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ผาหัวนาค อุทยานแห่งชาติภูแลนคา

4.7 · 868 reviews
A serene and windswept natural observation point.
3W3X+QMW ผาหัวนาค อุทยานแห่งชาติภูแลนคา Ban Duea, Mueang Chaiyaphum District, Chaiyaphum 36120, Thailand
Interesting facts
1

The cliff’s name, 'Hua Nak,' translates literally to 'Naga Head' due to the rock formation's resemblance to the mythical serpent of Thai folklore.

2

It is one of the highest vantage points in Phulaenkha National Park, providing a 180-degree view of the valley below.

3

The park is home to a significant population of wild orchids and dry dipterocarp forests that thrive in the sandy soil surrounding the cliff.

4

Unlike the nearby Mo Hin Khao (Thai Stonehenge), which features large stone pillars, Pha Hua Nak is defined specifically by its precipice drop and horizontal strata.

5

The temperature at the cliff edge is consistently lower than in the town of Chaiyaphum due to the elevation gain of the Phu Laenkha mountain range.

Overview

Pha Hua Nak is a prominent sandstone cliff formation situated within Phulaenkha National Park in Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand. The site is characterized by a jagged, elongated rock protrusion that extends over a deep valley, resembling a serpent's head. It offers an unobstructed panoramic view of the surrounding forested landscape and agricultural plains of Chaiyaphum. The area is part of the Phu Laenkha mountain range, which is composed primarily of sedimentary rock strata. Visitors can access the cliff edge via a short trail system from the primary park plateau area. During the rainy and cool seasons, the cliff is frequently surrounded by a dense sea of mist, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts. The geography of the site is shaped by natural erosion processes common to this specific region of the Khorat Plateau.

Photo spot

The very tip of the cliff looking outward toward the valley during sunrise or when the mist sits below the horizon.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes as the terrain near the cliff edge consists of loose sand and uneven sandstone rocks.

Bring a windbreaker or light jacket, as the wind speed at the cliff edge is significantly higher than in the forested park interior.

Avoid walking near the very edge of the cliff, as there are no guardrails or safety fences protecting the drop.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb the rock face during rain showers, as the sandstone becomes extremely slippery and prone to crumbling.

Good to know

May be subject to temporary closures during the rainy season if trails become hazardous due to heavy monsoon downpours.

Etiquette

Avoid loud noises to maintain the environment; carry out all trash as there are no waste disposal bins at the cliff edge.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon during the cool season (November–February) for clear skies and optimal lighting.
Address
3W3X+QMW ผาหัวนาค อุทยานแห่งชาติภูแลนคา Ban Duea, Mueang Chaiyaphum District, Chaiyaphum 36120, Thailand
16.054, 101.949
Get directions
Details
TerrainSandstone cliff plateau
FacilitiesUnimproved natural trail with no guardrails

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late afternoon during the cool season (November–February) for clear skies and optimal lighting..

The very tip of the cliff looking outward toward the valley during sunrise or when the mist sits below the horizon.

Close by you'll find Cliff Head Visitor Center Naga Phu Lan Kha, Tat Ton Waterfall, Phu Lan Kha National Park.