During our two-month stay in Hua Hin and Khao Tao in southern Thailand, we enjoyed plenty of time to extensively explore the area. Few better ways could we think of for spending a pleasant afternoon than hunkering down on some prominent rock and quietly attending the darkness gradually veiling the marvelous surroundings. After originally discovering it, Hin Lek Fai Viewpoint (also referred to simply as Hua Hin Viewpoint) became one of our favorite spots in the city. Following are some useful tips and nice photos we took during our visits to the spot.
Hin Lek Fai Hill is located in the heart of Hua Hin, right behind the city’s train station and not far from Market Village Mall. To drive there, you have to follow the road 2043 (the one with all the “88” places) westwards, and take a right on Khao Hin Lek Fai 2 road. You will see a “Law Office” sign shortly before the turn. Junction coordinates: 12.5589, 99.9419.
You follow that road for about a km, and once you reach the hill col, you take another right to the hill eastern top. Sign to the viewpoint is present. You will shortly arrive at the parking lot, where Lana Guesthouse is situated (a lovely, calm place to stay).
Alternatively, instead of driving, you may also join the large numbers of joggers and cyclists who flock to the hilltop every afternoon.
Once at the parking lot, you are free to start exploring the various trails leading to eight different viewpoints along the hill’s periphery. At a mean elevation of 160 meters, all of them offer incredible panoramas of Hua Hin, the broad gulf of Thailand, and the numerous distant peaks. One can stare agape for hours without being bored.
Other than the viewpoints, atop the hill, you also find a monument of King Prajadhipok Rama VII, public toilets, a restaurant, and refreshment stalls.
At viewpoint nr 1, that’s where a legion of macaque monkeys usually hang out, patiently waiting for tourists and local visitors to come with comestible supplies. Unlike the nasty ones on Hua Hin’s Monkey Mountain, I found these macaques rather agreeable. They will stroll past your feet unconcerned, never exhibiting their vicious teeth. They will even climb to your shoulder and stay calm, if you give them a banana, and they will readily pose for pictures.
On the larger, western portion of the hill, you will find several additional hiking trails and viewpoints, as well as a number of temples.
