Loei Province's Natural Wonders: Stone Gardens and Emerald Waterfalls

Loei province features an abundance of outstanding natural and cultural attractions. Phan Ngam Forest Park, also known as Phan Ngam Stone Garden, sits in Ban Phan Ngam, Puan Pu subdistrict, Nong Hin district, Loei province, within the Phu Khao-Phu Kradat Wildlife Reserve and covers more than 7,000 rai.

Phan Ngam Stone Garden earned its nickname "Kunming of Loei" following a 1999 study trip to Kunming, China. A delegation led by the Loei provincial governor, the Nong Hin subdistrict chief, and Puan Pu subdistrict council leaders—including Mongkol Babphaek, Pradis Ajkaew, and Supun Tammrang—visited the Chinese site. Upon returning, they compared the two locations and concluded that while Phan Ngam's limestone mountains resembled Kunming's formations, the Thai site had superior natural conditions with minimal artificial embellishment. They decided to call it "Thailand's Kunming," which later became known as "Kunming of Loei."

"Kunming of Loei" consists of towering limestone mountains stretching in long ridges similar to China's Kunming. The area features limestone mountain forest and dry evergreen forest, with over 200 rare plant, ancient plant, and medicinal herb species such as mountain turnip. The site also contains approximately 400 interconnected caves of varying sizes and shapes, named imaginatively after their appearance—including Dinosaur Rock, Tarzan Cliff, Prayer Arch, Arthit Cave, Dragon Gate, Magic Junction, and Crown Stone.

The area is estimated to be 206-303 million years old, having originated as an ancient seafloor formed from accumulated marine sediment. Tectonic activity uplifted these layers, and over time, natural erosion from wind, rain, and seismic activity created the landscape visible today.

Phan Ngam Stone Garden offers two scenic walking routes from the visitor center. Route One is a nature study trail covering approximately 700 meters, requiring about one hour to walk. The path winds through maze-like terrain, requiring careful footing as it passes through caves and limestone formations. An upper viewing platform provides panoramic views of the surrounding limestone peaks. Route Two offers a shuttle ride followed by a 100-meter walk up metal stairs to a viewpoint. Both routes include local guides providing commentary and information. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Approximately 2 kilometers beyond Phan Ngam Stone Garden lies Piang Din Waterfall, also called Visuddhaara Waterfall, another must-see Loei attraction. Surrounded by natural forest, it provides cool shade and flows powerfully year-round. The waterfall is easily accessible on flat ground without strenuous climbing, though it has multiple tiers. Some sections require climbing, while others feature clear pools suitable for safe swimming and relaxation. The mid-sized waterfall features natural limestone deposits that create a slippery surface, which visitors can turn into a natural water slide for entertainment. Piang Din Waterfall is open for visits from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Suan Hom Waterfall is another notable tourism destination in the area.