visit pai thailand

17 EPIC Things to Do in Pai, Thailand [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: July 15, 2024

From the famous Pai Canyon to the hot springs and funky cafes, here is our list of 17 of the absolute best things to do in Pai, Thailand.

Arguably one of the best places in Northern Thailand, the hippy enclave of Pai has been drawing backpackers and alternative types for years.

Located 135km from the city of Chiang Mai, at the end of a twisting road with 762 curves, this gorgeous and quaint little village is the kind of place you show up for a day and stay for, well forever.

There are natural hot springs, waterfalls, markets, plenty of backpacker hostels, and more. It is easily reachable from Chiang Mai, which is a popular spot to visit in northern Thailand.

While Pai is well and truly located on the beaten path now, that doesn’t mean that you should skip this incredible place that has a reputation for being like a “Thai island in the mountains”.

Table of Contents

1) Explore Pai Canyon

2) wander pai’s walking street night market, 3) visit the pam bok waterfall, 4) hang out at mo paeng waterfall, 5) soak in the tha pai hot springs, 6) the land crack (land split), 7) learn to ride a scooter, 8) visit the white buddha on top of the hill (wat phra that mae yen), 9) go tubing down the pai river, 10) pai circus school, 11) make the most of pai’s nightlife, 12) check out tham lod cave, 13) go whitewater rafting, 14) visit the santichon chinese village, container cafe, 16) do some yoga, 17) chill in a hammock, shuttle bus, ride a scooter, the best hostel in pai thailand – deejai pai backpackers, best budget accommodation for couples in pai thailand – pai country hut, best mid-range hotel in pai thailand- phu pai art hotel, best luxury hotel in pai, thailand – reverie siam resort, save this pin for later, the best things to do in pai, thailand.

We have spent over a month in Pai, spread out over a couple of years.

When we first checked it out it was when we were riding the Mae Hong Son Loop , one of the best motorbike circuits in Southeast Asia.

We kept coming back again and again and recently spent another week chilling in our favourite place in northern Thailand.

There are dozens of incredible activities in Pai, but we’ve managed to narrow it down to these ultimate activities.

From what to do, where to go, and even where to stay, here’s our list of the absolute best things to do in Pai, Thailand.

READ MORE: Check out our ultimate guide to  travel to Thailand !

Known as Thailand’s answer to the Grand Canyon (a very ambitious claim), Pai Canyon covers a large area that offers some brilliant views and fun hikes.

If you are feeling very active you can scramble all the way down to the base of Pai Canyon and spend hours climbing and getting lost in nature.

It’s a bit of an adventurer’s playground too because some of the paths are quite skinny and sketchy, so make sure you wear good shoes if you are planning on exploring Pai Canyon properly.

A favourite pastime is enjoying the sunset with a beer in hand, watching the sky change to an astonishing array of colours from the top of Pai Canyon.

You won’t be alone for sunset, but that just adds to the awesome atmosphere!

Get there to Pai Canyon by riding your scooter out of town back towards Chiang Mai.

Every night the main walking street of Pai fills up with street food vendors and market stalls selling everything from your quintessential hippie clothing and jewelry to personalized postcards.

Even if you’re not into shopping though, you still need to spend just about every night making the most of Pai’s Walking Street, especially if you’re hungry.

The selection of street food is quite varied; sushi, Indian food, barbecued meats, fresh fruit smoothies, and deep-fried everything. You certainly won’t go hungry!

Everyone ends up at the night market most nights so the people-watching is great. Just watch out for first-time scooter riders who have no concept of how to drive. Entertaining, but dangerous!

Hot tip – Crashing a scooter is not one of our recommended things to do in Pai!

Pai has a number of awesome waterfalls to visit, which is perfect because the area can get pretty hot during the day! What better way to cool off than visiting the two best ones!

One of our personal favourites is the Pam Bok Waterfall, located a short scooter ride from Pai. It’s a little more secluded than its more popular alternative (more on that below), so definitely don’t miss it.

Pam Bok Waterfall is tucked away beneath some high cliffs, so it is often covered in shade for most of the day. As a result, the water is quite refreshing, but that means you could have the pool to yourself.

There are also a couple of ledges you can climb to jump off. Be sure to check the water depth before taking the leap! Safety first kids.

Another epic waterfall you can visit to the east of Pai is the Mae Yen Waterfall. You can reach Mae Yen Waterfall via a long, hectic 5km hike so next is another easier waterfall option for you in Pai!

READ MORE: Here’s our new list of the  best places to visit in Thailand !

The other most popular falls to visit in Pai is the Mo Paeng Waterfall, and this is our personal favourite.

At Mo Paeng Waterfalls there are great little pools with long, slippery rock faces running into them that you can slide down.

The scenery is gorgeous and it makes for a fun place to spend a few hours.

Our recommendation for what to do in Pai is to rent a scooter from town and spend exploring these epic little spots on your own.

For a relaxing afternoon when you visit Pai, head to the Tha Pai Hot Springs. Only 7km from town, a cold-water stream flows over boiling-hot rocks to create a soothing, heated pool surrounded by lush scenery.

Tha Pai Hot Springs are the perfect way to kill a few hours in the winter months when temperatures in Pai can plummet.

You’ll find lots of other backpackers hanging out and having a good time at the hot springs, so there’s a good chance you’ll make some friends there too.

This is one place we didn’t visit due to the fact we were there in summer and the weather was already roasting. But if you are there in the cooler months, don’t miss these amazing hot springs!

Sai Ngam Hot Springs are another amazing option. While Tha Pai Hot Springs are south of the town center, Sai Ngam Hot Springs are a 25 minute drive north.

Both are easily accessible from Pai and make for an incredible, relaxing day.

Situated on the road to the Pam Bok Waterfall, the famous Pai Land Split is definitely worth a stopover.

A small property hidden in the hills had always been a working farm until a strange natural phenomenon changed everything.

Several years ago, the farmer’s land began to split and crack due to some strange soil erosion. His property became unusable as the land turned into a scene you would see after an earthquake.

The thrifty farmer then decided to turn his property and land split into a bit of a tourist attraction where he now offers you nuts, fruit, sweet potato, fresh rosella juice, and alcohol – all by donation!

Once you’ve filled up on food (he constantly brings you more to eat), you can walk up the hill to have a look at the Land Split.

The family is very friendly and is just happy to have people stopping by. Definitely one of the most unique things to do in Pai.

There’s no denying that Pai is one of the best places in all of Thailand to ride a scooter.

The quiet roads, beautiful scenery and lack of public transport makes it the ideal mode of transport.

There are many things to see in Pai, and getting around on a scooter is a fun and efficient way to do so!

If you’ve never ridden a scooter before then the lack of traffic makes Pai a perfect place to learn.

There are a number of shops in town that rent scooters for reasonable rates (usually around $5 per day), and then you just have to get yourself some fuel.

We recommend filling up at the petrol station in town for the best prices.

Once you have your bike and a full tank of petrol, all that’s left to do is ride off into the sunset with the wind in your face!

Note – Riding a scooter is potentially dangerous, so always ride within your limits (go slow, especially around corners if you’re not experienced), wear closed-toe shoes, and always wear a helmet.

If you wish to travel in comfort, then get your own driver and tour guide for a day!

Wat Phra That Mae Yen, also known as the White Buddha, is one of the top things to see when you visit Pai.

You can see Wat Phra That Mae Yen from most places in town, and the White Buddha high on the hill isn’t only a religious shrine, it also offers some of the best views over Pai!

Once you cross the bridge heading out of town keep following the road until you are about 2km out of town, and you’ll see the path to the top.

There are 353 steps to reach the White Buddha, and while it might be tiring, the vistas from the top are always worth it.

Time your trip to be at the top for sunset and you’ll quickly fall in love with the entire valley changing colours right before your eyes.

Make sure you take water with you, and even though the temperature can be hot keep in mind that you still need to show respect to Buddha by covering up.

It’s difficult deciding what to see in Pai, but the Wat Phra That Mae Yen is a Pai must-see!

The Pai River hosts the best Pai activities – tubing!

If you’ve never been tubing before then you’re in for a real treat. Basically all it requires is one big inflatable tube, your bathers, and a sense of adventure.

You head upriver with a bunch of friends and push yourself out into the water. Then you kick back and let the current take you back to town. The entire experience will take about an hour.

This is definitely one of the best things to do in Pai Thailand, especially on a hot day. Rent a tube from one of the tour companies in town for less than $10, including transport to and from the river.

In a bohemian community, everyone seems to practice different forms of entertainment such as fire dancing, juggling, and slacklining. Here in Pai, there is a school you can attend to learn all these skills yourselves!

The cost is 600 baht as a one-off membership fee and then you are free to join in on the lessons from experienced teachers in all the finer points of poi, staff, juggling, diablo, and anything else you might be interested in.

It is located in a beautiful elevated setting with views over the valleys and excellent gazebos you can relax in if you don’t feel like partaking in the activities.

Over the years they have worked hard to upgrade the facilities on the site, and it’s much nicer today than it used to be.

The Circus School also has some accommodation on the site, and if you stay there you can make the most of all the classes as well.

For a small town, there are a lot of awesome bars and clubs to party the night away! Yep, Pai’s nightlife is infamous.

If you’re looking for a truly epic night out, then head to Boom Bar. This is the place to be for backpackers, and with cheap cocktails, a beer pong table, and pumping music, it’s a guaranteed fun night out.

Almost Famous Bar is a great spot to ease into the evening, as they have great cocktails. Another fun spot is the Mad Monkey Hostel.

Jazz House has more of a chill vibe with live music. Come here to eat, drink, and relax listening to some local artists.

Want an all-nighter? Then head to Don’t Cry Bar. Loud music, strong drinks, and tonnes of party animals…

(Don’t Cry Bar is temporarily closed due to COVID. But it hasn’t shut down for good, so keep an eye on the Facebook page to see if they reopen)

• Address: 139/2 Pai, Pai District
• Opening hours: 6 PM – 12 AM
• Address: 24/1 moo3 viengtai Pai District
• Opening hours: 7 PM – 11 PM Thursday – Saturday

Almost Famous Bar

• Address: 62/2 moo 3 Viengtai Mae Hong Son
• Opening hours: 5 PM – 12 AM

Not exactly located in Pai, but instead, in a town 35km headed towards Mae Hong Son, there is a spectacular limestone system known as Lod (Spirit) Caves.

A river flows through the Tham Lod Cave and you can hire a guide to float through them on a bamboo raft.

At certain points, you can climb upstairs and ladders to explore the stalactites and stalagmites of Tham Lod Cave up close. You can also see numerous ancient ceramics and wall paintings that are scattered throughout the complex.

Definitely worth the drive/ride out to Thad Lom Cave.

If you want an even more in-depth experience for caving near Pai, check out this epic  full-day caving and spelunking tour by Pai Adventures.

One of the newest activities for what to do in Pai is going whitewater rafting, and if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush then this is the one for you.

You can choose to do a one-day tour or even a two-day tour, charging down class 3 rapids in a purposefully-designed whitewater raft.

Pai Adventures also has rafting tours that you can book where all the gear and instructions are included.

Just outside of Pai is the village of Santichon Village, an ethnic-minority Chinese Yunnan village founded by people who moved from north of the border during the revolution.

These days it’s set up as a bit of a cultural exhibition, and while it might seem slightly touristy, it’s well worth a visit if you’d like to get an inside look at a different culture and try some different food.

Yunnan cuisine is quite delicious and the people are friendly here. You can get out to Santichon by renting a scooter and riding the short 5km to the village.

15) Spend Time in the Unique Cafes

One thing that Pai does not lack is amazing cafes serving up delicious coffee and food. Most of them have interesting decors and amazing ambience and are a great way to while away the day.

You could easily spend a week here and not visit the same place twice! Dedicate some time to exploring all the cafes, both in town and on the outskirts.

Our personal favourite is Container Cafe just outside of Pai. It has cool chairs, delicious coffee and snacks and awesome views over the farmland below.

