Phrae:Experience the mysterious charm in the heart of Phrae city at 'Pae Muang Phi,' a land hiding tales of cursed treasure and ancient legends. Marvel at the natural rock formations and earth pillars that have preserved world history for over 2 million years.
According to Thai News Agency, this Halloween, you don't need to travel abroad for a scare! Thailand itself has a place full of mysterious tales and the enchanting allure of nature 'Pae Muang Phi Forest Park,' a sacred site steeped in ancient beliefs, hidden between Thung Hong and Nam Cham subdistricts in Mueang district, Phrae province.
The tale of a cursed treasure and mysterious footprints takes us back to the past. This place, through which a small stream flows, was a sacred forest highly respected by the villagers. The legend tells of an old woman who went into the forest to gather vegetables and bamboo shoots, and accidentally stumbled upon a mysterious "pit of silver and gold." Overjoyed, she filled her basket with the treasure, but when she tried to carry it home, she became lost and couldn't find her way out. This was because the guardian spirit of the treasure had only intended to reveal it, but would not allow it to be taken.
When she could no longer carry her load back, the old woman decided to put it down. She cut branches to make a carrying pole and marked a path to guide her back to the villagers so they could help her carry her belongings. Eventually, when she led the villagers to the spot where the glittering gold and silver had once been, it had vanished before their eyes, leaving behind only "mysterious footprints" that led to the side of the "Mero pillar," and no other footprints led in any other direction. The old woman and the villagers then came to call this place "Phae Mueang Phi" (Ghost City of Goats), a name that has been used ever since.
Beyond the eerie atmosphere, geologists estimate that the unique landscape of Phae Mueang Phi was formed during the Quaternary period, approximately 2 million years ago. It was created by the accumulation of alternating layers of sandstone and fine-grained sand, each with varying resistance to weathering. Over time, rainwater eroded the softer layers, leaving behind the stronger upper layers that acted as a "protective shield," forming unique and beautiful rock pillars, earth pillars, and natural sculptures that invite the imagination to uncover the mysteries of nature.
"Phae Mueang Phi" (Ghost City of Phae) is not just a land of local folklore, but also an invaluable geological heritage created by nature over millions of years. During this Halloween season, in addition to enjoying the festivities and soaking up the atmosphere, we invite everyone to help conserve natural resources. Please refrain from writing on, climbing on, or damaging the rock formations, and help maintain cleanliness by not littering. This will ensure that this spectacular natural phenomenon and valuable legend remain a part of Phrae's heritage for generations to come.