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A Nostalgic Review of a Winter Trip to Northeastern Thailand
This review revisits a family trip taken in January 2018, offering inspiration for those planning winter travels. The journey explored the northeastern region of Thailand, starting in Nakhon Ratchasima and continuing through Udon Thani (including Kham Chanod), Nong Khai, and finally reaching Loei province, specifically Phu Lom Lo.
I initially did not intend to review this trip, as my phone broke and I lost a significant number of photos. Additionally, I did not collect detailed information for a review in my usual style. However, I have retrieved as many photos as possible and will do my best to review the trip based on my memories.
The destination of this trip, we had the opportunity and destiny to encounter a pink mountain near Phu Lom Lo. We believe it is worth introducing to our friends and showcasing its beauty through photos taken solely with an iPhone 6.
However, if you don't have time to travel outside of Bangkok, we recommend checking out this article: "Best Hotel Pools in Bangkok: 12 Hotels with the Best Pool Views". Who knew that Bangkok could be such a relaxing place to stay?
Let's find out where the pink mountain we're talking about is located and what it's called. Let's start with...
"Nong Khai Province"
Our journey begins in a small province along the Mekong River, often overlooked by travelers. Initially, we considered it merely a stopover on our way to Loei Province. However, upon further exploration, we discovered two remarkable locations in Nong Khai that offer breathtaking views of the Mekong River.
Phu Nong
Phu Nong is a newly developed viewpoint for admiring the sea of mist in Nong Khai province. Local residents have collaborated to transform it into a new tourist destination for the community. To reach the viewpoint, visitors must park their vehicles at the temple below and take a ride on a local vehicle or an "e-taen" (a modified tractor with a passenger carriage). The journey offers excitement and a chance to experience nature up close. Upon arrival, a short walk of approximately 100 meters is required to reach the viewpoint.
The breathtaking view of the Mekong River from the top of Phu Nong is a major highlight. The clarity and vastness of the river are truly remarkable. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing sea of mist floating above the water. Unfortunately, strong winds and unfavorable weather conditions prevented us from capturing the full beauty of the scene. However, we still managed to capture the stunning panorama of the Mekong River for you to enjoy.
Along the way to the viewpoint, there are rest stops where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
The path to the viewpoint is not as difficult as one might think.
A view of the Mekong River from Phu Nong
Taking your mother to stand and breathe in the fresh morning air, while enjoying the beautiful view of the Mekong River.
This is an excellent viewpoint on Phu Nong, offering stunning panoramic views from a high vantage point. Enjoy the cool morning air as you soak in the serene atmosphere. (Apologies for the color of the blanket in the photo!)
After our hopes of witnessing the sunrise from this angle were dashed, we set off for another equally stunning viewpoint in Nong Khai province: the "Glass Bridge at Wat Pha Tak Suea".
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Temple of the Cliff and the Shirt
Note: The original Thai text "วัดผาตากเสื้อ" refers to a specific temple in Thailand. While a direct translation would be "Temple of the Cliff and the Shirt," this wouldn't provide much context for an English-speaking audience. Therefore, I've provided a more descriptive translation that captures the essence of the name while also being informative.
This temple is located on a cliff, with the highlight being the Sky Walk, the first glass skywalk in Thailand. It extends out over the cliff, offering panoramic views of the Mekong River. However, it can be a bit scary, so be sure to change your shoes before entering.
No matter which angle you look at, everything is beautiful. The view? My wife, of course. 5555555
Seven came, one disappeared, no need to investigate, it was Dad. Dad was scared, Dad begged.
Things to Know Before Visiting Sky Walk
- First glass bridge in Thailand.
- Construction cost: 17 million baht.
- No metal objects or equipment allowed on the bridge for safety and to prevent damage to the glass.
- Maximum capacity: 20 people at a time.
"Loei Province"
The tourist destination we intended to visit in Loei province was Phu Ruea, to watch the sunrise in the morning. The night before we arrived at Phu Ruea, there was news that the weather would get colder, which we were happy and excited about. Coincidentally, we did not bring much clothing to protect ourselves from the cold.
The next morning, we were greeted by another unexpected event: thick fog. The fog was so dense that it obscured the sunrise we had planned to witness. However, amidst this unfortunate turn of events, we discovered a hidden beauty. We embarked on a walk through nature, surrounded by the cool, 8-degree air and the all-encompassing fog. It was an experience filled with a unique blend of joy and excitement. Although the fog hindered our view, it allowed us to appreciate nature in a different light.
