Did you know there’s a few destinations that resemble the Grand Canyon in Asia? Excellently, one of these unique geological formations is situated just a few short hours from Singapore. Sam Phan Bok, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Thailand, is a mesmerising natural wonder located close to the border with Laos. Here’s what we know about the Grand Canyon near Singapore:
Grand Canyon of Thailand
Located in the northeastern province of Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand’s Grand Canyon is a huge rock reef stretching along 110km of the Mekong River. It features an impressive range of sandstone cliffs, canyons, and more than 3,000 erosional depressions filled with water.
Sam Phan Bok or Sam Pan Bok, translates to 3,000 shallow lakes, which describes the numerous rock potholes and basins carved out by the Mekong River over millions of years. Interestingly, these formations create a stunning landscape that resemble a giant, pockmarked surface, with some holes large enough to trap fish and form their own ecosystems during dry seasons. Certainly, it mirrors parts of the world-famous Grand Canyon in Arizona, United States.
The best time to visit Sam Phan Bok is between December and May when the water levels are low. This reveals the intricate rock formations at its best. Meanwhile, the site offers various activities such as boat rides along the Mekong River, hiking experiences, photo opportunities, and exploration of the unique rock formations. Additionally, sunrise and sunset are particularly popular times to visit for instagrammable moments.
How to get there
Travellers from Singapore can fly from Singapore Changi Airport to either of the two Bangkok airports. Following this, you must take a domestic flight to Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP). The total journey time including a layover is typically around five to six hours. Additionally, the Grand Canyon of Thailand is just one hour and 50 minutes drive from the airport.
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