Kanchanaburi’s Thong Pha Phum National Park, renowned for its pristine natural beauty and the iconic Khao Chang Phuak tourist attraction, is preparing to welcome adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers as it opens its doors to long-distance trekkers this November 1st. Situated in the Ban E Tong forest area, Village No. 1, Pilok Subdistrict, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi Province, the park is set to offer a unique opportunity for tourists and citizens to immerse themselves in the wonders of the great outdoors.
Mr. Ratchasit Jongcharatphon, the head of Thong Pha Phum National Park, shared insights into the park’s attractions and its readiness for outdoor activities. Of particular interest is the Khao Chang Phuak tourist spot, known for its rugged terrain and scenic beauty. This spectacular destination beckons those who yearn to explore and connect with nature through long-distance treks that culminate at an impressive altitude of 1,249 meters above sea level (RTC).
With the arrival of the winter season, the Thong Pha Phum National Park is meticulously monitoring weather conditions and area readiness to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. The Ban E Tong forest area, Village No. 1, Pilok Subdistrict, Thong Pha Phum District, appears well-prepared to host tourists who seek to study and experience nature up close.
This initiative not only aims to offer a unique outdoor adventure but also contributes to the protection and maintenance of the national park, the promotion of sustainable tourism, and the generation of income for local communities. As a testament to this commitment, the Thong Pha Phum National Park has officially announced the opening of long-distance nature trekking at Khao Chang Phueak, scheduled for the fiscal year 2024. This exciting opportunity will be available from November 1, 2023, until January 31, 2024, spanning approximately 8 kilometers.
The two-day, one-night trek through the stunning Khao Chang Phueak will see local residents acting as porters to assist with luggage, ensuring a seamless experience. Thong Pha Phum National Park officials will be on hand to ensure the safety of all participants and convey the significance of the natural environment.
For prospective trekkers, adhering to specific guidelines is crucial to ensure an enjoyable and responsible visit:
- Strictly adhere to the national park’s laws, rules, and regulations.
- Follow the instructions provided by national park officials.
- Individuals with medical conditions that may hinder the trek are advised against entering the area.
- Register at the Thong Pha Phum National Park Visitor Center on the designated trekking day.
- Prohibit the use of foam containers, alcoholic beverages, pets, and single-use plastics within the national park.
- Only pack essential food, water, and belongings, which will be checked before being handed to porters.
- Dress appropriately and equip yourself for sun protection, abrasion, and the use of zip-lines.
- Utilize designated group walking routes specified by park officials.
- Avoid actions that harm nature, such as plant collection or defacing trees and rocks.
- Dispose of waste responsibly and use designated overnight areas.
- Maintain a respectful noise level and avoid causing disturbances to others.
- Gambling and disruptive activities are not permitted.
- In the event of unusual incidents, promptly notify national park officials.
Recently, on October 28th, Mr. Ratchasit Jongcharatphon, along with Thong Pha Phum National Park officials and local police officers from Pilok Police Station, conducted an expedition to assess the readiness of the park to accommodate long-distance trekkers aiming to conquer the summit of Khao Chang Phueak. Standing at an impressive altitude of 1,249 meters above sea level, Khao Chang Phuak is the third-highest peak in Kanchanaburi Province.
As of the inspection survey, all the preparations have been completed, and the Thong Pha Phum National Park Office of Conservation Area Management 3 (Ban Pong) is poised to welcome trekkers from November 1st, 2023, until January 31, 2024, for a total of three months. The park is well-prepared to provide an exceptional and safe outdoor experience amidst the wonders of nature.
