Thailand

Home to the mythical Phu Ruea mountain, towering at 1,365 meters above sea level, Phu Ruea National Park in the Isaan region attracts mountain enthusiasts.

This beautiful mountainous park in Loei experiences the coldest temperatures in Thailand. However, this inconvenience doesn't deter hikers, summit enthusiasts, or photographers seeking unique views. Stepping foot on Mount Phu Ruea, shaped like the prow of a Chinese sailboat, you'll feel like the king of the universe! The joy of floating among the clouds, the sublime view over Laos and the Mekong, descending grassy cliffs adorned with lovely orchids and flowering rhododendrons, and swimming at the foot of Huai Phai waterfall—these are just a few of the pleasures offered during a day trip to Phu Ruea National Park. While not a mandatory stop, this place promises a return to nature and a genuine connection with the wilderness on an adventurous journey through Isaan.

Where is the park headquarters located?

If you seek a haven away from the bustle of populous cities, this park is an ideal refuge. It is situated in Phu Ruea, a small town nestled in the remote mountains of northeastern Thailand, administratively part of Loei province. A portion of the park extends into Tha Li district. The official park office is 59 km from Loei, about an hour's drive. It's a 176-kilometer journey from Phitsanulok.

Geographical profile of the site

Phu Ruea Park was opened to the public in 1979. It derives its name from Phu Ruea Mountain, whose peculiar shape, resembling the bow of a Chinese ship, continues to impress tourists. The mountain is a prominent bump in the Phetchabun mountain range. Other significant peaks include Phu Luang (1,571 m), Phu Kradueng (1,316 m), and Phu Lom Lo (1,664 m). However, these beautiful peaks are part of other protected areas. Phu Ruea's highest point is the eponymous mountain at 1,365 meters. Pleasantly rugged, the mountain is formed of sandstone, granite, and red porphyry cliffs. Its 121 km2 area features plains, lakes, waterfalls, and rocky plateaus that host a rich and diverse wildlife.

Biodiversity of Phu Ruea National Park

If your goal is to observe large predators, a visit to Phu Ruea Park may disappoint. Malayan bears climb trees to build nests, while the critically endangered Asiatic wild dog, known as the dhole, with its reddish-brown fur, is also notable. Other sightings include small game such as Indian muntjac, barking deer, and sambar deer roaming freely in the undergrowth.

The plant kingdom is more intriguing. Children will delight in counting the variety of orchids blooming on the slopes: violet, golden yellow, red, or ivory white. They come in all shapes and in a wide range of colors. The inventory also includes cherry trees, tulips, and pink-flowered rhododendrons.

Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled to explore the tropical jungle of Phu Ruea. No less than 38 bird species are recorded here: the wild rooster, prelate pheasant, and yellow-vented bulbul. Also noteworthy is the large coucal, impressive with its 48-cm size but limited in flight ability, thus climbing through the underbrush in search of nestlings, seeds, or small insects. Other species include the cuckoo shrike, plain prinia, and red-throated sunbird, which are always busy collecting nectar from flowers.

Tour of Phu Ruea National Park

Ecotourism at Phu Ruea Park offers various activities. Camping, rock climbing, waterfall jumps, or simply enjoying the serene landscapes while taking numerous photographs along the Mekong… The tourist is spoiled for choice.

Climbing Phu Ruea Summit

The mountain is located 3 kilometers from the visitor center. There are various ways to explore these majestic and daunting heights. You can drive to the parking lot and continue on foot or take the park shuttle to reach the peak. For those in good physical condition, hiking is the best option. Hiking trails pass through beautiful wildflowers and orchids.

The view of the Mekong and Hueang rivers will make your trip worthwhile. Thousands of tourists flock here to marvel at the magic of sunset or sunrise, clearly visible from this height. Additionally, the image of Buddha Phra Phuttha Nawa Banphot, seated in the Maravijaya posture, sits atop the summit.

Climbing Pha Loan Noi Mountain

This peak awaits you 3 kilometers from the park headquarters. You'll have a panoramic view of the three mountains: Phu Luang, Phu Pha Sat, and Phu Khrang, converging in a fabulous vista.

Hin Tao, a geological curiosity

A rocky pinnacle resembling a turtle, detached from the rest of the massif due to natural erosion.

Lan Hin Phan Khan Mak

This rocky plateau is dotted with small fissures where flowers grow.

Huai Phai Waterfall and Pha Sam Thong Waterfall

Both are located on the main trail leading to the mountain. The former is the most popular, standing 3 meters tall.

Practical information

Opening hours and admission prices

The park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. An entrance fee of 200 baht is charged for adult tourists and half the price for children. Thai nationals enter for free. Parking is available for visitors with vehicles.

The best time to visit

Travel advisors recommend December to February as the best period for a mountain escape in Phetchabun. Make sure to pack warm clothes. While perfectly dry, temperatures can drop below 0 °C both during the day and at night. A temperature gauge is installed at the mountain summit. Avoid visiting during the last days of the year, as the park sees an influx of Thai tourists for New Year celebrations.

How to get there

To cover the 50 km distance between the forest park and downtown Loei, you can hail a taxi, take a public bus, or drive a private vehicle.

By bus

If you opt for the bus, head to Loei Bus Station and take the bus to Phitsanulok. There are three departures daily: at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. Ask to be dropped off in Phu Ruea district. From there, rent a motorcycle or hire a private songthaew to reach the park.

By private car

If you plan to drive, take Highway 203, leading to Amphoe Phu Ruea. Near the city hall office, a large dark panel (with the image of the King of Siam engraved on it) indicates the way to the national park. Further on, a pink arrow points right to guide visitors. The park entrance gate is at the end of this secondary road.

With Sawa'Discovery, a driver will take you in a private vehicle to the park entrance.

Nearby attractions…

After leaving Phu Ruea National Park, other points of interest in the region include:

• Wat Pa Huay Lad, a beautiful example of Thai architecture;
• Loei Castle, renowned as a true wine temple;
• Ku Phradueng National Park.