Grand Canyon Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s Grand Canyon, known as the Hang Dong Canyon, is a spectacular canyon and lagoon under an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai. It is not particularly well known amongst tourists to the area, however it is a fantastic place to spend a day jumping into and swimming in the crystal clear water, or just topping up your sun tan as you lounge around on the cliffs, munching on some delicious Thai grilled chicken.

What to See and Do

Once you arrive you will likely be amazed at the beauty of the sheer cliffs and huge rocks rising up out of the shimmering blue green waters. There are plenty of places to sit and relax with a beer or two, however most people come to enjoy cooling off in the water. Jumping off the cliff edges into the water is definitely something the adrenaline junkies will enjoy. There are a range of different levels starting at around one meter for the timid, up to roughly 16 meters for the fearless, it really is a lot of fun and safe as the water is clear, life jackets are available and there are lifeguards on site in case of any emergencies.

There are actually two parks at the site, the first one is a little more relaxed, offers beautiful scenery, large swimming area and some cliffs to dive from. The second park has a lot more activities, inflatables and a pretty impressive zip line.

How to Get There

The Grand Canyon is 17-18 km south west of Chiang Mai, and you can get there by hiring a motorcycle or car for the day or taking a taxi. A few points first. It is not well signposted and is not so easy to find. You must follow route 1141 south, this changes into route 108 after leaving the city, and continue on this road until you reach a T-junction after about 15 minutes. Turn right onto route 121, then left at the next T-junction onto route 1269. Turn right after the golf club, then right again when you reach the small reservoir and after a few hundred meters you will have arrived. If you do take a taxi, make sure you agree for the driver to wait for you or to come back, there are no taxis or public transportation available once you’re at the Grand Canyon.

Opening Times and Admission Fee

The entrance fee to the first park is 100 Baht ($3.30), a life jacket is included in this price. The second park with the additional activities, inflatables and zip line is 550 Baht ($18).

Food and drinks, including alcohol are available on site and not expensive, but be aware that outside food and drinks are not allowed. It is open daily from 9am to 7pm. There is no dress code but nudity is not allowed, and women must not go topless.

Note: Although the park now offers a very safe environment, there has been a few accidents at the water park in the past, so be very careful. Since these incidents the park had it’s safety revised to meet the safety standards and requirements.