"The hazy mist or smoke, so similar that sometimes it's impossible to tell the difference," he walked, acting like the hero of a music video.
Translation:
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Upon descending from Phu Ruea, at the entrance, there are red flower fields (I don't remember what kind of flowers) and wind turbines in the background. This is a popular landmark and photo spot, known as "Phu Ruea, the City of Mountains and Seas." However, for us, it became a sea of fog.
Phu Lom Lo
And finally, we arrive at the long-awaited destination: a mountain blanketed in pink trees, known as the "Pink Trumpet Trees" or "Cherokee Rose." The blossoms bloom in profusion across the entire mountain, creating a breathtaking vista that is almost too beautiful to believe exists in Thailand.
Translation:
The Phulomlo mountain range is located in Kok Sathon sub-district, Dan Sai district, Loei province, within the Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park. Phulomlo is a mountain range situated at the junction of three provinces: Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, and Loei.
Nestled in a secluded valley alongside a gentle stream, Rong Kla Land Resort offers a tranquil escape. The resort's whitewashed architecture is adorned with whimsical decorations, creating a charming ambiance. Ideal for both family and individual retreats, Rong Kla Land provides exceptional service and delectable cuisine that deserves a 5-star rating.
And today is a day of rest to prepare for the trip to Phu Lom Lo the next day at around 5 am. There will be a car to pick you up at the resort. Friends can contact the resort staff for transportation to Phu Lom Lo.
The Journey to the Pink Land Begins…
The day of our journey to the pink land has arrived. As I recall, the cost of a car to reach Phu Lom Lo is 1,500 baht, with a capacity of 8-10 passengers. If our group is small, we might be able to join forces with others. In fact, a couple has already requested to share our ride, which is a win-win situation as it reduces transportation costs for both parties.
The distance from the accommodation to the destination is approximately 30 kilometers. The driver will provide face masks for passengers in the back of the pickup truck to protect them from dust during the journey. (Note: Private vehicles are not permitted on the road to Phu Lom Lo due to safety and traffic considerations.)
Upon arrival, the driver took us to the sunrise viewpoint first. The temperature was around 8 degrees Celsius, which was much colder than we had anticipated. We only had thin jackets and whatever else we could find to wrap ourselves in to keep warm. It was a close call, but we managed. Once again, the fog rolled in, preventing us from seeing the sunrise. We decided to ask the driver to take us to the famous Phaya Sua Krong flower viewpoint on Phu Lom Lo. The beauty of the scene can be described as follows: "Let it be pink," said Toon.
When we visited, the pink trumpet trees were just beginning to bloom, offering a few splashes of color. Despite the limited blooms, the view was still quite impressive.
Everyone else looks ready, except for the two of us. We're dressed casually, but 8 degrees won't stop us! Hahahaha.
After we finished enjoying the view, the driver asked us...
Driver: Would you like to return now? There are nearby and distant return routes. Which would you prefer?
Mom: Since you've come all this way, why don't you take us on a drive somewhere far away?
Driver: Then I'll take you to another place. It's a bit further away, but it's more beautiful than here.
This conversation marks the beginning of the most breathtaking view of the entire trip.
The driver mentioned that locals call this place "Phu Khieo Thao," the "Pink Hill." We continued driving, and I lost track of time. The pink hue grew more intense the deeper we ventured, tempting me to ask the driver to stop at every turn. Finally, we arrived at Phu Khieo Thao, a world of pink, a serendipitous encounter orchestrated by fate.
This mountain is only accessible by our car. The local people took us to a surprise spot to see the stunning view of the flame tree in complete privacy.
The Beauty of Nature and Love: A Family Getaway
This image captures the essence of natural beauty and the love shared between two individuals. Taking a moment to appreciate the wonders of nature with loved ones, whether it be parents, family members, or a significant other, can bring immense joy and fulfillment. The act of sharing such experiences creates lasting memories and strengthens bonds.
Translation:
Note: We traveled during January 2018, which was almost a year ago. If any of you are planning to see the Pink Trumpet Trees in full bloom like this, it's a good idea to check the updated schedule to avoid missing the beautiful view.
In conclusion, the beauty of travel may stem from the unexpected deviations from our meticulously planned itineraries. These unplanned detours often lead to serendipitous discoveries, exceeding our initial expectations and transforming into cherished travel experiences and fond memories that evoke joy whenever we recall them.
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Wednesday, February 26, 2025 9:38 PM
