The misty mountain district of Khao Kho is a soothing antidote to Bangkok’s stressful and hectic urban lifestyle. With its lush forests, waterfalls and delightful farms, there are many ways to relax and recharge without getting fully bored.
Luxury resort hotels and affordable Khao Kho accommodation (ที่พักเขาค้อ) can be found throughout Phetchabun province near mountain attractions. Starting from 500 THB to as high as 6,000 THB per night. Whatever you choose, you are sure to get spectacular views and intimate Thai hospitality in this area of Thailand.
At Khao Kho, you will not be disappointed with a number of attractions that showcase Thailand’s natural and cultural majesty. What’s more, the destinations echo the serene and funky mountain environment that invite visitors to kick back, relax, and take in the moment. Below are some relaxing activities you can try.
Meditate at Wat Prathat Phasornkaew
Even if you do not like temples, do not miss a visit to Wat Prathat Phasornkaew (Temple on the Cliff of Glass). True to its name, this amazing temple sits atop a cliff with an enormous nesting Buddha statue towering above the structure. Colorful mosaic tiles adorn the pillars and arches of the central pagoda while the golden shrine features ornate tea saucers and saucers. Against its high mountain backdrop, the temple is often shrouded in cool fog and mist. Indeed, you can not help but pause and reflect while in this sanctuary above the clouds.
Pick Strawberries in Strawberry Fields
The best time to go to Khao Kho is between November to February. During the peak of this winter season, visitors are welcome to harvest strawberries from diverse fields in the district. As an added bonus, you can even see the wind turbine farm in the distance, which makes for excellent photos with the strawberry fields in the foreground.
Taste Coffee at Pino Latte Resort and Cafe
Khao Kho is such a fantastic location that cafes are scattered in nearly every corner of the area. However, the most popular is the Pino Latte Cafe with its very high vantage point which provides unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. Of course, the food and coffee are pretty good too, but it is the views that draw the crowds.
Disconnect and Go Glamping at Lake Hill Khao Kho
Take advantage of Khao Kho’s pleasant cool environment and head into a delightful teepee tent with all the essentials you need for a good night’s sleep. Lake Hill Khao Kho offers basic teepee tents and more luxurious dome tents for the glamper who wants to experience waking up in the clouds. Nearby you can get your caffeine fix from The Pug Coffee while playing with French bulldogs and pugs.
Take the Paddleboat Ride at Kaeng Bang Rachan
A favourite destination for ecotourists, the Kaeng Bang Rachan rowboat tour introduces visitors to rare species of freshwater jellyfish in addition to rare butterflies. Located in Ban Nong Mae Na, visitors take a conventional “Rua E-pong” rowboat that crosses the Khek River. Keep in mind that this tour is just open to the public during the dry season (generally from November to February) or from March to May, just before the rainy season.
Pick, Eat, and Shop Tamarind at NKD Tamarind Farm and 9 Tamarind Cafe
The easy staples of Thai cooking are the stars at this beautiful farm and cafe. Visitors can pick the fruit themselves from the tree and sample among the best tamarind in the country. In the garden, you’ll also find out how these fruits are processed and developed into diverse products such as candies and juices. And before you leave, stop by the cafe to sample their tamarind desert and pick up some of the finished products on display.
ho to relax and forget about your problems for a while. Let the clean and fresh mountain air soothe your weary mind and body while enjoying the attractions this district has to offer. Truly, Khao Kho is one of those rare places you won’t ever tire of revisiting every time you need to recharge and de-stress.
