Rain brings Phu Langka’s ‘Naga Eye’ to life

Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation is inviting tourists to visit the so-called “Naga Eye”, a natural wonder amid the rocky landscape of Phu Langka National Park in Bueng Khong Long district of Bueng Kan province.

The Naga Eye, named after the eye of a mythical serpent, is actually a sandstone crater formed by erosion caused by water currents and rainfall over hundreds of thousands of years. When the crater fills with rainwater and is touched by sunlight, its reflection resembles the eye of a Naga. The natural phenomenon can only be seen during the rainy season.

Department director-general Atthaphon Charoenchansa said the department was nevertheless determined to strike a balance between environmental and ecological protection and tourism promotion.

Park chief Aksorn Manawong said that although the Naga Eye is filled with water almost year-round, the best time to visit is during the rainy season, from May to October, when the crater is full of water and the reflection is at its most captivating.