A couple of the CREW headed north of the city to take a look at the changes to the Tham Luang Caves. The distance of 55km along the Highway Route 1 meant an hour’s drive only. However, we found out there is some maintenance work there for the next few days. Never mind, we took the opportunity to look at the turquoise clear waters at KHUNNAM NANGON instead.
Parking is in the new market area and a 300m pick-up ride at BHAT5 wasn’t really needed. Can’t blame people for making a little money where they can. The market, food and souvenirs a plenty stalls are bustling with activity in readiness for the Thai new year soon, Songkran. With the waters here, it’s a favourite venue for the festivities.
On arrival, it is a very picturesque setting with the mountain as the backdrop, the clear small lake, rocks, trees and even a small waterfall has been constructed. Many local hill-tribes were visiting, strange but nice to not be able to understand the different languages.
Legend has it, a mythological Princess fell in love with a commoner, stable boy and was pregnant. Her father the King, sent out troops to find them. They took refuge in the caves. After a period of time, the boy went out to find food. He did not return, reportedly killed by the King’s Army. In her anguish, she stabbed herself to death and the mountain took on her form. Now known as the ‘Mountain of the Sleeping Lady’ or ‘Doi Nang Non’, looking from the East, the silhouette is clearly visible. The water that flows from the caves and into the Mae Nam river is said to be her blood. A nicer story is it’s her tears that form the lake.
Legends aside, this is a very religious spot. Some of the hill-tribes we saw there, are said to speak a similar language to the Princess, originating from the Chang Yung Province, in Yuannan, China.
A great photo opportunity for sure. Apart from the small clear lake, polarising filters are a must, cliff faces, mountains and woodland are beautifully pristine. And of course, take some photos of the wonderfully and traditionally dressed hill-tribe people.