At about 11 a.m. we arrived at Khao Laem grassland ranger station in a small wood on the central-western part of the savana style grassland. The station has a wooden house, a room used as a kitchen, toilets and a water well with a hand pump. We had our lunch of noodle soup, tea and bread there.
Walking pass the grassland toward Khao Laem mountain forest. Even though it was a bit cloudy, it was hot and that made us thirsty. We walked in the direction of north-east, on wet and muddy ground through tall grass. Wildlife such as barking deer are said to roam the grassland in the early morning and late evening.
Looking back to the south/south-west we saw Khao Ron - the highest peak of Khao Yai national park. Here we could see only one head as its peak. Later from Khao Laem summit we would see the twin peaks of Khao Ron. Khao Kaeo, the third highest in the park, was behind and covered by clouds.
At about 1:30 p.m. we entered the wood and started walking the slope of Khao Laem hills. We kept following the animal trails, elephant dungs, and sometimes consulting our map and magnetic compass. It was cool in the jungle; the ground was muddy and we were just keeping our steady pace. Not many leeches were found.
After 3 p.m. we arrived at a stream and found a good place to camp. The rain could come any time, so without a pause we arranged to pitch our tents, searched for dead wood and built fire. With us we brought more than 40 Kg loads of food and gear. Apart from clothing and toiletries we three people had canvas sheets, two tents, one hammock, sleeping bags, rice, vegetables, 3-in-1 coffee and milo, breads, canned food, fruits, pots, bowls, cups, spoons, single use paper plates, knifes, torch lights, matches, candles, maps, magnetic compass, a gps receiver (global positioning system), first aid kit, an assortment of ropes, a walki-talky (two ways radio), and little other things.
Part of the canal beside which we camped. This mountain stream flowed to the south and drained into Sai Yai river in the southern edge of the grassland.
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Unique Adventure Trips