Following Mr. Hotsia's Trail: Huak Phayao Village Searching for the Turtle Pulu to Visit Uncle Phayap

Following Mr. Hotsia's Trail: Huak Phayao Village Searching for the Turtle Pulu to Visit Uncle Phayap

Phayao, a small town in northern Thailand, is full of natural charm and traditional local lifestyles. It is a province that mr.hotsia often finds opportunities to visit because it offers not only the beautiful Kwan Phayao lake and delicious local food but also fascinating stories to experience deeply. Recently, I traveled to “Huak Village,” a small village nestled in the embrace of Phayao’s mountains, to search for the live “Turtle Pulu” and visit Uncle Phayap, the homeowner who is like a local guardian deeply devoted to nature.

My journey began in Phayao town. For those who arrive and want to fully experience the local lifestyle, I recommend stopping by the Phayao morning market.Phayao MarketThis market is a hub for fresh produce and traditional local foods that have preserved their authenticity well. I didn’t miss the chance to try the rich traditional coffee paired with the special soft-boiled eggs.Traditional Coffee and Soft-Boiled Eggs, PhayaoBefore heading to Huak Village

Huak Village is located in an area that remains extremely peaceful and natural. To get there, you must pass a narrow route surrounded by forests and vast rice fields. The scenery on both sides reminded me of the simple yet charming rural life that many may have forgotten. Upon arrival, Uncle Phayap welcomed me with a warm smile and hospitality like long-lost family.

My main mission was to find the “Turtle Pulu,” a turtle species unique to this area. The Turtle Pulu is not just an ordinary pet but a symbol of Huak Village and the nature-dependent lifestyle. Uncle Phayap shared how to care for the Turtle Pulu and the strong bond between people and nature here. The turtles live in clean natural water sources and are part of an ecosystem carefully protected by the villagers.

Besides searching for the Turtle Pulu, I also got to experience the villagers’ way of life up close, witnessing traditional rice farming, vegetable gardening, and tasting local dishes prepared by Uncle Phayap and his family. The food is simple but boldly flavored in the northern style. Don’t miss trying Uncle Dam’s special Pad Thai, not far from Phayao, which is another legendary dish that mr.hotsia highly recommends.Uncle Dam's Pad Thai, PhayaoAbsolutely

After spending a fulfilling time in Huak Village, I stopped by Kwan Phayao in the evening to enjoy the beautiful sunset and a boat ride among the lotus flowers.Kwan Phayao (Lotus Boat Tour)The tranquility, shade, and lifestyle blending nature and local living made me truly think of the phrase “a lovely town.”

For anyone looking for a destination with nature, lifestyle, and local culture, Phayao and Huak Village are the answers that mr.hotsia recommends, especially if you want to experience an authentic rural lifestyle without embellishment. Huak Village and Uncle Phayap will show you the beauty of nature and the warmth of northern people.

Before we part, I’d like to share a video recording of this trip as another way to experience it. For those who want to see the real atmosphere, check it out atFollowing Mr. Hotsia's Trail: Huak Phayao Village Searching for the Turtle Pulu to Visit Uncle PhayapI guarantee you will see the beauty and charm of Phayao that mr.hotsia wants to share with everyone.