• Address: Thung Yao, Pai District
• Opening hours: every day, from 10 AM – 6 PM

If you’re feeling pretty sore after all the partying and waterfall jumping in Pai, then you should treat yourself to some yoga classes.

For such a cool hippy town, it’s no surprise that there are a bunch of yoga schools attracting spiritual types and anybody just looking to stretch their muscles out.

The most popular one is Sawasdee Pai Yoga, and they have two classes a day, and they will set you back 200 Thai Baht.

You’ll find them on the Pai River.

When you spend your days actively exploring everything Pai, Thailand has to offer, it is only normal to need a break. Luckily Pai is one of the most relaxed places you are ever likely to visit.

Watch the hours fade as you laze about in a hammock, reading a book or watching the world pass you by.

Many accommodation options have great views over the valley or by the river. Be sure to choose one of these and enjoy the vistas! Definitely one of the best things to do in Pai, Thailand!

Disclaimer – In previous versions of this article we listed visiting Thom’s Elephant Camp as one of the best things to do in Pai Thailand. While we always discouraged anyone from riding an elephant, we used to give everyone a chance to make their own decisions. Since then we have received reports that Thom’s is not as wholesome as it used to be, and as such we have removed it from our list and want to warn others not to visit Thom’s Elephant Camp.

Pai, Thailand Travel Guide

To help you make the most of it when you visit Pai Thailand, we’ve put together this epic little Pai travel guide for you.

If you’re wondering how to get there, where to stay and what to eat after you’ve tackled all the awesome things to do in Pai, this is the guide for you!

How to Get to Pai Thailand

There are a number of different ways to get to Pai, and it depends on your budget, style and where you’re coming from.

Most people travel to Pai from Chiang Mai, and often return the same way. There are three options to get to Pai from Chiang Mai.

If money isn’t an option, and time is, you can take a flight from Chiang Mai to Pai. It’s definitely not the cheapest option, but you’ll be there in no time.

The most common way for people to get to Pai is to take a shuttle bus from Chiang Mai, and while these are fairly cheap and quick, they are also a bit crazy.

The road from Chiang Mai to Pai has 762 curves on it, and zipping around those bends in a cramped shuttle bus can make everyone onboard nauseous.

Make sure you pick up some motion sickness tablets from a pharmacy in Chiang Mai first.

You can book your transport to Pai from any hostel or agency in Chiang Mai.

If you want to book it ahead of time though to ensure you don’t miss a seat, the best place to do so is on 12go.asia .

This is the best and most enjoyable way to travel to Pai, as you’ll get the chance to really soak up the epic scenery along the route.

The fresh air in your face is a wonderful thing, and the road has been recently paved to be near perfect the entire way.

Leaving Chiang Mai is a bit of a hectic endeavour, but once you get into the mountains it’s all fun and speed the whole way to Pai!

Please be very careful though on this ride from Chiang Mai to Pai. We have met dozens of backpackers who have crashed on this road, and in every instance, it was because they either got too cocky with their skills, or were inexperienced and had no idea how to ride.

This is our personal favourite way to get to Pai, and you can organize rentals from somewhere like Mr. Mechanic or Aya in Chiang Mai (Aya offers one-way scooter rental too).

If you’re going to ride a scooter from Chiang Mai to Pai, make sure you have travel insurance .

Accommodation – Where to Stay in Pai, Thailand

Pai has got a great selection of places to crash, from luxury resorts to mid-range boutique hotels to dingy backpacker dives, and everything in between. There will certainly be somewhere to fit your budget!

The first time we visited Pai we stayed at Family Huts – and while they were good back then, the accommodation options have really improved in recent years!

Now you can stay somewhere quite nice on a budget, or really splash out and stay in some of the most incredible accommodation in the country.

Pai has also become a bit of a digital nomad hotspot, meaning if you are interested in long-term accommodation or private apartments and cabins there are quite a few options as well.

To find these check out AirBnB (and use this link to receive $35 off of your first stay) .

As an even bigger bonus, we’ve partnered with the booking agent Agoda to give all of our readers 10% off of their accommodation around the world! Use the coupon: AGODANMD10 to get your discount.

The legends at DeeJai Pai Backpackers have been working hard to turn their humble abode into the best backpacker accommodation in Pai, and they’ve finally done it!

The dorm rooms are incredibly clean and spacious, and the common area is something to die for – gorgeous views over the rice paddies with some of the best sunset spots in Pai.

It’s a great place to stay if you are on a backpacker budget.

At the end of the Walking Street and over the bamboo bridge is a collection of awesome accommodations.

When you get over the bamboo bridge on your right is Family Huts, where we first stayed when we came to Pai, but the last time we were there we decided to try the place on the left, and wow what a spot!

Pai Country Hut is run by an amazingly friendly lady and has an epic location right on the river.

The bungalows have private bathrooms, comfy beds and hammocks on the balconies, making them a great spot to rest at the end of a big day exploring.

They also have working wifi.

Grab some beers and chill out by the river in peace and quiet, and don’t be surprised if you end up extending your stay there for longer than expected (we did!).

If you want a beautiful accommodation, but would rather sleep in more of a traditional hotel room instead of a bamboo bungalow, Phu Pai Art Hotel is the place to be.

It has stunning rooms with all the creature comforts you’d expect, including wifi in the rooms and a TV, and the property is absolutely gorgeous.

There’s a large pool for those that like to chill out on those hot Pai days, and the restaurant serves excellent food.

It’s a bit outside of town too, meaning it’s very quiet and secluded.

When it comes to pure luxury there are a couple of options in Pai, but nowhere does it better than Reverie Siam Resort .

If living the dream is high on your list of things to do in Pai, then make sure you book in for a couple of nights at Reverie Siam Resort and allow yourself to be fully spoilt.

It has an awesome pool with mountain views, a natural pool, excellent staff with wonderful attention to detail, and the rooms are to die for.

The decorations are quintessentially Thai, and tastefully done, so you’ll probably end up taking a few ideas for your own home when you leave.

Make sure you eat and drink at the restaurant and bar as well. The cocktails are a must.

Best Restaurants in Pai Thailand

Pai has come a long way from its old hippie backpacker days, and now there are a number of awesome and high quality restaurants in town. In fact when trying to think about what to do in Pai, eating is right up there on the list now!

If you are after a world-class burger head to Maya Burger Queen (make sure you haven’t eaten for a while as they are huge).

Dang Thai Food makes some of the best Thai food in Pai, and it is all at a very reasonable price, so make sure you eat there as well.

Om Garden Cafe has less traditional Thai options but does great vegetarian, healthy meals.

Splash out on some Mexican at Cafecito if you want something different too.

[box] That’s it for our list of the best things to do in Pai, Thailand. Have we missed anything? Have you found the list useful? Leave a comment below and let us know![/box]

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Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Great and informative post! I love the idea mentioned in this blog.

Thank you so much. 🙂

Really helpful, thanks.

Thanks so much

Great Article Loved It

Thanks so much 🙂

Thanks so much Lisa. Glad you enjoyed it. 🙂

Thanks for the in-depth wonderful article you turned out here Enjoyed reading the article above and thank you for sharing good knowledge and information it’s very helpful. I was searching for a travel blog and found your blog site. I like your high-quality blog site design plus your posting abilities. Keep doing it.

We tried to visit the land crack but since covid it has been closed (we went on December 12th 2022). Also, the Pam Bok waterfalls charges 200 baht to enter the site for foreigners. Love the blog and will be visiting other sites soon.

Thanks so much for the in-depth wonderful article you turned out here loved it

Glad it was helpful. Thank you

Just a heads up: the agoda discount coupon is rejected as invalid. Good article.

Thank you so much for that Nathan. We appreciate it.

I am surprised that you spent a month in Pai and you missed out the Sea of Mist at the Yun Lai village.

Great blog! It has definitely helped us during our trip to Pai. Just one thing I thought I would mention though is that the Land Split/Land Crack has not been caused by “ some strange soil erosion” but rather by an earthquake, first in 2008 and then 2011. It might be worth rectifying it in your blog 😉

Thank you for the information. We will have to change it. All the best.

Unfortunately, Land Split is temporary closed

Oh no…. thank you so much Shirley for letting us know. We will remove it from the article. 🙂

Pai use to be great 5-10 years ago but it’s been ruin by Hipster and dysfunctional Feminists. Not worth it anymore cause Westerner women aren’t right in the head anymore due to dysfunctional PC Culture brainwashing. STAY AWAY!!!

Sorry you feel that Paul. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. We did not feel this at all. Yes it may have changed but we always see the positive in places. Places change all over the world. Everyone should experience a place for themselves and walk away with their own opinion. Take care

“Westerner women aren’t right in the head says” a whole about you, or at least the Paul of 2019.

Less so about the 50% of an entire hemisphere of our world that you are describing.

I truly hope this changes for you.

Have a good time. Pai is such a good restful place. positively hit up the road market nightly. Pai is a piece of paradise.I am so impressed by the information you have provided related to Pai. Keep sharing more such posts!

Thank you so much. We loved our time in Pai. We really enjoyed the road market. We stayed out of town and found it so peaceful and relaxing. 🙂

Planning to head down Pai in a week time. Will be travelling solo from BKK. Any idea what other transport available to travel around Pai if no scooter? And what recommendations do u have for travelling to Pai from Bkk. Thanks!

Hi Aisyah, the only other option to travel around Pai is by tour bus. You can book a tour through many tour companies in the town. As for travelling from BKK to Pai maybe by train part way then by bus or you can fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. All the best

Really useful blog! Heading to Pai on Monday and can’t wait to check out some of your recommendations 🙂 Hoping to ride a scooter for the first time so glad to hear some of the roads can be quiet haha!!

Have a great time. Pai is such a great relaxing place. Definitely hit up the street market nightly. Be careful with the scooter. Pai is where a lot of people have injuries and the hospital is always busy with patients. If you do not have your motorbike license your insurance company will not cover you so be safe. Ask for a little lesson from the rental company. They usually do this as they don’t want their bikes to come back broken. You will do awesome, just take it slow and know where the brakes are. 🙂

Amazing blog & v helpful

Thank you. Glad it was helpful.

What a nice read

so much about elephants here, like somebody mentioned the money they earned from selling elephant rides helps feed them too – both the elephants and their human caretakers.

why do the animal rights nuts like to get into fake moral outrage over something i suspect even they themselves don’t really understand ? the thais have been riding elephants for as long as they can remember…no ?

Just because something has been happening for years does not make it okay. Slavery was also once legal …no?

@ Andy Chen Either you clearly have never been to a place that offers elephant rides or you really just don’t care about the elephants’ well being. I went to a so-called elephant “refugee” camp where they offered rides. From the moment we showed up we saw the elephants in shackles. Later on, when it was our turn to get on the elephant, it wasn’t lowering itself fast enough for the trainer, so the trainer started angrily punching his fist on the elephants upper trunk. It was ridiculous. Elephants have to be trained to give rides to people, so that means they have to suffer whatever physical punishment it takes until they learn and obey. It’s wrong. Not to mention, of course, that riding an elephant is not even comfortable. Its shoulders move up and down a lot and it jostles you back and forth. Bottom line: elephants should not be trained to give rides for tourists. Neither should camels for that matter.

Totally agree! And it’s very important to remind everyone about this again and again as most people don’t know -mostly because they dont’ care – (as for zoo). Most elephant sanctuaries etc are just bullshit tourist attractions and animas are not so happy as people think they are. Values and ethic should be kept in mind when we visit any country. THailand has so much more to offer than stupid tourist advertisements with animals (elephants, tigers ..)

Hi, there! Very helpful blog! Thank you so much. Pai is our destination of next year. It’s quite calm and the locals seem so nice. We may go travel there in May or June. I’m not sure about the weather. Any suggestions? We’ve just known only one thing, it will be rainy season there.

Thank you in advance!

