Ban Khiriwong, this charming village is nestled at the foot of the mountains by a rocky stream and is the departure point for the ascent of Khao Luang Mountain. The village is surrounded by fruit orchards and there are some pleasant hikes around the village and also some waterfalls within walking distance.
Khao Luang rises up from little over sea-level at Khiriwong to 1,835m, making it a spectacular sight. The peak is often covered in clouds. This was one of the last hideouts of the CPT guerrillas and it is hard to believe that only 15 years ago, this was the scene of fierce fighting. The Thai government forces pounded the CPT tunnel systems on the peak with fighter bombers, to no avail until the guerrillas finally gave up of there own accord following an amnesty offer.