Budget WorldClass Drives

Transcription

1 Budget WorldClass Drives AD THE MIDDLE MEKOG A OI æ à PHRAE 0 DE CHAI 0 BA KHOK 0kms L A O S CHIAG KHA Mekong River PAK CHOM SAG KHOM L A O S Õ.ÀπÕß OG KHAI SI CHIAG MAI PHO PHISAI Õÿµ µ å UTTARADIT PHICHAI æ ÿ PHITSAULOK 0 THUG SAE KHA WAT BOT WAG THOG AM PHAT CHATRAKA 0 ational ational A HAEO AKHO THAI ational DA SAI 0 KHAO KHO 0 LOM KAO THA LI ational PHU RUA 0 0 Wildlife Sanctuary ational WAG SAPHUG ational PHU KRADUG ational ERAWA 0 0 Historical Õÿ π UDO THAI ÀπÕß «Ÿ OG BUA LAMPHU ational SI BU RUAG BA PHU PHU WIAG 0 UBOL RATAA OG SAEG 0 PE 0 OG HA KUMPHAWAPHI KRAUA PHICHIT æ µ SAK LEK 0 æ Ÿ å PHETCHABU KHO SA CHUMPHAE 0 Õπ àπ KHO KAE PHRA YU 0 CHIAG YU Highlights of the Drive he Friendship Highway links T Bangkok to Isan, an area which encompassses the north-eastern provinces of Thailand. The people of this region enjoy a distinctive language and culture, which they share with their cousins across the River Mekong in Laos. Starting from, a cultural centre in the heart of Isan, the drive follows the Friendship Highway north to the commercial city of Udon Thani and then to ong Khai, a tranquil town on the banks of the Mekong. From ong Khai the route follows the Mekong valley upstream, before turning south to the provincial capital of Loei and then heading west across mountain ranges to Phitsanulok. Located in the north central plains of the Chao Phraya basin, Phitsanulok lies close to the historical origins of the Kingdom of Thailand at Sukhothai. From Phitsanulok, a different route east crosses the ranges again back to or Udon Thani. Scenic shorter drives are also possible from Phitsanulok. The main route is divided into six sections, each with recommended accommodation. This allows you to spend a full day en route and reach comfortable lodging by nighfall in each section. It remains for you to choose ROADS I THAILAD All main and most minor roads are sealed. Signs and reflective markers warn of hazards on major highways, and sodium lighting illuminates major intersections. Bilingual (English/Thai) road signs indicate destinations, highway numbers and distances before and after intersections. Kilometre stones show highway number and distance along the road on the front face, and distances to destinations in the direction of travel on the side. The police and military set up road check-points on highways, especially at night, but there are no security problems. Please remember to drive on the left! Emergency Assistance -00-BUDGET, Udon Thani Office (0) 0, (0) Phitsanulok Office, (0), (0) 0, Office (0) 0, (0) Our fastest way to rent a car whether to begin your drive in Khon Kaen, Udon Thani or Phitsanulok, and then for you to set your pace on an adventure into this beautiful, lessvisited part of the Kingdom. For further information, please see the back page. Happy Trails! Online Bookings:

2 SECTIO : kms. KHO KAE OG KHAI KHO KAE to OG KHAI THA BO Õ. à àõ SI CHIAG MAI (spring rolls village) 0 to Phu Phrabat Historical Õ. ÿ KUT CHAP 0 OG WUA SO OG SAG 0 0 ong Khai Golf ( holes) Sala Kaeo Ku 0 0 PHE PHO PHISAI Õ.» ß À à Õ. æπæ Wat Phrathat Bang Phuan Wat Tham Khlong Pen Õ.ÀπÕß««Õ Õ. ππ ß to Chumphae Õ.æ π PHRA YU ÀπÕß OG KHAI Õÿ π UDO THAI Mekong River Victory GC Ban a Kha (silk) Sri Thani Golf ( holes) (West turn from H at Don Kheng km0-0 Wat Pa Ban That (0) m Õ.Õÿ µπå UBOL RATAA Ban Thum Õ.πÈ æõß OG SAEG OG SA-AT AM PHOG Ban Tha Phra Õ.ÀπÕß ß Õ. ππ Õ Õ. æá Õπ àπ KHO KAE King Cobra Village Ban ong Chum Ëß Õ.æ Ÿ å å PHIBURAK SAG KHOM 0 0 Ban Chiang World Heritage Site OG HA KUMPHAWAPHI KRAUA Prathat Kham Kaen KOSUM PHISAI Õ. â ß Õ Õ.ÀπÕßÀ Õ. ÿ «ªï Õ. π«π Õ. ÿ æ SI THAT CHIAG YU to Maha Sarakham» µÿ Õ. ÿàßωπ THA KHATO Õ. ß π THUG FO Õ. à π to Kalasin 0kms T he drive starts in, a regional centre in Isan with a vibrant night life. From Highway races north towards the River Mekhong along a fast divided highway that allows an easy journey to the major Udon Thani. Side tours along the route lead to King Cobra Village and Ban Chiang World Heritage. 