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Having approximately 3,000 population, visitors mostly travel to Pai for its incredible mountains and beautiful nature. But there is a place one would not want to miss: the Pai Canyon, also known as Kong Lan! Popular for sunset watching due to the breathtaking views it offers, many tourists see Pai as Thai’s answer to the Grand Canyon. While there are attractions one can’t miss in Pai, like the Bamboo Bridge and the Sai Ngam Hot Spring, its Canyon is the highlight of being in the town. The Canyon is situated about eight kilometers from Pai, along the road leading to Chiang Mai. Visiting the Canyon is worth every penny and effort, as it is an incredibly scenic natural attraction, with spectacular nature bordering it. Here is what to explore in Pai Canyon.
Getting To Pai Canyon
The Canyon is nestled on highway 1095 near the World War II Memorial Bridge, in Ban Rong village, on Pai's south side. It is very easy to find the Canyon, but there is no public transportation to take travelers there. One can rent a scooter to the place, but there is a need to have an international license to use them. Going with a motorcycle taxi or tours provided by travel agencies are other options to explore.
- The cost of hiring a motorcycle taxi: THB 200
- Best time to visit: Early in the morning
What To Expect At Pai Canyon?
Exploring the Canyon is free; there is no entrance fee. All travelers need to enjoy experiencing this natural wonder is to pack a scooter, some snacks, and maybe a cold drink. The drinks and snacks can be bought from the stalls situated at the trailhead.
There is a small paved walking stair trail that the visitors follow as they witness the Canyon. About a five minute-walk leads tourists to the first viewpoint, where most tourists enjoy the sunset from. People always line here to take epic sunset pictures for Instagram. Because of crowds, it is advisable to get there early and claim one's own space before crowds start to arrive. However, travelers who can go past the crowded viewpoints by walking through the skinny ridges will have the most beautiful adventures, full of unforgettable memories.
Tourists should get through the ridges with great care since the trails are always dusty and have unprotected drop-offs extending up to 30 minutes. The trick is putting on proper hiking boots when walking to the top of the canyon
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Getting to the top of the Canyon isn't for visitors with a fear of heights, and most of them may not get past the first viewpoint. Travelers shouldn't go far into the Canyon with kids because of the narrow trails, and lack of railing for support.
Hiking The Magnificent Pai Canyon
Hiking the Canyon is beautiful, thanks to the incredible views and the surrounding spectacular nature. There are not many trails, so hiking is easy, and one can't get lost. Travelers do not have to bring survival gear when going hiking in the Canyon. To get the best hiking experience, travelers should get there before 10:00 am to beat the crowds and the afternoon heat. Bigger crowds arrive at the Canyon from 5:30 to enjoy sunset views, and people scramble for the best spots. All types of hikers can easily access the first viewpoint.
Sunset Viewing At Pai Canyon
Pai Canyon provides the best spot to view the sunset, and there is nothing fun like witnessing the last sun's rays leaving the beautiful valley. Sunset being the most popular and impressive activity at the Canyon, there are always crowds scrambling to get the best views. During the high season, from December through March, travelers must strive to get there very early.
Other Surrounding Attractions To Explore
Exploring the Canyon will only take about two hours to complete. After that, travelers have a lot to experience along Highway 1095. About a mile south of the Canyon is Memorial Bridge, a historical bridge offering travelers an incredible war history. The entrance to the bridge is free, and it takes about 20 minutes to explore.
After experiencing the incredible historical bridge, one can drive north for about 3 miles from the Canyon. There will be signs on the way indicating a left turn to get to Pam Bok Waterfall. Situated at the end of the Canyon, this waterfall is an excellent way to cool off after spending two hours in the sun exploring the Canyon.
Past the waterfall is Boon Ko Ku So Bridge, the bamboo bridge, passing through the rice paddies, which are incredibly scenic during the wet season. There is a café at the beginning of the bridge, where tourists will meet some friendly locals who run the café.
With impressive geographical features and incredible sunset views, this Canyon is indeed Thai's answer to the Grand Canyon. Whether a seasoned tourist or a first-timer in this town, exploring Pai Canyon is a must-do.