“The scenic winding road through the Phu Phan mountain range resembles a snake, offering beautiful photo opportunities such as a "snake-shaped love" photo spot and a charming Thai numeral nine garden. From a high vantage point, you can clearly see Sakon Nakhon city and Nong Han Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the nearby Kham Hom Waterfall.”
The Ping Ngu Curve is far more than a mere segment of Highway 213 connecting Sakon Nakhon and Kalasin; it is a masterpiece of road engineering that winds gracefully across the rugged terrain of the Phu Phan Mountains. Historically known for its treacherous slopes and sharp hairpin turns, the route has undergone a massive transformation into one of the most scenic and safest drives in Thailand. A central focal point is the Kham Hom Highway Service Station, which serves as a premium rest area and viewpoint. Here, the landscape is meticulously manicured into a giant Thai Number Nine (๙), a golden floral tribute to the late King Rama IX that stands out brilliantly against the lush, emerald-green backdrop of the surrounding forest.
Traveling through this iconic stretch offers an immersive experience, making drivers feel as though they are gliding along the spine of a giant serpent navigating the mountainside. The road is flanked by a natural tree tunnel that provides refreshing shade throughout the year, with the greenery reaching its peak vibrance during the rainy season. In the winter months, a delicate sea of mist often blankets the asphalt in the early morning, creating a dreamlike atmosphere for road trippers. Beyond the road itself, the area boasts a rich ecosystem home to diverse flora and fauna. The nearby Kham Hom Waterfall adds a soundtrack of rushing water to the scenery, making it an ideal spot for travelers to stop, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and capture panoramic photos of the vast Nong Han Lake shimmering in the distance.
How to Get There
- From Sakon Nakhon city, take Highway 213 towards Kalasin. The curve is located along the Phu Phan mountain road, passing near Phu Phan Ratchaniwet Palace. The drive takes about 30–40 minutes by car.
Travel Tips
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Ideal for adventurous travelers and road trip lovers.
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Drive carefully, as the road is narrow, winding, and steep.
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During the rainy season, the road may become slippery—check your vehicle’s condition before the trip.
Admission fee:
- Free of charge
Opening time:
- Open 24 hours