Thank you so much. We hope you like Pai. It can be a busy place but just don’t stay on the main street and you can avoid this. We stayed just across the wooden bridge and could walk away from the noice and business when we wanted. Definitely bring a rain jacket. You never know with the weather. If it is raining a little don’t let that keep you inside. Just embrace it.

Love your blog and find it helpful to plan my journey to Pai.

Glad we could help. Have a great trip 🙂

I love Pai so much. I have been here for more than 10 times and I still get excited whenever we go here. For me, Pai is like a paradise. Like you wouldn’t ran out of things to do here.

Thank you for your comment. Glad you love Pai as much as us. Pai is a piece of paradise. We love heading back there also. 🙂

Wow! I really love this post! I did not know Thailand was this beuatiful.. This post just gave me FOMO while reading it. Pai looks really nice and green. It’s picturesque. It definitely qualified into my bucket list! I’d totally love to chill in my hammock with a nice book looking at the beautiful plains. Amazing post, though. Thanks 🙂

Thanks for reading Lauren. We recommend staying just outside of town or just over the river. Outside of town you will be woken with silence but need to travel to get to places. It was so lovely. Across the river, it is quieter and you are close to the centre of town. To get out to attractions, you need to rent a scooter. Never leave your passport with them. If you are not keen on the scooter, there are tours that go out that way too. Hope you get there one day. Happy travels.

This is a great read on things to do in Pai. I am a few days away from arriving there.

My only negative comment is please take off the the elephant comment. I understand you are only pointing it out as an attraction. However this is advertising bad practice to elephants and encouraging people to see them.

Anyone reading this that is interested in elephants, even if you do not ride them, visiting a park or ‘sanctuary’ that offers rides, bathing, hugs, performances or riding is feeding the industry. I strongly recommend checking out Elephant Valley Thailand in Chiang Rai.

I agree with Steph s! if you don’t encourage it don’t write about it for the whole of the internet to see! As a blogger you have a huge influence! You should not be condoning or advertising animal tourism. It’s really disappointing to read 🙁

Wow so beautiful place. Will be going in the month of June.

Hi Mike, It is a gorgeous part of Thailand. We hope you have a great trip. 🙂

Hi, Where in Pai did you take the picture from at the beginning of the blog, te one with the stunning view?

That photo is a drone shot. We took this photo just outside of Pai. It was a stunning morning.

Thank you for sharing… I also plan to visit Pai with hubby, like the adventure of cave

Have a great trip. Pai is a beautiful place.

My experience in Pai was one of rain and mud, so I don’t exactly have a great impression of the town. Sometimes Mother Nature is simply in a bad mood. However, even without the mud and rain, I’m not so sure I would have left with a warm feeling. The town simply didn’t do anything for me.

Sorry to hear that Nancie. There is so much more to Pai than the town itself. The town can get a bit too busy at times and you need to escape. We loved exploring the outer area and visiting the waterfalls and caves. If you go back, we hope mother nature is nicer to you. Happy travels

well, if you go to Thailand or Pai in rainy season then it is not about nature’s bad mood. come back in November or December and you will love it.

We used to work on the docks in Amsterdam until we had a couple of $100 dollars in our pockets and then head East to Asia, local bus, train or sometimes in Afghanistan by horse. The toilet paper was left behind in the Greek Islands, before crossing to Izmir in Turkey and our jeans were sold before reaching Mashhad in Iran and crossing into Afghanistan. By the time we reached Peshawar and the Khyber Pass everything in my bag, a rolled up blanket tied on the ends was local clothing. My proudest possession being the Afghan embroidered vest I wore until it fell apart in Goa, 15 years later. Now I see the “backpackers” swarming Pai flashing their mommies credit cards, and their “Spring break” mentality falling down drunk in the bars at night before crashing the motorbike they rented. I love Pai and have enjoyed it for many years. Please write about someplace else, maybe these kids will ruin it and leave Pai alone.

Amazing story Michael. Thank you for sharing. Many travellers have told us how different Pai was in the past. Unfortunately it is no where near the same and has changed dramatically. Take care and happy travels.

Loved reading this.

Hi nice informative post but I really think that you should mention about the malpractices that occur to tame elephants. I personally was against elephant rides but reading your post softened me up, I went along to Thom’s just to feed the animals but there was a solo traveller waiting for someone else to ride with them and I stupidly agreed. I was naive and now I have feelings of guilt and regret. I believe that all elephants are trained in the same manner however ethical the camp claims to be. I am not asking much just please mention about the dire practices that occur so that people do not fall into the same trap. Thanks

Hi Liam, we are against riding elephants and please don’t blame our article if you went along and rode an elephant. That was your choice. We just fed the elephants and watched them play. We did place an important note in the elephant section saying;

Before you decide to visit any elephant camp or sanctuary in Southeast Asia, please put some serious thought into whether you want to support this practice and if it s sustainable or not. We do not encourage elephant riding under any circumstance. We are simply listing Thom’s here as it one of the big attractions for things to do in Pai.

We push strongly not to ride elephants but unfortunately some people still do. We can only spread the information and the person themselves can make their own decision. We hope you enjoyed other activities and attractions in Pai. Happy travels

Pai is one of your favourite places in SEA ??!!! Pai is a totally fake hippies trap and totally focused on tourism.

If you say so.

Hi, where would you say are some beautiful places, with lots to see, but not too touristy??

Best thing to do would be to rent a scooter and go get lost in the surrounding hills 😀

Too bad I didn’t have this article while I was there. I see you mentioned the Tham Lod cave. I ended up there because I went to stay in Cave Lodge, one hour scooter drive from Pai, a accommodation (bungalows or dorm) just five minutes walk from the cave. You can do all kinds of trekkings from there, you write your name on a paper with the trekking you want to do, like all the other guests, and that’s how you form groups. Really chilled out common area. John, the owner, moved there more than 30 years ago and has ever since been taking photographs of the caves and hilltribes in the surrounding area, really beautiful pictures. You can check his photobook available at the lodge.

Heard great things about the Cave Lodge. We’ll have to check it out next time we’re in Pai. Thanks for reading Lux.

I’m surprised you haven’t gotten shit for recommending Elephant rides! I wrote a post a few weeks back on an elephant foundation in Hua Hin where a couple of their elephants (2 of the 6) do elephant rides. I had the radical nut jobs commenting or writing me personally condemning this non-profit foundation and its activities and the ‘abuse of the elephants’. Got particularly upset because these places do their best to rescue/protect elephants and need funding to buy the elephants from bad owners, feed and medicate the sometimes injured elephants etc. I personally don’t think tourists should do elephant rides or pay to watch elephant shows. But the fact is that is what most tourists will pay for and in doing so will be able to financially sustain an elephant sanctuary for the greater good of all the elephants. Anyway, good post. Thinking of going to Pai in a few weeks. Frank (bbqboy)

It’s a tough one, isn’t it Frank. We didn’t personally do any elephant rides, and don’t think we ever would do them, but decided to mention it in the article so people know it is an option. We always encourage people to do their own research before jumping into any of these kinds of activities. Shame to hear you got smashed by some nut jobs. It really is a touchy subject. Have fun in Pai! One of our favourite places of all time.

You should recommend Conserve Natural Forests in Pai instead. They have only two elephants that are totally free and not forced to give rides and were both saved from a tourist trap. Also, they are both pregnant and you can feel the baby elephant kick from inside and it is possibly the most amazing experience ever. Their goal is repopulation and after the babies are old enough to be separated from their mothers they will be reintroduced to the wild at the Queen’s Elephant Protection National Park. This company is just as good, if not better than the big elephant rescue in Chiang Mai. This is a MUCH better alternative than Thom’s.

Thanks for the tip! We’ll check them out when we get back to Pai in the coming weeks 🙂

Thanks Madeline, I was desperately looking for a more responsible option than Thom Elephant Camp and this needs to be perfect !

I’ve never been there, but it’s absolutely beautiful! <3 Looooooooove at first sight!

One of our favourite places in all of Southeast Asia! Make sure you check it out next time you’re in this neck of the woods. 😀

And don’t forget a bicycle/scooter adventure to the beautiful little chinese village at 7km from Pai. (Be careful with the chickens and the childrens on the way !)

Street is decorate with traditionnal chinese lanterns, locals are friendly and the view on the top of the hill is really nice ! (I found a hammock to take a nap after the climb on my bicycle !) 🙂

We missed that one unfortunately. Cheers for the tip! We’ll be sure to check it out next time we are in Pai.

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Ultimate Guide to Pai, Thailand

Welcome to The Sketchy Traveller’s Ultimate Guide to Pai. Are you looking for a laid-back, bohemian destination where you can relax and soak up some sun? Look no further than Pai, Thailand! This chilled-out little town in the heart of Northern Thailand is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some downtime. With its hippie vibes, fresh air, and stunning scenery, it’s no surprise that Pai is such a favourite destination for backpackers in Asia.

About the author – The Sketchy Traveller

I’m not really a stickman, but it seems that I like portraying myself as one.

I’m an English guy who’s been travelling since 2017. I was never good at taking photos, sketching just seems to work better for me, and in my opinion, why do you want to see other people’s 4K videos and pictures of the world? Surely it’s better to see it for yourself. You can get in touch through the contact page or Instagram .

I look forward to hearing from you.

Happy travelling.

The Sketchy Traveller

Getty Images/Flickr RF

First-time visitors to Pai (ปาย) might wonder if they've strayed into a northern version of a Thai island getaway, only without the beaches. Guesthouses appear to outnumber private residences in the ‘downtown’ area, a travel agency or restaurant is never more than a few steps away, and the nights buzz with the sound of music and partying.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Pai Canyon is located 8km from Pai along the road to Chiang Mai. A paved stairway here culminates in an elevated lookout over high rock cliffs and the Pai…

Nam Tok Mo Paeng

The most popular waterfall in the vicinity of Pai, Nam Tok Mo Paeng has a couple of pools that are suitable for swimming. The waterfall is about 8km from…

Wat Phra That Mae Yen

This temple sits atop a hill and has terrific views overlooking the valley. To get here, walk 1km east from the main intersection in town to get to the…

Tha Pai Hot Springs

Across Mae Nam Pai and 7km southeast of town via a paved road is this well-kept local park. Through it flows a scenic stream, which mixes with the hot…

Ban Santichon Viewpoint

A viewpoint at the Chinese village of Ban Santichon that offers decent views over the surrounding area.

Ban Santichon

The cheesy photo ops in traditional Chinese clothing, piped-in music, tea tastings, pony rides, tacky recreation of the Great Wall of China and…

Memorial Bridge

To some it may be an antiquated bridge, but to the thousands of Thais who stop here it’s one of several crucial photo ops along the ‘762 curves’ from…

Wat Nam Hoo

Wat Nam Hoo is about 2km west of Pai and houses a sacred Buddha image said to have once emitted holy water from its head. The place is popular with…

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15 best things to do in pai (thailand): 2024 travel guide.

Situated in the far northern Thailand, Pai is definitely one of the country’s most beautiful destinations to visit!

It’s becoming increasingly popular year on year as more and more backpackers are willing to brave the long windy road up there.

Steeped in natural beauty, glorious mountains and even a waterpark (more on that below) it’s a destination you really can’t afford to miss on your route through Thailand !

So sit back and enjoy our fully fledged Pai travel guide on not just the best things to do in Pai , but also everything else you need to know like how to get there and how to make the most of your stay!

First up ...

How to get to Pai

It’s worth being aware that there is only one road in and out of Pai and it is a little long … and windy ….

Okay, it’s incredibly long and windy!

It's definitely one of the more sickening journeys to take in Thailand, but trust me it’s worth it!

The route winds ever higher and higher through the gorgeous mountains and you have some really great views along the way.

They’ve also widened and improved the quality of the road in recent years so it’s definitely getting better.

That being said, buses do still seem to race their way up there (even trying to overtake on dodgy bends) so just be aware that you may want to take some motion sickness tablets if, like us, you struggle with journies like this.

Now that’s been said, here are your two main ways of getting to Pai:

• Via minibus

Getting to Pai from Chiang Mai

Most people (like us) get a minibus to Pai from Chiang Mai. 

