After two months of enjoying the hustle and bustle of a big city (read here), it was time for a different trip. But where to go? What is the best weekend getaway from Bangkok?
There is the historic city of Ayutthaya, just 80km north of Bangkok, however, I was there two years ago already (read here). Then there is the most popular beach, Hua Hin, a 3 hours drive south from Bangkok. But was I ready for the beach? Luckily some friends came to the rescue, inviting me to come for a weekend getaway from Bangkok, to the Kaeng Krachan National Park. Ok, I said. Let’s go!
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Kaeng Krachan National Park
With one of the biggest range of wild animals, covering an area of 2914 km2, the Kaeng Krachan National Park is a very popular travel destination for locals. Especially for camping. Who would have thought! Luckily for me, I admit, my friends booked a really nice guesthouse (the Baan Sun Pla Nature lodge), right amongst the National Park and the wildlife. I was feeling relaxed already.
Baan Sun Pla Nature Lodge
Especially after the long drive getting there, due to the heavy traffic within Bangkok. It took almost two hours to get out of the city area. But the traffic in Bangkok has always been an issue and is something that is difficult to avoid.
That said, spending the weekend in the Kaeng Krachan National Park definitely made up for it. I have never experienced a jungle like this one. Besides the Queensland Rainforests of course, but even that was different. This is awesome!
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So, what to do?
So, what is there to do, in the middle of nowhere? Well, relax of course. From enjoying a quiet morning coffee, to hanging out at the pool with my little friends and exploring the pineapple farms, being out of the big city is already relaxing in itself. The air is fresher, the stars are brighter and the wildlife more active. My weekend getaway from Bangkok was perfect!
I wonder if I get to see some elephants?
In addition, one of the must see of the Kaeng Krachan National Park is the Pala-U Waterfall. Walking the 700m path along the waterfall is fun, although at times quite slippery. But, with plenty of ropes available to hold on to and stops to dip your feet into the water, it is a great and safe way to enjoy the jungle. What a great afternoon!
And although I haven’t spotted wild elephants during my stay, I had a young photographer assistant, who, after some careful camouflage, was able to take awesome pics of a beautiful butterfly, the Banded Peacock. That counts as a wild animal as well, doesn’t it?
The Banded Peacock
(post 152)
