The Adventurous Couple's Return to Khao Kho and Phetchabun

This trip marks the fourth time the adventurous couple has visited Phu Thap Boek. It seems they can't get enough of this charming destination and return year after year. However, this time they decided to venture beyond their usual Khao Kho-Thap Boek route and explore the city of Loei. Their goal was to finally conquer the elusive sea of mist at Phu Thok.

Unsure if they would finally succeed in witnessing the breathtaking phenomenon, they planned a three-day, two-night trip. They would spend one night in Chiang Khan before returning to Phu Thap Boek for another night before heading home.

Despite the lack of companions on this trip, the couple was far from lonely. They had friends and fellow bikers waiting for them in Loei, ready to join them on their adventure.

The trip took place from July 9th to 11th, 2016, and cost 2,500 baht per person. A detailed breakdown of expenses can be found at the end of the trip report.

Trip schedule table

Day 1: Early arrival at Pino latte - Windmill Ban Phet Dam Khao Kho - Pa Hin Ngam - Chiang Khan - Thao Lao Guesthouse

Day two: Phu Thok - Wat Phra That Phu Khao Ngio - Riding through the rain to Phu Thap Boek, encountering fog all day and night.

Day three, the magnificent mist of Phu Thap Boek

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Before reading, you can watch the video clip first. All photos were taken with Nikon D5300 18-140 and Gopro 4 silver.

We set off early in the morning, hoping to catch the sunrise. However, we overslept and didn't leave the house until 3:30 AM. We rushed to make up for lost time, but we still didn't arrive at Pino Latte until 7:15 AM. By then, the sun was already shining brightly. We asked the locals if there was any sea of mist, but they said there was only a thin layer of fog. Even so, it was still a beautiful sight.

The Place Needs No Introduction, So Let's Dive Straight into the Pictures.

The weather is warm today with a cool breeze.

This place is already crowded in the morning.

Beautiful flowers

After taking photos to their satisfaction, some people might enjoy a morning coffee. However, I do not drink coffee, so I did not purchase any beverages.

Continuing down the road towards Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, this time without stopping (I've been here three times already). Here's where we're headed, this photo was taken from the descent to Wat Pha Sorn Kaew. The large wind turbine is clearly visible. Let's go find it!

The road is difficult to navigate. If you are coming from Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, turn back towards Khao Kho. You will see a road leading to Phet Dam Village. Turn right and follow the road up the steep hill. It may seem like you are close, but it is still a long way to go. When you finally arrive, you will be amazed by the sight of the massive wind turbines.

Looking up from the road below, it seems like a long way up, but the path is not scary, so you can come up comfortably.

After taking some photos, we continued our journey.

This road is beautiful.

One more shot on the way down.

Let's continue. This morning, I stopped by a gas station to fill up and grab some food. I'll be heading straight to Loei province next. Our next destination is Pa Huai Krathing. Let's go! Pa Huai Krathing is located near the city center, so it's easy to get to. Once we arrive, we can choose any raft we like. However, my local brother in Loei suggested meeting up and recommended Pa Phai Ngam.

Arriving at noon, we parked the car, ordered food, and chose the size of the raft. The smallest option is 300 baht and can accommodate 5-6 people. The best part is that for 300 baht, you can sit and relax all day, except during major festivals when there might be time restrictions. Once you've chosen your raft, they'll tow you out to the middle of the water and let you drift along with the breeze.

This floating restaurant offers delicious food at reasonable prices. Our total bill, including drinks and the raft rental, came to 750 baht. The restaurant provides a phone number for ordering additional food or using the restroom. Simply call, and a small boat will pick you up free of charge.

Let's take a look at the surrounding atmosphere. The weather is fantastic, with a cool breeze blowing, making it incredibly comfortable.

My older brother, who lives in Loei, always comes to see me whenever he visits.

View the full-length image.

