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The misty mountain district of Khao Kho is the soothing antidote to the stressful and hectic urban lifestyle of Bangkok. With its lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic farms, there are endless ways to unwind and recharge without actually getting bored.
Luxurious resort hotels and budget-friendly Khao Kho accommodations (ที่พักเขาค้อ) can be found all over the Phetchabun province near the mountain attractions. They range for as little as 500 THB to as high as 6,000 THB per night. Whatever you choose though, you’re sure to get spectacular views and the familiar warm Thai hospitality in this area of Thailand.
In Khao Kho, you won’t be disappointed with the variety of attractions that showcases Thailand’s majestic nature and culture. What’s more, the destinations echo the calm and cool surroundings of the mountain that invites visitors to relax, slow down, and be in the moment. Below are just a few relaxing activities for you to try.
Meditate at Wat Prathat Phasornkaew
Even if you’re not into temples, you shouldn’t miss a visit to the Wat Prathat Phasornkaew (Temple on the Glass Cliff). True to its name, the awe-inspiring temple sits on a cliff with gigantic nested Buddha statues towering over the building. Colorful mosaic tiles adorn the pillars and arches of the central pagoda while the golden temple features ornate tea saucers and plates. With its high mountain setting, the temple is regularly enveloped in cool mists and fogs. Indeed, you can’t help but pause and reflect while in this sanctuary on the clouds.
Pick Strawberries at the Strawberry Fields
The best time to go to Khao Kho is between November to February. During this peak cold season, visitors are welcome to harvest strawberries from the many fields in the district. As an added bonus, you also get to see the wind turbine farm in the distance, which makes for an incredible photo with the strawberry field in the foreground.
Take a Sip of Coffee at Pino Latte Resort and Cafe
Khao Kho is such a picturesque location that cafes are virtually scattered in every corner of the area. However, the most popular one is Pino Latte Café with its incredibly high vantage point that provides unbeatable views of the surrounding mountains. Of course, the food and coffee is quite good as well, but it’s really the views that draw the crowds.
Disconnect and Go Glamping at Lake Hill Khao Kho
Take advantage of Khao Kho’s pleasantly cool surroundings and go glamping inside charming teepee tents with all the essentials you need for a good night’s sleep. The Lake Hill Khao Kho offers basic teepee tents and a more luxurious dome tent for glampers who would like to experience waking up in the clouds. Nearby, you can get your caffeine fix from The Pug Coffee while playing with the resident French bulldog and pug.
Go on a Paddleboat Ride at Kaeng Bang Rachan
A favorite destination of eco-tourists, the Kaeng Bang Rachan paddleboat tour introduces visitors to rare freshwater jellyfish species as well as rare butterflies. Located at Ban Nong Mae Na, visitors ride the traditional “Rua E-pong” paddleboat that goes through the Khek River. Keep in mind though that this tour is only open to the public during the dry season (typically from November to February) or from March to May, just before the rainy season.
Pick, Eat, and Shop Tamarinds at the NKD Tamarind Farm and 9 Tamarind Cafe
The humble, staple ingredient of Thai cuisine is the star in this scenic farm and café. Visitors can pick their own pods from the trees and sample one of the best tamarinds in the country. At the farm, you also learn how these fruits are processed and developed into different products such as candies and juices. And before you leave, stop by the café to sample their tamarind deserts and buy some of the final products on display.
ho to unwind and forget about your troubles for a while. Let its clean and fresh mountain air work its magic on your tired mind and body, as you enjoy the attractions the district offers. Truly, Khao Kho is one of those rare places that you’ll never tire of revisiting whenever you need to recharge and de-stress.