Pha Taem National Park

📍 Location of Pha Taem National Park 🚘 Directions to Pha Taem National Park

About Pha Taem National Park

The Pha Taem National Park, located at the easternmost point of Thailand, is a place of natural beauty and historical significance. It offers stunning views across the Mekong river, the Lao mountains, and unique rock formations that resemble giant mushrooms. The park is also home to rock paintings that are estimated to be between 3000 to 4000 years old. Despite the high entrance fee of 400 THB for foreigners (locals pay 40 THB), some visitors find the park worth visiting for its unique offerings.

However, the park has been criticized for its discriminatory pricing policy. Foreign visitors are charged 400 baht for entry, while Thai nationals are charged only 40 baht. This has led to some visitors feeling unfairly treated, especially those who live and work in Thailand and contribute to the local economy through taxes. Some have even chosen to boycott the park due to this policy.

The park's main attraction, the Sao Chaleang rocks, can be viewed for free from below the Mekong river. Some visitors have suggested that it's better to enjoy the view from there, as the park's entrance fee only covers the viewing of these rocks.

Another point of contention is the park's presentation of its ancient wall drawings. Some visitors have reported that the drawings are barely visible due to the unnecessary amount of spikes and barbed wire in front of them. This has led to disappointment among those who were looking forward to seeing these historical artifacts.

Despite these issues, the park does have its charms. It is less crowded compared to other tourist spots, making it a peaceful retreat for those who prefer solitude. The park also boasts a 4-km walking trail that takes you along the cliff to the paintings. For those who wish to stay longer and explore more, there are several other walking trails around the park. However, visitors are advised to take a map from the visitor center as the distances can be larger than they seem.

Getting to and around the park can be a challenge. Private transportation is necessary, and some visitors have hired a car with a driver from the nearby village of Khong Chian. The park also offers camping sites and equipment for hire for those who wish to stay overnight. However, the staff at the park are reported to be polite but not English-speaking, which could pose a communication challenge for foreign visitors.

In conclusion, while the Pha Taem National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, its high entrance fee for foreigners and discriminatory pricing policy have led to mixed feelings among visitors. Those who choose to visit are advised to be prepared for these issues and to make the most of their visit by exploring the park's various trails and enjoying its stunning views.