Phetchabun - Cool Mountain Kid Without Stampedes Of Influencers
Phetchabun: Thailand’s Most Underrated Mountain Escape That Nobody Talks About
So you’re tired of the same old Chiang Mai crowds, done with the Pattaya chaos, and even Hua Hin is starting to feel basic. Welcome to Phetchabun, Thailand’s best-kept secret that even most Thais forget exists. This is where you go when you want mountains without the tourists, cool weather without the hipster coffee shops, and adventure without the Instagram influencers ruining it.
Why Phetchabun? (Because You’re Better Than Wannabe Influencers)
- It’s like Chiang Mai’s quiet cousin. All the mountains, none of the digital nomads.
- Cooler than Bangkok (literally). Yes, Thailand does have seasons, and Phetchabun actually gets cold.
- Zero tourist traps. No touts, no overpriced tours, just pure, unfiltered Thailand.
What to Do (Besides Question Your Life Choices for Coming Here)
1. Khao Kho: Thailand’s Mini Switzerland (Kind Of)
- Rolling hills, misty mountains, and enough scenic viewpoints to make your camera weep.
- Stay in a floating tent (basically glamping) at Phu Tub Berk (also spelled Phu Thap Buek but you'll mispronounce it anyway) if you’re into pretending you’re Bear Grylls (but with Wi-Fi).
- Visit Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, a temple so extra it looks like it was designed by a psychedelic artist.
2. Nam Nao National Park
- Hiking, waterfalls, and enough fresh air to detox your Bangkok lungs.
- If you’re lucky, you might spot wild elephants (or at least their poop).
3. Local Food That’ll Make You Question Bangkok Street Food
- Sai Oua (Northern-style sausage) but with a Phetchabun twist: spicier, meatier, and way more addictive.
- Khao Soi Phetchabun: Not the Chiang Mai version, this one’s richer, darker, and probably illegal in some countries.
- Wat Trai Phum: A temple with a giant pink lotus that looks like it belongs in a fantasy movie.
- Thung Salaeng Luang National Park: Grasslands so vast you’ll forget you’re in Thailand.
Where to Stay (Because You Can’t Sleep in a Rice Field)
- Budget (500-1,000 THB/night) – Basic homestays or guesthouses where the owner will probably adopt you. Low cost glamping starts here.
- Mid-Range (1,000-2,500 THB/night) – Cozy resorts in Khao Kho with mountain views and breakfast included. Hi-so glamping available here.
- Bougie (3,000+ THB/night) – Private villas with fireplaces because yes, it gets that cold.
How to Get There (Before You Chicken Out)
- Bus (5-6 hrs from Bangkok, ~300+ THB) – Cheap but prepare for questionable karaoke.
- Drive (4-5 hrs) – The best option if you want freedom to explore (and stop for roadside grilled pork).
- Flight (Just Kidding, There’s No Airport) – You’re roughing it like a real traveler.
Final Verdict
Phetchabun is for people who actually like adventure, not just posting about it. It’s wild, it’s beautiful, and it’s blissfully free of tourist nonsense. There's no fancy café that serves matcha latte and avocado toast on every single street corner. If you go, don’t tell too many people, let’s keep this one a secret.
Now go drink some local coffee, breathe that mountain air, and pretend you’re in Switzerland (but with way better food).
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