Phu Kradueng National Park

About this Place

Phu Kradueng is Isaan's most celebrated national park — a flat-topped sandstone plateau rising to 1,320m in Loei province, covered in pine and beech forests more reminiscent of northern Europe than tropical Thailand. The 9km ascent involves a genuine mountain hike with porters available to carry heavy packs for a modest fee. On the plateau, 50km of marked trails pass through pine meadows, cliff-edge viewpoints with panoramic Loei valley vistas, seasonal waterfalls (Pen Pob and Kean Sopha), and rich wildlife including barking deer, wild boar, mongooses, and over 200 bird species including rare pheasants. Night temperatures drop to 5–8°C in the cool season (November–February) — pack layers even if the lowlands feel warm. The park closes entirely June–September to allow ecosystem recovery from visitor pressure. Camping and government bungalows are available on the plateau. The sunrise from the eastern cliff viewpoint at Pha Lom Sak is genuinely extraordinary. One of Thailand's best multi-day hiking experiences and a rite of passage for Thai university students.