continued on our journey.

As the road began to climb, we drove along green meadows, the colors soothing to the eye. We turned onto a full-fledged "mountain," using GPS to guide us as usual. Then, our lovely assistant led us to a [shortcut].

Yes! Take a shortcut to run on the road [Mae] over there. A small road that is both narrow and steep, plus a sharp, steep bend to make your heart skip a beat. That's when you'll cut out to meet a larger main road. This time, drive fast, and after a long while, you'll reach your destination before it gets dark (just a little dim, that's all).

Our accommodation is on the left-hand side of the road. There are small resort name signs along the way. Turn left into the territory of Phu Langka Resort. Drive up the hill and you will find a large open area where cars are parked today. This includes a group of Big Bikes in cool leather suits and people who are busy unloading their belongings from pickup trucks.

"Phu Langka Resort" Who said... this place is difficult to access? Who said... this place is unknown to the outside world? I guess you've got the answer from the pictures you're seeing now, right? :)

: : Phulangka Resort : :

A small resort-style homestay surrounded by the nature of high mountains. This resort is located in Pong District (connecting Phayao and Nan provinces) on the mountain of Phu Langka Forest Park, Phayao Province. Originally, it can be said that it is the only resort with a perfect and beautiful location amidst the natural forest of the forest park.

The highlight is that each house offers a view to the east of a basin-shaped cliff. The location of the single limestone cliff, which resembles a baby elephant and is therefore called "Phu Chang Noi", is a natural wonder that is hard to find anywhere else...

Photos from travelers who have visited tell the story of the beautiful scenery of Phu Langka Resort and also hint that you should 'prepare yourself' a little before going. Because this place still maintains a high level of naturalness. It is also full of simplicity that you may not find the comfort, beautiful bedrooms, or luxurious food like in a hotel.

For travelers like us, when we choose to travel, we believe that each place we visit has its own unique charm and value. It can be beautiful without relying on luxurious furniture, amenities, or Michelin-starred menus.

Note: The journey from Chiang Rai to Phayao, we took route 1021 to route 1091 and 1092, which connects to Highway 1148. Most of the road is flat, with some uphill sections, but not steep. In fact, the route is not as challenging as you might think. Motorcycles or small cars can also drive here, and you can park almost right next to the accommodation.

What catches the eye and invites exploration is the variety of houses, reflecting the resort's intention to gradually add more accommodations over the years, without rushing, based on budget and without a fixed plan.

Some are made of concrete with private rooftop stargazing decks [Stargazing House], some are stacked like boxes [Bunkers] with panoramic views that captivate the eye, and some are made of wood with two floors and spacious balconies, suitable for group stays. They are located in a location with no buildings obstructing the natural scenery in front. There is also a tent site that is just the right level for enjoying the view. It can be said that the construction of the accommodation blends in with the surrounding nature to the point that it feels like one with it.

The house named [Phu Sing House] is a popular choice for photographers due to its ideal location for capturing sunrise shots. It is truly an enviable accommodation option for guests.

Note: Our trip this time is considered the start of the tourist season. All houses are therefore booked in advance for the whole month until the end of the year. Friends who are interested in staying can inquire about rooms at FB Phulangka Resort here :)

From the wide open space above, there is a path of alternating dirt and concrete leading down to each of the houses, which are located on a lower level. From here, you can see the "Little Elephant Mountain", the star of the show, even more clearly and up close.

Our accommodation for tonight is Baan Chom Pha. Its highlight is...it is located on a cliff that descends (level two). There is a long balcony in front of the room with a wide-angle view. It is close to nature with the left side being a forest. Baan Chom Pha is a small room, not very wide. Suitable for no more than 2 people.

The room is a fan room with sleeping arrangements, including a bed, mattress, towels, tissue paper, and clean drinking water filtered according to the resort's system standards. There is a small bathroom at the back with sanitary facilities, while the sink and mirror are located in front of the bathroom, inside the bedroom itself.

…Looking at it, it wouldn't be wrong to call it 'ordinary'.

For us, 'nature' is simply 'ordinary', unadorned. Everything happens according to its true purpose and utility. Anything beyond that is unnecessary.

...It seems that Phu Lanka Resort is no different, which clearly maintains its natural state. And there must be many people who are disappointed even though they have traveled a long way. Perhaps because they are expecting something they cannot find here. On the other hand, just by studying the place to visit a little beforehand, being open-minded and accepting small adjustments. We may be able to make the comfort we seek fade away. And choose to collect the good things, atmosphere and beauty of that place instead.

