Greetings, friends! I recently had the pleasure of visiting the 500 Rai Floating Market. For those seeking a rainy season getaway, look no further! Locals themselves claim that the market is at its most stunning during this time of year.

For me, when it comes to visiting a dam, the first place that comes to mind is Pa 500 Rai. Perhaps it's because I've had my eye on this place for a long time but never had the chance to visit. This time, I was lucky enough to win a contest from Pa 500 Rai's Facebook page, so I finally got my wish. Let's get started without further ado.

In the morning, I went up to the dam hoping to see the fog, but I was disappointed.

Afterward, you can grab some food while you wait. For those who are driving, the Pa 500 Rai office has reserved parking available, so you don't have to worry about your car. Then, a van will take you to the pier, where you can board the boat and set sail.

The scenery along the way will be like this for the entire journey.

A quick stop at Khao Sam Kler, a key point of the Ratchaprapha Dam. The sky is getting cloudy.

Upon arrival at the floating accommodation, we enjoyed a delicious lunch. The rooms were beautifully decorated and inviting, with stunning views. During the day, guests have access to electricity for charging cameras and operating fans, with the exception of air conditioning.

The first activity I participated in was visiting the coral cave, located at a spot called "ทะเลใน" (meaning "inner sea"), which is a lake within a valley. To reach the cave, we had to hike over a hill and then take a bamboo raft. The hike was not too steep and was quite comfortable. For those who are physically able, don't be afraid to go for it! You must reach the destination. There's no pressure to walk fast or slow, and the tour guide will take good care of you along the way.

We'll be on the raft for just a moment before we reach the cave. On the way, it started raining in front of us, but we managed to reach the cave just in time, narrowly avoiding the downpour.

Inside the cave, the guide will explain the various stalactites and stalagmites, which are beautiful and unusual. Don't worry about it being dark, because it already is! The guide will have a flashlight for us, and most of our phones, which currently have no signal, also have flashlights. Personally, I always carry a headlamp in my camera bag, so I'm good to go.

The journey took approximately 30-45 minutes. Fortunately, the rain had stopped by the time we returned, so we avoided getting wet. The bamboo raft we rode on was well-balanced, allowing us to walk around, take pictures, and pose at the front without any issues.

After crossing the mountain, we returned the same way and took a boat back to our accommodation for dinner. The atmosphere after the rain was amazing!

Since I arrived, I hoped to see the Milky Way, but I couldn't because of the clouds. When I gave up on stargazing, I turned off the lights and went to sleep to gain strength to watch the sunrise instead. The morning atmosphere here is beautiful. Just getting out of the super comfortable bed, opening the door, and seeing this view.

On the morning of the 2nd, we went on a boat trip to watch the mist and observe animals. We saw many kinds of birds. There were also gibbons, but I couldn't take a picture of them. Instead, I got a picture of a steel bird. Can you see it?

Following breakfast, guests can enjoy a variety of leisure activities, including swimming, paddle boating, reading, or simply relaxing. Additionally, there is a scenic viewpoint known as the

Tarzan Viewpoint, where I was the only one from my group. There were leeches at this point, and I was bitten 3-4 times. On the one hand, I didn't want to be bitten, but on the other hand, I had always been curious about what it would feel like. Now I know.

The trail gradually becomes steeper, culminating in a short rock climbing section with sharp rocks. Exercise caution while ascending. The reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of the dam.

Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to rest and catch your breath. Once you've recovered from the climb, capture some memorable photos. You can stay as long as you like, but avoid lingering until nightfall.

After completing the hike to Tarzan Viewpoint in the afternoon, we went on a wildlife safari, focusing on observing large animals such as banteng and elephants. As we cruised along the river, we encountered a herd of banteng grazing. To avoid startling them, we had to turn off the boat engine and observe them quietly.

A brief moment of eye contact.

A view along the way.

After watching the animals, we prepared to go on a raft for dinner.

Many may not know that this place offers a candlelit dinner on a floating platform, with stunning sunset views.

My day was filled with activities, leaving me both satisfied and exhausted. Despite the physical exertion, I felt a deep sense of relaxation. This place allowed me to completely disconnect from the outside world.

The staff here provided excellent service. They even saw us off to the boat when we left.

Thank you to all my friends who came to see my first post.

Here are some additional photos from the event.

Friends who love to travel and take photos can chat at https://www.facebook.com/Free-ways-1878362915745487/.

Thank you.