Exploring the Tranquility of Loei, Thailand

The Ascent Begins
Today marked the first day of our Loei adventure, and what a start it was! The anticipation had been building ever since we touched down in this serene corner of Thailand. I was eager to experience the famed Phu Kradueng National Park. It promised a blend of physical challenge and natural beauty, and I was more than ready to embrace it all, with Lena by my side, of course.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Phu Kradueng National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Thailand.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ban Thai Restaurant Loei. I must admit, finding it was a bit of a challenge. I had read some mixed reviews, with one person even saying it doesn't open until 1 PM and doesn't serve breakfast. However, other reviews mentioned a wide selection of local and international cuisine. Thankfully, we found it and it was open! It was the perfect fuel for the day’s adventure ahead. I opted for a classic Thai breakfast, while Lena, ever the adventurous one, tried something new and local. I even saw German beer on the menu, which was a nice reminder of home.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Ban Thai Restaurant in Loei – where every dish tells a story.

After breakfast, we made a quick stop at DD - Loei Tea & Gift Shop. Lena wanted to pick up a few souvenirs for her family back in Berlin. I was more interested in trying some local teas. I ended up buying a small bag of some local blend, while Lena picked up some handcrafted trinkets. It's these little moments, browsing local shops, that really make a trip feel authentic.


Explore the charm of DD - Loei Tea & Gift Shop, where local flavors and unique gifts come together in a delightful shopping experience.

Finally, it was time to head to Phu Kradueng National Park. The drive was scenic, passing through small villages and lush countryside. As we approached the park, the imposing silhouette of Phu Kradueng loomed in the distance, a stark reminder of the challenge that awaited us.

The hike itself was nothing short of an adventure. The initial 5.2 kilometers were a relentless uphill climb. Starting at 285 meters above sea level, we ascended to 1,275 meters. The first 800 meters were particularly steep, and the final 1.3 kilometers before reaching the plateau were even more challenging. Thankfully, the steeper sections had concrete, bamboo, or wooden stairways to assist us.

I'll admit, there were moments when I questioned my sanity. My legs were burning, my lungs were screaming, and sweat was pouring down my face. But then I would look over at Lena, her face flushed but determined, and I would find a renewed sense of motivation. We pushed each other, encouraged each other, and laughed at our shared misery. It's these shared experiences that strengthen our bond and make our travels so special.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

About halfway up, we stopped at one of the rest stops along the trail. These oases were a welcome sight, offering food, beverages, and even souvenirs. I grabbed a much-needed bottle of water, while Lena indulged in some local fruit. We chatted with some fellow hikers, sharing stories and tips. It's amazing how quickly you can bond with strangers when you're all united by a common goal: reaching the top of Phu Kradueng! I read that during peak season, all five rest stops are open, but during the low season, only three are open. We were lucky to have enough open to catch our breath!

As we continued our ascent, the landscape began to change. The dense jungle gradually gave way to a more open pine forest, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. The temperature also started to drop, a welcome relief from the sweltering heat. We were visiting during the cool season, which lasts from November 17 to January 23, so the average daily high temperature was below 85°F.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we reached the summit! The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. We had conquered Phu Kradueng! And the view…oh, the view! It was simply breathtaking. The vast plateau stretched out before us, a tapestry of green forests, rolling hills, and dramatic cliffs. The late afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the landscape, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.

According to what I read, the park officially became a national park November 23, 1962. It’s a popular destination because of the biodiversity and geographical variety. The cliffs are made of sandstone and the plateau sits 1,200 meters above sea level. Many people come to see the waterfalls, but I had also read that the waterfalls may be dry depending on the time of year.

After catching our breath and soaking in the view, we made our way to the upper visitor center, another 3.5 kilometers along a flat dirt road. We checked into our campsite and set up our tent. It wasn't exactly the Ritz-Carlton, but it was comfortable enough for a night under the stars. Plus, after that hike, anything would have felt luxurious!

For lunch, we stopped at Lan Chang Restaurant. It had great reviews and I read it was on the way to Phu Ruea. We enjoyed some local dishes, reflecting on the day's adventures. It was a perfect way to refuel after our challenging hike. Lena tried a spicy curry, while I opted for a milder noodle dish. The flavors were incredible, a testament to the region's culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Lan Chang Restaurant in Loei - where every meal tells a story.

As evening approached, we ventured out to explore the plateau. We visited Wang Kwang Waterfall, just a kilometer from the campground. Although it wasn't flowing, the surrounding scenery was still beautiful. We then hiked to Nok Aan Cliff, one of the many viewpoints along the edge of the plateau. The view was even more spectacular than before, with the setting sun painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple.

For dinner, we decided to try Ran Ahan Che Suan Phak. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and served delicious vegetarian dishes. It was a welcome change from the heavier meals we had been eating. Lena, being a vegetarian, was in heaven! I even enjoyed the meal, despite being a devoted meat-eater.


Experience exquisite fusion cuisine at Ran Ahan Che Suan Phak in Loei, where traditional Thai flavors meet innovative culinary artistry.

After dinner, we sat around a campfire, sharing stories with our fellow campers. The camaraderie was infectious, and we felt like we were part of a global community of adventurers. As the night wore on, the stars came out in full force, blanketing the sky in a dazzling display of celestial beauty.

Before drifting off to sleep, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's events. We had faced a physical challenge, conquered a mountain, and witnessed some of the most breathtaking scenery I had ever seen. But more importantly, we had shared these experiences with each other, strengthening our bond and creating memories that would last a lifetime. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible journey and for the woman who shared it with me.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Skywalk Chiang Khan and Chiang Khan Walking Street. I am excited to see what adventures await us! We'll start the day with breakfast at Rice Noodles Soup Loei, followed by lunch at So Ahan Thai Restaurant. In the evening, we'll have dinner at Saloon Loei and maybe grab a drink at Outlaw Brewing. I'm particularly looking forward to experiencing the local culture and cuisine in Chiang Khan.

As I close my eyes, I can still feel the burn in my legs, the sweat on my brow, and the awe in my heart. Phu Kradueng, you were a challenge, but you were worth it. And to Lena, thank you for sharing this adventure with me. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

As a software engineer from Berlin, I'm used to challenges, but Phu Kradueng tested me in a different way. It reminded me that the best things in life are often the hardest to achieve. And as a travel blogger, I'm always looking for new and exciting experiences to share with my readers. Phu Kradueng certainly delivered on that front. I hope my story inspires you to step outside your comfort zone and embark on your own adventure. You never know what you might discover.

Goodnight from Loei, Thailand.