Two Days, One Night in Thong Pha Phum: Embracing the Rain and Unveiling the Land of Mist

This phrase evokes a sense of adventure and exploration, inviting the reader to embark on a journey to Thong Pha Phum, a region known for its misty landscapes and lush greenery. The mention of rain adds an element of challenge and excitement, suggesting that the journey will be both invigorating and rewarding.

"Kanchanaburi" again?! My colleague asked when I took a vacation. Kanchanaburi is still a province that we frequently visit because "there are so many places to visit." We can't seem to get enough of it. Some places are so memorable that we always stop by whenever we visit Kanchanaburi. This trip, we went to "Thong Pha Phum," which is another place we've never been to before. This time, we're going to camp at Thong Pha Phum National Park (camping in the rainy season, oh my!). We're going to live a green life in Thong Pha Phum. I can tell you that this trip is another one that we will cherish forever.

Travel: We traveled by private car. The distance from Kanchanaburi to Thong Pha Phum National Park is 290 kilometers. Please note that the road is mountainous and narrow, so drive carefully. The speed limit is 20-40 kilometers per hour. For public transportation, you can take a van or bus from Kanchanaburi to Thong Pha Phum at the Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal. Then, take a yellow songthaew from Thong Pha Phum to Itong.

Accommodation:

We opted to camp at Thong Pha Phum National Park, where the camping fee is 30 baht per person. (The park is incredibly green, as you can see in our travelogue photos.) However, if you're not a fan of camping, the park also offers bungalows for rent. You can book your stay at the national park in advance through their website: http://nps.dnp.go.th/reservation.php. Alternatively, you can consider staying at a homestay in E-Tong village.

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The atmosphere of Jogkradin Waterfall in Thong Pha Phum National Park

Atmosphere of E-tong village

4:00 AM, we set off from Ayutthaya, the city of Sri Lang, heading towards the land of mist. Our destination is "Thong Pha Phum", Kanchanaburi.

We arrived at Thong Pha Phum. The first stop was Wang Pa To viewpoint. If you are driving to Pilok, there will be an entrance on the right-hand side. Drive about 200 meters and you will see the view in the picture. Don't forget to stop by, the atmosphere is great.

The scenic viewpoint at Wang Pato offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The location also provides a designated area for camping enthusiasts.

The viewpoint at kilometer 15 on the route to Thong Pha Phum National Park has many curves and some sections with damaged shoulders. The road is full of potholes and, importantly, very narrow. Please drive with caution. Most importantly, fill your tank with fuel.

We have arrived at Thong Pha Phum National Park. It took us about 3 hours to drive from Thong Pha Phum District to the park (note: we stopped along the way). The entrance fee to Thong Pha Phum National Park is 40 baht per person and 30 baht for a car. The atmosphere at the Maerng tent site is super green, and the air is cool and comfortable. We will sleep here tonight.

It will look very, very green!!!

Check out the bathroom! Oh my god, that's the men's shower room!

Having explored the camping area, it's time to explore Thong Pha Phum.

Jogkradin Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in the Jungle

Jogkradin Waterfall is located approximately 3 kilometers from the national park, towards Pilok Village. The entrance to the waterfall is on the right-hand side, 2.8 kilometers further down a narrow and somewhat damaged road. Visitors are advised to drive with caution. While all types of vehicles can access the waterfall, there is currently no public transportation available.

To reach the waterfall, you can either hitch a ride, rent a motorbike in E-tong Village, or drive yourself.

Note: The provided link to a video showcasing the beauty of Jogkradin Waterfall is included in the original text.

Admission to Jogkradin Waterfall is free if you have already paid the entrance fee to the national park. If you haven't paid the entrance fee, it is 40 baht per person and 30 baht for a car.

Jod Ka Din Waterfall: Before reaching the waterfall, a park ranger advised visitors to avoid swimming directly beneath the waterfall due to its depth and potential for strong currents. Additionally, areas with green water indicate depths of up to 3 meters.

The water is crystal clear.

Jork Kradin Waterfall is a single-tier waterfall where water flows through a mountain pass into an emerald green pool. The water is crystal clear and very cold.