There are no big coaches that head there, it’s literally a minibus company that leaves every hour. 

You travel with a company called Prem Pracha and you can purchase your ticket either online or at the bus depo Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station. 

The trip takes around 3 hours. 

This route literally goes in and out of the mountains ....so it’s very twisty/turny and the chances are you will feel really sick (we did)! 

They stop half way through for a toilet/coffee break and you will need to grab the fresh air.

Your other option is to get a “local” bus that takes around 4 hours- It’s around 75 baht and you can buy your tickets at the Arcade Bus Station too.

To ensure you get a ticket, I recommend booking your ticket online here .

Moped/motorbike

I really wish that this was the option that we chose as we love riding mopeds in southeast Asia , and I’m sure the journey would have been a lot more enjoyable.

Your best option would probably be to find a hostel or hotel in Chiang Mai that is willing to hang on to the bulk of your luggage for a few days while you head up to Pai.

Then, go and speak to local moped/scooter rental firms and check they are happy for you to ride up to Pai.

It’s best to pack light for the trip as you really won’t need very much stuff, and it will make the drive there more enjoyable if you’re carrying less luggage.

For tips on choosing the best daypack for Thailand and also what else to take with you, check out my ultimate Thailand packing list .

Getting to Pai from Chiang Rai

Yes, you can get to Pai from Chiang Rai, however it entails going to Chiang Mai first!

Click here to find the cheapest bus fares between Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai .

For any transfers in Thailand, we always recommend searching with 12GoAsia .

Getting around Pai, Thailand

Simply put, mopeds are your best shout!

This is the thing that most people do in Pai, and you’ll soon realise why when you see the hundreds of signs offering moped rental for as little as 100 baht for 24 hours! 

One thing to note, that the cheaper the moped, the lower quality. 

Whilst this is fine if you are just driving around to local places, if you want to venture to some of the more far out places that I will speak about below, including hot springs and waterfalls, the roads include steep hills which a low cc moped, just will not bring you up! 

So it’s always best to fork out the extra few Baht to get a decent quality moped (treat yourself, you’re on holiday after all!)

P.S. Don’t forget to always wear your helmet and carry a raincoat with you (gotta love that Thailand monsoon weather!).

Also Check Out: Our Guide To Getting Around Thailand

Where to stay in Pai

Pai is literally filled with wonderful places to stay, that’s what makes it such a great place to visit.

Especially compared to busier cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

One important thing to note when booking your accommodation is that taxi services are limited. 

Well, not limited, but it’s basically a set fair of 100 baht and you book a taxi from the main street, so it’s just awkward. 

Most accommodations are within walking distance, so keep this in mind when booking.

Ours was a 15-20 minute walk with bags which wasn’t exactly ideal.

We stayed in a place called Pai Phu Fah Resort and we stayed here for two nights. 

This is right in the middle of the Pai countryside, away from the centre and you are housed in little wooden huts/bungalows. 

The views that surround you are amazing and you can see green rice paddies and one of the big Buddhas in the distance.

As such, I would highly recommend it! ( Check it out here ).

There are different types of bungalows for different price points. 

But we chose one with aircon because aircon is essential everywhere in Asia: It came in at less than $USD10 per night each for a private bungalow. 

We paid for breakfast at the resort, which was super cheap, but if it’s included then that’s a bonus. 

The guy who runs/owns this resort was wonderfully helpful and when we left he dropped us into town to the bus station instead of having to walk with our bags again.

Check it out here if you are interested .

Here are a few other great options to choose from …

Budget Choice

La Mom Hostelo

200 Baht (pppn)

Pai Cherkaew Boutique House

700-1,400 Baht (pppn)

Luxury Pick

Family House Zen Boutique Resort

1,300-1,900 Baht (pppn)

15 Incredible things to do in Pai

Now onto the good part … what you can expect to get up to in Pai.

You will be pleased to know that most of the top things to do in Pai are FREE (minus your own spending money of course).

So, without further ado, let’s get stuck in …

1. Indulge in the Pai Walking Street food market

I have to include this because it’s probably the best street food market I have been to in Thailand! 

It’s cheap and the variety is crazy. 

Bradley and I ate so much food we struggled to walk home (no jokes!) 

Pai also loves its avocado, so it is truly an avocado lover's dream (me!). 

There are dishes to suit everyone, from meat lovers (bbq ribs to die for), vegetarians (fried mushroom and sweet fritters- delicious!) and vegans. 

The only problem will be choosing what to eat; either way I recommend you eat the street food each night. 

We didn’t get sick and everything is visibly clean and well prepared; which is surprising as we got sick in a few places in the south of Thailand.

This street food market is located in the centre of Pai, though the town is tiny anyway, so it’s hard to miss. 

You’ll walk past lots of food establishments then you’ll enter the food market- yum! 

Stalls start setting up at around 5 pm, so I recommend heading in at about 6ish.

Read Also: Our Epic Trip Planning Guide!

2. Walk through Pai Canyon

I remember being super intrigued by this and I had seen pictures of my friends here so I was excited to visit. 

Well, it’s exactly what it says on the tin … a canyon right outside of Pai!

It offers some beautiful views and it’s pretty easy to find; you park your moped (for free) and walk up to the canyon (for free). 

It’s also one of the most amazing places to visit in Pai for sunset.

There are plenty of side trails leading off from the main viewing area and surrounding woodlands which are great if you just want to relax and even do some bird watching.

3. Slide down Mo Paeng waterfall

There are a few epic waterfalls in Pai, however my favourite was Mo Paeng.

Because it doubles as an all-natural waterslide!

Mo Paeng Waterfall is located about 10km west of Pai past Santichon, so it can take about 20 minutes to reach by moped. 

It’s fairly popular so you can expect to see some people there. 

It is possible to climb up this waterfall and slide down, but it is really slippery. 

I opted not to, but Brad climbed. 

It’s a pretty stop and a nice place to get some photos, though the final part of the road up to it is in pretty bad shape so be prepared for a bumpy ride!

4. Swim in Pam Bok waterfall

The Pam Bok waterfall is another one you can visit at certain times of the year when the water level is high enough.

And though you may already be fed up with waterfalls in Southeast Asia, what’s great is that Pam Bok is pretty unique!

Well, it’s located in the middle of a cave and you can jump into the pools below from the cliffs on the rock!

It’s also about 10km from the main Pai town, so about a 20 minutes drive; just in the opposite direction to Mo Paeng.

5. Try the vodka at Love Strawberry

Though it’s such a random attraction, I ended up loving this place more than I should have! 

This is clearly a tourist-made area but it’s so cute. 

It’s on your way to the Pai Canyon, so you may as well stop off since it won’t cost you anything either. 

In season, they grow strawberries here, but it was “off-season” when we were there. 

However, they sell the most delicious strawberry wine I have ever tasted, and strawberry vodka which is equally as nice; we even bought some for Bradley’s parents as a Christmas gift.

As well as getting tipsy, you can get pictures on big, bright oversized plastic strawberries, grab a coffee or a strawberry smoothie, or even swing into the air on a mini ride. 

It’s a random place, but that’s what makes it so unique! I doubt you will have ever visited somewhere like ‘Love Strawberry Pai’ before.

6. Splash around at Waterpark Adventure

Okay, this was probably one of my absolute favourite things to do in Pai; mainly because we drove past it randomly and thought “what’s that?”. 

It’s not a waterpark in your traditional sense...rather it’s a massive swimming pool filled with massive inflatable courses to try and tackle and a big massive “bouncy” water slide to climb on top and slide down.

We were intrigued, so we pulled over to find a price. 

It didn’t even look like it was open...no one was there. 

We put our bags in some random lockers (that had no locks) and headed towards what looked like a bar. 

There was a guy there and he told us it was open. I can’t remember the exact price...but I’m pretty sure it was around 150 baht. 

We thought at that price, “we are going in!”

And in the end, we had SOOO much fun, with a whole assault course all to ourselves!

It was amazingly fun and so cheap, they even had super clean showers and toilets to clean yourself afterwards. 

There is so little information about this place online….they don’t even rank for their own business name, so I can only give you the address, Pai 58130 Pai, Thailand and you should use Maps.me or Google Maps to bring you there.  

It did advertise “pool” parties, with shots, drinks, DJs, the whole shebang and I reckon they would be quite fun, but I think they are only for a certain season. 

I really hope this place stays open because if you have the chance to go, you will love it!

7. Swim in the Sai Ngam hot springs

There are quite a few different places that offer hot springs near Pai.

Some at hotel resorts that are reasonably priced, or some literally in the woodlands. 

The first one we chose was in the woodlands, which always makes it more natural and appealing!

Sai Ngam is located in a national forest park, so you pay an entrance fee of 20 baht as you drive into the park. 

There are limited signs, but just keep driving on the long, STEEP road that awaits you and eventually there will be a sign for the hot springs. 

You can park up for free (always lock your bike with a chain) and head into the hot springs. They are literally just outside and there are three pools; all extremely refreshing, lovely and warm.

These hot springs are regarded as the quieter ones and cheapest- they cost 20 baht, which is pretty much 50 pence (GBP). 

They were quite busy when we were there, but not crowded, so I can recommend going before 2pm!

After you’ve relaxed in the pools, you can pop to the one restaurant there for super cheap and delicious Pad Thai or iced coffee. (Approx 75 Thai baht for both).

Which was handy for us as it quickly started teaming it down as soon as we got dry!

8. Relax at Tha Pai hot springs

Just 8km south of Pai, you have another amazing set of hot springs, perfect for relaxing in after a busy day exploring the rest of Pai.

Or perhaps recovering after a big night out the day before …

If you’re not a fan of hot springs that are too … well … hot, then this place could be good for you.

They have a string of different hot springs, with each one below being cooler than the one before.

So it’s sort of like Goldilocks, simply try them all and pick the one that juuuust right!

9. Venture up to White Buddha

There are big Buddhas basically everywhere in Thailand.

If you’ve read any of our other guides on Thailand , you’ll soon realise that we are always talking about big Buddhas!

Well, what distinguishes the one in Pai from the rest is that it’s white (I know right, who would have guessed with such a name!?).

It’s one of the nicest spots to visit in Pain because it's quite high up; in fact, you even have to park up and walk the final 350 odd stairs up to the statue in order to bask in the views in all their glory.

Because of the lengthy walk, it’s best to visit the White Buddha statue either very early or at the end of your day, not long before sunset.

If you do venture up in the middle of the day, take some water and sunscreen!

Also note that this is a religious site, so you’ll need to be covering up certain body parts at the top.

Unsure of what to wear? Check out Bradley’s guide on what to wear in Thailand .

10. Head out exploring on a moped

Though there are so many great Pai attractions to visit, I can confidently say that some of my favorite memories from here were our time spent out on the moped.

Compared to elsewhere in Thailand, Pai seems so much less crowded, so as soon as you head out of town the roads are virtually empty.

Plus, the scenery is spectacular, with lush green fields and rice paddies almost everywhere.

The roads are also in pretty good shape, at least by Asian standards, so the roads are nice and smooth and you aren’t as worried about suddenly hitting a massive pothole!

There are a bunch of places in town that rent out mopeds, charging anywhere from 100 Thai baht per day and upwards.

You can usually get a better price if you’re willing to hire for multiple days; and we often find that your hotel/hostel offers the best rates.

That being said, before you head out make sure that the bike is in good condition and that they give you helmets for everyone riding.

For more Information about what to look for, check out our guide on renting scooters in Southeast Asia .

11. How about some leisurely tubing?

If riding around on mopeds on jumping into waterfalls all sounds like too much effort for you, why not have a go at some leisurely tubing down Pai River?

You start your journey a few kilometres up-river from Pai, where the current slowly drifts you back down to town.

Just like in Vang Vieng , you can even take a couple of brewskies with you for the ride, so it’s best to have a good quality waterproof sack to carry this and any valuables.

The whole way down you get to enjoy breathtaking views of the Pai countryside, a truly serene experience.

