So, our pleasant stay in Good Nine Resort has ended as we fire up the sandwich maker again and clear out the larder. I have to admit that I had no idea which district of Phang Nga I'd booked accommodation in, just that it was further south than Khao Lak. It was such good fortune that Thai Mueang district has so much to offer, with an idyllic coastline of golden sand beaches, while there were waterfalls inland and marine conservation areas too, centered around the ferry port of Thap Lamu. We've been so fortunate too that we have good weather. By contrast, the weather today has turned cloudy.
There is now just one more thing to do this morning before we start our journey back. I need to return to the naval base to get my injection on a day that is far from normal. Today is a memorial day in honor of the birthday of King Rama V, who did so much to modernise Siam, as it then was, in the 19th century. Such is the esteem he is held in that 5 December is a national holiday. At the naval base, just skeleton staff is on duty, but they accepted this routine treatment today, as a duty doctor was not needed. With an earlier start and fast track at the hospital, we are ready to leave Thai Mueang.
For the journey today, I've chosen a different route from the way we came, a more southerly one around Phang Nga's rocky hinterland. We head south then east along HWY 5007, a shortcut heading for Phang Nga City. We now rejoin HWY 4 for the spectacular Khao Nang Hong pass heading east using long sections of switchback curves. We're now back in Surat Thani province, changing to HWY 4118 back towards Ban Ta Khun, where we were a few days ago. However, we're soon distracted by another attraction, which adds a significant amount of time to our journey. The attraction is Khao Na Nai Luang Dharma Park in Phannom district. This district, we know from recent travels, is characterised by its jagged karst limestone peaks. It's amidst this inhospitable landscape that the Dharma Park was set up.
We arrive at the park and pass through an ornate archway into a parking area, but the temple buildings are not here. They're perched precariously on mountain peaks. There is even a skywalk connecting two peaks. Unfortunately for me there is a stiff climb involved, and I cannot reach the viewpoint, so send Katoon to investigate. For me it's a wait in the shade with a cool fresh coconut. I then ask Grok for details. Khao Na Nai Luang Dharma Park is a stunning Buddhist temple complex and meditation center nestled in the limestone karst mountains of Phanom District. It's an off-the-beaten-path gem blending spirituality, architecture, and natural beauty, often called a 'floating pagoda' due to its elevated stupas appearing to hover over misty valleys.' It's time to continue our journey north, connecting with HWY 401. After an hour's drive, we see another attraction signboarded on the left.
A short detour takes us to Khlong Nam Sai, a popular local attraction in Khiri Rat Nikhom district. This pristine canal features exceptionally clear water sourced from uphill springs in the watershed forest. The water stays crystal-clear, and you can see fish swimming below. It's a popular spot for swimming, relaxing in cool, refreshing water, or picnicking amid shady, lush surroundings. We arrive later in the afternoon when the site is practically deserted. I only have time to take a few photos, otherwise there is a 20 baht fee. Now we really must bridge the distance for arrival at arranged accommodation.
It's not too far to HWY 41, the major north/south carriageway. From here we make good progress through the remaining districts of Surat Thani and cross into Chumphon province. The weather has been cloudy all day, but as we head further north, the clouds look menacing, finally blackening the sky and leading to a localised storm. Thankfully it eases as we reach Lang Suan. Here in the town we check in at Pugdee Hotel just off the main road through the town. Not normally the type of location we use, it proves remarkably convenient for just an overnight stay, as there is a good restaurant next door. The rooms at this hotel are spacious enough, but why such a small bathroom? You can't even swing your arms, never mind a cat. Then, just after we deposit our belongings, there is a short circuit after removing the key card, cutting off the power supply. We leave it to reception to sort the problem out while we head next door for a spicy seafood meal. Returning to the hotel, we now need to change rooms. Not a big issue, as it turns out. Tomorrow we will continue north and have already arranged accommodation.

Source: Visit