After exploring the historic city of Nan, we continued our Thailand road trip south toward the mountains of Phetchabun Province.
The journey itself was part of the adventure as we drove through the scenic provinces of Phrae and Uttaradit. This is one of the things I love most about traveling Thailand by car – some of the best experiences happen between destinations, when you’re simply following the road and seeing what appears along the way.
A Few Surprises Along the Road
Thailand road trips always seem to deliver unexpected moments.
During our drive, we stopped at a roadside rest area and discovered something we had never seen before – urinals sitting right on the edge of the jungle!
Only in Thailand can you find a roadside bathroom experience that doubles as a conversation piece. It was a funny reminder that traveling here often comes with little surprises you won’t find in any guidebook.
Exploring the Forest Trails
Behind our resort, we discovered a cool nature trail winding through the forest.
The walk was peaceful and surprisingly adventurous. Towering tropical trees surrounded us as we followed the path deeper into the landscape. Along the way, we even spotted a giant millipede making its way across the trail- a small but memorable reminder of how much life exists in Thailand’s forests.
The trail eventually led us toward incredible mountain views and gave us a chance to experience the natural beauty that makes Khao Kho such a popular escape for Thai travelers.
Wat Phra That Pha Sorn Kaew: A Mountain Temple Like No Other
As evening approached, we headed to one of Phetchabun’s most spectacular attractions: Wat Phra That Pha Sorn Kaew.
Perched high in the mountains, this temple is unlike almost anywhere else in Thailand. Its colorful mosaic-covered architecture, five large white Buddha statues, and dramatic hilltop location create one of the most unforgettable temple settings in the country.
Walking through the temple complex as the sun disappeared behind the mountains was magical. The colors of the mosaics changed with the fading light, and soon the entire area was illuminated against the darkness.
It was the perfect ending to a day filled with scenic drives, nature, and discovery.
Dinner with a Mountain View
After exploring the temple, we enjoyed one more unexpected treat – a truffle pizza from a local shop overlooking the mountains.
Thailand is famous for incredible street food and local dishes, but sometimes a great pizza paired with an amazing view is exactly what you need after a full day of exploring.
Sitting above the valleys with the cool mountain air around us, we reflected on another memorable day of our Thailand road trip.
Watch the Video
Join us on Day 24 of our Thailand road trip as we travel from Nan through Phrae and Uttaradit toward the mountains of Phetchabun.
Along the way, we discover a very unusual roadside stop, check into Kiri Pura Resort, explore forest trails, encounter some unique wildlife, and finish the day at the breathtaking Wat Phra That Pha Sorn Kaew as the sun sets over the mountains.
Another unforgettable day exploring the hidden corners of Thailand!
Backpack Benji’s Best Bets
- Don’t rush through Phetchabun. The mountain roads and viewpoints are part of the experience.
- Stay overnight in Khao Kho to enjoy the cooler weather and peaceful atmosphere.
- Visit Wat Phra That Pha Sorn Kaew near sunset for the most dramatic views and lighting.
- Explore the trails and viewpoints around your resort – some of the best discoveries aren’t on a map.
- Keep an eye out for unexpected roadside stops. They often become some of your favorite travel memories.
Where I Stayed:
Kiri Pura Resort
By late afternoon, we arrived at Kiri Pura Resort in Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province.
Located in the mountains, Kiri Pura offers a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, cool mountain air, and beautiful scenery. After several days of exploring northern Thailand, it was the perfect place to slow down and relax.
We checked in, enjoyed a welcome drink, and settled into our mountain retreat.
One of the unique features of our stay was the private steam bath pod. After spending hours on the road, relaxing in our own private steam room was a wonderful way to unwind. In the morning is was awesome with the cool crisp mountain air just outside the open window as I stepped out of a hot steam.