Just be sure to wear sunscreen and take a hat and glasses, as it does get VERY hot out there in the middle of the day!

12. Cool off at Fluid Swimming Pool

Located in the heart of the Pai valley, Fluid Swimming Pool has quickly become one of the most popular spots for visitors of all ages!

Because it’s one of the best (*ahem*, cleanest) places to cool off at in Pai!

This large open-air swimming pool is very modern and they even serve a wide variety of tasty Wesetern dishes, so it’s the perfect place to stop off at for lunch in the middle of the day.

Alternatively, you could take the whole day to relax here and unwind with a good book.

Find out more on their website here .

13. Sleep in a bungalow amidst the rice paddies

As discussed earlier in the post, the accommodation that we stayed at was a bungalow just outside of the main part of town.

I can highly recommend it ( check it out here ) as it was an experience in itself!

Our bungalow was located in the middle of rice paddies, with wonderful views in all directions!

Imagine watching the sunset over the paddies, enjoying a book and a cocktail at the on-site bar!

Or having your breakfast and morning cup of coffee as it’s rising once again.

True bliss and easily one of the most romantic things to do in Pai for couples.

14. Rise for some early morning yoga

Many hotels and hostels in Pai offer yoga.

In fact, the woman running our accommodation was a foreigner who was staying there for a few months whilst taking a break from her usual life to practise yoga every day.

Well, who can blame her!

There are few better spots in Thailand to do yoga, as Pai is much cooler and calmer than other parts of Thailand.

If your accommodation doesn’t offer yoga, then there are a few other places in town you can try, such as:

• Bom Bowls Yoga
• Pai Yoga Shala
• Sawasdee Pai Yoga

15. Or … have a big night in town!

Lastly, but certainly not least, one of the best things to do in Pai at night is to go for a good old fashioned booze up in town!

There is a big backpacking community in Pai these days, and there are plenty of cool bars and restaurants serving great food, cheap drinks and cool music late into the night.

For much of the year, Bamboo Bar is one of the hottest (literally) places to head to in Pai.

It starts getting busier here after midnight as, on the shores of Pai River the team lights a big bonfire!

Many choose to stay until the sun comes up (if they can last) so it’s definitely not for the fainthearted!

Other Pai travel tips

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Pai, it’s time to answer any other questions you might have!

So here are a few more top Pai travel tips to help you on your way ...

Can I just book a tour in Pai?

Hells yeah you can!

If you want to take the stress out of visiting Pai, then this looks like your best choice of tour .

Sure, it’s a little pricier than booking everything on your own, however it includes a custom 1 to 4 day itinerary, as well as private transfers to and from Chiang Mai and Pai.

You can book through Klook, who you’ve no doubts already come across.

If not, then simply put they are the best tour provider in Southeast Asia based on our experience, and they offer by far the most competitive prices.

Check out the tour from Chiang Mai to Pai here .

When is the best time to visit Pai, Thailand?

Based on our experience, I can confidently say that the best time to visit Pai would be between November and February, as during these months the chance of heavy rain is much lower, as are the daily temperatures.

How long should you spend in Pai?

I think 3 nights is a pretty solid amount of time to spend in Pai, 2 nights if you are pushed for time.

1 night really wouldn’t be enough to see absolutely everything; plus it’s a lot of effort to get the whole way up there with the winding road.

How much should you budget for Pai?

The prices in Pai are very inline with what you might expect elsewhere in Thailand.

You can get great accommodation for no more than 300-400 baht per night (even less if you are on a strict budget).

Local restaurants and stalls on the night market are very cheap.

That being said, it’s easy to go over budget as you walk down the strip and smell all the tasty foods being offered!

Many of the best things to do in Pai are actually free, and those that are paid aren’t too bad.

And transport to and from Pai costs just 200 baht each way (more on that at the start of the post).

So all in all, what with accommodation, transfers, activities and food, you can expect to spend somewhere between 2,500 and 4,000 Baht for 3 nights in Pai.

That includes seeing most of the great Pai activities listed above, as well as eating well and staying in half decent accommodation.

Where to after Pai?

For us, we had already been to Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai before visiting Pai, so it was time to head back south again to Bangkok .

In fact, Pai was the last big stop for us on our 3 week Thailand itinerary , perhaps that’s why I have such fond memories of it.

If you haven't yet visited then of course, these are the 2 posts you’ll want to check out next:

• 3 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary
• Best Things To Do In Chiang Rai

So there you have it! 

Pai really is a wonderful place and it’s got such a wonderful atmosphere in the evenings. 

You can easily stroll into town, grab a cheap drink, or head to a bar then watch the stars in the sky. 

Do you have any other recommendations to add to our list of top things to do in Pai? Then just comment below!

Other guides to read:

• What to pack - Thailand Packing List
• Getting Around - Complete Guide To Getting Around Thailand
• Bangkok - Best Things To Do In Bangkok

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The Top 15 Things to Do in Pai, Thailand

Linka A Odom/Getty Images

Many of the top things to do in Pai, Thailand, are free. Even just cruising through the green countryside on two wheels between sights is enjoyable. The traffic endlessly circulating Chiang Mai’s moat suddenly seems pleasantly far away.

Pai, a small-but-busy tourist town in Northern Thailand , has evolved into an interesting destination over the years. Although Pai’s “hippie” roots have since been plucked, the holistic health and natural food scene is still very much alive, as is the peaceful vibe. But Pai isn’t just all early morning yoga: nightlife and late-night socializing—if you choose to partake—are defiantly abundant.

When visiting Chiang Mai , plan to spend a few days just four hours north in Pai. But be warned: many travelers plan a day or two in Pai and end up burning their visas there!

Explore With a Scooter

All of the best things to do in Pai on this list are easily accessible via scooter—grab a map and go! Small sights and attractions can be combined for a fun day of adventure. The green scenery, rural roads, and fresh air make driving in Pai a real joy.

Scooter rentals cost as little as $5 per day . Informal classes are available if you’ve never been on a scooter before. Lots of travelers learn to drive in Pai and a few learn to crash while there, too. Even though locals rarely do, you should wear a helmet.

Learn Something

After arriving in Pai, expand your options by grabbing a Pai Events Planner. The free, long-running booklet is published regularly with a host of options for enjoying in Pai. Look for PEPs along the Walking Street and in various cafes and restaurants.

The map and calendar of events will come in handy during your visit to Pai. You’ll see weekly listings for classes and workshops that include subjects such as cooking, fermenting kombucha, yoga, tai chi, meditation, martial arts, permaculture, mud-brick house building and other interesting disciplines.

Visit the Land Split

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In 2008, seismic activity ripped a gash in a farmer’s field, just south of Pai. Walking through the geological spectacle will consume maybe just 20 minutes of your time, but the farmers’ hospitality and healthy treats from their farms will make you want to linger and chat for a while.

Stop in for some locally grown dried fruit and snacks. Entrance is free, but a small donation is encouraged.

If driving up from Chiang Mai on Highway 1095 , you’ll actually pass the left turn for the land split. It’s worth a brief stop.

Visit Pai Canyon

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Although Pai Canyon, also south of town on Highway 1095, isn’t as big or grand as the name suggests, it is one of the most popular things to do in Pai. Sunset is beautiful there when conditions are right, but that’s also the time when large groups turn up. Go earlier to enjoy the short hike and some tranquility before the tourist trucks arrive.

The path narrows between sharp drop-offs, and some easy scrambling becomes required to continue. Those parts may not be suitable for small children, but everyone can hike the main path to the “rim” for a look. The canyon is dusty and exposed during the hot season. Be sure to wear a hat, and don’t expect much shade!

Enjoy the View at Boon Ko Ku So Bridge

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The Boon Ko Ku So Bridge is a meandering bamboo bridge built over a rice paddy. Views during the wet growing season are green and mesmerizing. Don’t expect much more than peace, brown scrub, and few visitors during the dry-season months.

Entrance is free, and the verdant scenery is well worth the 25-minute drive from town. A small cafe at the start of the bridge serves cold drinks to enjoy while watching content water buffaloes in tranquility.

Find the bridge by looking for a sign on Highway 1095 south of town. When coming from Pai, the turn will be on the right.

Boil in the Hot Springs

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Even though March and April high temperatures in Pai can rival those in Chiang Mai, travelers still crowd into the hot springs to soak in sulfuric water and smear volcanic mud. Sai Ngam Hot Springs is a far less busy alternative, but it’s a 30-minute drive north of town.

Look for signs advertising the Pai Hot Springs near the Memorial Bridge and Pai Canyon. The Hot Springs are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and entrance is 200 baht.

Cool Off Under Waterfalls

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There are several waterfalls within easy scooter distance of Pai. You can wade and cool down beneath the falls—particularly good options during the hot afternoons of April and May . Don’t expect a Niagara experience: the falls may be little more than a trickle until the regular showers of monsoon season return.

When there’s enough water, local kids and travelers alike enjoy sliding on the smooth rocks into the natural pool at the Mo Paeng waterfall. Be warned: the water gets very shallow and isn’t deep enough for safe diving during the dry season.

Pam Bok Waterfall, another nearby option, is located at the scenic end of a narrow canyon, adding to the adventure.

Not in the river! Instead, go to the friendly Bueng Pai Farm where you can pay to fish in the lake that’s stocked with many large species. Equipment, bait, buckets, and instructions are available; catches are released, of course.

As is often the case if fish aren’t biting, the experience is very much about the setting. Cold drinks are available, as are bungalows if you want to stay a little outside of town and fish in the cooler mornings.

Drink Tea at the Overlook

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The overlook just beyond the “Chinese Village” tourist attraction is a grassy hill with a few benches and pleasing views of the valley. The meager entrance fee includes a small pot of tea (you may have to ask for it) to enjoy in your own serene corner atop the hill.

Santichon Village, referred to locally as the “Chinese Village” isn’t much—it will only occupy 20 minutes of your time unless you decide to try a hand at archery, horseback riding, or one of the other tourist activities.

The Chinese Village is just a 15-minute drive northwest of Pai. The overlook is on the same road just beyond the village.

Watch Sunset From the White Buddha Statue

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A great sunset alternative to Pai Canyon is the big white Buddha statue (Wat Phra That Mae Yen) visible from town. Views from the top are superb, and the serene statue posed in half-lotus position creates a tranquil environment for catching your breath after the climb.

The many steps up to the statue make for a great cardio workout in the morning. Find the big Buddha statue just around the corner from Pai on a steep road that splits from Rural Road 4024.

Visit the Afternoon Market

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Save money and enjoy a local experience by walking to the afternoon market to buy your fresh fruit—that’s where many of the carts and restaurants along the Walking Street get theirs!

As with many markets, travelers brave enough to wander deeper into the heart and haggle a bit are rewarded with better prices. Keep an eye out for mangosteens, the Queen of Fruit, between May and August.

Find the afternoon market in Pai town just south of the walking street.

Get Healthier

Photo courtesy of Om Garden Cafe

Pai has a reputation as a hub for holistic health and natural living in Northern Thailand. Delicious vegan and vegetarian options abound—even reluctant herbivores will appreciate the fresh, locally grown produce.

Juice shops and medicinal teas are easy to find. You’ll see numerous fliers advertising morning and sunset yoga sessions.

The Earth Tone Cafe has natural medicines and hard-to-find ingredients for sale. Art in Chai, Om Garden Cafe and Chew Xin Jai (vegan) are a few of the many healthy, interesting options.

Have Fun Being Unhealthy

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Hey, it’s all about yin and yang, right? Pai is a bit of an anomaly. Many travelers turn up expecting a quiet, “hippie” town  where organic juice is the only option on tap instead of Thailand's usual three beers. They soon discover that the nightlife in Pai can top that in Chiang Mai . It often goes until sunrise, too!

For such a small place, the range of open-air options for socializing is superb. From live performances at the Mojo Cafe and Edible Jazz cafe to hard-hitting tunes and décor at the punk-rock Bla Bla Bar, Pai has a choice for all moods. The after-hours Don’t Cry Bar goes very late for anyone left standing.

