14.11.24 – Day 14 North of Thailand
From Phayao to Phu Chi Fa: A Day of Scenic Beauty and Serene Escapes
The journey from Phayao to Phu Chi Fa is a 190 km adventure that unfolds in two distinct chapters: the first part, a long and uneventful ride on straight roads, and the second, a breathtaking experience through the mountains that makes every kilometer worthwhile.
The Boring Stretch: Straight Roads and Little to See
Leaving Phayao early in the morning, we embarked on the first leg of the journey. For the first 90 km, the ride was surprisingly uninspiring. The roads were good and smooth, but they were nearly all straight, which made the ride feel long and monotonous. The landscape didn’t change much either—flat farmland and small villages dotted the horizon. While the roads themselves were well-paved, the lack of curves or scenic views made it feel like a stretch to get through.
The Mountains: A Change in Scenery
As we began to approach the mountains, the scenery took a dramatic turn. The air became cooler, the landscape more rugged, and the roads began to wind through forested hills. This is where the journey really started to shine. Route 1345, in particular, was a joy to ride. The winding mountain road was not only great for motorcycling, but the views were simply stunning. The lush green forests and the distant peaks made up for the earlier, uneventful stretch.
However, just as we were starting to enjoy the beauty of the mountains, the weather took a turn for the worse. A heavy downpour hit, turning the roads slick and dangerous. The rain came down quickly, and the roads became treacherously slippery. Safety first, we decided to take a break at a local hospital to wait for the rain to subside. It wasn’t ideal, but it gave us a chance to rest and take in the cool, fresh mountain air while we waited for the weather to improve.
Phu Chi Fa: A Beautiful Final Stretch
Once the rain cleared, we resumed our ride, heading up to Phu Chi Fa via Route 1093. This final stretch of the journey was, without a doubt, the highlight of the day. The road was narrow and winding, with steep ascents and sharp turns, offering spectacular views at every turn. As we climbed higher into the mountains, the scenery became even more dramatic—misty peaks, dense forests, and a sense of isolation that felt far removed from the world below.
The ride up to Phu Chi Fa was everything we had hoped for—a true mountain experience that appealed to both nature lovers and adventure seekers. The landscape unfolded in a series of breathtaking panoramas, and it was hard not to stop every few minutes just to soak it all in.
A Quiet and Peaceful Stay: Mongfin Phu Chi Fa
Upon reaching Phu Chi Fa, we found a wonderful place to stay called Mongfin Phuchifa. At first glance, the property seems like a private house rather than a guesthouse, but that only added to its charm and appeal. It’s located in a very quiet area, away from the main road, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. The setting was idyllic, and the calm atmosphere was a perfect match for the natural beauty of the area.
The room cost 1800 Baht per night, which included breakfast. For the price, it was absolutely worth it. The location was serene, the views were incredible, and the privacy made it feel like a special hideaway. The quiet location allowed us to fully unwind and appreciate the natural surroundings.
Dining with a View: Hot Pot and Sunset
For dinner, we had the chance to enjoy a hot pot barbecue while watching the sunset. It was an experience that felt both simple and magical. As the sun dipped behind the mountains, the changing colors of the sky added to the beauty of the landscape. Eating delicious food while enjoying such a view was nothing short of priceless. It was the perfect end to a day spent immersed in nature.
A Perfect Ending
As nature lovers, this day couldn’t have been more fulfilling. Despite the early stretch of unremarkable roads, the mountains more than made up for it with their raw beauty and dramatic scenery.
From the peaceful ride through the mountains to the quiet retreat at Mongfin Phu Chi Fa, this journey offered everything we were looking for.
With the evening spent enjoying great food, cold beer, and a perfect sunset, we ended the day feeling completely content. It was a reminder of why we travel—to connect with nature, to find quiet moments, and to experience the simple joys of life. Phu Chi Fa had delivered on all fronts, leaving us with memories we would cherish for years to come.
Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!
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