In Northeast Thailand, in Bueng Kan Province, stands one of nature’s most unusual wonders. Locals call it Hin Sam Wan, which means Three Whale Rock.
True to its name, this rock formation looks like a family of whales swimming side by side in the middle of the ocean—except here, the “ocean” is an endless sea of lush green forest.
A Unique Shape from Prehistoric Times
Three Whale Rock is no ordinary stone. Estimated to be 75 million years old, it was formed through millions of years of erosion, rain, wind, and shifting tectonic plates. The result: three massive, elongated boulders rising above dense jungle, as if floating in a green ocean of trees.
From a distance, the three rocks resemble a mother whale, a father whale, and a calf faithfully swimming beside them.
What makes it even more fascinating is that the two larger rocks—known as the “father” and “mother whale”—can be explored by visitors via hiking trails. The smaller “baby whale” rock, however, is closed to the public to preserve its natural state.
Standing atop these colossal stones, you get the surreal sensation of being on the back of a giant whale surfacing from the sea.
Hiking Trails Full of Adventure
To reach the summit of Three Whale Rock, visitors can choose from nine different hiking routes. Each offers a unique adventure—whether it’s passing small waterfalls, trekking through tropical forests, or spotting wildlife roaming freely.
At the top, the view is nothing short of breathtaking. From the “backs” of these stone whales, you can gaze across the mighty Mekong River, the distant mountains of Pakkading District in Laos, and the vast canopy of Phu Wua Forest.
Arrive in the late afternoon, and you’ll be rewarded with a dramatic sunset, as if the sky itself is slowly sinking behind the massive stone whales.
The Legend of Three Whales in the Sea
Hin Sam Wan is not only impressive from a geological perspective but also rich in folklore. Villagers around Bueng Kan tell the story of three whales that were once often seen swimming off the coast. These whales were believed to be protectors and bringers of good fortune.
One day, a group of fishermen accidentally injured one of the whales with their nets. Although it was eventually freed, the three whales were never seen again.
Locals believe they left out of sorrow and pain. To honor and remember these majestic creatures, the community named the three massive rocks in Bueng Kan’s forest Hin Sam Wan—Three Whale Rock.
This legend lives on today as a symbol of the bond between humans and the sea, and as a reminder that every human action carries consequences for the natural world.
Geological Traces and Scientific Appeal
Beyond its cultural significance, Three Whale Rock also holds great scientific value. The stones are part of the Khorat Plateau, a region containing fossils from the Cretaceous period (145 to 66 million years ago) and the Cenozoic era (66 million years ago to the present).
This means the area is not only breathtaking to behold but also preserves evidence of prehistoric life, including traces of dinosaurs that once roamed millions of years ago.
With their elongated shape, smooth surfaces, and dramatic position jutting out from the ridgeline, the rocks strengthen the illusion of giant whales swimming through a sea of forest. It’s no wonder this spot has become a favorite for photographers, hikers, and nature lovers alike.
Preserving Beauty for Future Generations
The uniqueness of Three Whale Rock has quickly made it a popular attraction. But with growing visitor numbers comes the risk of damage.
For this reason, the site is protected under Phu Sing Forest Park and is part of the “7 Greens” initiative launched by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. The goal is simple: to ensure that Hin Sam Wan remains preserved so its beauty can be enjoyed by both today’s travelers and future generations.
Through these conservation efforts, destinations like Bueng Kan and Three Whale Rock remain open to tourism, yet managed in a way that respects environmental sustainability and the land’s carrying capacity.
