Nam Nao Shortcut Route to Phu Kradueng

Open Days: Subject to national park and local authority announcements

Opening Hours: Contact park officers before traveling

 

The Nam Nao Shortcut Route to Phu Kradueng is a nature-based travel route in Phetchabun that appeals to hikers and outdoor travelers looking for a more direct and scenic way to approach the high, cool plateau of Phu Kradueng. The route is especially interesting because visitors can first stop at Tham Yai Nam Nao, also known as Phu Nam Rin, in Lak Dan Subdistrict, before continuing toward the forest route that connects the Nam Nao side with the Phu Kradueng area.

 

This route offers a different experience from ordinary sightseeing routes. Instead of focusing only on a destination, it emphasizes the journey through forests, mountains, caves, and cool highland landscapes. The surrounding environment is natural throughout much of the route, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy hiking, forest scenery, and a sense of adventure.

 

Tham Yai Nam Nao is one of the key stops along this travel idea. Located in Lak Dan Subdistrict, Nam Nao District, Phetchabun Province, the cave is known as a large natural cave with a cool and quiet atmosphere. It makes a meaningful stop before continuing toward the highland route, allowing visitors to experience both cave scenery and mountain forest landscapes in the same trip.

 

The Nam Nao side route toward Phu Kradueng is known for being shorter than some conventional approaches, particularly for travelers aiming toward the Pha Lom Sak side of Phu Kradueng. The hiking route from the Nam Nao side is often described as approximately 5.8 kilometers to Pha Lom Sak. Although the distance is shorter, the route is steep, rugged, and requires proper preparation.

 

It is important to understand that this route should not be treated as a casual independent trail. Because it passes through natural forest areas and can involve steep sections, visitors should contact national park officers or local protection units before attempting the route. Permission, guidance, and safety supervision may be required depending on current conditions and official regulations.

 

The main appeal of the route lies in the atmosphere. Travelers can experience forest shade, mountain air, natural sounds, and the gradual transition from the Nam Nao landscape to the highland environment associated with Phu Kradueng. This gives the journey a strong sense of adventure and makes the experience more memorable than a normal road-based trip.

 

For hikers, the route requires physical readiness. Proper hiking shoes, drinking water, snacks, rain protection, warm clothing, a flashlight, personal medicine, and basic first-aid supplies are recommended. Since the trail does not have the same level of food and drink services as some main tourist routes, travelers should prepare everything they need before starting.

 

The best season for this route is generally the cool season, when the weather is more comfortable and the forest atmosphere is pleasant. During the rainy season, the landscape may be lush and beautiful, but the trail can become slippery and more difficult. Checking weather conditions and official announcements is essential before traveling.

 

Travelers who plan to stay overnight on Phu Kradueng must make additional preparations. Reaching Pha Lom Sak does not mean the journey is complete, as the main camping and accommodation areas on Phu Kradueng are still farther away. Time, energy, accommodation reservations, and return plans should be calculated carefully.

 

Getting There is most convenient by private car. Travelers can first head to Nam Nao District in Phetchabun, visit Tham Yai Nam Nao in Lak Dan Subdistrict, and then contact park officers or relevant local units before proceeding toward the Nam Nao-side route to Phu Kradueng. Navigation apps can help with road access, but official guidance is necessary for the forest route.

 

 

A: It is a nature route from the Nam Nao side of Phetchabun that connects toward the Phu Kradueng area, offering a shorter but more rugged hiking experience.

 

A: No. Visitors should contact national park officers or relevant local authorities before attempting the route.

 

A: It is a large natural cave in Lak Dan Subdistrict, Nam Nao District, and can be visited before continuing toward the hiking route.

 

A: It is suitable for prepared hikers, nature travelers, and visitors who are physically ready for a steep forest route.

 

A: Hiking shoes, drinking water, snacks, rain protection, warm clothing, a flashlight, and basic first-aid items are recommended.

 

A: The cool season is generally the most suitable, but travelers must check official route conditions before departure.