Bangmara Hill

We stopped here for lunch on the way south. The food was simple and nice, and the view was great. I get the sense it might be more fun for kids. Entry was 60 Baht per person, including the ride up the hill.

This is right beside the iron bridge, but I saw lots of people leave after visiting the bridge. To reach the top of Bangmara hill, look for the first picture for what to do. The rusty stairs by the roadside, with plants hanging over them, don’t look very glamorous, but at the top you can reward yourself with an ice-cold beer and scenic views. The entry fee is 50 baht, and I think it’s worth it. There’s also a small water theme park where kids can play, glamping and a cafe at the very top of the hill.

The views from the top are lovely if you make the climb, but the place itself is an odd mix of camping and a kitschy kids' playground, with a little restaurant and cafe. A lot of things are out of order, and some viewpoints look like they wouldn't meet safety standards elsewhere. I'm not sure who it's meant for. Getting there costs 50 baht on foot or 60 baht for a ride, but the ride leaves from the temple, and we wish we'd known before tackling those brutal stairs. The bridge is across from the entrance, high up in the trees.

Even without kids, it's worth coming for sunset and those stunning views. Families will get a lot out of it too. A nice guy built and planned the place in just four years, which makes it even more amazing.