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Hiking with a bay view in Prachuap Khiri Khan
It’s a bit tough and exhausting but climbing up the beachside hill of Khao Lom Muak is an absolutely rewarding experience with a picturesque scenery of a combination of the sea and mountains.
Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is famed for peaceful bays situated right next to the beach town. One of the best places to enjoy the bay view is from the top of the limestone hill of Khao Lom Muak from Wing 5 of the Prachuap Airbase.
At the hill foot, hikers will be greeted with fluffy Dusky Langurs (Spectacled Leaf Monkeys) which live freely in the preservation area. Then, for two hours, they have to climb up the hill on an easy staircase that snakes through tree shades interrupted by nature trails and viewpoints to the towering peak. The hiking gets gradually tougher and ends up with a rope trail to reach there.
But the struggle is worthwhile. Once on the hilltop, hikers will be rewarded with a great seascape and scenery of five bays that line the coast of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, namely Ao Prachuap, Ao Noi, Ao Khun Kradai, Ao Manao, and Ao Khlong Wan.
After indulged yourself with the best views in town, you can leisurely spend the easy afternoon in the airbase which opens for public visit. There are well-kept and tranquil beaches there where you can laze on. During the World War II, the Japanese Army invaded Prachuap Khiri Khan to besiege the airbase. With only 120 soldiers, the Wing 5 soldiers resisted the invasion of a troop of 3,000. A bit of history is displayed in the airbase's museum.
Just an hour drive from the bustling resort town of Hua Hin, the sleepy town of Prachuap Khiri Khan houses some tranquil beaches, cozy resorts, and excellent seafood restaurants. Get a glimpse of the quiet resort town, and you may love Prachuap Khiri Khan even more.
How to get there: Prachuap Khiri Khan is 186 miles south of Bangkok via highway 4.
- Khao Lom Muak opens during long holidays, and hikers need to register. Check the schedules at 032-611-031 or 032-611-017. As the hill is not illuminated, hikers should get back before the dusk. For more information about attractions, call TAT Prachuap Khiri Khan Office at 032-513-885 or 032-513-871.
- Good hiking shoes and drinking water are required for the hiking.