0 kms north of Udon Thani lies ong Khai, a languid provincial capital on the banks of the Mekong. Though the friendship bridge at ong Khai is the main entry point for vehicles into Laos, Budget vehicles may not cross at present. evertheless, with the border market, the extraordinary sculptures of Sala Kaeo Ku and the variety of restaurants along the river, ong Khai is a pleasant town for a stopover (see map, section ). South from Sights south of include the silk weaving village of Channabot (KM on H to Mancha Khiri kms), the Tortoise Village (KM0 on H0 to Mancha Khiri kms) and the Khmer ruins at Phimai (H and H0 kms). Contact the TAT office in for more information about places near. Budget Airport City Udon Thani akhon Ratchasima ong Khai Ban Phu 0 0 Kalasin Kumphawaphi Ban Chiang 0 POITER OE H & H intersection,. Turn north for Udon Thani ( kms). Phimai ( kms) & akhon Ratchasima ( kms) are south. KM U-turn and east turn onto H0 to Kranuan for Ban Kok Sanga, King Cobra Village. Drive on H0 to KM and then take a side road south for kms. Villagers will show you cobras, but shows may only be put on for groups. KM- H0 leads Ubon Rattana Dam (kms) and H to ong Bua Lamphu ( kms) POITER TWO KM- H0 to Kumphawaphi intersects with H. Turn right here for alternative route to Ban Chiang World Heritage (see sidebar) POITER THREE Fountain circle in Udon Thani. Unless it is rush hour, take H through Udon Thani. H east is the direct route from Udon Thani to Ban Chiang. POITER FOUR H KM0 H0 goes to Ban Phu and Phu Phrabat Historical ( kms). This site can also be visited from ong Khai (see sidebar, section )

3 R R R to Airport Chumphae PLACES A. Museum B. Communications Authority of Thailand (overseas telephone) C. Provincial Hall D. Thai Airways Office Shopping E. Oasis Shopping Mall F. Fairy Plaza ight Entertainment G. ate ight Bazar H. Times Square Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel: (0) - Long distance (air-con) bus station Post Office Railway Station M Fresh Market. First Choice. Ban a Mai. The Parrot. Bua Luang. Ban Suan. ong Pla. Thang Garden. Kung Phao. ight Market km. University Convention Centre km to Chumphae to Phra Yun ªπ to Udon Thani (0) 0 Mobile (0) km Maliwan Rd. D Mitraphap Rd. Sri Chan Rd. Darunsamran Rd. to akhon Ratchasima Up-Market Hotels Charoen Thani Princess $$-$$$, Sri Chan Rd, Tel: (0) 000- Fax: (0) 0 <booking@dusit.com> Bkk Res: (0) Hotel Sofitel Raja Orchid $$$, Prachasumran Rd. Tel: (0), Fax: (0) 0. Bkk Res: (0) 0. <sofitel@kkaen.loxinfo.co.th> Kosa Hotel, $$-$$$ Sri Chan Rd, Tel: (0) 00, (0) 0- Fax: (0) 0 Bkk Res: (0) - Mid-Range Hotels Chaipat Hotel $$-$$$, off a Muang Rd, Tel: (0) 00-, Fax: (0) 0 0 to akhon Ratchasima Phimai to Kalasin 0 to Udon Thani ª Õÿ π H Prachasamran Rd. Thepharak Rd. E B Lang Sun Rachakan Rd. Sun Rachakan Rd. M 0 M F C a Sun Rachakan Rd. Prachasamoson Rd. a Muang Rd. G Klang Muang Rd. M A Lang Muang Rd. Sithakhon Rd. Chuancheun Rd. Kasikonthungsang Rd. 0 KHO KAE 0 to Kalasin Hotel $-$$ Phimphasut Rd., Tel: (0) -, Fax: (0) Rosesukhon Hotel $$, Klang Muang Rd. Tel: (0) -, Fax: (0) City Hotels Muang Inn $ a Muang Rd. Tel: (0) 0- Fax: (0) - Kaeng akhon Hotel $, Drichan Rd. Tel: (0) - Sawaddee Hotel $, a Muang Rd. Tel: (0) 00 Fax: (0) 0 Amarin Plaza Hotel $-$$ Rop Muang Rd. Tel: (0) 0- Ruen Rom $-$$. Ruen Rom Rd. Tel: (0) - Fax: (0) 0 0 Anamai Rd. 00m ª Ã π ÿå 0 POITER FIVE H KM / junction of H0 to Phen and ong Han districts alternative rural route to/from Ban Chiang Ban Chiang, World Heritage Site. The Lao Phuan village of Ban Chiang is a site of major interest 0 kms east of Udon Thani. A ational Museum (open daily 0:00-:00) and an excavation site exhibit at Wat Phu Si ai detail life in the area years ago. From (total kms), you may avoid Udon Thani by taking H0 (pointer ) to Kumphawapi (kms) and then H0 to ong Han ( kms). This joins H at KM, where the highway bypasses south of ong Han district town. Turn right (east) and drive either to KM and follow a sealed highway E (Ban Chiang kms), or continue to KM0 and turn north on H (Ban Chiang kms). From Udon Thani follow H east to ong Han and then as described above. To continue directly to ong Khai from Ban Chiang via a rural route, return on H to ong Han and turn north on H. Continue on this road, passing Pen district town and joining H at KM (Pointer ). You may also visit the silk village of Ban a Kha using this route by turning off H (H0 continues north) onto H at KM and heading west to Ban a Kha (KM on H). ª ÀπÕß to ong Khai Sunshine Fragrant km0 Orchid Farm PLACES City pillar & open ground night entertainment S Shopping & Superstore Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel: (0) 0- Railway internet. Rabiang Phatchani. Mandarin. VT aem uang (Vietnamese). Mae Ya. Muang Kon Luang. ight Market Up-Market Hotels Ban Chiang Hotel $$$, Mukmontri Rd, Tel: (0) - Fax: (0) 00. Bkk Res: (0). <bchiang@udon.ksc.co.th> Charoensri Royal Hotel $$$, Prachak Rd. Tel: (0), Fax: (0) 0- Bkk Res: (0). Ton Koon Hotel $$-$$$ Mak Khaeng Rd. Tel: (0) - Fax: (0) -0 Mid-Range Hotels Udon Hotel $-$$ Mak Khaeng Rd. Tel: (0) 0 Fax: (0) Karin Hotel $-$$$ Wattana uwong Rd. Tel: (0) 0- apalai Hotel $$-$$$ Pracharaksa Rd. Tel: (0) Fax: (0) Udon Thani Airport Sleep Inn $$ H0 KM0 Tel: & Fax: (0) - Bkk Res: (0) (inset) City Hotels Chaiporn Hotel. $ Mak Khaeng Rd. Tel: (0) Charoensri Palace Hotel. $-$$ Phosi Rd. Tel: (0) 0 UDO THAI 0 to H0 & H to Airport ong Prachak Si Suk Rd. Si Chom Cheun Rd. Thesa Rd. Provincial Hall Phan Phrao Rd. Mak Khaeng Rd. ight Market Phosi Prince Prachak Statue Wattana uwong Rd. Clocktower to Kut Chap ª Õ. ÿ km 0 ª ÀπÕß «Ÿ to ong Bua Lamphu Railway Station Fountain Circle S Charoensri Complex Udon Dutsadi Rd. Airport Tel: (0) 0 Mobile: (0) Prachak Rd. ª Õπ àπ to Pu Ya Shrine ittayo Rd. Big C S ª π â π ß to Sakol akhon Ban Chiang

