
12.01.25 – Sai York to Khao Ngu
Exploring Thailand on Two Wheels: From Wang Pho to Khao Ngu in Ratchaburi
The lure of the open road is irresistible for any motorbike enthusiast. The promise of discovering new places, meeting new people, and experiencing the freedom of riding through diverse landscapes keeps riders coming back for more. Today marked the beginning of a journey southward, from Wang Pho to Khao Ngu in Ratchaburi—a step closer to the ultimate goal of reaching Malaysia and Singapore. What started as a chilly morning ride through small, winding roads turned into a day filled with surprises, challenges, and unforgettable moments.
A Promising Morning Start
After a good night’s sleep on a comfortable bed, it was time to set off. Coffee in hand, the day began on a high note, and by 9 a.m., the journey was underway. Riding early in the morning is always a pleasure, especially when the weather is cool and crisp. The temperature ranged from 20 to 23 degrees Celsius—cooler than expected but far preferable to the oppressive heat of 32 degrees experienced in the same area last year. The fresh air heightened the sense of freedom and set the tone for a relaxed ride.
The motto for the day was simple: stick to smaller roads. Avoiding highways not only reduced traffic but also allowed for a more intimate experience of Thailand’s countryside. The roads meandered through small villages, fields, and rolling terrain, making for a picturesque and enjoyable ride. It’s the kind of riding that motorbike touring is all about—taking it slow, soaking in the surroundings, and feeling connected to the journey itself.

A Disappointing Detour to Mae Prachan Dam
After about 140 kilometers, the first major stop was the Mae Prachan Dam. On paper, it seemed like a worthwhile detour—a large reservoir surrounded by natural beauty, offering a chance to rest and take in the views. Unfortunately, reality didn’t match the expectations.
The dam area was disappointing. Instead of picturesque views of the water, there was very little visibility of the lake itself. The surrounding area was littered with rubbish, detracting from any potential charm it might have had. It was clear that this wasn’t going to be the scenic highlight of the day.
Thankfully, the detour wasn’t far off the main route, so it didn’t derail the journey significantly. While it’s always disappointing when a destination doesn’t live up to its reputation, part of the joy of touring is the unpredictability of the road. Not every stop will be memorable for the right reasons, but each one adds to the story of the journey.


A Grueling Ride to Khao Ngu Park
The next destination was Khao Ngu Stone Park, a well-known spot in Ratchaburi famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs and serene atmosphere. However, getting there was far from pleasant.
The ride involved navigating through the outskirts of the Bangkok metropolitan area, a region characterized by heavy traffic, road construction, and straight, uninspiring stretches of road. The landscape shifted from rural charm to urban sprawl, and the sense of adventure gave way to frustration. This part of the journey served as a reminder of how unpredictable road trips can be—some stretches are a joy to ride, while others are simply a means to an end.
Upon arriving at Khao Ngu Park, a new challenge presented itself. The area was bustling with activity, and finding a safe place to park the motorbike proved impossible. Fully loaded with gear, the bike needed a secure parking spot, preferably with video surveillance, but none was available. With so many people around, leaving the bike unattended didn’t feel like a viable option.
Rather than risk it, the decision was made to postpone exploring the park until later in the evening when the crowds would likely thin out. It was a frustrating setback, but one that came with an unexpected silver lining: the discovery of a fantastic place to stay for the night.
Finding Respite at Nanon Home Boutique
The search for accommodation led to Nanon Home Boutique, a charming and well-maintained guesthouse that turned out to be the perfect place to rest and recharge. For just 600 Baht per night, the stay included private, roof-covered parking conveniently located right in front of the room—ideal for motorbike travelers who prioritize the safety of their vehicles.
The owner of the guesthouse was exceptionally friendly and accommodating, adding a personal touch to the stay. This level of hospitality can make all the difference on a long journey, transforming what could have been a forgettable stop into a highlight of the trip.
With accommodation secured, there was time to relax, grab a quick meal from a nearby 7-Eleven, and prepare for an evening visit to Khao Ngu Park.
Khao Ngu Park: A Rewarding Evening Visit
Returning to Khao Ngu Park in the evening proved to be the right decision. The crowds had thinned out, and the atmosphere was far more tranquil than it had been earlier in the day. This time, parking wasn’t an issue, as the motorbike was left safely back at the guesthouse, and the 2-kilometer journey to the park was made on foot.
Walking into the park, it was immediately clear why it is such a popular destination. The towering limestone cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery, create a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. The park has an almost cinematic quality, and it’s no surprise that it has served as the backdrop for several movies.
As the sun began to set, the warm hues of the evening light bathed the cliffs in a golden glow, enhancing the park’s natural beauty. The quietness of the evening added to the sense of serenity, making it a perfect place to unwind after a long day on the road.
Exploring the park on foot also provided an opportunity to take in the finer details of its natural and cultural features. From the intricate rock formations to the peaceful walking paths, every corner of the park offered something new to discover.








Reflecting on the Day
Looking back, the day was a mix of highs and lows, but the overall experience was overwhelmingly positive. While there were challenges—disappointing stops, heavy traffic, and parking difficulties—they were outweighed by the rewards of the journey.
The smaller roads in the morning offered a chance to connect with the landscape in a way that highways simply don’t allow. The discovery of Nanon Home Boutique provided a much-needed sense of comfort and security, while the evening visit to Khao Ngu Park turned out to be a truly memorable experience.
This day served as a reminder of what makes motorbike touring so special: the unpredictability, the variety, and the opportunity to embrace the unexpected. Not every moment will go according to plan, but that’s part of the adventure.
Looking Ahead
As the journey continues southward, there’s a sense of excitement about what lies ahead. The road to Malaysia and Singapore will undoubtedly bring more challenges, but also countless opportunities for discovery and growth.
For motorbike enthusiasts, this is the essence of the journey—pushing boundaries, exploring new horizons, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s the thrill of a perfectly winding road, the beauty of an unspoiled landscape, or the kindness of a stranger, every moment adds to the richness of the experience.
In the end, it’s not just about reaching the destination—it’s about the ride itself. And today’s ride, with all its ups and downs, was a reminder of why we ride in the first place.
Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!!
#dustysocks
Great photos