While riding motorbike from Phayao to Pua along route 1148 I almost did again passed Tham Sakoen National Park, but this time I thought "let's make a visit!". So I took a left and did follow the road for a few km. About 500m before the entrance gate you are passing (left side) a sign for a cave. But there goes a 400m walking / climbing train steep up the mountain. At the entrance gate I parked my motorbike I had a chat with the friendly park ranger who explained what you can do at Tham Sakoen National Park.
Well there is a beautiful waterfall but not now end Februari without much rain for about 5 months. But there is a nice Natural Walking Trail (about 1.8 km) where you can visit a small cave, called the Golden Cave. Only 800m walking. My pink ID card was accepted so I paid the Thai entrance price of 20 baht + 20 baht for the motorbike. The park ranger brought me to the beginning of the trail and explained me where I had to walk. And he made his excuses that he could not join because he was alone.
So for a moment I overthought if it was a good idea to go walk alone in the jungle but the path was good marked with signs. At least the first 200m. After that it did became a bit more difficult. And must be said, it is a very nice trail. Not too difficult, not too easy. Some beautiful huge trees. And some small creeks, it must be beautiful here mid November to end December. The trail passed a few things and there are signs to explain, even in English! The cave is small and you can not get lost. But there is no electricity so take your own! I used my telephone. Going alone and without a good light was actually not a good idea. But never mind, I made it back again. Now you think you walk in the jungle and not in the sun. Minor mistake as I can feel the sunburn now. Also you will need some bottles of water (not for sale at the park). Following are some photos I took. For more information about Nan province see Destination Travel Guide Nan.