4 SECTIO : kms. OG KHAI OG KHAI to 0 L A O S Kaeng Kut Ku Rapids Chiang Khan Hill Resort CHIAG KHA Õ. ß π Ban Hat Pia (rapids) m Ban Klang PAK CHOM Pak Chom Resort Õ.ª Ban Song Puai Checkpoint (km) Rim am Restaurant Ban Klang m Mekong River Km- Buoy Guest House Than Thip Falls Km Siam Bungalow Guest House Õ. ß SAG KHOM Than Thong Falls Wat Phatak Sua 0m Wat Hin Mak Paeng Õ.πÈ Yung Thong Falls AM SOM Ban Sam Liam Phu Phrabat Historical Phra Phuttabat Bua Bok Ban Klang Yai Wat Arun Banphot Wat Si Chomphu Ong Teu â π ß À à Õ. â πº Õ BA PHU 00 SI CHIAG MAI (spring rolls village) THA BO Õ. à àõ Õ.» ß À à Õ.ÀπÕß OG KHAI Wat Phrathat Bang Phuan 0kms ong Khai Golf ( holes) Sala Kaeo Ku Victory GC to Tha Li to Phu Rua 0 Chiang Khan Sri Chiang Mai Tha Bo Ban Lao 0 0 Wat Tham Phapu 0 Loei Airport 0 0 Victory Golf Course (follow signs) Ban a Luang WAG SAPHUG A 0 to Phu Kradung ERAWA Õ.«ß æÿß ËßÕ. Õ «Õ.π â«ß A DUAG Tham Erawan (cave) fter joining H (pointer ), you follow the Mekong valley upstream through increasingly scenic landscape. An alternative route takes you to Phu Phrabat, returning back to the Mekong at Sang Khom for the picturesque section east to Chiang Khan. From Chiang Khan, the route heads south to Loei, a provincial market centre serving the surrounding uplands. m POITER SIX KM/ H west to Chiang Khan. East to Victory Golf Course (. kms. See accommodation for details.) 0 0 SUWA KHU HA Õ. ÿ«ÿà Õ.π ß A KLAG Ban a Dan â ππ à π 0 m 0 ÀπÕß «Ÿ OG BUA LAMPHU m 0 KUT CHAP OG WUA SO (sealed roads, often broken up, traverse this area. o English signs!) 0 Wat Tham Khlong Pen Kinnaree Resort Õ.ÀπÕß««Õ Õ. ÿ Huai Luang Dam Õÿ π UDO THAI Ban a Kha (silk) Sri Thani Golf ( holes) (West turn from H at Don Kheng Wat Pa Ban That km0-0 (0) Alternative Route via Phu Phrabat Historical (0 kms) This route rejoins H at Sang Khom. Take H00 (pointer ) to Ban Phu and then H to the historical park a visit to this site is recommended (allow 0 min. to walk around the park). Continue west on H to Ban Sam Liam (KM) before turning north (right) on H to Sang Khom. Turn off H at KM to visit the Yung Thong Falls (right turn on concrete lane at the sign for a Yung-am Som Forest kms). If you do not wish to miss sights on H between KM &, return to H on H (which joins H at a T-junction south of KM if taking H north turn hard right at confusing sign near KM). m

5 R OG KHAI ong Khai Immigration Checkpoint. Dang aem Muang. Ruen Rim am. Song Fang Khong. Chay Khong. Khrua Sabang ga Friendship Bridge ong Khai Station Kaeo Worawut Rd. ª Õÿ π M e k o n g R i v e r Michai Rd. Provincial Hall Prap Ho Monument to Udon Thani Wat Hai Sok Prachak Local Immigration Checkpoint Day Market Phonphisai Rd. Wat Si Saket Praserm Wat Phochai Bus Station Up-market Hotels Mekong Royal ongkhai $$$, Jommani Beach, ong Khai. Tel: (0) 00, (0) - Fax: (0) 0 Bkk Res: (0) 00- ong Khai Grand Hotel $$ Phonphisai Rd, ong Khai Tel: (0) 00, (0) 00 Fax: (0) 0 Bkk Res: (0) 0- < Mid-Range Hotels Thai Laos Riverside Hotel $$, Kaeo Worawut Rd. Tel: (0) 0-, Fax: (0) 0 Tip Hotel $-$$, Mitraphap Rd, ong Khai Tel&Fax: (0) - City Hotels/Guest Houses Khong River Hotel$-$$, Kaeo Worawut Rd, Tel: (0) Mut Mee Guest House $, Kaeo Worawut Rd. Fax: (0) 0. <wasambe@loxinfo.co.th> Phantawee Hotel $-$$, Hai Sok Rd., ong Khai Tel: (0) - Prajak Bungalows $-$$, Prachak Rd, Tel: (0), (0) 00 Mae Khong Guest House $ Tel: (0) 0 Km. ª Õ. æπæ to Phon Phisai Sala Kaeo Ku Sculpture 00 Tha Bo Market Ban Phu Phu Phrabhat Historical alternative route POITER SEVE KM/ H00 to Ban Phu (0 kms) and Phu Phrabat Historical ( kms) alternative route to pointer. KM Wat Aran Banphot a new chedi on a slope above the highway KM Wat Hin Mak Peng a temple overlooking a narrow part of the River Mekong. Polite dress required. CHIAG KHA M e k o n g R i v e r H Chiang Khan GH Wat Tha Khok District Office OK Guest House H Wat Mahathat Post Office to Kaeng Kut Ku ( kms) Wat Si Khun Muang Wat Pa Klang Wat Pa Tai km km Dragon with the Golden Ball Guest House $ Tel: (0) 0 Friendship Hotel $ Chai Khong Rd. Tel&Fax: (0) 0 internet. Rabiang Ton Khong Guest $, Chai Khong Rd Soi 0. Tel: (0). Mekong Rimkong Pub and Guest House $ Soi Tel: (0) 0 Souk Somboon Hotel $, Chai Khong Rd, Tel: (0) 0 to Loei ª. Khrua it (opp. Phu Luang Hotel). Bua Luang (south on H0 KM0). Loei-Danang (Vietnamese) ª Õ. Ÿ Õ, à π â, À à à to Phu Rua Dan Sai Lom Kao 0 Km. 0 00m km0 to Chiang Khan 0 Ruamchai ok Kaew Rd. ª ß π Charoenrat Rd. M Post Office to Wang Saphung Phu Kradung Chumpae 0 & Airport ª Õ.