Experience an unforgettable escape at Phu Kradung National Park. Prepare your hiking gear to explore this wild territory located in the northeastern region of Thailand.
Immerse yourself in the lush and misty world of Phu Kradung National Park. Get your boots and backpack ready for an exciting hike in the wilderness! Spread over 350 km2 at the foot of the majestic Phu Kradueng mountain (1,316 meters above sea level), the diverse landscapes, local flora, and fauna will leave indelible images in your mind.
Phu Kradung National Park belongs to the province of Loei, in the region of the Isan Plain in northeastern Thailand.
In 1943, the Thai government granted Phu Kradung the title of protected forest. Later, in 1959, it was proclaimed a national park. Although Phu Kradung was established before Khao Yai National Park, established in 1962, it is considered the second official national park of Thailand. Its territory covers an area of 350 km2, with the highest point being Phu Kradueng Mountain, which rises 1,316 meters above sea level.
The name "Phu" comes from the Thai term "Phukao," meaning "mountain," while "Kradung" comes from the indigenous expression "gong," referring to a Tibetan bell. "Phu Kradung" can be interpreted as "big gong." Legend has it that one can hear the subtle sound of a gong from the mountain during Buddhist festivals.
For adventurous travelers, it's possible to explore the park independently, without a guide. So, are you ready for an epic adventure?
Get your boots ready; much of the plateau can be explored on foot. Just follow the marked trails between each attraction. In the southern part of the park, dirt paths and hiking trails will guide you to waterfalls and exceptional viewpoints to capture the beauty of the mountain and the park. If you love challenges, hiking in Phu Kradung promises an experience full of twists and turns. However, this adventure can also be attempted by bike to experience different sensations.
Head to the visitor center to rent a bike. At your own pace, pedal along dirt paths, admiring the towering cliffs and other scenery of the park. Keep in mind that some sections may have steep slopes or sandy paths, so you might need to push your mountain bike at times. For your safety, please note that bike usage is prohibited during periods of heavy rain.
Embark on the conquest of Mount Phu Kradung, the natural emblem of Loei province. The ascent of this 1,316-meter-high mountain is a challenging hike. It's about a 3.5-kilometer walk. The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the panoramas become.
You can enjoy rest areas at the summit of the mountain and even set up your tent in the nearby camping area to spend a night under the stars. At dawn, head to the Phra Nok Aen viewpoint to admire the sunrise through the sea of mist while enjoying the fresh air. Conversely, the Pha Lomsak Viewpoint will offer you an enchanting spectacle at sunset.
Your adventure in Phu Kradung National Park will introduce you to all kinds of plant compositions. You will pass through forests and ferns, but also expanses of moss and flowers. Regarding fauna, diversity is also on display. Among mammals, you will find bears, deer, roe deer, foxes, squirrels, and even elephants. Bird enthusiasts will not be disappointed with the rich birdlife, including black eagles, silver pheasants, and many other fascinating species.
Various means of transportation allow you to reach Phu Kradung National Park in Loei province without much difficulty:
From Bangkok, head north on Highway 1 out of the city. Then turn onto Highway 2, heading east. Continue on this axis until halfway between Pak Chong and Nakhon Ratchasima. At this point, turn left and follow Highway 201 north to reach Phu Kradung district. The total journey from Bangkok to Phu Kradung National Park is about 500 km. Depending on traffic and weather, allow 6 to 8 hours to reach both destinations.
First, go to Hualamphong train station in the Pathum Wan district of Bangkok. There, take a train heading to Khon Kaen. Once you arrive at Khon Kaen station, you will need to take a bus to reach Phu Kradung, then find a Songthaew on site to take you to the park.
From Bangkok, you can reach Loei province by bus. Departures are from the Mo Chit bus terminal or the Morchit 2 bus terminal. Get off at Phu Nok Khao, then take a Songthaew to Phu Kradung National Park.
The climate in the Phu Kradung region is cool and misty for most of the year, with an average temperature of 6 °C. During the coldest nights, it can drop below 0 °C. During the rainy season, sudden stream floods can occur, leading to soil collapse.
To ensure the safety of travelers, Phu Kradung National Park is closed during the months of June to September. At the same time, this allows the forest to regenerate. During the rest of the year, the park is open every day. The main visitor center is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The park experiences a peak in visitors during the Songkran festival in April and other Buddhist celebrations that last for three to four days.
The entrance fees to Phu Kradung National Park are as follows:
You can rent a tent on-site.
To complete your adventure, consider staying at one of the many hotels located near Phu Kradung National Park. These establishments vary in terms of price, location, and services offered, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
of upscale services, such as spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, and breathtaking views of the park.
It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the high season. Be sure to check previous guest reviews to help you make your choice.