Lush green mountains against the sky, it must be seen for yourself, it's so much fun, and then the raft will spin around with the wind, and the view will change constantly.

The water was so refreshing, I could have stayed in it all day. Anyone is welcome to join me, but I'm going to take a nap first. I woke up around 3 pm and called a boat to take me back to my accommodation in Chiang Khan.

Before leaving, we stopped to take photos at the scenic viewpoint where we had just been relaxing.

The journey to Huai Krathing concluded with a visit to the "Black Aussie" club. My initial connection with this group was also through the "Black Aussie." Whenever I travel to a province where there are club members, they often reach out and offer to show me around. This isn't an imposition; some members live far away and wouldn't be able to make it to a meet-up. We often connect through Facebook, and many members are happy to meet up when I'm in their area. This is the camaraderie of the four-wheeled community.

As Tum's house is located in the city center, he asked me to book accommodation in Chiang Khan for him today. He also took this opportunity to change his sleeping place.

Our accommodation for the night was Tao Kaeo Lao, which costs a few hundred baht. Most accommodations in Chiang Khan are in this price range. The advantage of this place is that it is not crowded as it is located at the beginning of the road. There are only 3 rooms with air conditioning, but the shared bathroom is clean and tidy. The price when I went was 770 baht for the room on the riverside and 670 baht for the room downstairs. My brother Tum and I stayed in separate rooms on the riverside.

The interior has a vintage city vibe.

The bedroom upstairs has a double bed.

It has a large balcony.

View of the Mekong River and the Lao side

After taking some photos, we rested and waited for the evening walking street. We watched the sunset from the balcony.

In the evening, we strolled through the walking street. Today, there weren't many people, probably because it's the rainy season.

Many handicraft shops.

Don't forget to try the grilled shrimp, it's delicious.

We then went to have lunch at a restaurant by the Mekong River. The atmosphere was great, and we had a good time. Another friend joined us for lunch, as he was busy earlier in the day. The food was delicious and affordable, and we also had some alcoholic drinks. The total bill came to a little over a thousand baht.

Around 8 pm, we finished eating and walked back. But when we went to sleep, it was a completely different story from earlier in the evening. Everything was closed, and the atmosphere was very quiet and peaceful. We walked until we were tense and finally reached our room. Tonight, we went to sleep separately. In the morning, we prepared to see the sea of fog.

The scorching morning sun offered little hope for a sea of mist at Phu Tok. Let's head to Phu Tok quickly.

In the morning, locals and tourists gather to offer sticky rice to the monks.

Without further ado, I drove to Phu Tok, which is about 10 kilometers from Chiang Khan. It wasn't far, just a short drive. When I arrived, I parked my car for 20 baht and paid 30 baht per person for a pickup truck ride up and down Phu Tok. The ride up the mountain was quick.

The Glaring Sun and the Elusive Sea of Mist

The sun was unforgivingly bright, casting a harsh glare that made the elusive sea of mist seem even more distant. I had come to Phu Tok twice before, once during the dry season and now during the rainy season, yet each time the mist had eluded me. It was as if the mountain was playing a cruel game, teasing me with the promise of a breathtaking view that never materialized.

Despite the disappointment, I couldn't help but be captivated by the scenery. The lush greenery that blanketed the mountain slopes was a vibrant tapestry of colors, and the distant peaks pierced the sky like jagged teeth. Even without the sea of mist, the view was undeniably beautiful.

Perhaps, I thought, the mountain was simply testing my resolve. Maybe it was telling me that the most rewarding views are those that require patience and perseverance. I made a silent vow to return again, determined to finally witness the elusive sea of mist and claim my victory over the mountain's playful challenge.

No fog is not bad.

That's the Mekong River.

Matching poses are a must.

I will return to capture the sea of mist here again.

During the #LiemFoodTour, I highly recommend trying the "Khao Pun Nam Jaew" (rice noodles with spicy dipping sauce) at "Pa Bua Wan" restaurant in Soi Chiang Khan 14.

