Khao Khitchakut – Buddhist Stairway To Heaven — Chantaburi

[beautifulthailand99]

Legend says that at the top of Khao Khitchakut, a holy mountain located deep in the Chanthaburi province near the Thai-Cambodia border, there is an actual footprint of Khao Khitchakutthe Lord Buddha. It’s believed that visiting the footprint equates to appearing before the Lord Buddha and those who make the trek are granted 1 wish. These spiritual beliefs are what draw thousands to make the climb every year.

 

Besides the distance, roughly 10km in total, what makes the climb even more elusive is the short window of when the mountain is open; 3 months each year starting from Chinese New Year to Magha Puja day (roughly late January to early April). It’s possible to enter the park at anytime of day during that period to make the climb, however, it’s become customary to start the trek close to 12am and climb through the night to watch the sunrise around 6am in the morning.

 

Found a couple of videos which well illustrate what to expect. Me and the missus are planning to do it in the next couple of weeks. Needless to say it is a huge money making event for many involved but needn't detract from what I am sure is an Amazing Thailand experience.