«ß æÿß, Ÿ ß, ÿ æ Up-Market Hotels Loei Palace Hotel (opening end 000) City Hotels King Hotel $ Chumsai Rd. Tel: (0) 0, (0), (0) Fax: (0) Phu Luang Hotel $$ Charoenrat Rd. Tel: (0), (0) 0, Fax: (0) Royal Inn Hotel $ Chumsai Rd Tel: (0) Fax: (0) 0 Thai Udom Hotel $-$$ Charoenrat Rd Tel: (0), (0), Fax: (0) 0 Bus station Hospital Market ight entertainment Post Office internet H KM Than Thong Falls. A laterite (dirt) road from the local market just east (0 m) of the falls goes south. After.kms a dirt road right leads to Wat Phatak Sua (. kms from highway WD recommended) and a fine view over the valley from a bluff. This is a good view for sunsets if staying in Sang Khom. ª Õ.π âõß to a Duang (Buoy Guest House) Sang Khom High St. Shops alternative route Loei POITER EIGHT KM/ Sang Khom (amphoe) H to Ban Sam Liam (alternative route to Phu Phrabat Historical ). KM/ orth turn to Kaeng Kut Ku rapids (. kms). The rapids are a popular local tourist spot with up-market dining and accommodation available on the river bank at the Chiang Khan Hill Resort. POITER IE KM H ends at T junction with H0&H in Chiang Khan. H turn south on H0 H0 KM/ West turn on H to Tha Li and then right at KM for Wat Tham Phapu Cave temple (. kms from H0). The temple has a grotto containing Buddha images. ACCOMMODATIO Rustic guest houses have rooms at Sang Khom and Pak Chom; for more up-market accommodation go to Chiang Khan or Loei. Siam Bungalow $, Sang Khom, H KM- Pak Chom Resort $. Pak Chom. H KM- Tel: (0) 0 Chiang Khan Hill Resort $-$$$, Kaeng Kut Khu (off H at KM) Tel: 0 Bkk Res: (0) 0 0 Victory Golf & Country Club (Pointer. H KM- Turn east on sealed road and follow signs. kms). Tel: (0) 0 Fax: (0) 0

6 SECTIO : kms. DA SAI THA LI to Ahi 0 æ. 0 â ππ à Ban a Kha Wat Phrathat Si Ong Rak 0 0 â π àõπ â π«ß Ban Pak Man DA SAI Ban Kok Kathon Ban Wang Ban Lom Swiss Hill to Pak Huai Õ. à È THA LI to H ( kms) â πª À π Õ. à π â 00 0 Ban Pong Chi am Huang 0 0 Chateau de Loei LOM KAO Õ.À à à attirat Grand to Loei Ban Ton Khwang Phetchabun Airport 0 â πàπõߺ Õ Ban ong Phu Ban a Kraseng â πõ Œ Ban Ahi L A O S 0 Phu Rua ational Ban Khok gam Rang Yen Pattakan Rim Pa (km) Õ.À à Ban Sila m Ban Tat Kloi â πª À«Ban Pak Huai Wat Phrathat Satta THA LI â π ß Ban Tang 0 Õ. à È â πà π Ranger Stn. am ao ational Ban a Chan m Ban a Luang Ranger Stn. Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary (no entry) Ban Hin Lat o fuel for kms! Ban Tao Tat â ππ π Waranya 0 PHU RUA Ban San Tom Õ. Ÿ Õ Phu Rua Chalet Phu Rua Resort 0m Phu Rua Mews. $$$ Km. Tel: (0) -, Bkk Res: (0) - Hill Brook Hut $$$ Km. Tel: (0) Fax: (0) Pimporn Resort. $$.Km. Tel: (0), Bkk Res: (0) Saban ga Resort $ Km. Tel: (0) - m Tham Yai am ao (cave) 0m Ban Pak Yang Cheun Chiwin â πª ß â π ÀπÕß Àà«Ban Pak Yang Ban Lao Ban Phong gam am ao ational HQ to DA SAI 0 Wat Tham Phaphu 0 PHU LUAG Tat Khok ong Haeo Ban Khok ong Haeo Õ.πÈ Àπ «AM AO Õ. ŸÀ «ß Saithong Falls Loei Airport WAG SAPHUG m Õ.«ß æÿß 0 0 Phu Kradung ational m 0 F rom Loei, Highway 0 climbs to a pass at KM0 before slowly descending into an upland valley well-known for its cold temperatures and for Phu Rua ational. Dan Sai is famous for the Phitakon festival held sometime in June according to a schedule determined by the officiating shaman. Phu Rua Dan Sai Phitsanulok Dan Sai Lom Kao 0 Chiang Khan 0 Loei City Wan Saphung Pha Kradung Chumphae Phu Rua POITER TE H0 KM0 south/km0 north junction with H0. See Alternative Routes South on H0 sidebar for Phu Kradung ational and for shorter return routes to Udon Thani and. KM Phu Rua ational (kms). Take the narrow lane north to the most accessible of the protected plateau wildernesses in this region. After entering the park you can drive to a car-park within a one kilometre walk of the summit. KM0/ Chateau de Loei - Thailand s premier winery. You can visit the vineyard on a lane south just east of the restaurant/ shop complex ( kms round trip). The high hill to the south is a macadamia plantation, which along with the Rang Yen Resort and the Loei Palace Hotel, belongs to the same owner. POITER ELEVE KM. Right turn to follow recommended route west on H0 to Dan Sai () kms. See Alternative Routes from H0 South for remote rural roads that offer circular routes back east to or Udon Thani. If travelling towards Phitsanuloke, H west over Phu Hin Rong Kla offers a spectacular alternative route (see sidebar, section ).

