Key Takeaways
Phu Chong Na Yoi National Park: An Overview
Phu Chong Na Yoi National Park spans approximately 686 square kilometers and covers areas within Buntharik District, Na Chaluai District, and Namyuen District. This park is uniquely positioned as it borders both Lao PDR and the Kingdom of Cambodia, earning it the moniker "Emerald Triangle." The park is part of the Phanom Dong Rak Mountains and is enveloped by lush forests, making it a prime location for nature enthusiasts.
Key Attractions within the Park
Kaeng Kalao
Kaeng Kalao is a captivating rocky rapid situated in the middle of Huai Luang. The area features streams that flow expansively over stone surfaces, creating a serene and shady atmosphere. Various plant species and butterflies abound, making it an ideal spot for nature studies and a refreshing swim.
Huai Luang Waterfall (Bak Teo Waterfall)
The Huai Luang Waterfall, also known as Bak Teo Waterfall, is a magnificent natural wonder. The waterfall is formed by the waters of Huai Luang cascading from a cliff approximately 50 meters high, creating a large basin below. The emerald green water surface and clean white sandy beaches make it perfect for swimming. A viewpoint at the top allows visitors to capture stunning photographs. The best time to visit is between August and February. Conveniently, there are numerous restaurants located at the waterfall’s entrance.
Kaeng Silathip
Kaeng Silathip is created by Huai Luang as it flows past a sandstone terrace through broken rocky rapids, ultimately forming a small waterfall. A unique phenomenon known as the "Giant’s kettle" can be observed here, where the rock is carved into various round holes by the water’s force, resulting in a strangely beautiful landscape.
Keng Mae Phong Waterfall
Accessible by all-wheel-drive vehicles and on foot, Keng Mae Phong Waterfall is nestled in the heart of unspoiled forest and is fed by the Lam Dom Noi river. The river flows over a stone terrace and tumbles from a cliff approximately 10 meters high. During the rainy season, moss and ferns cover the rocks in a lush green carpet. Beneath the waterfall’s cliff, a walkway allows visitors to cross under a water curtain to the opposite rocks, offering a breathtaking view.
Phlan Kongkwian
Phlan Kongkwian features a vast rock terrace, with a rocky formation that resembles a natural shelter. Wildflowers and plants grow in patches throughout this area. Historically, travelers used these rock shelters for protection against the elements, giving rise to the name “Phlan Kong Kwian.” (In this context, “Phlan” means a wide terrace, and “kongkwian” is derived from “Phuangkwian,” meaning the hood of a wagon.)
The Emerald Triangle
Sam Liam Morakot (Emerald Triangle) or Chong Bok
Sam Liam Morakot, also known as the Emerald Triangle or Chong Bok, is an area at the convergence of the Thai-Lao-Cambodian borders. The area in Lao PDR is Champasak Province, while in Cambodia, it is the province of Preah Vihear. The name "Sam Liam Morakot" is inspired by the Golden Triangle, which marks the borders of thailand, Lao PDR, and Myanmar in the north.
Upper Huai Phlan Suea Reservoir
Located within the Chong Bok area, the Upper Huai Phlan Suea Reservoir is created by an earthen embankment blocking the Huai Phlan Suea, a tributary in the Lam Dom Yai Basin. Originating from the high mountains at the border of the three countries (Emerald Triangle), the reservoir is surrounded by high hills to the north and paddy fields interspersed with sparse forests at the basin’s end. The reservoir boasts breathtaking natural scenery and persistent water presence year-round, attracting various waterfowl and migratory birds.
Phu Hin Dang
Phu Hin Dang is a sandstone mountain hosting a unique stone forest. The area is renowned for its distinctive geological features, such as stalagmite terraces, rift rock terraces, concave rock basins, and separated rock grooves. The trekking route to the top is adorned with various wild orchids and colorful wildflowers, which change with the seasons. From the cliff’s viewpoint, visitors can witness the sunrise and the Mekong River Basin, as well as the forests of Lao PDR and Cambodia. The rock wall beneath the cliff is marked with red and pink bands, providing a beautiful and unusual sight. The name "Phu Hin Dang" is derived from these red bands, which geologists attribute to mineral precipitation that occurred due to the region’s dry climate hundreds of millions of years ago.
Visiting Information
To visit Phu Hin Dang, it is necessary to contact the park staff for directions. For further details, visitors can reach out via telephone at 0 4521 0706 or visit the official website at www.dnp.go.th.
This detailed overview of Phu Chong Na Yoi National Park underscores its natural beauty and diverse attractions, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.