The provincial capital of Loei is remotely situated 520 km north from Bangkok. The name Loei literally means “farthest” or “remotest” and this aptly applied as the region was used as a base by the Communist Party of Thailand’s guerrilla movement in the 1980’s. This factor together with its remoteness from urbon Thailand contributed to the region maintaining much of its original identity, beauty and charm away from the influences of commerciallism. The region lies on the western edge of the Khorat Plateau and borders the mountainous north. Today the region is not so remote as there is an excellent road to Lom Sak and the last 160 km to Loei is a rewarding drive through beautiful mountain scenery. The climate here can be extreme at both ends of the scale from scorching heat during the daytime in the hot seasen to zero at night. Thailand’s coldest temperature of -4 Degrees was recorded here and as a conseguence Loei supports a major cotton quilt making industry. The town of Loei is a good base to explore the magnificent national parks of the region which are generally unspoilt wilderness. There are six major parks withim easy access ; Phu Luang, Phu Kradung, Phu Hin Rongkla, Phu Rua Man and Nam Nao.
National Parks
Phu Kradung
Probably the most famous national park in the north east it is named ofter the bell shaped mountain which rises dramatically from the undulating lowland savanna. The park covers an area of 350 sq km and the verying types of forest cover is home to many sepecies of wildlife. It is not uncommon to see sambarbarking deer, Asiatic black bears, elephants, gibbons and there are over 130 species of bird life. The park has over 40 km of trails and picture postcard views of the surrounding region from the mountain top making it a paradise for naturalists.
Phu Rua
The national park is located 50 km west of Loei and is reached by a winding road that curls up the mountain range to the summut bringing a new view on every turn. The name Rua literally means “boat” and comes from the form of the parks highest peak which is shaped like a boat. The summit has excellent panoramic views as far as the eye can see across the mountains and valleys beyond. Within the park are many waterfalls and interesting eroded rock formations creating a unique feel of being in a natural wonderland.
Phi Ta Khon
Festival The festival originated from Dan Sai 80 km to the west of Loei. Phi Ta Khon literally translated means “spirit” and during May or June each year young men dress up as spirits and parade sacred Buddha images through the town over a five day period. On the last day they remove their colourful masks and throw them into the river or lake. The event has its origin in a traditional Buddhist story when Prince Vessandorn, the Lord Buddha’s last incarnation returned to his hometown. The locals arranged a welcoming procession for him that was so joyous that even spirits decided to join in. In any case the festival is full of colour and merriment making it a good time for all.
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