Lan Sang
Legend has it that while leading an attack on Chiang Mai, King Krung Thon Buri became separated from his troops. In the dark forests, his soldiers were forced to wait for daylight to search for their beloved King. ' That night, a strange light appeared in the sky and the soldiers heard the King's horse whinny in the distance. They followed the horse's cries until dawn, when they came across their King mounted on his trusty steed. This site was aptly named "Lan Sang", the "Dawning Ground", and on 14 May, 1979, it was proclaimed a national park.
How to get there
From Mae Sot, follow Highway 105, Tak-Mae Sot, and turn left at km 12 - 13. From there, continue for about 3 kilometres to the park entrance.
Where to visit
Talk is the source of several mountain streams, including Lan Sang , Ta Lay, and Um Yoem, and offers a mix of lush forest varieties. Its mountainous geography also creates some spectacular waterfalls, the most popular being Lan Liang Ma Waterfall, a single-level waterfall located along Lan Sang Stream only 200 metres from Pain Lad. From a small notch carved through a collection of rocks, Lan Liang Ma cascades down over aseries of crevices, most impressive at the height of the rainy season when water pressure is at its highest. Just 100 metres from the Tourist Information office, Lan Sang Waterfall, a two-level waterfall, is also fed by Lan Sang Stream. Over the rainy season, the 1 9-metre high Pain Nguen Waterfall drops from a steep cliff naturally adorned with sharp stalagmites and stalactites. Nearby, visitors will find the wide Pain Phung Waterfall, and the narrow 8-metre high Pah Nam Yoi Waterfall. The heavy water crashing over the 4-level Pah Tae Waterfall can be heard for miles around.
Many luxurious hotels are conveniently located on Mahatthai Bamrung Road and Jornpol Road. Phalholyothin Road and Taksin Road both offer several mid-range options, while the park itself rents bungalows for 150-160 baht. Additionally, a four-room tent is also available from the park for 40 baht per night. The park charges 5 baht for a basic campsite. For reservation, please contact Lan Sang National Park, tel. 579-0529, 579-4842.
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