Pha Hin Ngam National Park

Pha Hin Ngam National Park is in the province of Chaiyaphum, an Isaan province to the west of Korat Plateau.





















This National Park is famous for tulip fields; its biggest draw to visitors. Unfortunately we arrived end of season. (Photo from Wikipedia)





















Another lovely pic from Google search.
















Consolation being here off season is almost have the park to yourself! The park has camping grounds and chalets accommodation.
















Another attraction the park offers are these limestone sculptures of mother nature, spread over a large hilly area. Just like a giant maze when finding your way out!

Pleasant views at hill top.
































Looking back to where where we stay a night.





































Many rocks are named.. this one resembled Cleopatra!




















































Magnificent views from vantage points!




















































My friend CK had a solitary moment... (may be a little prayer?)
















.... before sticking his butt out on this rock!





















He loves flowers....
















And can't resist a good bargain here!





















Thai pick up trucks are never too small for the goods they carry!





















Even with an over size load ...





















could still overtake another empty truck, amazing isn't it?

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park

The southern part of Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is within a day drive from Phetchabun, so it is irresistible to take a quick tour there... it turned out to be an excellent trip with hiking walks to several scenic lookouts.

This area was another communist stronghold before finally subdued by government forces. A link provides more background to its past:
http://www.thailandtraveltours.com/phu-hin-rong-kla-national-park.htm

Top of the world feeling at Lan Hin Pum..





These stone formations formed at the edge of a cliff face.











Seen photo of this place before, here in person finally!
















Wild flowers dotting the countryside.





















These trees are equip with thorns that prevent animals climbing up!





















"Army of ONE" on this jeep caught my attention at the Park's visitor center.. guess what? A message from GOD!
















Stopping by a temple cave en route to our next destination of Chaiyaphum.





















Not sure what caught CK's attention here?






















Naga, the multi-head serpent has always been depicted as the protector of Buddha.





















A cockerel riding on its back!





















A stop over at the scenic spot of Thabet... spectacular view looking down the winding road ahead. Enjoyed a hot coffee here with its cool climate... such a pleasure!








Only regret is not to spend more time here. Will surely come back again!

An ex-communist stronghold

The mountains of Phetchabun once provided refuge to the communist insurgents. There are strategic mountain tops they controlled and heavily fortified against offensive of government forces.

It is now a public park that reminds of past activities.
















Sand bags fortified bunkers surrounds the hill top
















With trenches dug in to cover troop movements & ammunitions delivery.
































A memorial to honors the troops who lost their lives here.










































Clear commanding view of the regions around underscored its strategic value.
































But the views are breathtaking...I won't be bored if stationed here!

Scenic Phetchabun

I have heard of the scenic highlands of Phetchabun. Well, the chance came earlier this year when my friend CK got his new 4 wheel drive. We did a whirlwind tour to the north and other Isaan provinces.

Sign post greeting as we got near...





















"Kai Yan" - charcoal grilled chicken from this region are delicious
& well known too





















Soon an approaching storm forced us to take shelter and a break, good we had 'kai yan' with us!
















Weather may be unkind, but brought with it another kind of beauty!

























































As the dark clouds cleared.. the country brightened up!






A real wonder on Hwy 2258?








Yes, our vehicle did slide backwards fr om the line! An anti-gravity illusion that your car rolls backwards up a slope! The initial gradient is so gentle & unnoticeable.. just sufficient for any car to roll back gaining momentum & continue up slope till a halt! A neat trick by gravity itself.
















What a lovely view to wake up next morning!


























Beautiful surrounds that did not disappoint!





















Para-gliding sport promoted by a local group
































Elderly woman with her craft...





















The final hand made crafts..
















Some interesting flora... trumpet like flowers
















Are these ball size flower or fruit? Seem neither!