Connect with me on Facebook Fan Page or Govivigo Blog

---

Travel Log - October 20, 2017

Today, I'm going to gossip about hiking and climbing mountains. Let me start by saying that I'm not a serious person when it comes to hiking options. Whether it's clothes, shoes, food, survival gear, etc., I just go with the flow. Another important thing is that my gang and I are very poor, haha. So we usually carry our own stuff up without hiring porters. But you know what? This is what makes it fun and creates awesome memories for us.

Where is Doi Luang Tak?

Travel

Private Car:

Instead of providing confusing left and right turn instructions, let's leverage technology for efficiency. Head towards Tak Province and simply open Google Maps.

Public Transportation:

This option offers the most comfort, eliminating the need to drive yourself. Take a bus to "Ban Tak Intersection" and contact the staff for pick-up.

(For trip booking details, please contact Ms. Tu at 082 164 1510. She is the officer who guided the group up the mountain.)

This trip, Pan went with a total of 8 friends for 3 days and 2 nights. We took a midnight bus on Friday, October 20th, and arrived at Ban Tak intersection around 7 am. It was just in time, but the long wait for the staff to pick us up was a bit of a drag.

As shown in the picture, it was a pickup truck. We sat in the wind with our faces dry for about 20 minutes before arriving at the office. The staff were serious. By the time we washed our faces, ate, and prepared to go up, it was already late. Pan saw that the other groups had already taken the car to the foot of the mountain. We were really taking it easy.

According to local reviews, visitors typically take a group photo with the sign before starting their hike. The sign indicates that the summit is 11 kilometers away. However, the author's group did not take a photo at the start. They were in a hurry to begin their hike, as it was already past 9 am and they were worried about reaching the summit before sunset. They planned to take a photo on their way down, but ultimately forgot. The author included a photo from a video, which accidentally includes other people in the frame.

Our trip was self-supported, meaning we carried all our own belongings without hiring porters. We were on a tight budget, and hiring a guide was also necessary. As budget-conscious travelers, we opted to save wherever possible. This resulted in each of us carrying at least 10 kilograms of gear, with my own load approaching 20 kilograms. The majority of this weight consisted of shared supplies, including food, equipment, and other essentials.

The initial section of the trail was relatively uneventful, with a gradual incline that caused slight breathlessness. The cold sun added to the challenge.

As I continued walking along the stream, the occasional shade of trees brought a sense of relief. The following images capture the atmosphere of the initial stages of my walk.

Initially, Pan thought the forest had clear paths and could be navigated independently, questioning the need for a guide. However, as they ventured deeper, the value of having a guide became apparent. The forest served not only as a hiking trail to the summit but also as a source of sustenance for local villagers who gathered mushrooms and herbs. This resulted in numerous岔路 within the forest, making a guide's expertise invaluable.

The further we climbed, the steeper the path became. While Pan didn't find it too challenging, his heavy backpack threatened to sap his energy. By noon, we had covered 40% of the total distance and stopped for lunch. Fortunately, all major mobile networks had strong signal coverage, allowing us to stay connected.

There is a thought that the longer you rest, the weaker your body will become. Let's go!! After eating a full meal, we continued walking. Some sections were open forests with sunlight, making the weather extremely hot. In addition to the legs that were starting to get tired, we ended up resting after every 10 steps.

The text conveys a relaxed and leisurely attitude towards life. It emphasizes the importance of taking things slowly and enjoying the journey rather than rushing to the destination. The phrase "ถ้ายิ่งรีบมันยิ่งเหนื่อย" highlights the belief that haste leads to fatigue and wasted energy. The overall tone is lighthearted and humorous, suggesting that a more relaxed approach to life is both enjoyable and beneficial.

We continued our hike, taking breaks as needed, and finally reached the pine forest around 4:30 PM. The hike took us about the expected amount of time. However, the pine forest was not our final destination for setting up camp. We still had to trek through a leech-infested area. So, we took another opportunity to relax and rest.

Before entering the leech-infested forest, there was a fork in the path leading to a scenic cliff view. However, due to fatigue and the approaching dusk, we decided to prioritize setting up our tents and preparing dinner. We opted to visit the viewpoint on our return journey.

The leeches that people have been reviewing about, we didn't encounter any. We walked at a leisurely pace, not rushing, but we didn't see any leeches. Haha, come to think of it, I don't know why we should be afraid of them. They're tiny creatures, and their bites don't hurt. Just spray some insect repellent, or even boxing oil or sunscreen, and they'll fall off. Ants are scarier, with their constant biting and stinging.

As Pan and her friends slept for two nights, they were able to move their tents to their preferred location on the second night. This was because they arrived late on the first day and there were not many spots left. The next day, most people descended the mountain, leaving Pan's group and another group led by a man named P'Deiw (whom they had just met while climbing the mountain) to have fun choosing a spot to pitch their tents.

Camping Area

The campsite is not very large, so if there are about 10 groups, you will be close to each other. There are two zones to choose from:

• Inside the forest: This area is ideal for those who want to sleep in hammocks because there are many trees. It is also close to the water source and the banana forest.
• Outside on the hill: This area is more open than the inside, with enough trees for hanging a tent or hammock. It is not as dark, but the wind can be strong.