That's the joy of traveling our way :)

For a simple dinner, we had packed food and snacks that we bought along the way. Therefore, we did not use the resort's restaurant service, where we could have ordered food upon check-in. The resort would have prepared a table for us to eat upstairs.

Here, only certain mobile phone networks have signal. This is a good opportunity to take a break from social media and go for a walk with your camera to capture the surrounding views from dusk until nightfall. By this time, the sun has unknowingly disappeared behind the mountain range on the other side. You can hear the sounds of people competing with the chirping of insects, as if they are 'inviting' each other to leave the forest. Mosquitoes and unknown insects sneak through the door and window screens, causing an itchy sensation. What are you waiting for?

Note: If you come again, tell yourself... what you can't forget is mosquito repellent and insect repellent. And if you come during the winter, bring a jacket or sleeping bag. And because Phu Langka Resort is located in a wildlife sanctuary, we ask guests to refrain from making noise after 10:00 PM onwards.

"13 Degrees at Phu Langka Resort"

As night fell, the temperature dropped to around 13 degrees Celsius by four in the morning (by then, I was already fast asleep).

The moment I woke up to wait for the sunrise, I felt the cold and the cool breeze hitting my face as I opened the door. The gentle wind was blowing, but it gave me goosebumps. The weather is cool and comfortable now, with a temperature of around 17 degrees. I smiled! At least the sweater I brought with me is finally being used.

In addition to travelers who come here to wait for the beauty of the sunrise in the morning on Phu Langka, another thing that photographers are waiting for is the **fog** that often floats lazily and lingers over the plains below. But that would probably depend on 'luck' quite a bit, because we didn't have the chance to see the morning sunlight with the white, fluffy fog because the strong wind blew our fog away.

:: Click here to watch the Time Lapse video "The beauty of the morning light at Phu Langka Resort" ::

We spent our time on the balcony, from the moment the sky was still pitch black, until the faint light gradually spilled out from behind the mountains, little by little. From a fiery yellow, it turned to a bright orange hue, and then to a blazing red, like a hidden fireball lurking beneath the clouds, before finally revealing itself to the world with a large, round orb rising above the mountain peak.

Sometimes...a journey of thousands of kilometers is just to see 'one picture' this picture...only.

As breakfast time approached, people moved to the top floor, which is the dining room, creating a lively atmosphere. It is an open-air building with a roof on one side, adjacent to the viewing platform of Phu Langka Resort, which is just as beautiful as the balcony of our room.

A steaming pot of rice porridge sits beside a spread of side dishes, including spring onions, fried garlic, condiments, cups, bowls, and spoons, all readily available for self-service. From early morning until late morning, the queue remains long, while the tables are filled with diners. This breakfast period clearly demonstrates the small resort's ability to accommodate a significant number of travelers.

In addition to hot rice porridge, there is also tea, coffee, and hot water available nearby for you to make your own drinks. Or, if you're looking for something more substantial, there's a stall selling hot toasted bread to warm you up, run by a young Yao woman. We tried the coffee at this stall, ordering a traditional coffee with toasted bread, which was also delicious. :)

In the same shop, they also sell a herb called 'Gu Lan' for taking home to boil and drink. According to the Yao people, it has many medicinal properties.

The cool atmosphere with the view of the mountain made us feel hungry, so we walked to get some rice porridge. Some people went out to sip hot coffee outside on the viewing platform or the resort's landmark.

Among the resort's highlights is the opportunity to hear Khun Kaewen, the owner of Phu Langka Resort, share the history and culture of the Yao people, also known as the Mien people. Originally from China, they migrated to Thailand through China, Yunnan, and Laos, carrying a travel document called "Kia Sen Pong" (Thai name) or "Gua Sen Pang" (Chinese name), which translates to "Mountain Pass Travel Document."

The "Mien Passport" we have the opportunity to see and touch is an ancient artifact, recorded in the style of a chronicle with Chinese characters and images. The copy on display is an exact replica of the original cotton fabric document, which is likely impossible to find or hear about anywhere else.

For us, this journey is not just a journey as it used to be, but a journey that allows us to get to know people, to learn about the interesting stories of the 'Mien tribe' who still maintain their culture and unique identity that will be told forever…

: : We would like to express our gratitude to Ms. Yannisah, the daughter of Mr. Kaewen, the caretaker of Phu Langka Resort, for providing us with information and sharing stories with us on this occasion. :)

Beyond the breathtaking mountain views and nature, we also gained new friendships and beautiful postcards that will remind us of the people, the Mien tribe, and the scenery of the mountaintop resort. We hope that one day we will have the opportunity to return and see "Phu Chang Noi" amidst the mist, just like the postcard image at Phu Langka Resort.

