Pai Canyon

Thailand

Red sand and majestic rocky gorges, Pai Canyon has so much more to offer and enchants everyone with its breathtaking views.

Rock canyons wrapped in red sand, the Pai Canyon, or Kong Lan in Thai, is located about 150 km north of Chiang Mai in the Thai province of Mae Hong Su. The breathtaking canyon is still about 8 km from the smaller village of Pai of the same name. Pai is a well-known tourist village, and the most famous attraction in the area is the Pai Canyon.

Reddish sandy soil, rocky outcrops 30 meters deep, narrow paths on the ridges of the massive rock walls and a green-forested valley: more of fascinating nature can hardly be offered. Away from the magnificent wonders of nature, the canyon itself also carries its own history. Years of continuous erosion deformed the canyon and its rock forms to the unique state that visitors can behold today. Surrounded by towering mountains, countless teak trees, green bushes and unique flora, one can unwind here.

Seemingly endless steps lead from the everyday parking lot up to the breathtaking 360 ° panoramic viewing platform. The path takes only 5 minutes and at the top you are rewarded with a unique view of the unique nature of the canyon. Especially at sunset, the view is even more impressive. At this time, the landscape of Pai Canyon is enveloped in golden light and enchants visitors once again with the last rays of the day. This experience is also special at sunrise. Here you can observe alone in the silence of nature, the rising of the morning sun and the blossoming landscape. In the morning there are also much less people on the road, which is why you can also enjoy a moment for yourself and discover the dreamlike nature. The viewing form also offers benches to enjoy the view, linger or even take a break.

For the brave adventurers among you in search of a new adrenaline kick, there are mysterious, narrow paths starting from the viewing platform that lead through mystical valleys and impressive rock faces and gorges. During the short hike you can climb over smaller, adventurous rocks and are rewarded with beautiful viewpoints, which are also not crowded. The paths vary in width, steepness and danger, and there are no handrails to hold on to. Thus, the exciting hikes are not very suitable for children, weak nerves and visitors with fear of heights. Attention must also be paid to the Rainy season and at dusk, at this time the paths are particularly slippery and dangerous, so sturdy shoes are recommended at all times. However, the hike lasts only a few hours in total.

The Pai Canyon is located on Highway 1095 and is therefore best reached with a rented scooter. A hike to the canyon is also recommended. By bus, the journey is a bit more difficult, because the road leads along the Mae Hong Su loop, the road of 1000 curves.

There are no entrance fees to the canyon. In the parking lot there are small stalls where you can buy small snacks and refreshing drinks, as well as sanitary facilities. It is best to visit the canyon in the morning and evening, as it can get very hot at noon and there are not very many shady spots available.

An adventure in Pai Canyon is definitely worth a visit to get to know Thailand away from the gorgeous beaches and crowded cities. Also our Thailand adventure has a lot of extraordinary impressions to offer and before or after our trip you also have the possibility to discover the Pai Canyon on your own.

Fun Fact

Pai Canyon is often promoted as Thailand's Grand Canyon.

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