TRAIL TO GLENNIS’ HOMESTAY (FORMER SOMSAK MINING SITE)

GPS co-ordinates: 14º39’16.49” N 98º24’11.04” E

Trail condition: Rough, rough mountain road.

Distance: From the main road to the homestay, about 5km. To continue to the Chet Mit Waterfall, the extended part is more than twice as long.

Getting there: Thong Pha Phum is 145km from downtown Kanchanaburi. From Thong Pha Phum to Pilok and Ban E-tong on the border, it’s almost 70km. The off-road track to Glennis’ Homestay can be found 3km before the border town.

Parking: If your vehicle is a 4x4 and you have a capable driver, you can park at the homestay. Otherwise, you can leave it at Pilok police station or Thong Pha Phum national park. The first is a few hundred metres further up the main road from the beginning of the off-road track that leads to the old Somsak mine, while the latter is 4.5km before you reach the track.

Food & drinks: The trail runs through the wilderness. Make sure you bring enough supplies.

What your family can enjoy while waiting: The peaceful natural surroundings.

Accommodation: The three-day/two-night package at Glennis’ Homestay is priced at 1,400 baht per head on weekdays and 1,600 at weekends. The rates are inclusive of 4x4 transportation between Pilok and the homestay, three meals a day, plus a barbecue party and all-you-can-eat cake buffet. Alternatively, you can stay in Ban E-tong, where several guesthouses are available. The national park also offers camping grounds, bungalows and treehouses.

Local contact: Visit the Somsak Mining page on Facebook, or call 089-161-1212 or 081-325-9471.