Introduction:
Welcome to Touring Tales! In this blog, we’re thrilled to share our enchanting experience exploring the picturesque wonders of Khao Yai. The decision to visit Khao Yai was sparked by the surreal discovery that Thailand could offer a European-like destination complete with wineries, castles, and the delightful sight of alpacas grazing in the lush landscape. Now, let’s dive into the details of our journey.
Getting There:
Our adventure commenced with a private car/taxi ride from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil heaven of Khao Yai. The journey unfolded on wide, peaceful roads, adorned with scenic views, creating the perfect backdrop for a smooth two-hour drive. Expect a brief stopover for fuelling or car maintenance at one of the charming motels along the way. The highway treated us to stunning scenery, allowing us to savor the ride with our favorite tunes playing in the background.
PB Valley:
Our exploration of Khao Yai began at the captivating PB Valley, undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable and worthwhile destinations in the region. Upon arriving, we purchased entrance tickets at 350 THB per adult and 300 THB per child under 12 years. The tour, conducted four times a day, led us through lush fruit orchards and vineyards.
A highlight was the grape-picking stop, offering a paid option to harvest and taste the sweet and delicious grapes. The tour then proceeded to the elegant wine factory, fulfilling our lifelong dream of witnessing a winery – this time, in the heart of Thailand. The wine tasting experience, offering options from light to strong, was a true delight. Non-wine enthusiasts could indulge in the exquisite grape juice.
After the wine adventure, we concluded our visit at PB Valley with a stop at the stunning Pirom Cafe, an Instagram-worthy spot offering discounts to winery visitors.
Primo Piazza:
Post-Pirom Cafe, a short 15-20 minute ride through the scenic Khao Yai landscape brought us to Primo Piazza. The excitement peaked as we got the chance to feed alpacas, llamas, and donkeys. The entrance fee of 200 THB per adult included grass to feed the animals and a discount at a charming ice cream shop. Primo Piazza’s European-inspired setting, complete with castles, provided a unique and photogenic backdrop for our adventure.
Hokkaido Flower Park:
A mere 10-minute drive from Primo Piazza led us to the vibrant Hokkaido Flower Park. With an entrance fee of 100 THB per person, the park boasted colorful displays of flowers and a charming A-frame cabin, creating a perfect setting for a photoshoot. The variety of flowers changed with the seasons, making it a delightful visual feast. A short, satisfying 30-minute stroll through the park marked the end of our Hokkaido Flower Park experience.
The Chocolate Factory:
Just a 5-10 minute drive from Hokkaido Flower Park brought us to The Chocolate Factory. With no entrance fee, we had the opportunity to witness the chocolate-making process and explore a marketplace offering elegant chocolates for purchase. After a delightful 10-15 minutes in the chocolate haven, our Khao Yai tour came to a sweet conclusion.
Stay tuned for more in-depth details about our Khao Yai adventure in the upcoming sections of Touring Tales!
