Lam Takong Lake

Forested mountains surround the long and fairly narrow lake, part of a protected area with very little development. While there are no lake tours or kayak rental as far as we know, visitors can enjoy the views from Suranaree Park, a large green space stretching above the southern bank and easily accessible off the northeast-bound lanes of Route 2.

Named after the much-revered noblewoman who symbolises Nakhon Ratchasima province, Suranaree Park features footpaths winding through flowering trees to benches and patches of grass with lake views. While probably not worth going far out of your way for, it’s a great place to kick back if you’re hanging around the Pak Chong area and have some free time. The park is also perfect as a picnic stop if you’re travelling up to Khorat with your own wheels.

At the northeast end of the lake stands the Lam Takong Dam, an earth-filled barrier built in 1974 at a crevasse that now attracts Thai tourists. Both Suranaree Park and the dam are great places to watch the sunset. Late in the dry months, the water gets very low and fishers stroll far out to cast their nets.