Try Martial Arts

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Yoga and reiki aren’t the only options in Pai. You’ll find advertisements for tai chi, qi gong, and other internal disciplines. Many are posted by teachers living in Pai who offer private classes at nearby health retreats.

For self defense and serious sweating, there are two excellent Muay Thai camps and a Chinese kung fu retreat nearby. All cater to students of every level; accommodation bundles and training packages are available.

Absorb the Kitsch

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Pai has plenty of deliberate, quirky, tongue-in-cheek kitsch that unapologetically declares: yes, this is a tourist destination, but we do it as cute as possible.

The roadside kitsch attractions begin miles before reaching Pai. Located on the left side of Highway 1095 is a cafe dedicated to Halloween and witches. As you approach nearer to town, you’ll have to choose between sprawling-yet-inviting options such as Coffee in Love and Love Strawberry Pai. These places have treats, drinks, merchandise, and plenty of backdrops for taking fun selfies.

Even Highway 1095—with its 762 twists and turns some carsick passenger undoubtedly counted—has merchandise. T-shirts and magnets peddled throughout town boast messages such as “I survived the road to Pai” and “I Heart Highway 1095.”

Of all the interesting things to do in Pai, it's the combination of quirky draws that lends such a fun personality to the town.

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12 Amazing things to do in Pai, Thailand

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

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Pai is a small town in the rural mountainous region of Mae Hong Son in the north of Thailand. Its charm and laid back vibe has increasingly attracted backpackers over the years. More recently, it has developed a growing community of digital nomads, too. Pai is known for its rugged scenery, mountains and iconic attractions such as the Big Buddha and Bamboo bridge.

This combination of beautiful mountainous landscape with must-visit sights (and great food and cafes!) is what makes Pai so popular and one of the best places to visit in northern Thailand. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, read these 12 amazing things to do in Pai to add to your itinerary!

Table of Contents

Check out these 12 best things to do in Pai to add to your Northern Thailand itinerary

1. Watch the sunset at Pai Canyon

Watching the sunset over Pai Canyon is one of the best things to do in Pai. Crowds gather at the canyon to enjoy the spectacular sun setting over the valley. In peak season there are several food and drink stalls in the car park. It can get busy, but there’s room for everyone.

If you enjoy hiking, arrive earlier and take on one of the narrow, rocky hiking trails around the canyon first.

Pai Canyon is a 10 minute drive from the main centre of town. To get there, you will either need to ride a scooter, or you can join one of the many group sunset tours in town. The group tour is a great option if you want to enjoy a few beers whilst watching the sun set and it is relatively inexpensive.

2. Relax in Pai’s thermal waters at a hot spring

Pai is blessed with natural thermal springs and there are a couple of hot springs located around Pai where you can go for a relaxing soak.

Sai Ngam hot spring is a 30 minute drive north of Pai. There are a couple of natural hot pools here as well as changing facilities and toilets. It does get busy, especially in the peak season (December – February). There is an entrance fee of 200 thb for foreigners (£5)

Ta Pai hot spring is only a 15 minute drive away from the main centre of Pai. However, the entrance fee is a little higher at 300 thb for foreigners (£7). There are a couple of hot pools here as well as basic changing facilities.

3. Visit Pai’s famous Bamboo bridge

The Kho-Ku-So Bamboo bridge is one of Pai’s most famous and iconic attractions. It has become more touristy over the years and now has several installations, specifically for photos. The surrounding landscape is really beautiful, with rice fields, mountains and small farming huts. The Bamboo bridge stretches quite a distance, so if you want to get away from the crowds, you can walk further along the bridge. The entrance fee is only 30 thb (£0.70) and there are several small huts where you can buy a coffee or a drink to sit and enjoy the view. The best time to visit Pai’s Bamboo bridge is during the rainy season (July – October), when the rice fields are full, with long, green crops. During the dry season, the rice has been harvested and it is not as picturesque, though still worth visiting.

4. Go river tubing

River tubing is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon in Pai! You can hire an inflatable rubber tube from one of the tour operators in Pai town and float down the river at your own pace. A truck will drop you off and pick you up at a point further down the river. One of the most popular ways to enjoy Pai river is to join a ‘Tipsy Tubing’ group trip. Bring some drinks and make new friends as you float down the river, past the beautiful scenery of rural Thailand. Prices vary but can range from 200 thb to 400 thb (£5-10).

Another great place to try river tubing is during a trip to Khao Sok National Park

5. Enjoy Brunch in Pai town

Whilst Pai comes to life as the sunsets and the night market begins, there are still lots of places to enjoy lunch or a coffee during the day. Pai is full of cafes serving delicious brunch and lunch. There are lots of healthy and vegan options, too. If you want a day off from exploring, grab yourself a comfy seat in a cafe and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a juice and a book.

6. Visit the Big Buddha

Not to be confused with the Big Buddha in Phuket , or Koh Samui , the Big Buddha in Pai is the town’s most visited landmark. The impressive, large white Buddha can be seen for miles as it stands tall at the top of 353 grand white steps. Once you’ve made it to the top, you will be rewarded with sweeping views over Pai and the surrounding mountainous countryside. The view is particularly spectacular at sunset, and whilst there is a sign stating that the gate closes at 6pm, there is no-one enforcing this and many visitors will stay past 6pm to watch the last of the sunset.

There is no entrance fee for visiting the Big Buddha, but you must be dressed appropriately. Knees and shoulders must be covered and shoes must be removed at the top. There are toilets and a couple of cafes and shops at the bottom too. The Big Buddha is only 2.2km outside of Pai’s main centre, so it is a quick 5 minute scooter ride, or you can walk there in 30 minutes, along the main road.

7. Visit Pam Bok Waterfall

Pam Bok Waterfall is one of the most popular waterfalls near Pai as it is easily accessible. It is just a 20 minute ride from the centre of Pai (close to the Kho-Ku-So Bamboo bridge) and a short walk from the car park to reach the falls. You can go for a quick dip in the pools, though they are quite shallow. The best time to visit Pam Bok waterfall is during the rainy season from July – November when the water and pool is at its fullest. During the dry season, the waterfall is reduced to barely a trickle.

8. Swim at Mo Paeng Waterfall

Mo Paeng waterfall is another popular natural spot near Pai, with gorgeous mountain views. This waterfall can get quite crowded as it has several refreshing pools to swim in and a natural rock slide to enjoy at the base of the waterfall. There’s a small entrance fee of 100 thb (£2.50) to help fund improvements to the area. Mo Paeng waterfall is less than 20 minutes from Pai and is great to combine with a visit to Yun Lai viewpoint and Santichon Chinese Village. The best time to visit is during the rainy season of July – October when the water level in the pools are at their highest.

9. Sample delicious local food at Pai night market

A trip to Pai is not complete without spending an evening (or several) at Pai night market! The night market takes over the central high street running through Pai, with lots of delicious street food on offer such as spring rolls, falafel, curries, nachos and noodles. All of the bars allow you to take food from the market into the bar, so you can enjoy a drink whilst sampling the street food! Although it is nowhere near as impressive as the epic Sunday night market in Chiang Mai , it is still a great market and a fun way to spend an evening in Pai.

10. Take a trip to Tham Lod cave

Tham Lod cave (or Nam Lod cave) is located 70 minutes drive from Pai, along winding, mountain roads. The historic cave is well worth the journey though, with 3 large chambers, full of huge stalactites and stalagmites and interesting rock formations. The first two chambers in the cave can be reached by walking along a series of wooden boardwalks and on the cave floor. However, the 3rd chamber can only be reached by taking a ride on a bamboo raft.

You will need a guide to take you through the caves. If you only want to visit the first two chambers, the cost of the guide (1 guide for 1-3 people), is 150 thb (£3.50). However if you want to explore the 3rd and final chamber by bamboo raft (which I would highly recommend), you will need to pay an additional 400 thb (£9.50) for the raft guide (1 guide for 1-3 people). The guide will lead you through the dark cave, carrying a small oil lamp to light the way.

The whole tour of the caves takes about 1.5 hours and if you plan your visit so you finish the tour as the sun sets, you will be in time to see the swarm of bats and birds as they leave the cave, circling around for food.

Are the Tham Lod Caves worth visiting?

If you want to get away from the main centre of Pai and experience some of the natural beauty in the rural mountains surrounding Pai, then a visit to Nam Lod caves is a must. Whilst the caves are not quite as impressive as the incredible Paradise cave in Vietnam’s Phong Nha , the Tham Lod caves are definitely worth visiting. If you don’t fancy the 1 hour scooter ride, you can join a tour. There are several tours on offer, many of which combine a trip to Nam Lod caves with some of the other attractions surrounding Pai, including the hot springs and the Santichon Chinese village.

11. Watch the sunrise at Yun Lai Viewpoint

Yun Lai Viewpoint (sometimes called Chinese Viewpoint), is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Pai and is one of the best places to watch the sunrise. Just 14 minutes drive from Pai, and close to Santichon Chinese Village, Yun Lai viewpoint can be found at the top of a steep hill. There are several photo spots here as well as a couple of cafes.

From here, you will get panoramic views of the valley, and as the mist rises from the forest, it is often referred to as the ‘most romantic view in Pai’. There’s an entrance fee of 20 thb (£0.50) to go to the highest official viewpoint, but the views are brilliant from every direction!

12. Visit Santichon Chinese Village

The Santichon Chinese Village is made for tourists, and some might say ‘gimmicky’, but it can be a good place to stop as you explore other sights in and around Pai. There’s a ‘castle’ with views over the surrounding countryside, as well as a small lake, perfect for taking photos in traditional Chinese robes, which you can rent. There’s also a couple of small traditional rides and activities such as archery and a BB gun shooting range. Pick up some souvenirs or fruit wine at one of the market stalls in the village. The Santichon Chinese Village is only a 12 minute ride from the centre of Pai, so worth a stop if you are out exploring Pai.

How many days do you need in Pai?

3-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in Pai. This will give you a good amount of time to visit the main sights and attractions that Pai has to offer. If you have your own scooter and want to explore further afield, then you may wish to stay for a couple of days longer, however, you will be able to see the best of Pai in 2-4 days.

When is the best time to visit Pai?

The warmest and driest months in Pai are from December – April. However, It is recommended to avoid the months of March and April as this is when the ‘burning season’ will be in full swing. During this time, farmers burn their old crops ready to plant new. In the height of burning season, the air will become very thick with fog and smoke, making breathability and visibility tricky.

Peak season, when Pai is the busiest, is during December and January, as the weather is considered to be the most favourable during this time. Prices of accommodation will increase and attractions and sights will be more crowded. It is worth noting that if you visit during peak season, you will not experience the Bamboo bridge or the waterfalls at the best time. With this in mind, October and November are good months to visit Pai if you want to see waterfalls and the rice fields full of green crops. It should also be less crowded at this time.

How to get to Pai?

The best way to get to Pai is by bus from Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai is easy to get to, with regular flights, trains and buses connecting the city with the rest of Thailand. There are several minibus companies that operate between Pai and Chiang Mai every day and the journey takes 4 hours, including a short rest stop. The journey should cost around 240 thb (£5-6) and buses can be booked online, via 12go or direct from Chiang Mai bus station. Be warned, the road between Chiang Mai and Pai is notorious for making travellers feel motion sick. One of my top tips for travelling in Southeast Asia on journeys like this is to take some motion sickness tablets! These can be picked up cheaply at 7/11.

How to get around in Pai?

There are less public transport options in Pai, therefore the best way to get around is by scooter. However, be warned that the roads around Pai are steep and winding, as they make their way around the mountains. If you are not an experienced scooter rider, Pai probably isn’t the best place to learn. If you don’t ride a scooter, there are motorbike taxis you can hire from Pai main street, or join one of the tours to see several of the highlights in Pai.

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14 Unique Things to Do in Pai – Thailand

• Post author: Tanya Korteling
• Post published: 26/09/2023
• Post last modified: 18/06/2024

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For those looking to explore off-the-beaten-track in Thailand, you may want to venture to the northern village of Pai, where there are still plenty of ways to explore the less-touristy side of the country.