7 ALTERATIVE ROUTES SOUTH O H0 From pointer 0, H0 south offers routes for shorter circular tours back to Udon Thani via ong Bua Lamphu, or via Phu Kradung. UDO THAI VIA WAG SAPHUG (KMS) section map Go south on H0 and turn east at KM- onto H0 to ong Bua to Loei 0 to Ban a Luang to ong Bua Lamphu 0 WAG SAPHUG to Kok Kathon Phu Luang 0 0 to Phu Luang to Phu Kradung Chmuphae Lamphu and Udon Thani. Sights on this route include a large Buddha image and illuminated cave at Erawan Cave (KM north turn. kms) and the pilgrimage site of Wat Tham Khlong Pen (KM0 south turn kms). KHO KAE VIA PHU KRADUG AD CHUMPHAE (0 KMS) section map Go on H0 south, which joins H at KM ( kms). The sights along this route are as follows (see section for route information east of pointer on H) 0 ª 0 KM A sealed road runs west to Suan Hin Pha gam (Rock Garden Cliff), an area of limestone pinnacles, caves and small waterfalls in uplands (kms) a local tourist spot. Accommodation available at the Chao Phraya Pha gam Resort. $ Tel: (0) KM West turn on old road to Phu Kradung ational (kms). This is the best known of the national parks that occupy the plateaus found at the top of mountains throughout this region. To reach the summit requires a - hour hike overnight park accommodation/camping is a must (00 & 00 Bt. in forestry department guest houses or in individual houses for persons at 00 Bt.). Open Oct. through May, entry 0:00-:00 only. KM Phu Phaman ational a recently created park. Features are less spectacular than those at Phu Kradung, but the park is more accessible to the motorist. Accommodation is available in Chumphae at the Sri Suphan Grand Royal (see section ). ALTERATIVE ROUTES FROM H0 SOUTH H0 south passes over pretty highland country before descending into the Pa Sak Valley to the district towns of Lom Kao ( kms) and (kms). Go kms south of pointer for the start of scenic, less-travelled back-country roads serving distant destinations (distances are indicated from H0). either fuel nor help may be readily available in the remote rural uplands through which these roads travel, however. Allow at least half a day for these routes as tortuous bends and broken road surfaces seldom permit speeds above 0kph. See sections & for accommodation nearer the start of these routes. H VIA AM AO TO H (0KMS) Turn west from H0 at Ban Khok Krathong, KM, for an alternative route in the direction of that skirts the northern boundary of am ao ational. At KM a south turn by a local restaurant leads to a ranger station (.kms) and Tham Yai am ao cave. rangers can act as guides beyond the illuminated 00m (deep access is limited during the rainy season). DA SAI ª Õ.π Àâ«0 0 to akhon Thai ( kms) ª Õ.π to a Haeo (kms) & Ban Muang Phrae (kms) Wat Phrathat Si Song Rak 0 Wat Pa eramit Wipasana (murals) Õ. à π â DA SAI ª Õ.À à à to Lom Kao (0kms) to Pak Man (kms) ª Õ.ª À π M Market ong Tai ª to Loei 0 H0 TO WAG SAPHUG AD H0 (KMS) Turn west from H0 at Ban Khok Krathong, KM, and then turn onto H betweenkm/ for a route passing the southern edge of Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary to Wang Saphung. Waterfalls are located off the road (WD only) at KM (Tat Khok ong Haeo Falls) and KM (Cheun Chiwin). H TO AKHO THAI VIA PHU HI ROGKLA ( KMS) See section ACCOMMODATIO The following resorts are best for all year service (guest-house style accommodation is available in Phu Rua) Phu Rua Chalet $$-$$$ H0 KM- Tel: (0) 0, (0) 0 Fax: (0) 00 Phu Rua Resort $$-$ $$ H0 KM- Tel: (0) 0 Rai Waranya $$-$$$ H0 KM0- kms on side road up to Phu Rua ational. Tel: (0) 00, (0) Rang Yen Resort $$-$$$ H0 KM0- (south turn, follow signs on sealed road kms Tel: (0) 0, (0) Fax: (0) Bkk Res: (0) - PHU RUA.PARK Pu Ku Viewpoint. km. km Thung ong Din Dam Range. km Hin Sam- Thung ong Chan Falls Din Dam Range Hin Taek Range Lat Muat Ae to Dan Sai. km Huai Phai Falls 00 m. km HQ 00 m Sao Ae Range Phaya Cliff Sa Sawan Visitor Centre & HQ = Hiking trail = Sealed access road PHU RUA ATIOAL PARK From Forestry Dept. map in park brochure side road. km H Rai Waranya Resort Summit m lane Suan Hin Pha Lae Checkpoint & Car Lon oi Cliff 0 00 m 00 m Sam Tong Cliff. km sealed lane Hin Tao 00 m Dong Tam Sam Dao Chao Viewpoint ature Trail km Checkpoint PHU RUA Õ. Ÿ Õ to Loei

8 SECTIO : kms. DA SAI PHITSAULOK DA SAI to PHITSAULOK to Uttaradit 0 0 WAT BOT to Kamphaeng Phet 0 0 Õ. Õß π π THUG SAE KHA Õ.«å Ban Bong Khae PHICHIT æ µ (km) æ ÿ PHITSAULOK Sirikhit Dam AM PHAT 0 Ban Huai Mun Ban Rom Klao a Haeo ational Ban a Muang 0 L A O S Ban Bo Muang oi Ban a Kha Ban Muang Phrae A HAEO 0 0 Ban Pak Man Õ. à π â DA SAI AKHO THAI 0 Ban Huai Tin Tang HQ Wang am Yen Resort o fuel 0 kms! $$$ Km. (0) - Fax: (0) 0 Flagpole Cliff Hmong village Km0 Bkk Res: (0) Phu Hin Rong Kla Õ.À à à ational LOM KAO Saphraiwan m 00 Ban Sap Phraiwan Grand Ban Doi am Phiang Din (Hmong) Steep! Kaeng Son Rapids Sopha Falls (km0) Ang Sila Garden 0 0 Lom Swiss Hill HQ Õ.À à Sakuno Thung Salaeng Luang Imperial Phu Kaew Thaya Rainforest Resort ational Falls Poi Falls (Km0, south Ban Huai Mak on lane kms) Flora Ban Thung Samo 00m Chuan Chom Resort Sri Dit Falls KHAO KHO Õ. âõ Memorial m Õ. π π ª ß Ranger station OE MAPHRAG Ban ong Mae a Rim Doi Saengthawan (km) m SAK LEK Õ. µ µ CHATRAKA Ëß Õ. À Á Õ.πÈ to Sukhothai Historical (Budget World Class Drives Chiang Mai-Sukhothai Loop) m m â πàâõ ÿàπ â π à â Õ.π Palace 0m â π àõ À ÕßπâÕ Õ.π Àâ«æ Ÿ å PHETCHABU to Taphan Hin to In Buri, Bangkok to Taphan Hin to Saraburi, Bangkok m 0m (Long distances without fuel!) 0kms T he recommended route climbs from Dan Sai over a northsouth ridge before going to akhon Thai and beyond to H. H then descends down towards Phitsanulok, passing several points where the Khek River tumbles over picturesque falls and rapids. Phitsanulok is an important commercial centre on the an River. Visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, Thailand s second most revered piligrimage site, and then enjoy Thai food on floating restuarants on the an River. 0 kms to the west of the city, H reaches Sukhothai and a route to both Sukhothai and Sri Satchanalai Historical s (For more information see our Chiang Mai- Sukhothai Loop World ClassDrive). W OF DA SAI Routes north-west of Dan Sai enter very picturesque territory, but the mountain roads are slow and there is no accommodation. H from Ban Muang Phrae (kms) passes a Haeo ational ( kms) and Ban Rom Klao ( kms). The latter is near the site of a bloody dispute over logging concessions and frontier demarcation with Laos in. Distances from Dan Sai on circular routes are as follows: H via Chatrakan and akhon Thai (0 kms), Phitsanuloke via Chatrakan & Ban Bong Khae (0 kms), Phu Rua via a Haeo and H ( kms).

