“A panoramic sunset viewpoint and a staircase of over 200 steps leading to the limestone summit for a 360-degree mountain view.”
Phahong Cave Viewpoint is one of the major landmarks located within the Nam Nao National Park area. It is characterized by its towering limestone mountains, which are geologically prominent. The history of the name Pha Hong comes from the mountain's elegant shape, resembling a mythical swan (Hong) in one's imagination. This place is not just an ordinary viewpoint but is also the site of a small cave with great ecological importance. Inside the cave are narrow, complex crevices and naturally formed stalactites and stalagmites. Although the cave is not large, it is filled with charm and mystery waiting for travelers to experience firsthand.
In terms of natural architecture, the journey to the Tham Pha Hong viewpoint involves walking up approximately 259 concrete steps, which the park has well-maintained alongside natural paths. Along the way, you will encounter dry evergreen forest plants and uniquely shaped rock formations. Upon reaching the summit, you will find a spacious area that serves as an excellent vantage point. From here, you can see the lush, overlapping mountain ranges and Highway 12 winding below a picture that perfectly reflects the meeting of human work and nature.
The highlight that attracts tourists the most is its status as one of the most beautiful sunset viewpoints in Phetchabun Province. In the evening, as the sunlight begins to fade, the sky turns golden orange and violet-pink, casting a glow over the dark gray limestone peaks. This creates a powerful and romantic shadow effect at the same time. Sitting and relaxing to watch the day's last light here is an activity that helps relieve travel fatigue. Additionally, in the cave area, there are swarms of bats flying out to feed at dusk, a rare and exciting natural sight to behold.
Visiting Tham Pha Hong is a blend of light adventure and visual relaxation. Whether it is walking up the stairs to test your strength or feeling the cool air inside the limestone cave, every step here will make you feel closer to nature. It is an unmissable destination for anyone traveling through the Nam Nao route to capture the impressive sight of the sun slowly disappearing behind the grand mountains.
How to Get There
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Private Car: Located along Highway 12 (Lom Sak-Chum Phae) at Kilometer 39 (New KM marker is 404), about 10 kilometers from the Nam Nao National Park office towards Lom Sak District.
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Public Transport: You can take a regular bus passing the Lom Sak-Chum Phae route and ask to be dropped off at the Tham Pha Hong stop, which is located next to the main road.
Travel Tips
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Recommended Time: You should start the ascent at 05:00 PM to reach the summit in time for the sunset and should descend before the light is completely gone.
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Preparation: You should prepare a flashlight for exploring the cave and for lighting your way during the descent. Also, wear well-fitting shoes as some sections of the stairs are steep.
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Safety: Be careful when taking photos near the cliff edges and do not make loud noises inside the cave to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Admission Fee:
- Thai citizens: Adults 40 THB / Children 20 THB
- Foreigners: Adults 200 THB / Children 100 THB.
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 08:00 AM – 06:30 PM.