Emerald green water cascades down the Jok Kradin Waterfall, its cool, crystal-clear water inviting visitors to take a refreshing dip. The waterfall becomes a secluded paradise for those seeking tranquility amidst nature's embrace.

After capturing the beauty of the waterfall and enjoying its refreshing waters, we set off to our next destination, the village of Ban E-tong.

E-tong Village, Mining Bridge

E-tong Village, a small village in the valley of Pilok, a former mining town that once flourished.

The name "E-tong Village" originates from the phrase "Nat-eng-tong Village," where "Nat" means deity or angel, "Eng" means house, and "Tong" means mountain. Therefore, the combined meaning is "a village located on the mountain of the deity." Over time, the pronunciation has evolved into "E-tong Village," which is the name known today.
Come and visit, and you will fall in love with this place, "E-tong Village."

This bridge features a charming tradition where visitors can purchase small wooden plaques and write their names on them before hanging them on the railing. The plaques often commemorate couples, creating a romantic atmosphere.

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E-tong Village offers a variety of accommodations, including guesthouses and homestays.

It took us 399 curves to reach the E-tong village.

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The weather in Yuton Village changed dramatically within two hours, experiencing heat, rain, and thick fog. Despite the rapid changes, the air quality remained excellent.

Old Pilok Mine

Pilok Mine Temple features a spacious helicopter landing pad in front, suitable for camping. A large group of big bike riders are currently setting up their tents there.

Pilok Mine Temple, a Burmese-style temple, is a place for prayer and blessings.

As dusk approached, we departed from Baan E-Tong and set up our tent at the national park. Eager to collect another park stamp, we successfully obtained one, adding to our growing collection.

Our tent is set up with a million-dollar view right in front of it.

The view from our tent is fantastic. The air is cool and breezy at night in the park.

The crisp morning air here is a far cry from the concrete jungle of the city. One could easily wish to freeze time in this moment.

The morning atmosphere in the park is pleasantly cool.

Sunrise viewpoint at Khao Kud Doi

Thong Pha Phum National Park, Khao Kud Doi viewpoint in the morning, and then the fog comes in. What a wonderful feeling.

08:00 AM. We packed up our belongings, took down our tents, and showered before heading to the "Neun Chao Suk" viewpoint. The morning was drizzly.

The ascent to Khao Chang Siuk is marked by a warning sign indicating the narrow, steep, and dangerous nature of the road. Today, we encountered dense fog while driving up the hill, as shown in the accompanying image. The path was extremely narrow, and oncoming vehicles added to the thrill. The lack of visibility heightened the anxiety. This was a hair-raising experience in Thong Pha Phum.

Camping is no longer permitted here.

The fog was so thick that I couldn't see anything. I'll definitely come back again when I have the chance.

After leaving Khao Chang Si, we stopped for a bite to eat at Thong Pha Phum Market. We found a hidden gem behind the market with crystal-clear water: the "Mae Nam Kwae Noi".

After recharging, let's stop by Wat Tha Khanun to take some pictures. The white patches are fog.

Tha Khanun Temple Suspension Bridge

The Hin Dad Hot Spring is located approximately 20 kilometers from Thong Pha Phum District. It is considered a must-visit health tourism destination.

Hin Dad Hot Spring: The entrance fee is 20 baht per person. There are 3 hot springs with different temperatures: very hot, moderately hot, and a small pool for children with lukewarm and shallow water. There is also a small stream flowing through the area with very cold water. We soaked in the hot spring for about 15 minutes and it felt very relaxing. Then we soaked in the cold stream for another 5 minutes. It is believed that bathing in mineral hot springs has health benefits and can treat and alleviate various ailments. If you are in the area, don't miss it!

Pha Tad Waterfall is another place we have never been to. The waterfall is 8 kilometers from Hin Dad Hot Spring. The entrance to the waterfall is paved, and all types of vehicles can access it. Pha Tad Waterfall is under the care of Srinakarin National Park.
The entrance fee to the park is 100 baht per person.
The entrance fee for a car is 30 baht.

Pha Tad Waterfall currently has low water levels. During periods of higher water flow, it is likely to be a more impressive sight.

A 2-day, 1-night trip to Thong Pha Phum for less than 1,500 baht.

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