Exploring Nan - Pua: "Underes Bar & Phu Kha Mountain View Resort" Budget Accommodation + Stunning Underground Cafe Views

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This trip had the following requirements: "Mountains, rice fields, low budget, and no need to take time off work." The advantage of traveling during the rainy season is that accommodation is cheaper and nature is particularly green. Although there is a risk of getting wet in the rain, the atmosphere after the rain is not bad.

Our destination is "Pua District, Nan Province". We will ride motorcycles to enjoy the greenery, sleep comfortably in affordable accommodations, and visit a hidden underground coffee shop with mountain views where we can relax all day. This trip is short on time, but we will be able to check in at various tourist attractions.

Note:

The trip took place on July 14-15, 2018 (departing Bangkok on the evening of Friday, July 13 and returning on the morning of Monday, July 16). The approximate cost will be included at the end of the review. Let me just say that 2,600 baht is enough!

Travel

Tour bus

The BKS bus departs from Mo Chit at 8:30 PM and picks us up at Rangsit Bus Station around 9:10 PM (the time depends on the traffic conditions, but it is recommended to arrive early). It arrives at Nan Bus Station around 7:20 AM.

Additional

If you don't want to ride a motorcycle, there are BKS buses that pass through Pua district. From the Nan Provincial Bus Terminal, there are fan buses and two-row buses to Pua.

Rent a motorbike

Motorcycle Rental in Nan

This passage describes the experience of renting a motorcycle from Tono Carrent Nan, a rental shop located approximately 300 meters from the Nan Bus Terminal. The author emphasizes the importance of calling the shop for directions, as relying on Google Maps may lead to a longer route.

The rental includes a Honda Click motorcycle with a full tank of gas for 250 baht per day. A 1,000 baht deposit is required. Reservations can be made in advance through Line, and delivery to the airport or accommodation within the municipality is available.

Phone: 0861956300 Line: June_manutsanun

A 2-3 Hour Tour of Nan City

We opted not to take a direct bus to Pua because we were torn. With so many attractions in Nan city, we wanted to explore it, but our limited time of 2-3 hours meant we had to prioritize. We chose to visit mainly temples, which were our top picks. Let's see which ones we managed to squeeze into our short timeframe.

Khao Soi Ton Nam Restaurant

The first stop was at Khao Soi Ton Nam, a small restaurant with approximately 5-6 tables offering a friendly atmosphere near Wat Ming Mueang. They serve Khao Soi Gai (chicken), Khao Soi Nua (beef), Khao Kha Moo (red pork), and various noodle dishes like Guay Teow and Khao Soi Nam Ngiao (tomato-based pork noodle soup). We ordered Khao Soi Nua, Khao Kha Moo, and Red Lime Soda. The Khao Soi lived up to its reputation, with tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that was delicious even without additional seasoning. However, be warned: the restaurant's chili sauce is incredibly spicy, so add it sparingly.

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Wat Ming Mueang and the City Pillar Shrine

This sentence refers to two important landmarks in Chiang Mai, Thailand:

• Wat Ming Mueang: A historic Buddhist temple located within the old city walls.
• City Pillar Shrine: A sacred site housing the city pillar, believed to be the spiritual center of Chiang Mai.

Located approximately 100 meters from the Ton Nam Khao Soi restaurant, this temple boasts exquisite beauty with white stucco art from the Chiang Saen school of artisans. Visitors can both pay respects to the Buddha and the city pillar. We spent a considerable amount of time at the temple, continuously marveling at its splendor. The lighting was perfect for taking stunning photographs.

Wat Hua Khwang

The term "hua khwang" refers to a large open space. Wat Hua Khwang is a temple located on the northern side of this open space. It is a significant temple in the city of Nan, as its structures showcase genuine Lanna architectural style.

Plumeria Pavilion, Nan National Museum

We took a picture with the frangipani arch and posted it on Facebook. We couldn't check in, but everyone asked if we were visiting Nan. It is a popular photo spot and everyone knows it. We could have stopped by the wooden pavilion to rest, which provided ample shade. There was a car selling tea and traditional coffee parked nearby. Unfortunately, we didn't have enough time to visit the museum.

Phumin Temple

This temple was introduced to me during my freshman year tourism orientation class in college. When it comes to Nan, the first thing that comes to mind is Wat Phumin and the legend of the whispering love of Pu Man and Ya Man. Today, I finally get to see it with my own eyes. The unique feature of this temple is the four-faced Buddha statue, with four Buddha images sitting facing the doors in all four directions. Another famous feature of this temple is the mural painting depicting the whispering love story of Pu Man and Ya Man.

