Phu Langka is a mountain range for viewing starry skiesÂ
Every time we go up north, catching views of the white fog amongst the mountain’s summits and gazing at the sweeping starry night views are probably the highlights of our trips.
Phayao is one such northern cities in Thailand which welcomes tourists in winter, enrapturing them with beautifully scenic views. If you’re keen on spending an evening up in the mountains, we’d place our bets on Phu Langka – a mountain in Phayao that has a route guiding visitors to watch the thick bank of fog, as well as a sky full of thousands of stars at night.
More places in Thailand to explore:
- KATOB Chiang Dao is a nature getaway in Chiang Mai
- La Maison Blanche is a Chiang Rai resort with outdoor bathtubs
- Ratchaburi has a ‘Grand Canyon’ that resembles the moon
Hike up the mountain range in Phayao
Image credit: @9vespa
On the way to Phu Langka, you will see lots of lush vegetation on both sides of the street along the way. Despite the winding route, the greenery will help you feel relaxed after a long-distance journey from the metropolis. The big mountain appearing in front as you’re driving, will definitely up the hype as you draw closer.
Image credit: @patt_nisarat
When you arrive at the top, we bet your fatigue will suddenly dissipate as soon as you behold the view of the lush green lands, along with the mist that floats past rolling hills situated in the distance.
Image credit: @iwillgo.thailand
As casual observers, we feel that this place resembles a mini Switzerland, albeit situated in Thailand. The reason could be that this large green field is a feast for the eyes like the iconic Schweiz.
If you squint and look a little further, you’ll be able to make out the small village that resembles a local community. Behind the village lie lofty hills that rise and touch the moving clouds. To be frank, the road which cuts through the village looks extremely inviting and will convince most of us to go for a drive to explore the area.
Image credit: @_khanueng_
Once the sun is gone, make sure you’ve got nothing important to deal with because thousands of stars will come out and twinkle for you once night falls. As an urban dwellers, this a golden opportunity to stargaze – an activity we don’t usually expect to indulge in back home.
Magic Mountain Cafe overlooks the green hills and sea of fog
Image credit: @outingpleasure
Once we visit a nature spot like this, a coffee shop is def what we’ll be looking for. Basically any place that allows us to sip coffee while enjoying the panoramic view of the sea of fog, and Phu Langka in its full glory.
Magic Mountain Cafe is a popular cafe that’s located on top of the mountain, directly facing the hills and dense fog ahead. Due to this feature, there’s no doubt in our minds why this coffee shop has become popular among backpackers.
Image credit: kanyapak_ch
For IG freaks, we know your trip won’t be perfect without nice pics of yourself for the ‘gram. So find this hidden corner of the cafe’s deck to snap breathtaking pics with a backdrop of green hills and the occasional mountain feature. Just make sure you strike a chic pose in your OOTD, for that new LINE profile pic.
Image credit: @fosthero
As the weather is fairly cold, we think it’d be a good idea to order a hot latte to sip on slowly, after spending time outdoors braving the cool wind. With so many things to do and see, we believe it a trip to the mountains would well be worth it, just to catch a break from our regular routines.
Stay close to the sea of fog at Phu Langka
Winter in Thailand is around the corner, and we can’t wait to go see these scenic foggy views in the northern parts of Thailand. So if you don’t have any plans in mind, consider a trip to Phu Langka as scenic views are guaranteed. Even just a 3D2N trip would be enough to catch this hidden natural attraction in its full glory.
Driving straight from Bangkok will take many hours, so we suggest taking a flight to Chiang Rai (CEI) Airport and renting a car to drive to Phu Langka with approximately 2.5 hours. However, a road trip from BKK would be fun too. So don’t hesitate to share your experience with us in the comments below.
Phu Langka
Address: Pha Chang Noi, Pong District, Chang Wat Phayao 56140Â
Telephone: +66 6 5502 5499 (Magic Mountain Cafe’s contact number)
Phu Langka’s Facebook | Google Maps
Cover images adapted from (Clockwise from Top Left): @9vespa, @patt_nisarat, and @outingpleasure
Enjoying The Smart Local Thailand? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more stories like this.