Although it has become increasingly popular over the years, particularly with the young, backpacker crowd, there are still plenty of unique things to do in Pai.

While most people visit Pai to experience the laid-back bohemian atmosphere or to party with hemp-wearing hippies, there is so much more to experience here.

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Unique Things to Do in Pai

Pai is a special place, which boasts some attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in Thailand. It’s famous for its natural landmarks, from awe-inspiring caves to mesmerizing viewpoints, as well as some authentic cultural sites.

In this post, we share 14 unique things to do in Pai, where you can either get off the usual tourist trail or find something that’s completely exclusive to the Pai region.

1. Cool Off in The Pai Waterfalls

Pai is famous for its refreshing waterfalls, and there are several to choose from. The most famous is the Pam Bok Waterfall, which is located between a narrow canyon and has a large pool underneath for swimming.

The unique rocky surroundings make this waterfall one of a kind, though it does have a small entry fee. Despite being a unique attraction, it’s well known, and so it can get quite busy during the day. If you want to explore this waterfall without the crowds, get up early and visit around 8:30 am.

Another waterfall that is more popular with locals is the Mor Paeng Waterfall, which has a unique natural waterslide! The waterfall sits on top of a flat, slippery and smooth rockface, allowing visitors to slide into the refreshing pool below.

Like Pam Bok Waterfall, there is a small entry fee for tourists, but it’s certainly worth it. Plus, you’re more likely to find locals than tourists here, which, after all, is what travelling off the beaten track is all about.

2. Explore the Rice Fields and Bamboo Bridges

Pai is a rich agricultural region and is surrounded by endless rice fields, which is Thailand’s biggest export.

When driving around the back roads of Pai, you’ll see many farmers in their fields and viewpoints for photo ops with the rice terraces, but one way to explore these farms in a unique way is to cross a bamboo bridge.

Bamboo bridges are a new-ish, eco-friendly construction, which was originally built to allow monks to walk shorter distances from their temples to the nearby villages to get food.

The most famous bamboo bridge in Pai is “Kho Ku So”, which is said to be the original bamboo bridge and connects to Wat Pa Huai Khai Khiri Temple.

Since then, more bamboo bridges have appeared all over the region, including one in the town centre (although this is used just to cross the river), and a really impressive one in Kung Mai Sak near Mae Hong Son which leads to the Wat Phra That Mae Yen Temple.

Tourists need to pay a nominal fee to cross the Kho Ku So bamboo bridge, which goes to maintaining the bridge. Even though it’s become a tourist attraction, it’s still one of the most unique things to do in Pai.

3. Drive the Mae Hong Son Loop via Ban Rak Thai

Another popular thing to do in Pai is to drive the scenic loop to Mae Hong Son, along the very windy Route 1095.

Although a popular road trip, this is one of the most dangerous roads in Thailand, since it has 762 turns and an elevation of 1395 metres (4575 feet).

The road trip takes a minimum of two days, with one night spent in Mae Hong Son.

Although the drive is scenic, it’s the sites along the way that make this road trip worth it. Here are some unique landmarks along the way…

Nam Lod Cave

There are many caves on the route to Mae Hong Son, the most famous being Tham Lod Cave (Nam Lod Cave), which is home to some impressive stalagmites and stalactites.

This hidden gem on the route is only accessible by riding a narrow bamboo raft through the entrance. After that, you will discover a huge, expansive cave with mesmerizing rock formations.

Be sure to take some fish food with you, as there are hundreds of carp-like fish that live in the water. You won’t see them until you throw food in, and then they appear out of nowhere and go crazy for the fish food!

Ban Rak Thai Village

Located in the northern region of the Mae Hong Son province, near the border with Myanmar, Ban Rak Thai Village is a hidden gem that should be at the top of everyone’s list of first-time places to visit in Thailand .

This charming Yunnanese village is a different and unique cultural experience, allowing you to learn about the Chinese communities that settled in Thailand.

Walk around the borders of the lake, that sits in the middle of the town, or wander through the tea plantations that grow on the hillside.

Be sure to try the authentic mala Chinese cuisine, which is perfect for those who enjoy spicy food!

Although it’s a long drive on a scooter, Ban Rak Thai Village is definitely worth the effort. It’s one of the few off-the-beaten-path destinations in Thailand where tourists don’t venture to.

Wat Phra That Doi Kongmu

Perched on a hill overlooking the town of Mae Hong Son, is the gorgeous Wat Phra That Doi Kongmu temple.

This ancient Thai Buddhist temple offers a unique blend of cultural and architectural beauty, showcasing strong Burmese influences.

As you ascend to the top, be prepared to be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below.

This quiet and peaceful temple is far from the usual tourist trail and is well worth a visit if you want to experience something unique and authentic.

4. Soak In a Natural Hot Spring

There are several hot springs in the Pai region where you can unwind and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.

The closest to the town is Tha Pai Hot Spring, which is a small, thermal sanctuary that allows you to relax and rejuvenate whilst connecting with nature.

The surrounding lush greenery creates a serene atmosphere, providing the perfect backdrop for your tranquil retreat.

The Sai Ngam Hot Spring is further away and therefore less frequented by tourists, and is slightly larger though less reclaimed by nature. It’s on the Mae Hong Son road trip, so you can easily stop by this hot spring en route.

I recommend you go on the way back, so you can soothe your aching bum after being on a scooter for two days.

5. Visit Wat Phra That Mae Yen, Pai’s Big Buddha

Nestled on a hill overlooking Pai, is the Wat Phra That Mae Yen, also known as Pai’s Big Buddha.

The serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the valley below make this temple a hidden gem worth exploring.

As you ascend the hill, you’ll be greeted by a majestic white Buddha statue, which looks out over the stunning landscape.

Be sure to visit at sunset, where the views are transformed in the glowing setting sun.

6. Admire the Views From a Tea House (Two Huts Pai)

One of the best unique things to do in Pai is to sit back and relax in a rural tea house. One Tea House we can recommend is Two Huts Pai, a hidden oasis nestled on the mountainside, overlooking the valley and town of Pai.

This charming cafe and bar offer more than just stunning views of the valley and mountains; it provides a haven of tranquillity and relaxation.

Sit back and relax in a hammock, sip a Thai Milk Tea, and feel the stress of the world leave your body.

In the evening, there is often live music, which makes Two Huts Pai a must-visit attraction at night.

7. Visit the Chinese Village (Santichon Village)

Just outside the town centre of Pai is Santichon Village, also known as the Chinese Village.

Here you can catch a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Yunnan, China, and explore the traditional clay houses nestled in picturesque surroundings.

Be sure to head up to the Yun Lai Viewpoint for gorgeous views of Pai and the mountains around it.

8. Go Whitewater Rafting

If you’re looking for something more adventurous to do, then experience the thrill of whitewater rafting in Pai.

The Pai River is a 37.3-mile stretch that passes through the picturesque woods and gorges, offering a beautiful natural setting as you take on the rafting challenge.

There are several different rafting excursions to choose from, ranging from 1 day to 3 days. In fact, you can raft all the way back to Chiang Mai, and your luggage can be transferred from Pai to your hotel in Chiang Mai as part of the experience.

Now that certainly is a different way to travel!

Here’s a rafting experience with Pai Adventures you can book online.

9. Visit Pai Piranha Fishing Park

Perhaps one of the most unique attractions in Pai is the Pai Piranha Fishing Park, which is just a short distance from the Mhor Peng waterfall and the town of Pai.

This hidden gem offers a fun-filled activity for the whole family, allowing you to try your hand at catching over 30 species of fish, including Pacu (Piranha), Pleco, and Roho Barb.

Once you catch the fish, you simply release them back into the lake. This is an attraction that allows you to escape the ordinary whilst enjoying the natural beauty of Pai.

10. Tha Pai Memorial Bridge

Step into history at the Tha Pai Memorial Bridge, which served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II.

Built by prisoners of war and locals under Japanese occupation, it stands as a testament to resilience and bravery.

As you walk across the bridge, you can’t help but feel a deep connection to the past and wonder what the lives of those brave soldiers would have been like.

Although a small attraction, the bridge’s unique architectural blend of steel and wood makes it unique to any other in Pai.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a reflective moment, visiting Tha Pai Memorial Bridge is a must.

11. See the Pai “Land Split”

The Pai Land Split is a unique phenomenon where an earthquake in 2008 caused the land to split between two hills, opening up the small gorge that’s there today.

The Thai locals always know how to turn a problem into a tourist attraction though, and have since built a cafe offering herbal teas, as well as a herbal garden (presumably where the herbs for the tea are grown).

You can sit back in a hammock, walk through the “split” and buy a bag of herbal tea to take home.

It’s not easy to find the Land Split, but here are directions on Google Maps .

12. Catch a Sunset at Pai Canyon

Perhaps the number one thing to do in Pai is to witness the beauty of Pai Canyon at sunset when the golden hues of the setting wash this craggy landscape in oranges and pinks.

Pai Canyon is known for its panoramic vistas and provides a sense of tranquillity. Pack yourself a picnic, some beers, and your new travel mates, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as the sun sets.

13. Eat Street Food on Pai Walking Street

Street food is an integral part of Thai culture, so be sure to sample the tantalizing flavours and culinary delights along Pai’s Walking Street at night.

After the sun sets, the street turns into a bustling night market, where the aromas of BBQ Moo Ping fill the air, drawing you closer to the irresistible street food stalls.

Whether you’re looking for sweet mango sticky rice or a hearty plate of Pad Thai, this is the place to be when you’re hungry.

14. Stay in a Bamboo Hut

Pai is well known for its ethical ethos, with a wide range of establishments, restaurants and hotels using conservation efforts.

When choosing a place to stay, it’s only fitting you choose somewhere with the environment in mind, which is why a bamboo hut is such a good idea.

Not only is it environmentally conscious, but it’s a great way to experience the authenticity of Thailand, as many Thai locals in the surrounding villages and hill tribes will live in something similar.

Bamboo huts are not only sustainable but affordable too. Many of these huts come without modern amenities such as air conditioning and hot water, which is part of the charm, so it’s an activity not for everyone. However, for those eco-friendly travellers, it’s a wonderful experience.

Where to Stay in Pai

Pai is a small town so it doesn’t really matter which area you stay in. Ideally, you will want to choose accommodation within walking distance of the Walking Street, as this is where the action is.

I recommend The Pai Country Hut as a great option. It’s perfectly located near to the town, but far enough away that you don’t hear the loud noises of the bars.

And, following on nicely from the last of our unique things to do in Pai, The Pai Country hut is an eco-resort, with ethically made bamboo huts to stay in. Each hut has its own hammock overlooking a quiet garden and the mountains, along with a mosquito net.

There’s also a big selection of other   accommodation in Pai to suit all budgets and styles, which includes some  lovely Vrbos . 

BOOK PAI ACCOMMODATION HERE

How to Get to Pai

The best way to get to Pai is via Chiang Mai, which most people from Bangkok by plane, train or bus.

Then there are several transport options from Chiang Mai to Pai – including minibus, motorbike or taxi.

Minibus: The most popular way to get from Chiang Mai to Pai is by minibus. Be prepared for a very bumpy along windy roads, and travel-sick pills are highly recommended for anyone prone to travel sickness. However, it’s also an inexpensive way to get to Pai and takes only about three hours, including a comfort break on the way. The buses leave regularly from the Chiang Mai Bus Terminal which is just outside the city of Chiang Mai.

Motorbike: Renting a motorcycle is another popular way to get to Pai from Chiang Mai. If you can ride a motorcycle this is an amazing way to travel as you’ll avoid the risk of travel sickness and get to enjoy the incredibly scenic route better. It’s also slightly cheaper and quicker than the bus, taking only about two and a half hours.

Taxi: You can also book a taxi to take you from Chiang Mai to Pai. This is obviously the most expensive option and also carries the risk of travel sickness but of course, you can ask the driver to stop en route as needed.