Before arriving in Nan, we did some research and found out that the elders of Nan have a secret language. It's a love poem in the Tai Lue language that we, as central Thais, don't understand. When we heard the young tour guide read and translate it for us, we were overwhelmed by the sweetness of love. Haha! It's a very sweet and melodious way of expressing love.

Wat Si Phan Ton

This temple was not originally on our itinerary, but we stumbled upon it while riding by. The temple's highlight is its golden hall, which features exquisite stucco paintings, particularly the seven-headed serpent. It is a must-visit temple when exploring Nan.

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We thoroughly explored six tourist attractions in Nan city center, not just stopping by for photos. We participated in merit-making, prayed for blessings, and even chatted with locals and vendors. We appreciate Nan's peaceful, uncrowded, and unhurried atmosphere. Aside from the aforementioned locations, there are numerous other attractions and dining options. We will undoubtedly return, or rather, we must return for another visit.

Recommendation: Before leaving Nan city to visit other districts, please withdraw money in advance. There are ATMs in Pua, but there are also coffee shops, fabric shops, and restaurants along the way. This will ensure that your finances are not interrupted.

The Green Route to "Pua City"

From Nan city to Pua district, the distance is about 70 kilometers. There are two ways to get there. If you prefer an easy ride without hills, take the Thao Wang Pha route, or Highway 101. If you enjoy a scenic ride through lush greenery and beautiful views, take the Santisuk route, or Highway 1081. We chose the Santisuk route because we wanted to immerse ourselves in the verdant landscape.

Anders Bar & Phu Kham Mountain View Resort

It took us about 2 hours to reach our destination today. Looking at the picture below, many people might think it's just a viewpoint. But if you walk down, you will find affordable accommodation with comfortable beds, air conditioning, hot water, and breakfast included. There is also a restaurant and bar where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful view all day long. This is "Undress Bar & Phu Kha Mountain View Resort", our accommodation for this trip.

"Phuka Mountain View Resort" is a small resort with four rooms cascading down the hillside. Room 2, where we stayed, is close to the restaurant and offers the most expansive view. Currently, there is a promotion for a room with breakfast for 500 baht for 2 people/night, which comes out to only 250 baht per person, a significant savings. During the high season, this price will not include breakfast or will be more expensive.

The view from room number 2 in the morning allows you to see the sunrise. However, for a clearer view, you need to go up to the parking lot. During our visit, the weather was not cooperative, and the sun was shy, with many clouds, so we were unable to capture any images.

The compact room offers all the essential amenities, including air conditioning, a water heater, a TV, a refrigerator, towels, and shampoo and soap. Considering the price, it's an excellent value. These amenities ensure a comfortable night's sleep.

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"Anders Bar" is a restaurant located next to a resort owned by the same owner. We found it to be the most difficult to find and the most surprising. Even though we contacted them in advance and rode a car to the location, we were still confused because we only saw a sign. We had to call them to understand that it was located underground. Surprise! When we made the phone call, we were actually standing on the roof of the restaurant! There is a spacious parking lot and a bathroom for customers.

The front of the shop faces Doi Phu Kha, offering a stunning view that you could admire all day long. If you plan to visit Doi Phu Kha, it's approximately a 30-kilometer drive from here.

The outlet can be used to plug in a fan during hot weather, as it is a large fan. However, if you need to charge your phone, you can also do so.

The restaurant offers a variety of seating options, including swings, plush cushions, and a hammock corner with adorable teddy bears. This corner is particularly photogenic.

From afternoon until the next morning, this establishment offers a wide variety of beverages, including coffee, smoothies, and alcoholic drinks, as well as snacks, fried dishes, salads, and substantial meals like hot plates and spicy and sour soup. It's a place where you can satisfy your hunger and thirst throughout the night.

While waiting for dinner, we walked upstairs to find a spot to take photos. In the evening, you can bring drinks and sit upstairs because the sun is no longer hot. This is another beautiful spot for taking photos. In the morning, you can watch the sunrise here.

