Key Takeaways
Khao Phra Wihan National Park: An Overview
Location and Establishment
Khao Phra Wihan National Park is a remarkable area that straddles the thailand-Cambodia border, encompassing the breathtaking high cliffs and verdant forests of the Dongrak Range. Spanning an area of 130 square kilometers, the park is situated across Amphoe Kantharalak in Si Sa Ket, as well as Amphoe Nam Khun and Amphoe Nam Yuen in Ubon Ratchathani. Officially designated as Thailand’s 83rd National Park, it was established on March 20, 1998. This park not only represents a significant natural habitat but also serves as a cultural and historical landmark due to its proximity to the ancient Preah Vihear Temple.
Flora and Fauna
The park’s diverse ecosystems are characterized by dry evergreen forests, mixed dipterocarp forests, and deciduous dipterocarp forests. These varied habitats are home to an assortment of wildlife that freely roams the border between Thailand and Cambodia. Among the species that inhabit the park are wild hogs, deer, barking deer, rabbits, squirrels, gibbons, and civets. The rich biodiversity of the park provides a critical refuge for these animals, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural heritage.
Points of Interest
Pha Mo I-Daeng
One of the park’s most notable attractions is Pha Mo I-Daeng, a striking red-colored rock cliff that offers one of the best bird’s-eye viewpoints in Northeast Thailand. Located directly on the Thailand-Cambodia border, this vantage point provides visitors with a panoramic view of the expansive Cambodian forest and the historically significant Preah Vihear Sanctuary. The dramatic scenery and historical significance make it a must-visit location within the park.
Bas Reliefs
Just south of Pha Mo I-Daeng, visitors will find intricate bas reliefs carved into the red sandstone cliffs. These carvings depict three deities in the traditional Khmer style and are believed to have served as practice works for Khmer craftsmen before they created the more elaborate carvings at the Preah Vihear Sanctuary. The bas reliefs offer valuable insights into the artistic and cultural exchanges that occurred in this region.
Double Stupas
The park is also home to the Double Stupas, locally known as ‘Phra That.’ These two sandstone stupas, with cube-shaped bases and rounded tops, are situated to the west of Pha Mo I-Daeng. They are believed to enshrine relics that reflect the prosperity and spiritual significance of the era in which they were constructed. The stupas remain an important cultural and religious site for local communities.
Don Tuan Khmer Ruins
The Don Tuan Khmer Ruins, located 300 meters from the Thailand-Cambodia border in Ban Phum Sron, date back to the 15th-16th Buddhist Era. According to local legend, a lady named Nang Nom Yai stayed here on her journey to visit a king. These ruins provide a tangible link to the region’s historical narrative and its connections to the broader Khmer Empire.
Visitor Information
Access and Directions
Visitors can reach Khao Phra Wihan National Park by taking Highway 221 from Si Sa Ket, passing through Amphoe Nam Kliang, Si Rattana, and Kantharalak. The park is accessible and well-signposted, making it a convenient destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Admission and Amenities
The admission fee for entering the park is 400 Baht. For those interested in staying overnight, the park offers various accommodation options, including camping grounds. Visitors can obtain more information by contacting the tourist center at Khao Phra Wihan National Park at 0 4581 8021 or 0 4581 8035, or by reaching out to the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department at 0 2562 0760. Additional resources and updates can be found on their website at www.dnp.go.th.
Conclusion
Khao Phra Wihan National Park is not only a sanctuary for wildlife and natural beauty but also a site of historical and cultural significance. Its unique location on the Thailand-Cambodia border, coupled with its diverse attractions, makes it a destination that offers both education and inspiration. Whether interested in exploring its natural landscapes, uncovering its historical artifacts, or simply enjoying the serenity of the area, visitors are sure to find the park a rewarding experience.
Address And Location:
Baan Phumisral Sao Thong Chai Kantharalak Si Sa Ket 33110