After a short drive from the resort, we came across a photographer's platform at a curve in the road, a viewpoint for the sea of mist at ' Phu Langka Resort Zone 3'. We stopped to take some photos and then continued on our journey.

This is a journey to Nan Province using Highway 1148, which connects Pong District, Phayao Province with Tha Wang Pha District, Nan Province. The distance is 176 kilometers. The road is in good condition and winds through high mountains with stunning views that will make you want to stop and take pictures.

: : Sea of Mist Viewpoint, Tham Sa Kaew Cave Located in Tham Sa Kaew National Park, Nan Province, there is a viewpoint on the side of the road right at the bend. When you look down, you will see a flat area, a basin surrounded by high mountains, alternating and interspersed with sunflower fields that bring back the brightness amidst the warm air of midday.

Crossing to the other side, there is a path leading up to a higher viewpoint, offering a view of the mountain roads we are about to traverse. The remaining distance of over a hundred kilometers seems insignificant compared to the journey we have already made, having reached the final province of our **northern trip**, which began in **Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao**, and now concludes in **Nan Province**.

The highlight of this road is the beauty and density of the roadside vegetation. The steep mountains gradually descend into plains, and the lush green color indicates the lushness of the forest. The tall, slender trees that challenge the sky above gradually turn into golden fields.

This is a 'photo on the way' that captures the eye, beautifully captivating the viewer. When its color contrasts with the backdrop of the sky, which is...dark blue.

:: Nan Province is a city in the eastern Lanna region of northern Thailand. It borders the Lao People's Democratic Republic to the north and east, Uttaradit Province to the south, and Phrae, Phayao, and Chiang Rai Provinces to the west.

Nan is a small province rich in Lanna customs and culture, with the motto... "Famous for boat racing, the city of black ivory elephants, murals of Wat Phumin, land of golden oranges, and the radiant Phra That Chae Haeng."

Today, travelers know Nan Province as a city full of charm, both in terms of its way of life, its existence, its ancient sites, its temples and monasteries, and its famous tourist attractions in the national park. With that said, before we head back, we should probably pay a visit to Nan Province ourselves. :)

After more than two hours of travel, we are now descending the mountain and entering Tha Wang Pha District, Nan Province. We started looking around for restaurants because the group was getting hungry. It wasn't easy, but we ended up grabbing a quick bite when we reached Mueang Nan District.

We stopped by Kai Yang Wichit Buri Restaurant , a small roadside restaurant that serves delicious Isaan food, including spicy papaya salad, grilled pork neck, and spicy soup. The food was served quickly, perfect for hungry travelers, and the taste was amazing (not just because we were hungry). Most importantly, the prices were very reasonable (and very low). Dishes start at only 25 baht. We highly recommend this restaurant! :)

Note: The Isaan sausage is from a nearby cart. They make and sell it themselves. The taste is pleasantly sour.

This is our second visit to Nan. We chose to stay at the same place, Nan Boutique Hotel, which we booked in advance, as we did with our other accommodations. We were tired after several hours of travel, so we didn't have to look for a place to stay. Convenient, right? :)

: : Nan Boutique Hotel is located in the city center on Khluang Road. It is a boutique hotel with a warm and comfortable atmosphere, like a home. The service is excellent. The resort is surrounded by lush greenery, with trees, flowers, and various plant species. We love the fact that there are trees and areas to walk around.

The reception area is located in a two-story building at the front, with the upper floor being guest rooms similar to a typical hotel. We stayed in the building on the left-hand side, with the rooms on the first floor. This side has a garden in front and is more private.

The spacious room (sleeps 3 comfortably) has a king-size bed and a long bench that can be converted into an extra bed (additional 600 baht for 1 person). The dressing table, refrigerator with hot drinks and drinking water are all included. The bathroom is quite large and well-proportioned, with separate wet and dry areas and a sink. The furniture is clean and tidy, making it an overall pleasant place to stay.

Note: The room rates are mid-range depending on the month. We think it's worth the price. It's a nice place to stay, but it might be a bit difficult to contact and communicate with. However, once you arrive at the accommodation, the service is good.

"Nan... Unforgettable"

Fatigue can't stop us (much). After a short rest, we'll be able to explore Nan again. The cool evening breeze is perfect for sightseeing, visiting temples, and praying for good fortune. A must-visit is the ancient temple of Nan, Wat Phumin, which is not far from our accommodation.

:: Wat Phumin is located in Ban Phumin, Mueang District, Nan Province. It is opposite the Tourist Service Center of Nan Municipality and the National Museum. It is a royal temple built over four hundred years ago. The church and the viharn are built as a single building. The wooden doors on all four sides are beautifully carved by Nan artisans. Inside, there are murals depicting the Jataka tales in Buddhism and murals depicting the way of life of the Tai Lue people at that time.

