Things to do in Wang Nam Khiao

Start a Wang Nam Khiao weekend at Pha Keb Tawan Cliff inside Thap Lan National Park, where a dramatic viewpoint offers sweeping panoramas of undulating rainforest stretching to the horizon, hike through the cool mountain air, spot wild gaurs along the trail, and toss seeds off the cliff edge into the greenery below. At Khao Phaeng Ma, a peaceful nature reserve earmarked for wild gaur spotting, the wide-open landscape and fresh forest air make for an exceptional morning in nature away from any crowds, arrive at dawn for the best wildlife sightings. Stroll through Flora Park between December and February, when hundreds of thousands of seasonal flowers, marigolds, petunias, verbena, carpet the hillside in rainbow swaths perfect for photography; the park charges a modest entrance fee and is open daily. Walk the cycling and jogging path along Lam Phra Phloeng Reservoir for a 2-kilometer scenic waterfront route ending at the dam lookout point with produce stalls selling fresh local fruit. Visit Wat Ban Rai 2 (Wat Bu Pai) to pay respects at the world's largest golden statue of Luang Por Khun Parisuttho, then take a short drive to Subtawee Dhammaram Monastery for temple photography in a mountain setting. End your trip with wine and a gourmet lunch at Village Farm and Winery, where vineyard views and local cheese platters create an unexpectedly European-feeling afternoon in the heart of Thailand.