Readme before you journey
Hello, rainy season, the green season. The rainy season is the time we like to go out the most because we like the trees that are full of water, the fog in the rainy season, and the few people. We may encounter some rain and the sky may be closed, but it's a gamble. This trip, 3 days 2 nights (July 22-24, 2018), by plane, rented a car at the airport to drive by ourselves. The original rough plan for the first day was to visit the city, the walking street, and stay in the city. On the second day, visit Tha Wang Pha, Pua, and stay at Skaddee Homestay. However, when the travel date was approaching, the Nan Provincial Page announced the closure of the walking street this week due to a storm and heavy rain. So we decided to change the plan for the first day to Bo Kluea. We called to book accommodation at "Sai Mok Bok Hak Baan Saban", Bo Kluea District. Luckily, the accommodation was available. The owner allowed us to use the Santisuk-Bo Kluea route because the Doi Phu Kha-Bo Kluea route had a landslide.
The Santisuk-Borklua route is stunning. While I usually take the Doi Phuka route because I believe it's shorter, the difference isn't significant. Personally, I find the Santisuk route to have wider roads, easier driving, and more scenic views. However, some people prefer the Doi Phuka route because it allows them to visit Pua and experience the Doi Phuka Skywalk. If you're heading directly to Borklua, the Santisuk route is recommended, as it also features a skywalk.
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"Mist Whispers Love in Ban Sa-Pan" is located beyond Bor Klue in the direction of Chalermprakiet district. There will be a fork in the road leading to Ban Sa-Pan village, the same route as to Aun Ai Mang, but after Aun Ai Mang, turn left and follow the bridge. After a short climb, you will arrive. These two places are within walking distance of each other.
The accommodation is located at a high altitude, offering stunning panoramic views. There are three types of rooms available, all with shared bathrooms and no air conditioning due to the cool and comfortable climate.
1. Glamping tents with stargazing balconies: 1,500-2,200 THB
2. Bell tent without balcony 1,100-1,800 baht
3. Bamboo huts for children and the elderly: 1,200-1,900 baht.
We opted for a dome tent without a balcony during the low season, which cost 1,100 baht per night for two people, including breakfast. Dinner was ordered from the accommodation, which was reasonably priced and tasted good. The dome tent offered panoramic views from the window. In the morning, we hiked to a higher vantage point to capture a wider view. Unfortunately, we didn't bring a wide-angle lens for photography. Attractions in the village of Saphan include Saphan Waterfall and the suspension bridge, which we didn't visit this time as we arrived late in the evening. We had already visited them on a previous trip. Instead, we opted to enjoy the view from our tent in the morning.
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The tent accommodations require climbing stairs, which may not be suitable for children and the elderly. Some insects may be present due to the rainy season. However, the tents have an additional mesh layer to prevent insects, and once the lights are turned off at night, there are usually no insects. The beds are clean and warm. The bathrooms are shared and clean, located both downstairs and upstairs. The accommodation is not luxurious, but it is not uncomfortable either. The view, however, is stunning.
Accommodation page link: https://www.facebook.com/saimokLoveyou/?ref=br_tf
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After checking out, we continued our journey to the ancient Sintaew salt well, the only mountain salt well in the world. We arrived just in time to see the salt being boiled. However, during the Buddhist Lent period, salt boiling is suspended. So, if you visit during this time, you won't be able to witness it. Salt boiling will resume after the end of the Buddhist Lent period.
We then proceeded to Phu Fah Palace and the Phu Fah Development Center, located in Ban Pha Suk, Phu Fah Subdistrict, Bo Kluea District, Nan Province.
Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn first visited Bo Kluea District, Nan Province in 1995. She initiated various projects to improve the quality of life for the people and has visited the district regularly to monitor project progress and meet with the residents. She also initiated the Phu Fah Development Center project, and the Department of Town and Country Planning constructed this building, which was named "Phu Fah Palace" in her honor.
The Phu Fah Development Center houses a delightful café, offering a respite for weary travelers. For those seeking overnight accommodations, the center also provides comfortable guest rooms.
We then headed to Pua District to visit Doi Sakad, taking the same route as before, Bo Kluea-Santisuk. Following the signs, we arrived in Pua District and stopped to look at the local clothing at Lam Duan Weaving Shop.
Around four o'clock in the afternoon, we continued our journey to Doi Sakad, following the route towards Tung Chang district according to Google Maps.