Here are some photos of the atmosphere. The photos were taken on the 2nd day, so the area looks empty and there aren't many tents. However, I personally prefer it this way as it's not as crowded as the first day. The camp for the officials is also located in this forested area.

Food and Cuisine

The provided text is in Thai and describes the experience of cooking and eating on a mountain. Here's the translation:

You'll have to cook your own food up here. Whoever uses gas, bring it yourselves. Or, if you want to dig a hole and make a clay stove, go ahead. But be warned, there's no "mooガタ" (Thai BBQ) for sale up here like on Phu Kradueng. Make sure you bring enough food for everyone and for the duration of your stay. But even though it's like this, the "pang" (group) ate well, I'm telling you. If you don't believe me, go watch the video. Hehe.

Where to Find Water Resources

The sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

Upon arrival, you will encounter small springs like this. The water is crystal clear. To drink the water, filter it through a PVC pipe. If you want to wash your face, bathe, or brush your teeth, move to the end of the water line and let the water flow into the forest.

Although the pool of water may seem small, it is sufficient for comfortable use. For example, Pan's friend can walk along the edge of the water and bathe, even though the water is shallow.

The following is a translation of the provided text from Thai to English:

"At Doi Luang in Tak, be sure to wake up early to catch the sunrise."

The two nights we spent at Panon gave us the opportunity to witness a variety of views. On the first morning, the fog was thick and the wind was strong, with the sun hidden behind the clouds. However, on the second morning, the sky was clear and the sun was shining brightly, with only a brief glimpse of fog. Pan has compiled a collection of images from both days for your viewing pleasure. This experience made us feel sorry for the group that arrived on a clear day. They only stayed for one night and missed the opportunity to see the sea of fog. Even though we only saw the sea of fog for a short time, we still consider ourselves fortunate compared to them.

If you wake up early in the morning, you can see the city lights, which are like stars on the ground. It's beautiful, like looking down from an airplane.

Mount Yod Lom Luang

Here's the origin of the name "Loen Luang." It's so smooth and bare, with only grass and pandanus trees. Perhaps it's because the wind is so strong in this area that large trees don't grow well. Only grass can survive.

The two peaks that people often climb are visible in the distance in the picture. The closer peak, with the sign "Doi Luang Tak" written on it, is the more popular destination. The other peak, which Pan is currently climbing, is taller and steeper than the first. Due to its steepness, fewer people attempt to climb it. Most people spend one night at the campsite, take a picture with the sign in the morning, and then return. However, Pan is determined to conquer both peaks. If we can cross the mountain that Pan is currently climbing, we will reach the "Lone Pine Tree." Pan will take us there.

From the campsite to the summit, it's about 2 kilometers. Look at the picture above. In the upper right corner, do you see the small, green tent reflecting light? That's the campsite. We have to walk through the tall grass to get there. The grass is very high, reaching our faces and necks. It can be a bit itchy, but it's bearable.

Can I have a moment to think about the bathroom?

Talking about poop! I have something to gossip about. My friend Pan had diarrhea. Oh my god, the misfortune! She ran into the forest like crazy. On the morning of the second day, we had a plan to climb another mountain. At first, we were walking together, but she couldn't hold it in anymore and had to find a place to relieve herself. It was too far to run to the forest, as you can see from the picture above, which is a bare grassland. So Pan had to disappear into the bushes. But of course, when we climbed up the mountain and looked down, we could see her. Haha, it became a joke that we could tease her about all day long.

The story continues as another friend joins them on the hike. This friend witnesses the person with diarrhea relieving themselves. As they approach the summit, the friend excuses themselves and disappears into the tall grass on the mountainside. This leads to another round of one-upmanship, with each person claiming to have defecated at a higher altitude. The scene ends with a dramatic exclamation.

Let's continue at "Lonely Pine" pleaseeeeeeee

The solitary pine stands tall, a lone sentinel atop a distant hill. Reaching it requires a strenuous hike, traversing a ridge and battling the wind. Its minimalist beauty is a reward for those who persevere, a sight unseen by those who choose the comfort of a single night's rest. The journey itself becomes a testament to dedication, a reminder that the most breathtaking views often lie beyond the well-trodden path.

After conquering the solitary pine forest, we ventured into the leech-infested jungle. The leech population here was denser than in the banana grove near the campsite and the water source. Despite the abundance of leeches, we couldn't resist stopping to take photos. Upon exiting the jungle, our shoes were teeming with the wriggling creatures.

Emerging from the leech-infested forest, we were greeted by a breathtaking view of a beautiful pine forest. Our guide, P'Tu, informed us that there were several more hills to explore, which piqued our interest. However, the steep descent and the looming threat of rain deterred us. We decided to admire the view from the summit of one hill. To our dismay, upon reaching our tents, the sky had cleared, and the dark clouds had vanished. We couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment.

The sun was shining brightly, but the wind was very cool. We talked and got to know other groups. After a while, we went down to bathe and cook. As we talked, it got dark.

