Pak Chong (Thai: ปากช่อง, pronounced [pàːk tɕʰɔ̂ŋ]; Northeastern Thai: ปากช่อง, pronounced [pàːk sɔ̄ŋ]) is the westernmost district (amphoe) of Nakhon Ratchasima province, northeastern Thailand, and the main point of entry into Isan as the main road and rail lines cross the Dong Phaya Yen Mountains into the region.
It is a popular tourist destination, especially among weekenders from Bangkok, and is home to many resorts and touristy attractions, in addition to the main entrance into Khao Yai National Park.
[1] The population centre of Pak Chong was originally a small village on the eastern fringe of the jungle, which, according to writings of Prince Damrong Rajanubhab, was the farthest point carts from Khorat could travel before needing to continue on foot through the rugged hills.
[3] It was upgraded to a minor district (king amphoe) effective 1 January 1957, consisting of the four subdistricts Pak Chong, Chanthuek, Klong Dan, and Mu Si.
[5] The forests of Dong Phaya Yen were rapidly cleared following the construction of Mittraphap Road in 1955, which vastly opened up access to the area.
The district lies within the hills of the Dong Phaya Yen Mountains, which form the southwestern boundary of the Isan region (northeastern Thailand).
Several factories in diverse industries including sack-weaving, electronics, rock-crushing and livestock feed production serve as a major source of employment.
Numerous resorts, golf clubs, cafés, art galleries and shopping centres are scattered throughout the area, many of which feature novelty European-themed architectural styles and cater to domestic tourists, mainly the Bangkok middle-class.