It's time to eat again. We asked the staff at the restaurant for recommendations, and they suggested the Super Chicken Feet Soup. We also ordered the Pork with Lime, Spicy Papaya Salad with Fermented Fish, and Wagyu Beef on a Hot Plate. I must say that the food here is very spicy and flavorful, especially the Spicy Papaya Salad with Fermented Fish and the Super Chicken Feet Soup. When we ordered, we didn't realize that everything was spicy. The Super Chicken Feet Soup was delicious, with a flavorful broth and tender chicken feet that were a joy to suck on. The Pork with Lime was the mildest dish, with a slightly spicy and sour flavor and a cute presentation. The Wagyu Beef on a Hot Plate was a bit dry, but it would have been perfect if it had been more juicy. I like the meat with a bit of fat. The Spicy Papaya Salad with Fermented Fish was delicious but spicy, with clear papaya strips and a rich fermented fish flavor. It was a long dinner because we ate and then took a nap. The seats were comfortable, the view was nice, and the fans were cool, almost too cool.

The bar offers a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, some of which I had never seen before. I had planned to have a mystical experience on this trip, but the atmosphere was so inviting that I couldn't resist.

The nighttime atmosphere at the restaurant is pleasantly calm. Soft music plays in the background, creating a relaxing ambiance that eliminates the need to shout over conversations. This makes it an ideal spot for leisurely socializing and enjoying drinks. The cool air is a welcome respite, although mosquitoes can be a nuisance. Fortunately, the restaurant thoughtfully provides insect repellent for guests.

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We had scheduled breakfast for 9:00 AM. We thought that the 500 baht breakfast included in the room rate would be either rice porridge or ABF, but in reality, we got both! ^^

The breakfast buffet also includes a large plate of fruits, tea, coffee, and bread with a choice of pineapple or strawberry jam. If you don't want jam, there is also butter available. This is a great way to start your day and make sure you are full and satisfied.

For those who prefer freshly brewed coffee, the cafe offers a variety of options at an affordable price. We opted for the "Andres Bar Coffee" set, which includes a pot of freshly brewed coffee and allows you to add your own milk and sugar. The coffee boasts a rich aroma and bold flavor, and is surprisingly inexpensive at only 40 baht.

This is a great place to relax and get your money's worth. The restaurant has a nice atmosphere and the best part is the beautiful view. The location is a bit hard to find, but if you follow Google Maps, you'll be sure to find it. The menu may not be extensive, but it covers a wide range of dishes and the prices are reasonable. The food is served quickly and the staff is friendly and attentive. The hot plate dishes should be placed away from the fan to keep them hot longer, as the fan is quite powerful. Overall, the service is good, simple, and friendly.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Kitchen closes at 8:00 PM)

Contact and inquire for more information: https://www.facebook.com/Andresbarpua/

Exploring the Green City of Pua

Following our check-in in Nan city, we now bring you to check-in in Pua city.

The Dikdeam Tree at Wat Prang

Research indicates that this temple houses an unusual tree known as the "Ticklish Tree." The peculiarity of this tree lies in its response to touch. When one's hand brushes against its trunk, branches, or leaves, it trembles as if tickled, resembling human laughter.

With theoretical knowledge in hand, practice was necessary. We stopped by Wat Prang to see this peculiar tree. Waiting for a moment without wind, we stroked its trunk. Everything was still, with only a slight tremor that could have been caused by the wind. After stroking it for a while, we realized, with amusement, that we were standing there stroking a tree in a temple. We decided to send a message to a friend who had been there before. Our friend told us that this Dikdeium tree was old and that there was another, younger tree that had been recently planted. We should come back in 10 years to stroke that one. So, we sat down nearby and watched as people came and stroked the tree, only to realize with amusement that they were stroking a person, not a tree. In 10 years, we will return to verify this again.

This is the beginning of the rice planting season. Along the way, I saw farmers planting rice using the transplanting method, which is different from the central region, where most farmers use the broadcasting method. The weather is very cool and refreshing.

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Translation:

Phuket Temple

The name of the temple sounds like a southern province, but it actually refers to a temple located in the village of Ket. Due to the temple's location on a hill, which is called "ภู" or "ดอย" in the north, it is a temple called "ภูเก็ต" that has nothing to do with the province of Phuket. You can ride a motorcycle up and park on top. The strangeness mixed with the cuteness of this temple is the mural painting of the story of Phra Wes, which includes famous cartoon characters from the present day.