Observe the right-hand side. When you reach the Subdistrict Administrative Organization (อบต.) office in Pua District, Nan Province, turn right at the intersection and continue straight. You will then reach a left turn leading to Doi Sakad. From this point, the road becomes winding and ascends the mountain for approximately 13 kilometers. Continue along the road until you reach the village. Look carefully for signs, as there will be a sign indicating the way to Sakad Dee Homestay. If you follow Google Maps, it will lead you to a right turn at the top, where there is no vehicle access. However, it is a shorter walk. Take the left turn following the sign for the Health Promoting Hospital (รพ.สต.). Enter the hospital grounds and drive uphill. The road is very steep, so be cautious of slippery conditions during the rainy season. If you are not familiar with the route, it is recommended to park your car at the hospital and continue on foot (please confirm parking availability beforehand).
Upon arrival, the atmosphere was excellent. The view was high and beautiful. Mr. Chai welcomed us warmly, as if we were visiting relatives.
Four-legged receptionists, a chubby black one named "Mickey" and a fluffy little one named "Gano", are incredibly adorable.
"Sakad Home Stay": A Tranquil Escape in Nan Province
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Sakad Sub-district, Pua District, Nan Province, lies "Sakad Home Stay," a haven of tranquility offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Driven by a desire for a simpler life, Mr. Chai, the owner, left his corporate job to build a home on his ancestral land and transform it into a welcoming homestay. He meticulously manages every aspect of the operation, while his mother warmly greets guests. Four-legged companions add a touch of charm to the experience.
To ensure an intimate and personalized experience, Sakad Home Stay welcomes only one group per day, regardless of size. This exclusive approach allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the serenity of the surroundings. The elevated location provides unobstructed 180-degree views, creating a captivating panorama that stretches as far as the eye can see.
The balcony, with its mesmerizing vistas, serves as a magnet for visitors seeking rejuvenation and a connection with nature. The culinary delights prepared with care by the hosts further enhance the experience. Local flavors dominate the menu, featuring dishes infused with the unique aroma of "makhuen," a regional spice synonymous with Nan Province.
Sakad Home Stay stands as a testament to the allure of simplicity and the beauty of embracing a slower pace of life. Its breathtaking views, personalized service, and delectable cuisine make it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil escape amidst the wonders of Nan Province.
Morning atmosphere
In addition to affordable accommodation with stunning views and delicious food, there are also a variety of activities to enjoy, such as coffee dripping and sipping fresh coffee in the middle of a coffee plantation, hiking up and down mountains to admire high waterfalls, fishing, sleeping in the forest, and free activities such as walking around the Doi Sakad community with student guides. Visiting the community allows us to see the way of life of the people here.
Today, we are fortunate to visit during the annual ceremony of the Lua people, the indigenous inhabitants of Doi Saket. The ceremony, known as "Pi So Lot" or "Pi Beating," involves the use of three different sizes of bamboo poles ("Pi") to create three distinct sounds. Holes are drilled into the bamboo poles, and they are struck to produce a rhythmic beat. Each participant holds three bamboo poles and strikes them in unison, creating a harmonious melody. The ceremony is accompanied by traditional dances and a procession through the village, with stops at various points to perform the Pi beating. This ancient tradition is believed to appease the spirits and deities during the planting season. The synchronized beating of multiple Pi poles creates a beautiful and resonant melody, unique to Doi Saket.
Children stood by the roadside to watch the parade during their lunch break.
A million-dollar view noodle shop in the village.
In addition to its unique traditions, the village's houses, built on the slopes of the mountain, create a stunning visual effect. This unique architectural style adds to the charm of Doi Saket.
We spent almost 3 hours walking together. It's time to say goodbye. Thank you to the children, thank you to Mr. Chaiyin, and thank you to the mother who took good care of us. We will have the opportunity to stay again.
Accommodation with dinner/breakfast, fresh drip coffee, seasonal snacks and fruits, and a community tour. The price is per person per program*. We only accept groups on non-overlapping dates to ensure privacy. Details of the homestay can be found at this link:
This trip was truly unforgettable, and I will definitely be back for more. No matter how many times I visit Nan, I never get tired of it. There are still so many places to explore and fascinating aspects of local life to discover, which are the true charm of Nan Province. Until next time!
Travel expenses for two people:
- Round-trip airfare per person: 1,500 baht
- Car rental fee (1500 cc) 2 days 1,650 baht.
- Accommodation at Saban's Sai Moak Bok Hak, 1,100 baht.
- Dinner at Saimok Bork Hak is 530 baht.
- Lunch drinks for Phupha, 200 baht.
- Accommodation fee at Skaddee Homestay is 1,000 baht per person.
- Trip with N้อง, 270 baht for noodles.
- Fuel cost 630 baht.
- Other coffee 120 baht
The estimated total cost is approximately 4750 baht per person.
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