วันพุธที่ 24 กุมภาพันธ์ พ.ศ. 2553

The Kaeng Tana National Park



Ubon Ratchathani province


Located in Khong Chiam and Sirindhorn districts, Ubon Ratchathani province, Kaeng Tana is the 33` national park in Thailand. Since its vast area is bordered by three rivers, namely the Mekong, the Mun,and the Lam Dom Noi, the weather here is pleasant. In summer, it is not too hot, and in winter, it is not too cold. During the rainy season, rainwater flows freely into the three rivers. So this national park is one of the best places for relaxation all year round.
The word 'Tana' was derived from 'Tenia', which is an ancient Khmer word, meaning a natural fishing source. This source is a hole resembling a large or small cave under water where numerous fish stay in hiding.
Legend has it that Prince Chitrasen led an army to carry stones from the nearby Dong Hin Kong Forest to build a stone castle. The army depended on Kaeng Tenia, because the rapids were rich in food sources. In the early Rattanakosin era, a Thai army was posted at the Dong Hin Kong Forest Park. The army used Kaeng Tenia as a place to supply food to Thai troops, which were occupying Champasak province in Laos Later, the place was called Kaeng 'Tana', which is a variant of the word 'Tenia'.
One of major tourist attractions here and adjacent areas is Saphan Khwan, or hanging bridge, linking the Mun River with Don Tana. It is the longest hanging bridge across a river in Thailand. The structure is made of iron with large slings connecting all parts, and the floor is made of planks. Next is Lan Pha Phueng, comprising a sandstone platform and a 50-meter-long cliff. The cliff faces east and is the place to have the best view of a rising sun. Visitors may have a panoramic view of Laos from this area. Another attraction is Rak Sai waterfall, where water flows over a cliff along banyan roots on the bank of the Mun River. The flow of water resembles a curtain falling onto the rock ground. This area is best for taking short treks.