Pha Wing Choo

Pha Wing Choo, a hidden travel spot along the Ping River in Hod District, Chiang Mai Province

When mentioning “Pha Wing Choo,” many might be confused about what it is and where it is, because the name sounds similar to “Pha Choo” in Nan or the Pha Wing Choo Reservoir in Lampang. But I, mr.hotsia, will take everyone to experience the real place located in Hod District, Chiang Mai Province. This is not just an ordinary cliff, but a place that blends legends, the lifestyle along the Ping River, and unique natural views unlike anywhere else.

Starting with an easy journey from Chiang Mai city, drive south to Hod, a small town with its own charm. I personally like this route because besides the changing mountain and field scenery, stopping at small spots like the Red Temple with its distinctive red standing Buddha by the roadside is another charm of the Hod-Nalung route.

When you reach the Red Temple, turn left to cross the Ping River bridge, then drive a short distance to a left junction with a sign pointing to Pha Wing Choo. The sign is on the opposite side, so watch carefully. From here, drive about 5 kilometers on a small road that leads into Dong Dam village, where Pha Wing Choo is located.

Pha Wing Choo is a nearly vertical cliff about 90 degrees high, adjacent to the Ping River. The cliff has a unique horseshoe shape about a hundred meters wide, believed to have been eroded by the river in the past. I walked around and looked down, feeling the grandeur and hidden danger. You must be very careful when walking near the cliff edge because a misstep is not just falling into water but falling from a high cliff.

Another charm of Pha Wing Choo is the legend I heard from local villagers. It tells of a couple riding horses who reached this point while being chased with no escape. They decided to blindfold their horses and jumped off the cliff together, creating a mysterious and romantic story that became the name “Pha Wing Choo,” still told today.

Although Pha Wing Choo does not have many tourist facilities, for me, mr.hotsia, this is the true raw beauty of nature still preserved in Chiang Mai, deeply connected to the simple lifestyle of Hod people who remain closely tied to the Ping River.

If you have time, I recommend visitingDoi Tao Lake Ruinswhich is not far away to experience the distinct dry atmosphere of a once large lake. Or if you want to learn about the lifestyle and culture of the Hod community, check out the storyAncient Hod Town That Was Flooded and Has Returnedwhich helps complete the overall picture of this area.

Travel and real experience with mr.hotsia

I visited Pha Wing Choo during the cool weather at the end of the rainy season and beginning of winter. The route from Chiang Mai city takes about 2 hours by private car. Driving through old Hod district, which remains peaceful and full of old houses, feels like stepping back in time.

Turning into a small alley following the signs, I was impressed by the views of rice fields and small fruit orchards along the Ping River. Upon reaching the cliff, I walked along the ridge where there are oddly shaped rock formations perfect for photos. On the other side, the steep cliff requires walking down a small path by the Ping River, where you can clearly see signs of water erosion.

For photography lovers, this is heaven because the light and shadows on the cliff change throughout the day, creating different atmospheres. It is also peaceful, unlike crowded tourist spots.

During my visit, local villagers were fishing and raising buffaloes by the Ping River. Seeing this lifestyle made me realize that Chiang Mai is not only about the city and mountains but also about communities deeply connected with nature.

Additional recommendations for travelers

If you want to visit Pha Wing Choo, I recommend using a private car or motorcycle because the roads are narrow and some parts are quite isolated. There are no buses or tours passing by. GPS or mobile maps will be very helpful.

Don’t forget to bring drinking water and snacks because there are no shops or restaurants nearby. Be especially careful about safety, particularly for children and the elderly. Avoid walking too close to the cliff edge, and if taking photos, have someone watch for safety.

After visiting Pha Wing Choo, I usually drive on toSan Thong Omkoi Templeto pay respect to Phra Chao San Thong or stop to recharge atJaeng Muang Restaurantin Mae Chaem, which is on the way back to Chiang Mai. It’s a perfect way to end the trip with a delicious meal and a peaceful mind.

Summary of impressions from mr.hotsia

Pha Wing Choo is a place I recommend for those who enjoy deep travel experiences—not just sightseeing but truly experiencing the stories and lifestyles of local people. It is not luxurious or full of facilities but offers raw natural beauty and legends passed down through time.

If you want to get off the main tourist routes in Chiang Mai, I suggest visiting Pha Wing Choo in Hod District. You will find tranquility and beauty hidden along the Ping River, not far from other famous attractions but with a completely different atmosphere and feeling.

Follow my travel stories and other recommended places here. mr.hotsia will take you to explore every corner of Chiang Mai and Thailand that you may have never known before.