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Phu Sang - Phu Chi Fah Last Thursday we took a ride from Phayao to Chiang Kham. But actually that's just a prelude to the route we're taking today. Our plan is to visit Phu Chi Fah in the rainy season. I know it's not as chilly now as in the cooler months. But on the other hand that means your baggage is less bulky since you don't need to bring along thick sweater. Besides, the view from atop Phu Chi Fah at this time of the year is as spectacular as ever. Actually, without the crowd, it looks even better. You have the entire mountain to yourself!Well, let's get going. From Chiang Kham, where we ended last week's journey, drive five kilometres along Highway 1021 and turn right onto the rural Highway 4010. As you reach the town of Phu Sang, you'll see Highway 1093. Yes, that's the road! Phu Sang Waterfall is five kilometres from the district capital. Along the way, if you wish, you can visit Phra That Phu Sang, the area's most respected pagoda. From the waterfall, the border town of Ban Huak is five kilometres down the 1093. A dozen or so kilometres after Ban Huak the winding road starts to climb up the mountains. The nice scenery along both sides makes this road pleasant to drive but you have to always watch out for falling rocks and oncoming vehicles that might emerge unexpectedly out of the curves. Oh, and try not to hit the villagers' cows. About 23 kilometres from Ban Huak, you'll reach the Doi Pha Mon Centre for Agricultural Extension. Between the centre and Phu Chi Fah, there are a number of guesthouses and resorts to choose from. From Phu Chi Fah, in case you still have time, you can drive further to Pha Tang, another famous viewpoint, and on to the Mekong River in Chiang Khong District. Bangkok Post August 2005 www.bangkokpost.com |