9 R to Sukhothai to Phrom Piram 0 to Uttaradit ª ÿ ª Õ.æ À æ to Bang Rakam ª π «å to akhon Sawan PHITSAULOK Wat Chulamani ª Õ. ß ÿà to Bang Krathum Airport Hotel Up-Market Amarin Lagoon Resort $$-$$$, Praongkhao Rd. Tel: (0) 0 Fax: (0) 0 Bkk Res: (0) Pailyn Hotel $$-$$$ Borom Trailokanat Rd. Tel: (0) -, (0) - Fax: (0). Bkk Res: (0) 0- Topland Hotel $$$, Ekathotsarot Rd. Tel: (0) 00 Fax: (0) Bkk Res: (0) 0 Mid-Range Golden Grand Hotel $$, Thamma Bucha Rd. Tel: (0) 0- Fax: (0) 0 La Paloma Hotel $$, Si Tham Traipidok Rd. Tel: (0) -, Fax: (0) Bkk Res: (0) anchao Hotel $$, Borom Trailokanat Rd. Tel: (0) 0-, (0) 0- Fax: (0) Phitsanuloke Thani Hotel $$, Sanambin Rd Tel: (0) 0-, Fax: (0) 0 Bkk Res: (0) 0- Rajapruk $$-$$$, Phra Ong Dam Rd, Tel: (0) -0, Fax: (0), Bkk Res: (0) Thep akorn Hotel $$, Si Tham Traipidok Rd Tel: (0) 00-, Fax: (0) City Hotels 0 Amarin akorn Hotel, Chaophraya Rd, Tel: (0) 0-, Fax: (0) 00 U-Thong Hotel $, Phra Ong Dam Rd. Tel: (0) 0- Fax: (0) 00 Wang Kaew $, Theparak Rd, Tel: (0) -, Fax: (0) Youth Hostelling International $, Sanam Bin Rd, Tel: (0) 00 ª Õÿµ µ å ª Õ.À à to km Singhawat Rd. Provincial Hall Wang Chan Rd. Borom Trailokanat Rd. aresuan Rd. Military Si Tham Trai Pidok Rd. A 0 Ekathotsarot Rd. C D Sanam Bin Rd. B PHITSAULOK PLACES A. Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat B. Ho Silapa Gallery, aresuan University (City Campus) C. Sgt Major Tawee Folk Museum (0:0-:0 closed Mon) D. Buddha Casting Factory TAT, Phraya Surasi Rd. Tel: (0) Railway Station Bus Station Post Office Phitsanulok Bazaar (ight Entertainment) S Superstore One way all day A one-way system applies during rush hour 0:00-0:00 & :00-0 Phra Ong Dam Rd. Bic C S 00m Wat Chulamani S Makro. Khun Pu. Ban Ton Mai. Phae Fa Thai. Song Khwae. Phae am Thong. Riverside. Food night market Airport Budget Rent a Car Office Tel: (0) Mobile: (0) 0 POITER TWELVE akhon Thai Phitsanulok a Haeo Dan Sai akhon Thai Alternative route Phu Hin Rongkla 0 Phitsanulok 0 Lom Kao Khao Kho 0 Phu Rua H0 junction with H and H0 in Dan Sai POITER THIRTEE H0 joins H at KM. An east turn takes you to upland resorts around Khao Kho. Go west (right turn) for Phitsanulok ALTERATIVE ROUTE H OVER PHU HI ROG KLA ( KMS BETWEE COECTIG ROADS). From Dan Sai, the route over Phu Hin Rong Kla may be driven east to west by heading south on H0 and turning right to Ban Wang Ban just after KM0 (no English sign!). Or you may drive it from west to east as described here, perhaps on an eastbound journey from Phitsanulok (section ). However, if it is rainy and the upper half of the mountain is shrouded in cloud, avoid this route (dangerous when wet ). Allow a full day, especially if planning to walk to falls (Entry 0:00-0:00 o fuel on this route!). H to Phu Hin Rong Kla starts from near KM on a spur of H0, which bypasses east of akhon Thai. There are fine views west as the road climbs to the ational Visitor Centre ( accommodation suitable for family/group bt. Local reservations (0), (0) 0). Between KM and 0 signposts indicate side trips to sights associated with the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT). To continue over the mountain turn right at T junction after KM, or go straight to visit the Hmong village of Rong Kla. Little can be seen from the tree-lined road as it winds over the summit a.ks trail leads off to Man Daeng Falls at KM (distances are counted from junction with H on this part of the highway) until the descent begins near the park checkpoint at KM. Hmong hill tribe villages are located on these upper eastern slopes. The view is formidable, but be extremely careful on the very steep switchbacks and broken up road surface between KM&! H joins H which runs north via Ban Wang Ban to H0 KM0-, or south to H KM-. See Section for accommodation.

