Phu Laen Kha National Park, Chaiyaphum

“Interesting highlights include Tat Hin Lat Waterfall, Tat Ton Noi Waterfall, Phu Kham Noi, Phu Klang, Phu Di, Pha Koeng, Pha Phe, Pha Kluai Mai, Tham Kluea Cave, Tham Phra Cave, the Chi River, Lat Hin Taek, Thep Bucha, Pratu Khlong, Dok Krachiao Flower Fields, and Phu Laen Kha National Park, making the area an attractive destination for visitors throughout the year.”

Phu Laen Kha National Park is a distinctive national park in Northeastern Thailand, renowned for its remarkable geological formations and dramatic natural landscapes. Covering approximately 200 square kilometers within the northern and southern Phu Laen Kha Forest Reserves, the park is dominated by complex sandstone mountain ranges with elevations averaging 600–900 meters above sea level. This mountainous terrain creates cool and pleasant weather throughout the year, especially during the winter and late rainy seasons. The park’s forests consist mainly of dry dipterocarp forest, mixed deciduous forest, and dry evergreen forest, forming an important ecosystem of the Northeast. Native tree species such as Teng, Rang, Pluang, and Hiang are commonly found throughout the area. During the early rainy season, wild Siam tulips and seasonal wildflowers bloom across rocky fields and grasslands, adding vibrant colors to the mountains.

The park’s most iconic attraction is Mo Hin Khao, a spectacular group of gigantic white sandstone pillars standing prominently in an open field, earning the nickname “Thailand’s Stonehenge.” These rock formations were naturally shaped by wind and rain erosion over millions of years. The main stone pillars number five and rise approximately 12 meters high. Surrounding them are uniquely shaped rock formations resembling boats, pagodas, and even the Leaning Tower of Pisa.According to local folklore, the name “Mo Hin Khao” originated from mysterious glowing white lights reportedly seen around the stone pillars on Buddhist holy nights, eventually becoming a legendary symbol of Chaiyaphum Province.

Another famous viewpoint is Pha Hua Nak, located about 4 kilometers from Mo Hin Khao. Situated on a mountain ridge approximately 905 meters above sea level, the cliff resembles the head of a Naga serpent extending outward over the landscape. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of mountain ranges and the plains of Chaiyaphum Province. During the rainy and winter seasons, seas of mist often cover the valleys below in the early morning, while evenings offer some of the province’s most beautiful sunset views.Beyond its main attractions, the park also features interesting sites such as Hin Prasat Viewpoint, Pratu Khlong Rock Formation, Pha Kluai Mai, Phan Thong Waterfall, and several short nature study trails. Along these trails, visitors may encounter small wildlife, forest birds, and colorful butterflies.

For camping enthusiasts, Pha Hua Nak is one of the most popular camping spots in the park due to its clear night skies and cool temperatures year-round. Facilities include camping grounds, restrooms, welfare shops, and rental services for basic camping equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and blankets.One of the features that makes Phu Laen Kha National Park unique compared to other national parks is its expansive rocky plateau landscape atop the mountains. The open terrain provides exceptional sunrise, sunset, and night sky views. During the cool season from November to January, photographers frequently visit the park to capture the Milky Way and spectacular seas of mist under crystal-clear skies.

How to Get There

By Car: From Chaiyaphum town, take Highway No. 2051 (Chaiyaphum–Tat Ton route) for approximately 16 kilometers to reach the Phu Laen Kha National Park checkpoint. Then turn left onto the paved mountain road and continue for about 24 kilometers to Mo Hin Khao and Pha Hua Nak. The mountain road is steep in some sections, so drivers should proceed carefully.

Travel Tips