Hin Sam Wan (Three Whale Rock), Phu Sing Buengkan, Thailand

Hin Sam Wan, which means Three Whale Rock, is a 75 million-year-old rock formation jutting majestically out of the mountains. It earned its name because from the right perspective, it looks like a family of whales. The rocks bear a remarkable resemblance to a family of whales – father, mother and baby and offer one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Phu Sing.

Reachable by an extensive network of trails, a hike to these impressive stone leviathans makes for a breathtakingly memorable, not to mention eco-friendly way for visitors to explore the amazing views and surrounding forests. From the vantage point atop these “whales”, you can see the beaches of the Mekong, the mountains in Pakkading district of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and Phu Wua Forest.  

It’s very easy to dedicate an entire day to the Three Whale Rock. Visitors can choose from nine different routes to hike. On these hikes, you can find waterfalls, a wide variety of plant and animal life, and even a little bit of peace and quiet. While here, stay for the sunset if you have the time. There’s nothing quite like watching the sun go down over Thailand from the back of a giant stone whale.

Nearby is the equally impressive Phu Sing rock, the result of a geological change in the earth’s crust and a place of immense natural beauty. Phu Sing has important natural features including the Phu Sing Tham Field, the Lan Tham Viewpoint, Ruesi Cave, Hin Chang, Hin Railway, Lan Hin Lai and Phu Sing Rock Wall.