10 R SECTIO : kms. PHITSAULOK F rom Phitsanulok H climbs along the Khek Valley to the Khao Lang on Son Range, an area that was a once a communist stronghold. Alternative routes north (H Phu Hin Rongkla see section ) and south (H to Khao Kho & Phetchabun Pointer ) explore this terrain. is a substantial district centre rivalling the provincial capital of Phetchabun. (B. Statistically H is one of the most dangerous roads in Thailand!). Phitsa nulok Dan Sai akhon Thai Alternative route Phu Hin Rongkla Phitsanulok Khao Kho Frontage Rd. Frontage Rd. Khao Kho POITER THIRTEE H KM H0 north to akhon Thai alternative route for via H for Phu Hin Rongkla (0kms to H at KM see section ) KM0- Kaeng Sopha falls (the Thung Salaeng Luang ational HQ and visitor centre is at KM-). Thung Salaeng Luang meadows themselves are accessible from a park sub-station near ong Mae a (H KM- north turn.kms) POITER FOURTEE H KM00 H alternative route to Khao Kho & Phetchabun ( kms). KHAO KHO AREA Ban Doi am Phiang Din (Hmong) Ang Sila Garden to Phitsanulok (section map) HQ Thung Salaeng Luang ational Sri Dit Falls Imperial Phu Kaew Khao Kho Memorial Ranger Stn. Ban ong Mae a ª Õ.À à à to Lom Kao Khao Kho Open Zoo 0 Ban Camp Son Khao Kho Flora Ban Thung Samo Palace 0 Ban Huai Mak Stupa Than Thip Falls Õ. âõ KHAO KHO Weapons museum International Library to Lom Kao ª Õ.À à à Airport æ Ÿ å PHETCHABU Õ.À à à LOM KAO 0 attirat Grand Õ.À à Lom Swiss Hill Resort. $$$ Tel: (0) 0 Mountain Swiss Hill. $$$. Tel: (0) 0- Piamsuk Swiss Hill $$-$$$. Tel: (0) Chuan Chom Resort, $$-$$$. Tel: (0) 0 Ruan Deum Khao Kho Resort $$$. Tel: (0). Boonprakong $$ Tel: (0) 0 0 Ban Rim Doi. $$ Tel: (0) 0 0kms ALTERATIVE ROUTE VIA KHAO KHO H traverses a highland plateau famous for battles between Thai government forces and the CPT. Sights include a narrow road (H one-way south to north only) that climbs to a rudimentary weapons museum (ex firebase) and to a war memorial from where there is a 0 view. Other places to visit are the Royal Palace (grounds only), Khao Kho Open Zoo & Sri Dit Falls. Phetchabun is a small provincial capital with a pleasing older quarter. PHETCHABU 0. Mu Jum. Bua Sung Thong ª ªÉ ß to Pa Daeng Dam 00 ª Õ.ÀπÕß ºà to ong Phai ª Õ.À à to km S M Old quarter Phetcharoen Rd. PLACES Post Office CAT (telephone) Bus Station S Topland (Dept Store) M Market Up-Market Hotels Kosit Hill Hotel $$-$$$ Petchabun. Tel: (0) 0-, (0) - Fax: (0) 0 Mid Range & City Hotels Burapa Hotel. $-$$ Petchabun. Tel: (0) - Fax: (0) - Asia Guest House $ Tel: (0) 0 00 Lomsak attirat Grand Hotel $$ (0) 0- Fax: (0) 0 Phitsanulok to Phetchabun ª æ Ÿ å H Õ.À à Phetchabun POITER FIFTEE Alternative route Phu Hin Rong Kla H KM junction with H to Ban Wang Ban and alternative route H over Phu Hin Rongkla POITER SIXTEE H KM intersects with H Lom Sak bypass (no lights!)and at KM0 with H to Phetchabun(kms) & ( kms) ACCOMMODATIO Rainforest Resort $$$. H KM Tel: (0) 0- Fax: (0) 0. <rnforest@loxinfo.co.th Sappraiwan Grand Hotel & Resort $$$ H KM, Tel: (0) Fax: (0) -0 Bkk Res: (0) - The Imperial Phukaew Hill Resort $$$. H KM KM- Tel/Fax: (0) Khaokho Flora $$- $$$ H KM- H Tel: (0) 00- Fax: (0) 00. Organic food.