Translation:

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Perched atop a hill, Wat Phukhao offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Lush rice paddies stretch out before the majestic Doi Phu Kha mountain range, creating a picturesque scene. Below the temple, a collection of accommodations, souvenir shops, and cafes, collectively known as "Toop Na Tai Lue" and "Toop Na Cafe," cater to visitors. However, during the current low season, only beverage services are available, as accommodation options remain closed.

House of Tai Lue Coffee Shop

The Thai Lue Coffee Shop and the Dog Cafe: Two Distinct Destinations

The Thai Lue Coffee Shop and the Dog Cafe, despite sharing similar names, are two separate establishments. The Thai Lue Coffee Shop is situated amidst rice fields, offering a spacious environment with multiple bamboo-bridge-connected huts for seating. The cafe boasts delicious coffee at an affordable price of 30 baht per cup. Additionally, its proximity to Lam Duan woven fabric shop allows visitors to enjoy both a refreshing beverage and the opportunity to purchase beautiful local woven fabrics.

Mushroom Farm at Baan Huanaam

A mushroom farm that also operates as a restaurant and souvenir shop. Diners can choose to sit inside and enjoy the view of the rice fields, or opt for a more immersive experience in the bamboo garden. Most dishes feature mushrooms grown on the farm, with the must-try being the thin-crust, cheese-laden mushroom pizza and the deceptively mild-looking yet spicy fried mushroom salad.

On the way back to Nan city, we took Highway 101, which is easier to ride than Santisuk Road, as mentioned earlier. This resulted in a shorter travel time compared to the outward journey. We had time to stop for food before boarding the bus. Oh, and don't forget to fill up the tank before returning the motorbike.

Visiting Pua During the Rainy Season: A Few Tips

Low Season Considerations:

• Attraction closures: During the rainy season (considered the low season), some attractions in Pua may be closed for renovations or maintenance. For example, Wang Na Pua might be temporarily unavailable. Checking information beforehand can prevent wasted time.
• Restaurant hours and availability: It's advisable to confirm restaurant hours and product availability before visiting. For instance, Pa Pen's Khao Lam shop, despite its challenging location as per Google Maps, might run out of Khao Lam upon your arrival.

Remaining in Nan… until the very last second.

Nan Provincial Hall Market

We had an hour before our long bus ride home, so we stopped for dinner at the walking street in front of Phumin Temple. There were many things for sale, including food, clothes, and souvenirs. It was open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. We tried the local "yam mi muang" which was delicious and unique. It was also inexpensive at 25 baht per cup. The walking street was charming because it used the open space in front of Phumin Temple and placed "khantoke" (a raised tray with legs) for people who bought food from the walking street to sit and eat. There was also live music to listen to.

We returned the motorbike and received our deposit. After packing our bags and freshening up, it was time to board the bus. Once again, we had spent every last minute exploring. The bus departed from Nan Bus Terminal at 7:00 PM on Sunday and arrived in Rangsit at approximately 5:15 AM on Monday.

Summary and Expenses

The trip exceeded expectations. It's clear why people who visit Nan want to return. With limited time and a small budget, salarymen seeking a break from the city's hustle and bustle can travel to Nan and breathe fresh air. Returning to the trip's goals: "Mountains, rice fields, low budget, and no need to take time off work," this trip met all expectations, especially the accommodation. Andre's Bar & Phuka Mountain View Resort serves as a place to sleep, a restaurant, a cafe, a bar, and a viewpoint, making this trip a complete success. I was able to fully recharge my batteries and am ready to face work and the chaos once again (my battery doesn't last very long, so I need to recharge it often ^^).

Trip Expenses to Nan, Thailand

Transportation:

• Bus fare (roundtrip): 1944 baht
• Motorcycle rental: 500 baht (deposit: 1000 baht)
• Taxi fare: 130 baht

Food:

• Khao Soi Ton Nam: 195 baht
• Pizza and Som Tam: 250 baht
• Lunch: 330 baht
• Street food: 100 baht
• Dinner: 448 baht
• Drinks: 30 baht, 90 baht, 60 baht, 40 baht

Accommodation:

• Andres Bar & Mountain View Resort: 500 baht (including breakfast)
• Drinks and snacks: 360 baht

Other expenses:

• Gas: 130 baht
• Tire inflation: 5 baht
• Water refill: 60 baht

Total expenses: 5,112 baht (2,556 baht per person)

Contact:

• Andres Bar & Mountain View Resort
• KeepGoing Thailand (Facebook)