Including the renowned mural painting "Whispering Love", which depicts "Grandpa Man and Grandma Man".

**Wat Phumin** has a four-sided ordination hall with a large, four-faced Buddha image in the "Naga Sadung" style, carried on the back of a naga. In the center, there are four large Buddha statues known as "Phra Phuttha Maha Phrom Udom Sakyamuni", facing the four doors.

According to the Nan Chronicle, Wat Phumin was built around 2139 BE by King Chet Butprommin, the ruler of Nan, after he had ruled Nan for 6 years. It is mentioned in the Northern Chronicle that its original name was "Wat Phramin" and later changed to its current name.

This time, we have three little tour guides who will introduce us to the history, stories, and meanings of the murals inside this ordination hall. In addition, outside the temple there is a large open space called "Khueang Mueang" (Lanna language), which means "city square" and is where the villagers hold activities.

From Wat Phumin, it's a short walk to the intersection where the Provincial Court is located. On one side is Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan and on the other is the Nan National Museum. The angle that everyone takes a picture of is the "Archway under the Frangipani Tree", which is like not arriving in Nan if you don't take a picture of it.

As dusk fell, the rain suddenly poured down, soaking us to the bone without warning. We had no choice but to get back in the car and head towards Aun Nim's dessert shop, which we thought would be just about the right time to arrive. Let's see what time it is?

**: : Auntie Nim's Dessert Shop** is located on Maha Wong Road at Teng Trirat Intersection, offering a wide variety of desserts that can be enjoyed with sweet and refreshing coconut ice cream. The shop opens at 11:00 AM. The highlight, however, is the **"Bua Loi"** (sweet dumplings in coconut milk), a special recipe of the shop, which is only available from 6:00 PM onwards. Today, there was a long queue of people waiting to get their hands on this delicious treat.

The "bua loy" is sweet and creamy, with a perfectly salty coconut milk. The bua loy itself is chewy and soft. Other toppings include... tapioca, sweet corn, black sticky rice, and lotus seeds. You can order a mix of all of them in one cup. The price is a bit high for tourists.

Note: This shop is closed every Wednesday. And if you want to try the lotus seed balls, you have to go according to the time, from 6 pm onwards. Anyone who goes to Nan can stop by and try it.

Note: The shop is two stories with seating both inside and outside. If you want to eat inside, you must take off your shoes and bring your cups out to be stored. Oh! There is limited parking, first come first served.

This morning we are still in Nan Province. We woke up early to prepare for our return trip and had breakfast at the hotel. The dining room is on the second floor of the building opposite the reception building. It is open-air, offering views of the surroundings. We can eat while enjoying the fresh morning air.

The breakfast buffet was extensive and beautifully presented. Unlike other places, it offered a variety of fruit jams, chili pastes, crispy pork rinds, fresh vegetables with sticky rice, and various fruits. There was truly a wide selection to choose from.

There is still a little time left. Take this opportunity to walk around the hotel a little longer. Breathe in the fresh air in your body, feeling refreshed before traveling back for several hundred kilometers.

Oh! It's not far if you've come this far. I told you! No matter how far the distance is, it's comfortable anyway. I'll leave it to the driver to take care of you :)

Often, small 'beginnings' lead us to great 'destinations'.

No matter how many times we travel, it always seems to bring us joy, new experiences, and things we wouldn't find if we stayed in one place. No matter how many times we travel, we always look for a "starting point" that will take us to a new "destination" and start our journey again.

Where will we go next time? Please follow us, friends who love to travel, and see you next time.

Thank you for joining us on our Northern Thailand Trip [Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao and Nan].

: : Read our 'Travelogue' here (click) : :

Over a million to the land of...Phu Langka Episode 1 | Northern trip Chiang Mai Chiang Rai Phayao Nan

Chanthaburi Trip | When I accidentally fell for 'Chanthaburi'

Stay Alive!! Stay tuned... Life on the 'Island' | Sailing the Andaman Sea, enjoying the breeze and chilling in Phuket - Krabi

Sapa, the city that made us fall in love with 'him' Part 1 | Vietnam Trip: Ha Noi - Sapa EP#1

Sapa, the city that made us fall in love with 'him' Part 2 | Vietnam Trip: Ha Noi - Sapa EP#2

Sapa, the city that made us fall in love with 'him' Part 3 | Vietnam Trip: Ha Noi - Sapa EP#3

: : If you are a travel enthusiast like me, let's chat, share and exchange travel stories together at the MINDJourney page. : :

JUST SOMEWHERE WITH ME