11 SECTIO : kms. KHO KAE to KHO KAE A HAEO 0 Õ.π Àâ«Õ. à π â 0 0 Ban Khok gam DA SAI Ban Kok Kathon Ban Pong Chi æ Ÿ å PHETCHABU Ban San Tom Loei Airport 0 WAG SAPHUG Õ.«ß æÿß 0 A KLAG Õ.π «ß ËßÕ. Õ «ERAWA ËßÕ.ÀπÕßÀ π OG BUA LAMPHU to Wang Saphung & Loei ª Õ.«ß æÿß, 0 Tham Erawan (cave) Õ.π ß A KLAG Ban Huai Peng Ban Wang Ban Tham Yai am ao HQ 00 Õ.À à à Phu Kradung 0m LOM KAO am ao ational 0 ational Õ. Ÿ ß Imperial Õ.πÈ Àπ «PHU KRADUG Õ.» Ÿ Phu Kaew Õ.À à AM AO SI CHOMPHU HQ Phu Phaman Ban Camp Son HQ ational Õ. Ÿæ π 0 Ban Thung Samo (Phetchabun Airport) Saithong Falls PHU PHAMA H Rim Doi PHU RUA Õ. Ÿ Õ Ban Sila Ban Tat Kloi Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary m Ban Tao Tat Õ. ŸÀ «ß OG HI PHU LUAG Ban Khok ong Haeo Suan Hin Pha gam 0kms 0 m Chulaphon Dam KHO SA Õ. Õß π to follows a pretty route over a watershed straddled by the am ao ational. Beyond Pointer, however, the single road highway becomes increasingly busy towards Chumphae (kms) and. For alternative routes to Udon Thani go on H via Wang Saphung (0 kms see section ) or via ong Bua Lamphu on H from Chumphae ( kms). AM AO ATIOAL PARK KM0 Entry checkpoint KM Pha Hong Viewpoint (00-00m) & Cave; KM viewpoint (00m), KM Suan Son Dang Bak Viewpoint (kms nature trail) KM0 HQ (.kms), Visitor Centre & circular nature trails (for direct booking of park accommodation call (0) 00) KM Haew Sai & Saithong Falls (00m) KM exit park at checkpoint. (no English signs!) CHUMPHAE Õ. ªï Si Suphan Grand to ong Sang Kinnaree Resort $ H Provincial Hall 0 to Udon Thani town centre ª Õ.» ÿ Õß, ÿ æ Ban a Dan 0 Si Bun Ruang & Chumphae ÀπÕß «Ÿ OG BUA LAMPHU SI BU RUAG Õ.» ÿ Õß Phu Wiang ational HQ Phu Wiang Reclining Buddha Õ. Ÿ «PHU KHIEO to Chaiyaphum 0 ª Õ. ππ ß KUT CHAP Huai Luang Dam 0 Õ. ππ ß OG SAG Õ. Ÿ «ß PHU WIAG Õ.ÀπÕß Õ OG RUA Õ. ÿ ª Õÿ π OG WUA SO km Õÿ π UDO THAI 0 0 Wat Tham Khlong Pen Õ.ÀπÕß««Õ Õ.æ π PHRA YU Õ.Õÿ µπå UBOL RATAA Ban Thum Wat Pa Ban That OG SAEG OG SA-AT Loei CHUMPHAE AM PHOG Õπ àπ KHO KAE Õ.ÀπÕß ß Õ. ππ Õ Õ.πÈ æõß 0 0 ong Bua Lamphu Udon Thani Chaiyaphum 0 Õ.ÀπÕßÀ OG HA 0 Õ. ÿ «ªï KUMPHAWAPHI Õ. π«π KRAUA King Cobra Village Prathat Kham Kaen Ban ong Chum to akhon Ratchasima POITER IETEE H KM- H goes north to ong Bua Lamphu & Udon Thani (kms) H KM orth turn to Phu Wiang Reclining Buddha (kms) H KM H0 to Phu Wiang ational ( kms). A circular walk of approx.. kms begins at the visitor centre and passes of dinosaur excavation sites. Phitsanulok 0 am ao Loei Phu Kradung Chumphae POITER SEVETEE H KM H north to am ao alternative route to/from H0 and to Tham Yai am ao (see section ) POITER EIGHTEE H KM0 (west of intersection) H0 north to Phu Kradung and Loei (see section ) ACCOMMODATIO Lomsak attirat Grand Hotel 000. Tel: (0) 0- Fax: (0) 0 Sri Suphan Grand Royal $-$$$. Chumphae. H (to ong Bua Lamphu) KM. kms from intersection with H Tel: (0) 0-

12 ISTRUCTIOS Go this way Highway umber Pointer number and direction of travel umbered pointers listed in sequence in the direction of travel show important road junctions along the recommended route (reverse these if travelling in the opposite direction). These are illustrated as follows. Kilometre references are noted in two ways: H KM = Highway kilometre stone is close to the point of focus H KM- = The point of focus lies between kilometre stones &. Kilometre stones are usually found at or km intervals on most numbered highways. Though names are written in Thai, the highway number (top front face of stone) confirms your route in the absence of English signs. Background shading indicates points of interest/ side trip/ alternative road along or off the recommended route. Stars by highways indicates frequent rough patches where the sealed surface has buckled/potholed and broken up. This is common in Isan. Be ready to slow right down frequently, avoid driving faster than 0 kph! WD Only! If you are driving a vehicle that does not have four wheel drive, please do not take this road. When on a dirt road, please drive slowly to avoid mechanical problems and to keep the dust down when passing people and communities. Remember to always take drinking water - allow for emergencies. Make sure you have enough fuel before entering remote roads through mountainous areas. Help us get it right! If you have suggestions or wish to point out errors in this guide, please advise our staff. IFORMATIO This guide is designed to complement regular guide-books. The offices of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) at Udon Thani, Phitsanulok and also provide very useful information and brochures. TAT office locations are on the city maps. ACCOMMODATIO There are many upland resorts which usually offer rooms with fan/air-conditioning, fridge, TV and hot shower in small chalets near a central restaurant. Those listed in the accommodation sidebars in this guide offer yearround service even during the green season (June-ovember) In the high season ovember through April advance booking is highly recommended, if not a must. Advance booking is also advisable for the best city accommodation during peak periods. Credit cards are usually only accepted by larger resort/hotels, so travel with enough cash baht to see you to the next ATM (at banks in main district towns amphoe ). The best hotel rooms in provincial cities usually cost baht ( $$$), depending on season. 000 Baht up 00- Baht less than 00 Baht À ÿ STOP SLIPPERY ROAD O PASSIG STEEP HILL For reservations, please contact your travel consultant or call Budget: In the U.K.: 0 - In the U.S.: (00) -000 In Germany: 00 - In Australia: In Singapore: - In Thailand: -00-BUDGET ATIOAL PARKS Visitor centres at park HQs should have brochures with maps detailing sights, though English language versions may not always be available. There are board maps and walking trails are normally well-marked. accommodation can be spartan, and is not set up for walk-in trade unless you bring your own tent and food. Prior reservation from the Forestry Department in Bangkok is essential in the season. Tel: (0), (0), (0) - ext. &. From August 000 all foreigners are to be charged 00 Bt./head entrance fee, but it remains to be seen how rigorously this charge will be applied. Hitherto charges were 0-0 Bt./vehicle and 0 Bt./head, as it is for Thai citizens. À ÿ µ «STOP (POLICE) CHECK FALLIG ROCKS (LAD SLIDE) (c) all rights reserved. Compiled by (<oliverh@loxinfo.co.th>) for WorldClass Rent A Car, Co Ltd. Graphics by Within Design (0) -