Khao Tao
Literally means “Turtle Hill”, Khao Tao is a small mountain which receives this name because of its feature that resembles a real turtle. Khao Tao is another signature of Hua Hin which many people are interested in.
This place is located in Nong Kae Sub-District around 14 kilometers away from the centre of the town. You can easily reach there by any type of vehicles and within a very short time.
The Khao Tao Monastery…
This hill houses a monastery where a small number of Buddhist monks stay here to perform religious acts and also to look after this mountain in order to preserve the natural ambience. Therefore, you will get to see the monk’s cells situated around the place. You might be lucky enough to meet one of the monks who wouldn’t fail to wish you luck, happiness and prosperity.
Explore the Turtle Hill…
Though this hill might seem to be desolated to many people at their first glimpse, there are much more to see and learn about this place. All you have to do is, of course, give it a tour. Yes... try walking around the whole mountain to know what all are there to see in this Khao Tao. Once you start walking along the various paths in many directions that leads you to many places, you will realize that this small mountain presents to you plenty of interesting items and scenic spots where you can have great views of the sea with many tiny boats and the clear blue sky. Attractions within the hill area include collection of Buddha images, statue of the Chinese Goddess of mercy, Guan Yin and also other deities that located at various spots. Many good viewpoints can also be observed at those very spots where Chinese style pavilions are located for you to rest your body and to see a wide skyline panorama of the sea.
Walking up a beachside mountain…
Be ready to take a tour around the place and get energy before you start your tour. It is again a steep climb to the top of the mountain. Therefore this will definitely be a tiring tour but it is worth it because you will also enjoy a walk amid naturally serene atmosphere apart from getting to see many interesting sculptural arts. However, you get shady resting places at every corner.
Along those paths you can feel the humidity of the real mountain environment. The noisy cry of cicadas and other insects reinforce the feel of this naturally serene atmosphere.
Follow those paths and get to see…
Throughout the whole area, you will be guided by the signs telling what the path will lead to. The main spots you would opt to visit are the Big Buddha Image, the beautiful Hexagon pavilion, Buddha Sotorn, Larn Sai (shady area under big trees), etc. there is also a path leading to Hat Sai Noi (Sai Noi Beach) which is clean but is usually utterly empty of people. This beach is another place where many people keep coming as it is very calm suited to swimming. It will be a good idea to sit and relax yourself at this beach after the tour around Khao Tao. You may bring your own food and drink just in case the few food stalls located there take the day off. Get ready to have pleasant day trip to Khao Tao now.
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