Pai Canyon - Atlas Obscura

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Pai Canyon

Bizarre dirt trail winds a narrow path above the tree line. 

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With treacherous drops on either side of the path, the elevated trail through Pai Canyon (Kong Lan in Thai) is not a place for a casual stroll, but it will provide visitors with an unparalleled view of the surrounding landscape.  

After climbing a short staircase on the western edge of the canyon hikers will see a narrow ridge of earth, all that remains of a walking path through the canyon. Erosion on either side of the path has caused the forest level to drop dramatically with only the tips of the plants rising above the level of the path. With drops of up to 30 meters on either side of the strange trail, traversing it can be dangerous.

The walk up to the first viewpoint is easily accessible to anyone even with a moderate level of fitness. However, the paths leading further vary widely in width, steepness, and danger. At points, the width of the land narrows to little more than foot-wide ridges that must be scrambled across. At other points, the paths turn almost vertical and require some climbing to go farther. Despite the slight dangers of the Pai Canyon, it is a popular attraction in the region. 

Know Before You Go

The entry to Pai Canyon is located on Road 1095. Going north, Pai Canyon is located 8 km. before entering Pai (town).Pai Canyon is the most popular spot in the area to watch the sunset. If you are hoping to avoid crowds, don't come at this time. The best spot to enjoy the sunset is at the beginning of the canyon trail.

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