From ancient times, stairs were built to reduce our efforts while climbing heights and help us quickly reach the top of a mountain or building. However, all stairs are not constructed to serve such purposes. In some regions worldwide, stairs are built specifically with a terrifying design to make you dizzy. These passages to hell have a scary structure and steep stairways and have claimed many lives. So, keeping an eye on your step while climbing up these deadliest staircases is essential. Whether a part of a skyscraper, a massive mountain, or a crooked passage, these stairs can be a nightmare for many of you.
Stairways can significantly impact one’s memory, similar to a new place they visit for the first time. While some stairs are aesthetically pleasing, some can be intimidating, primarily when it lies between you and a beautiful location you had to visit halfway across the globe. Few of the deadliest staircases in the world can cause fear for psychological reasons, like the creaking noises it makes or the eerie atmosphere in the location. If you think you are brave enough to visit these most dangerous stairs in the world and brag about it with your friends, note these seven stairs to find an interesting element at the end, such as a stunning waterfall or a sacred place of worship. Nothing is as thrilling as the accomplishment you make while safely reaching that last step.
List of Top 7 Deadliest Staircases In The World
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1. Pailon del Diablo in Ecuador
The world’s most dangerous stairs are located near a beautiful waterfall, and the name “Pailon del Diablo” rightly means The Devil’s Cauldron in English. The stairs are carefully constructed to blend well with the natural landscape. This explains why you barely notice it when you visit the waterfall. The stairs are crafted using large and smooth pebbles, which remain slippery when the mist from the waterfalls hits them. These pebbled steps can be tricky, as there is minimal traction.
When looking at the slithering stairs, it’s hard to ignore the feeling that the chances of slipping and falling down are high. If you want a grip while climbing up or down these stairs, then the metal rails that run along with it can be helpful. However, some travelers who have visited this spot warn that these rails are slippery with the water droplets that settle from the waterfall and can’t offer a sturdy grip. However, while trekking through these steep stairs, the effort you put in will be rewarded when you enjoy the scenic waterfall from the top.
2. Mount Huashan Heavenly Stairs in China
Don’t get deceived by the word heaven in the title of this place because it is said to be one of the most dangerous staircases in the world. Nestled in the Huayin region of China’s Shaanxi province, the Mount Huashan range looks like a flower on the map. With 2160 m altitude, this mountain has a teahouse at the top along the southern side.
No traveler in history has counted the number of stairs in this destination with a deathly drop. The stairs sculpted on the Taoist mountain go so high that you can’t keep track of them. The stone stairs have single railing support that would help you hang on while climbing up. However, the thrill doesn’t stop at just climbing these scary stairs. You will reach a horizontal walkway built using wooden planks on the mountain’s side, held together with a chain that barely supports you while ascending.
3. Catacombs in Paris
These underground ossuaries are located in the romantic city of Paris in France and hold the remains of over 6 million people who were involved in building the stone quarries in ancient times. It is considered one of the 10 deadliest staircases globally, as it is made with creepy staircases.
To visit the catacombs, you need to climb 130 stairs of stone designed in a narrow fashion that can leave you claustrophobic. With the sunlight fading away as you climb down the stairs, the area filled with skulls and bones in darkness can send a shiver down your spine. If you don’t want all this creepiness, you can choose another stairway with 83 staircases to climb up and down to access sunlight and the breeze.
4. Angkor Wat Temple in Cambodia
This place with dangerous staircases is popular among tourists, as the stairs have a very steep design to remind us that reaching heaven is not easy. The artful design of the stairs makes every climber fall on their knees and use their hands to climb up. The ropes near the stairs can help you hang on to your dear life while you try to reach the top.
The stairs of this Cambodian temple have a 70-degree inclination making them the most dangerous stairs in the world. When you climb up the steepest stairs, you can reach the temples at the top and worship the almighty. However, follow extreme caution while climbing, as even a single misstep can make you tumble down and can be fatal.
5. Half Dome Stairs In California
These deadliest staircases in the world are situated at Yosemite National Park to reach the iconic peak in the valley. To begin this gruesome hike, a 400-feet cable ladder placed vertically on a huge rock awaits you. You will get the elevation while making your way toward the half dome, which is rewarding for all your efforts.
While climbing the tricky stairs, enjoy the spectacular view of the Liberty Cap, Vernal Falls, Half Dome, and Nevada Falls. After reaching the Half Dome, you will see the panoramic views of the High Sierra and Yosemite Valley. However, remember that this hike is not for you if you have any chronic medical conditions or are out of shape, as this round trip hike is 16 miles that must be covered between 10 to 12 hours. Also, make sure you have the required permit for the walk and wear proper gear and footwear to prevent unfortunate accidents.
6. Sagrada Familia in Spain
This incomplete church built by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi is one of the best architectural wonders of the world. Gaudi had envisioned this Roman Catholic Church with a forest canopy as its roof. You will be awestruck while looking at the magnificent towering facade, estimated to take several years to complete.
The spiraling staircase running towards the top doesn’t have any handrails or railings to hold on to. The stairways are built to coil tightly around the church’s walls and are downright scary. Travellers often avoid climbing the deadly stairs of this unfinished church, but if you are brave enough to try it, don’t tell us that you were not warned!
7. Florli Stairs in Norway
Known as the planet’s longest wooden staircase, this Norway location has about 4444 steps, which rise from the ground at 2427 feet. The beginning of these long stairs is at the Lysefjord’s edge that goes up the mountain top in Flørli village. The stairs are built to follow the water pipes that provide water to the hydropower station, which stops at the Ternevass dam. Keep each step carefully while enjoying beautiful views of Preikestolen and Lysefjord.
You can also cut your trip by taking the ancient trail that is 100 years old to reach the top. The thrill of climbing on the creaky wooden stairs that lie at the side of a massive mountain should not be missed. It takes around 5 hours to complete the hike through these dangerous stairs, but you will be rewarded with stunning views and get an insight into the hydropower station.
We can assure you that all of these staircases listed above can give you an immense thrill that can make your heart miss a beat while offering gorgeous views. Whether the stairs lead to a natural wonder or spiral towards a prominent landmark, these dangerous staircases are not for the faint-hearted. Choose any of these terrifying stairs and try climbing them while grabbing the nearest railing.