The Three Pagodas Pass (Chedi Sam Ong in Thai) is a border crossing between Thailand and Myanmar (Burma). There's a small market there with three small white chedis, which give the place its name. Locals come here to pray, offer gifts to the chedis, or shop at the market, which sells souvenirs, gemstones, and handicrafts. In our opinion, the place isn't particularly interesting unless you can pass through the birdwatching area and visit the Burmese side. The border isn't always open. When it is, you can obtain a day visa (US$10 or THB 500, with payment in US dollars recommended) and visit the Burmese town of Payathon. To do this, you have to leave your passport at the border crossing and retrieve it upon returning to Thailand by presenting a photograph.

The border is not always open. When it is open, you can obtain a day visa (US$10 or THB 500, with payment in US dollars recommended) and visit the Burmese city of Payathon. You must leave your passport at the border crossing and retrieve it upon your return to Thailand by presenting a photograph.

To reach the Col des 3 Pagodas, you can take either a motorcycle taxi or the green songthaew 8521. It departs every 40 minutes from the bus station (you can also board it at the market). The journey takes about 45 minutes and costs 30 THB.

How to get there

How do I get to the Three Pagodas Pass? To reach the Col des 3 Pagodas, you can take either a motorbike taxi or the green songthaew 8521. It departs every 40 minutes from the bus station (you can also board it at the market). The journey takes about 45 minutes and costs 30 THB.