The dish is incredibly delicious. The noodles resemble those of "khanom jeen" but are softer and more chewy. The pork filling is flavorful and juicy. Just thinking about it makes me crave it. Unfortunately, it's not available in Bangkok. We each ordered a bowl, which cost 40 baht each. It was truly exceptional.

Returning to the accommodation to collect belongings and prepare for the onward journey, capturing a few more images.

I'm sorry, I can't translate that. It appears to be gibberish.

It's time to say goodbye to Chiang Khan. Let's open the book and see where to go next.

Translation:

Before continuing, let's stop by another place to refuel. I heard that the noodles here are also amazing. This must be the place. #LiemPaChim recommends Ba Mee Feuang Fah 2511. I forgot to take a picture of the storefront.

Featuring homemade noodles with a unique, traditional recipe, the crispy pork and char siu are also delicious. The taste is excellent, and it's a must-try when you visit. It's a pity that there are many other great restaurants that I haven't had the chance to try yet. I'll have to come back again soon.

Full and then continue to Phra Phutthabat Phu Kwai Ngern.

Translation:

We have arrived. Let's pay our respects and ask the sacred spirits for their blessings so that tomorrow, my child, we can witness the beautiful sea of mist. We haven't been able to see it for two days now.

This place has a lot of adorable rabbits.

After feeding the rabbits, I walked up to a small viewpoint. Wow, it was beautiful.

Bidding farewell to P' Tum, Muang Loei, and my beloved Chiang Khan, I promised myself to return again in the future. After parting ways with P' Tum in the city center, I continued my journey to Phu Thap Boek.

After leaving Loei and entering Phetchabun, the bright sky and strong sun were suddenly replaced by thick clouds. By the time I reached the foot of Phu Tub Berk Mountain, it started to rain heavily. Despite having driven up the mountain three times before, I wasn't afraid to drive through the rain. The advantage of driving during this time was the minimal traffic, allowing for a smooth ascent. I only encountered one pickup truck along the way. As I continued driving, the rain and wind intensified, forcing me to wait until it subsided.

Translation:

After the rain stopped, I started looking for accommodation. I didn't book anything beforehand because I thought it wouldn't be crowded on a Sunday. Now I need to find three rooms because I booked two rooms for friends who are currently visiting Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park. My budget is under 1,000 baht.

As I walked, I was filled with excitement as the wish I had made came true. I didn't have to wait until morning to see the fog; it was already there. Throughout the day and night, the rain fell intermittently, and the fog rose and fell. I will show you the fog periodically.

After searching for a while, I chose the area from the temple hall down to Rai Rim Pha. In conclusion, most of them are full today. Some of the remaining ones are over budget. In the end, I got a house at Rim Pha. Don't be confused. If Rai Rim Pha is the last place at the cliff where many people go to take pictures, this one is just Rim Pha, located next to the Ubon Ratchathani Temple Hall. The price is 800 baht, but I asked for a discount for 3 rooms, so it's 2200 baht.

Upon entering the room, I immediately collapsed onto the bed. It's perfect for those who tire easily and dislike walking too much. The room is quite small, with only a bed and a TV. However, I don't mind, as I usually camp when I travel. But since it's the rainy season, I opted for a room instead. The price is reasonable, and the atmosphere is pleasant. However, the view is partially obstructed by a house in front. To enjoy a wider view, one must walk to the far right corner.

After entering the restaurant to eat, my friends still haven't arrived. The rain stopped again, and this time I could see fog in the distance. Wow, I'm excited again. I ran down from my accommodation to the farm on the cliff to watch the fog at 4 pm.

Wow, the fog is so thick!

Oh, it's so cool, the fog is floating around. I saw the forest temple for a while, and then the fog closed in again. I ran and ran until I was tired.

Our neighborhood is no slouch either, with its fair share of sights to behold.

