Trekking in the rich natural mountain environment is an inexpensive way to enjoy Saraburis natural resources. Saraburi city is close to the mountains from Kaeng Koy to Muak Lek and offers an exciting range of activities for Families, Eco-Tourists and Adventurers alike. For a unique experience climb to the top of the limestone 'Khao phra Phutthabat noi ' in Bann Tung Sang park and trek through the jungle on top of a mountain.

From the City of Saraburi, head to Pra Putthabat district (Phaholyothin Rd., Main road no.1) u-turn at the junction between Petchaboon and Lob Buri, go right about 100 meters then turn left to local road about 10 km to Wat Pra Putthabat Noi or Pra Putthabat Noi Mountain at Tambol Songkorn, Amphoe Kaeng Khoi, Saraburi. In an area of 3,200 rai, this amazing limestone mountain covered Amphoe Tatoom, Amphoe Kaeng Khoi and Amphoe Songkorn. Or Taking Phahonyothin Road (Highway No. 1) to Saraburi, then turn right onto Mittraphap Road and drive to Km. marker 115, or look for  the Diamond Tiles store, you will see a road to the left (Highway No. 3188). Follow the map for around 20 kms and you will arrive at a mountain in the middle of a plain.

This is a steep limestone mountain, incorporating more than 14 scattered sharp peaks. The mountain is rich in ecology and was rescued when the local people pooled efforts to preserve the mountain from exploitation by a large cement-making concession.  It is an ideal location for eco-tourism. But damage to the ecology by exploitation can be seen at places like Pa Dang a valley covered today only with low vegetation because of farming practices which made the soil  infertile.

Limestone is the symbol of Saraburi and streams of pure mineral water seep from the porous mountain rock. The mountain areas are also inhabited by rare species like the Limestone Wren Babbler: Napothera Crispifrons Calcicola, a sub species of Napothera Crispifrons an ancient insectivorous bird which is unique to the virgin forests of South-East Asia. Calciola is specific to the limestone environs of the mountains of Saraburi. It is a medium size brown colored bird with stripes over the head and back and with a white colored neck with black dashed line. To find insects and worms in the leaf litter, in logs or under  stones on the forest floor, the Wren Babbler has a long and powerful beak and strong legs for rummaging.

One of the world’s newly discovered insects; the Kradan Tham Mong Nathi bug (stenasellus mongnatei, sp.nov.) was also found recently on the mountain The bug was named in honor of the late “Kamnan Somkhuan Mongnathi” who was a leader in the conservation of the Khao Phra Phutthabat Noi community forest.

The steep cliffs are also home to the Sumatran Serow,(what is it?) I’m not sure it is explain about the birth place of the steep cliffs  known to locals as “Ma Phra In,”. Many live in Sam Kha Cave. With an area of nearly 1 rai is covered with exotic midget plants similar to Bonsai Trees.

In addition, a rare tree; the Mountain Cycad, can be found here. Other species  include Proung Khao; a kind of wild plum known to locals as Ma Praow Ling (Coconut of Monkey)”. Jan Pa and  Jun Dang are trees that are accustomed to the dry climate of the mountain limestone. Each is large and many more than  100 years old. Rong Thao Na Ree (Shoe of a lady) can be found scattered in this area. “Cha Rue Se (Tea of ascetic)”, a herb used for a longevity medicine, is considered to maintain the health of the blood is a natural diuretic. Nang Pa Ya Rak Dam (Black Root Queen), is a herb from which the roots and stems can be used to improve lung function and assist with weight loss.  Ikuai or wild grape can be made into a tasty wine.

Beneath the mountain is a magnificent cave called Phra That Charoen Tham Cave or “Bo Pla Cave.” Within the cave are 2 large chambers almost 100 meters deep, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites; a thousand years of curtains created by nature. Traditionally a sacred mountain, the cave located within; Luang Pho Yai, features a golden lacquered Buddha statue in the reclining Mara posture, considered by the Department of Fine Arts as from the Ayutthaya era.

Nowadays the villagers, governor and the private sector join  together to preserve rare and unique plant and wildlife in this area. The mountains of Saraburi are among of the great sustainable Eco-Tourism opportunities in the world today.