Khao Phanom Bencha

We finally made it to Khao Phanom Bencha National Park last weekend and it was really good to get out of Thap Prik and see some of the gorgeous areas Thailand has to offer. The park is 50 square kilometers of forest and jungle surrounding the highest peak in Krabi, Khao Phanon Bencha. One of the big attraction of the park are the numerous waterfalls. The picture you see is of Haui To Waterfall, which has 11 tiers and at some spots falls over 70 meters down the rock face. We had a great time climbing to the top following a well marked trail. From the parking lot, the trip took no more than an hour and during the entire hike we were the only ones on the trail. Even though we were maybe just half a mile from the parking lot, as soon as you step off onto the trail you were in the jungle and it felt like it. In fact, they warn you not to leave the trails because it is easy to get lost very quickly. About a month ago, a British tourist strayed off the trail and wasn't found until almost 24 hours later. Obviously, he spent the night in the jungle. Something I wouldn't want to do without a knowledgeable guide and a good tent.

We hiked to a second smaller waterfall as well on a trail not so well marked, but decided to pass on another hike on a longer Nature Trail. That trail was overgrown, and without long pants and boots we weren't dressed for it. Although we didn't see any snakes (they are all down at our house!) we know they are out there waiting for us. All in all, it was a great day.

They also had some big trees ....