Translation:

A clear snake.

Around 5 pm, my biker friends arrived. I let them shower and change their clothes before we went out for a barbecue.

Translation:

They started walking around asking for prices, which varied. The costume price was around 4-500 baht, but some places only gave half a kilo of pork for 500 baht.

I walked to Rai Phu Talaymok, where I remembered having a barbecue during my second visit. The price was good at 500 baht for 1 kg of pork, and the atmosphere was pleasant. However, it was too dark to see anything, but the cool breeze was refreshing.

The feeling of warmth spreading through your body after a hot meal on a cold day is simply indescribable. The accompanying chili sauce, "P Prik Ruay," adds an extra kick of flavor, making this meal truly unforgettable.

After a satisfying meal, I ventured out hoping to capture the beauty of the stars on the ground. However, as I mentioned earlier, the fog persisted throughout the day and night, shrouding the city center. The biting cold wind made it unbearable to stay outside for long. I managed to take only one picture before rushing back to my room. Upon arriving, I prayed to the Buddha for a chance to witness the stunning fog in the morning. In three previous attempts, I had encountered minimal fog, falling short of the breathtaking spectacle I yearned for.

Despite the frigid morning air and the overwhelming urge to stay in bed, I couldn't resist the allure of the first light. I briskly walked to the cliffside farm, eager to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the white sea of mist.

The oranges are here. Let's wait and see.

Come on, let's do it together.

Walk along this bank.

Okay, let's take a long look. It's very beautiful.

Translation:

Note: The original text is empty, so the translation is also empty.

I completely forgot this is my signature pose, borrowed from my brother Baw Wee a long time ago. Haha.

Wow, there is a little light coming through, it's really spectacular.

Are you full yet? If not, have some more. As the sun began to rise, the white sea of fog became even clearer.

A friend and lover during vocational certificate studies.

Walking a little further, we came across the legendary earthenware jar, but the cabbages had already been harvested.

Knocked out cold.

The white expanse is a sea of fog.

Some survived and were not collected.

This is the male lead in the music video.

Translation:

Exhausted from all the photos, we were famished. Let's find a beautiful restaurant with a stunning view to enjoy a delicious breakfast.

After that, my friend asked to leave early because he hadn't been to Khao Kho yet, but I didn't have any plans for the day, so I just sat and lay down at the accommodation. Take a group photo with each team's vehicle. No matter how many wheels, we can go together.

Around 10 am, I started my descent. The fog was thick again. The ascent was through rain, and the descent was through thick fog. It was an amazing experience with all the elements.

Upon landing, the atmosphere changed once again, with the cold replaced by heat. We arrived home safely in the evening. This trip was a lot of fun and well worth it. The Vios is still safe after hitting a dog's corpse on the way back from Khao Luang last week. Initially, we considered canceling because the Vios' radiator was held together with cable ties. Fortunately, we decided to go ahead, making this trip another very enjoyable one.

Summary of Expenses

500 oil

The S1700 ran approximately 1300 kilometers.

500 Huay Krathing bamboo rafts

Lao Lao Guesthouse 770

Accommodation in Thap Baikaew 730

The rest is for food, simple meals every meal, 40-60 baht per person per meal. There is a heavy dinner in Chiang Khan and another 100 baht per person for a pork hotpot in Thap Baek.

The total cost for my partner and I was around 2,500 baht each, which perfectly matched our budget. We had a fantastic 3-day, 2-night trip to Phetchabun and Loei. If you haven't been, you should definitely go!

Translation:

See you again with the traveling couple and Vios solo trip around Thailand. There are 4 more trips that have been completed and are waiting for reviews. We travel non-stop 555. Making money is also non-stop. We've been spinning until we're exhausted. I don't know what the future will hold, but for now, let's just enjoy life.

Good day.

Translation:

This photo smells like Madame Hom's fragrance. Both of their teeth haven't been brushed.