Phu Pha Thoep National Park, National park in Mueang Mukdahan, Thailand.
Phu Pha Thoep is a national park set within mixed deciduous forest dotted with sandstone formations and rolling terrain beside the Mekong River. The landscape combines dense woodland with exposed rocky ridges and natural clearings, creating a varied environment where forest and stone features alternate throughout the terrain.
The area holds Tham Fa Mue Daeng cave, marked by red hand prints left by people thousands of years ago in ancient times. These prints represent some of the oldest evidence of human activity in the region and show how long this land has held meaning for people.
The grotto at Phu Tam Pra holds a Buddha figure of solid stone, surrounded by wooden Buddha statues and animal carvings that show the spiritual importance of this location. Visitors can see how these religious objects remain integrated into the natural landscape, reflecting the place's role in local practice.
The park can be reached by minibus from Mukdahan town, making it convenient for a day visit from the city. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as trails cross uneven ground with rocks and forest sections throughout the area.
Scientists discovered a previously unknown frog species living within the park in 2005, a finding that highlighted the area's biological importance. This species was new to science and became part of the park's scientific legacy.
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