The night sky was ablaze with stars, twinkling and shimmering. It was a rare sight to see so many stars in the sky. In Bangkok, all you see are streetlights. Here are some pictures before we continue our descent down the mountain tomorrow.

A Night in the Mountains: An Unforgettable Experience

The two nights spent on the mountain were incredibly enjoyable. Being with friends made it even more comfortable, as we understood each other just by looking at each other. We also got to know other people and their perspectives, even though they were strangers. Their different life philosophies, despite our shared love for the forest, mountains, mist, and nature, were fascinating. It was much more exciting than just looking at pictures and reading reviews on Google. Of course, what could be better than experiencing and seeing it with your own eyes?

The return trip was better in one way: we weren't as tired as we were on the way up. This allowed us to stop and take photos at spots where we didn't have the energy to on the way up, like the cliff face just before the Dong Tak area. Usually, people stop here to take photos before continuing to the campsite, but we were exhausted. We arrived late in the evening and had to set up our tents first. On the way back, we finally had the chance to take some photos.

The weather was perfect today, and we started our descent at 9 am. There was fog and a cool breeze, making the experience even more enjoyable. We took our time and enjoyed the scenery, staying true to our concept from the beginning to the end. The first part of the descent was very steep, so it might be safer to use a walking stick for support.

Another advantage of this downhill walk is that my backpack became much lighter. I could walk comfortably, enjoying the fresh air and the views along the way without straining my body.

Pan loves this tree very much. She saw it when she was walking up the hill. She wanted to take a picture, but her body was weak. It was hard just to support her body up the hill. She decided that she would take a picture when she came down, and she got this picture. Isn't it beautiful?

After descending the mountain, we walked briskly for three hours and arrived at the stream at the foot of the mountain, which we saw when we first entered the forest. Let's take a break here. We are all soaked in sweat, so it's a good idea to take a dip in the water.

The Enchanting Journey of Doi Luang Tak: A Tale of Trails, Peaks, and Tranquility

Nestled amidst the verdant embrace of northern Thailand, Doi Luang Tak beckons adventure seekers with its rugged terrain, breathtaking vistas, and serene natural beauty. This captivating account chronicles an unforgettable expedition through this majestic mountain, weaving a tapestry of experiences that will leave you yearning for more.

The journey commences with a challenging 11-kilometer trek, traversing dense forests and navigating the treacherous slopes of Khiriwong. As you ascend, the air grows crisp, and the symphony of nature fills your ears. Tiny leeches, the guardians of this domain, may attempt to greet you, but with a little preparation, their presence can be easily managed.

Amidst the lush greenery, a hidden gem awaits - a natural spring, its crystal-clear water offering a refreshing respite. Quench your thirst and revel in the tranquility of this secluded oasis.

As dawn breaks, the summit of Doi Luang Tak unveils its splendor. Bathe in the golden glow of the rising sun, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The iconic "Lone Pine," standing tall against the backdrop of the vast expanse, becomes your companion, capturing the essence of solitude and resilience.

Time seems to stand still as you stand at the precipice, clouds drifting lazily past, inviting you to lose yourself in the moment. The night sky transforms into a celestial canvas, adorned with countless stars, whispering tales of wonder and mystery.

Two nights spent amidst this enchanting landscape allow you to explore every nook and cranny. Seek out the hidden wonders of the "Root Tunnel," capturing its ethereal beauty through your lens. As you descend, the cool embrace of a mountain stream awaits, offering a rejuvenating dip to soothe your weary muscles.

No adventure is complete without indulging in local delicacies. Before departing, savor the tantalizing flavors of a nearby restaurant, where the "Som Tam" (spicy papaya salad) will tantalize your taste buds.

Doi Luang Tak is more than just a mountain; it's an experience that etches itself onto your soul. It's a testament to the resilience of nature, the power of human spirit, and the profound connection we share with the world around us. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on your own adventure to this magical realm. You won't be disappointed.

3-Day, 2-Night Expenses (for 8 People on Doi Luang Tak)

Expenses Breakdown

• Bus fare (roundtrip):
  • To Khao Laem National Park: 231 THB x 8 people = 1,848 THB
  • Return trip: 304 THB x 8 people = 2,432 THB
• Food: 2,300 THB
• Guide fees: 500 THB x 3 days = 1,500 THB
• Transportation:
  • Ban Tak to trailhead: 1,200 THB
  • Park headquarters to Tak bus station: 800 THB

Total Expenses

10,080 THB

Per person: 1,260 THB

* Just a heads-up, if you hire a porter, it will cost 600 baht per day. This is why I decided to carry my own stuff, haha! However, hiring a porter has its advantages, such as them helping you out, fetching water, and building a fire for you. So, it's really up to you!

The photos in this review are all taken by members of our group (Tee, Preaw, Oat, Eh, Kwad, Jib, Pan, and Am, in the order shown in the picture above). Some of the photos are screenshots from Pan's video to make this review as complete as possible. Oh, and thanks to Kuk for lending me a GoPro battery. Anyway, I want to thank everyone who has read this far. I'll tell you more about our next trip next time.

Some photos from หมูโอ๊ตตตตตตต https://www.facebook.com/muoatphoto/