There’s a great selection of things to do in Pai, and this post only covers some of the most unique. So, make sure you allow enough time when you visit to explore as much as possible and to save some time to chill and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere too.

If you’ve been to Pai in Thailand, what was the most unique thing you did? If you’ve not been what would you like to do most?

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Planning your trip to Pai in Thailand? Here are some of our recommended useful resources to help you have the best time possible.

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Pai, the adventure mountain town

Pai travel guide.

Pai used to be a quiet small town located in one of the most beautiful valleys in all of Thailand, in the mountainous northernmost area of the country. A few decades ago, this small rural paradise became popular  among the hippie, artist and bohemian crowd. In spite of its somewhat remote location, and of the endless dizzying curves of the roads that drive up there, the number of visitors has grown steadily over the last two decades, bringing with it a blooming array of hostels, cafes, restaurants, tour agencies and 7Elevens. But despite the uncontrolled growth of Pai town, still nowadays you only need to walk to the edge of town to hear nothing but the sounds of nature, and the Pai Valley is still a really beautiful area, with enough sites of interest to keep the visitor busy for a few days -ethnic villages, caves, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs and forests-. To fully enjoy the experience, rent a scooter and take things easy and slow.

ℹ️ Top Things to Do in Pai

Wat phra that mae yen.

Pai Markets

Ban Santichon

Mo Paeng Waterfall

Mo Paeng Waterfall (Nam Tok Mo Paeng) is located about 8 km west from Pai, next to Ban Mo Paeng village, of the Lisu ethnic group. It’s a beautiful place to relax, with a medium sized natural pool perfect for a dip, surrounded by jungle and big wide boulders heavenly designed for sunbathing . Not surprisingly, its proximity to Pai, combined with its easy and free access, makes the place often crowded. To avoid this possibility, try visit the place early in the morning.

Hot Springs

Pong Nam Ron Tha Pai is an area of natural hot springs in the middle of the forest, inside Huay Nam Dang National Park and near it’s entrance. Be careful and take notice of the signs: some of the natural pools have a bearable temperature and are suitable for bathing, ¡but others boil so fiercely that in just a few minutes you could cook an egg! It’s open every day from 07:00 to 18:00. It’s usually a quiet place that doesn’t gather large crowds, no doubt related with the quite expensive entrance fee to the Park, 300 THB/adult.

Water Sports and Activities

Tham Lot Cave

With over 1.5 km in length, Tham Lot is one of the most spectacular and accessible caves in Pangmapha district… ¡which has over 200 caves! Tham Lot contains a lot of chambers, huge stalactites and stalagmites, rocky vaults up to 30 meters high, and has the peculiarity of being crossed by the Lang River, which makes it a navigable cave . The cave is open between 09:00 and 18:00, it is mandatory to hire a guide for 150 THB, and optionally you can take a bamboo raft ride inside the cave, for an additional 400 THB . Tham Lot Cave is located 49 km northwest of Pai, and to get there you have to take the road to Mae Hong Son until the village of Soppong, and from there take the detour north for about 9 km. Sunset is the best time of day to visit Tham Lot Cave, since every day in the evening thousands of bats pour out of the cave to go hunting for dinner -or perhaps we should say breakfast, being bats a nocturnal animal-.

🏨 Where to stay in Pai

Best town areas to stay:.

Pai’s popularity has rocketed over the past two decades, and accommodation options continue to increase year after year, with literally hundreds of hostels, hotels and resorts in town and surrounding area. Although it may seem way too excessive compared to the small size of the town, in high season -especially in December and January- it can be very difficult to find accommodation without a previous booking. The really cheap hostels that crowded the area have been progressively been replaced by fancier hotels, although there are still quite a few good options for the tight budgets. On the other hand, room prices fluctuate notably throughout the year, and in low season –generally between May and October– many hotels apply great discounts.

Accommodation available: Hostels and Hotels up to 4 stars

Advantages: ✔️ Livelier atmosphere ✔️ Lots of restaurants and bars ✔️ Some nightlife ✔️ Many travel agencies

Surrounding area

Accommodation available: Hostels and Hotels up to 4 star

Advantages: ✔️ Quiet area ✔️ More upscale options ✔️ Green surroundings

🧭 Itinerary to visit Pai

Provided you can ride a scooter, one full day is enough to explore the most outstanding sites in the pai valley:, ban santichon (chinese village), hot springs at huay nam dang national park, memorial bridge, night market, ✈️ arriving to pai.

If you have a tendency to motion sickness run to the nearest pharmacy and buy yourself a box of Draminate: the only way to get to Pai is by road, a long succession of curves without any truce. From Chiang Mai it’s 135 km of mountainous road with no more and no less than 762 curves. Experienced and adventurous motorcyclists with enough time can opt for the “Mae Hong Son Loop”, a circular route of about 700 km, starting and ending in Chiang Mai, that stops at Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son and Pai. If you choose this, we recommend a whole week.

There are mainly 2 ways to go to Pai:

🚌 by bus or van, most common option, 📍  from chiang mai’s arcade bus station.

➡️ You can take a bus or a van at Chiang Mai’s Arcada Bus Station , about 5 km northeast from downtown. Get there by taxi or songthaew .

➡️ Price: 150 THB. Departures: every hour from early morning to mid-afternoon.

➡️ The journey takes about 3-4 hours including a short stop to stretch legs.

🚊 By motorbike or car

For experienced drivers, 📍  from chiang mai.

➡️ The mountainous road to Pai is only recommended for experienced drivers.

➡️ In Chiang Mai there are lots of rental agencies where you can rent a scooter for 200-300 THB/day, or a car for around 1.000 THB/day.

🚇 Where to go next?

Most common destinations after pai:, chiang mai, the center of the north, mae hong son, the village near burma, let us design your trip to thailand. find out more, ➡️ tailor made holidays to thailand ⬅️.

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• 27 December 2023

Your Complete Pai Travel Guide – Explore the North of Thailand

This is your complete pai travel guide - explore the beautiful north of thailand.

Pai, located in the north of Thailand, is a perfect destination if you want to wind down from bustling Thailand. If you have already researched the perfect Thailand Itinerary, Pai was probably in it. Next to that, it is known as both suitable for backpackers and digital nomads with many extending their initial duration spent in this lovely town. This Pai Travel Guide gives you a full overview of the best things to do when in Pai, the best restaurants in Pai, and the best places to stay.

Also, a visit to the North of Thailand is perfect to combine with a visit to the islands, such as Koh Tao , to include variety in your Thailand Itinerary.

How many days do you need to explore Pai?

I booked 3 nights for my trip to Pai, which is perfectly possible when you are on a tight schedule. Nevertheless, I would advise you to spend at least 3 full days in Pai, which will result in 4 nights. Unfortunately, I couldn’t tick all things off my list and next to that Pai is a lovely town to hang around with plenty of restaurants and bars to try. Summarizing, to fully explore Pai and its surroundings, spend at least 3 days/4 nights in Pai.

How to get to Pai?

Pai airport has been discontinued, therefore, the main hub to get to Pai is Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai has a larger airport receiving international and domestic flights as well as a train connection from Bangkok. Therefore, when travelling to Pai it is advised to first head to Chiang Mai ( read my Chiang Mai travel guide here ) and travel to Pai from there.

Once you’ve arrived in Chiang Mai, there are three main options on how to get to Pai. Firstly, you should be aware that there are 762 turns during this stretch! However, take a motion sickness pill and you’ll be fine. I’m pretty motion-sick but have survived the drive perfectly and was way too stressed beforehand because of all the horror stories online.

How to get to Pai by Minivan:

Two minivan companies are covering the ride from Chiang Mai to Pai. Aya Service will pick you up at the hotel while Perchebum is a bus company and therefore departs from the bus station (arcade 2) in Pai. The ride takes approximately 3-3,5 hours including a 20-minute break to get something to drink and stretch your legs. I paid 250 baht (7 euros) for the ticket, while the return trip cost me 150 baht. Also, you can book your tickets beforehand online through 12go.asia. Make sure you book your tickets at least 2 to 3 days in advance, as when I tried to book most of the times were fully booked.

How to get to Pai by private transfer:

Most hotels will be able to help you find a private transfer to Pai or back to Chiang Mai. Otherwise, there are plenty of tour agencies to be found on the street (every corner, so don’t worry). When I asked in Pai for the costs of a private transfer, they told me 2200 baht (55 euros). However, you might be able to haggle on the price a bit further or share the transfer with others you met. All in all, it is not the cheapest solution but feasible and relaxed.

How to get to Pai by motorbike/scooter:

Another popular option is to self-drive the way from Chiang Mai to Pai (or the other way around) by motorbike/scooter. However, make sure you have some experience driving a motorbike before doing so. As mentioned, there are quite some turns on the road. Nevertheless, looking back I think I would have been able to do it, although I dreaded to roads in Chiang Mai. If you are confident handling the traffic in Chiang Mai on a motorbike, you’ll be able to drive to Pai. An easy way to fix a motorbike is to rent one from Aya service. Also, they have baggage transfer available which means they will move your baggage from Chiang Mai to Pai for a more relaxed drive.

How to get around in Pai

When in Pai, I would advise you to rent a motorbike. The roads are relatively quiet, which makes it the perfect destination to drive around. Most of the sights are a little further out of town, so a motorbike is well needed. Alternatively, there are plenty of tours offered by multiple travel agencies. Moreover, I would book accommodation within walking distance from Pai Town and the walking street. There are plenty of great restaurants and bars, so it is convenient if you’re able to walk back after your night out. Lastly, also Grab (like Uber) seemed to be available in Pai. However, I haven’t tried it and I can imagine there are limited rides available.

Pai Travel Guide Summary

Things to do.

• Bamboo Bridge
• Santichon Village and Yun Lai viewpoint
• Nam Lod Cave
• Hot Springs
• Pai Walking Street
• White Buddha
• Mo Pang Waterfall
• Sunset at Pai Canyon
• Mae Yen Waterfall hike

Restaurants

• Dammie Café
• OM Garden Café
• Tham Ma Daa Cafe
• Na’s kitchen
• Charlie & Iek
• Walking Market
• The Container @ Pai
• Supermoon, Boombar, Music.Bros Bar

Where to stay

Countryside Resort

Country Hut

Pai Village Boutique Resort

Society House Luxury Hostel

- the best things to do in pai -.

You won’t be bored when in Pai, as there are plenty of places for you to visit and explore. Also, be prepared for a bit of a drive some days. Therefore, the 3 days will come in handy. Also, in the end, I’ll provide you with a quick 3-day Pai itinerary for you to be able to explore the best things to do in Pai with this Pai travel guide.

1 || Bamboo Bridge

The Bamboo Bridge is located about a 30-minute drive from Pai and is one of the most famous locations around Pai. This 800-meter bridge built of, surprise, bamboo is currently mainly used by tourists. It allows you to walk over the rice fields and admire the views. When at the Bamboo Bridge, enjoy your lunch at Jaey Cafe with great views. The entree fee for the Bamboo Bridge is 30 baht.

2 || Santichon VIllage and Yun Lai viewpoint

The Yun Lai viewpoint (entry 20 baht) offers great views over the surroundings of Pai. Also, there are tents available for camping. If you are in for a unique experience in Pai, then this might be something to put on your travel list. When driving towards the Yun Lai viewpoint, you’ll pass through Santichon Village where you will find a small Chinese wall, a unique swing, and the opportunity to do some arrow shooting. In my opinion, all not too special, but a fun stop on your way to the viewpoint.

3 || THam Lod Caves

The Tham Lod Cave can be found on a 1:15-hour drive north of Pai with a nice viewpoint (Don Kiew) halfway. Before travelling here, I read horror stories on how to get to the cave. However, besides the road having a couple of steep curves, I wouldn’t say it is too much of a challenge if you have some driving experience. The Tham Lod Caves are impressive caves, where you can walk standing almost all the time. Upon arrival, you can decide whether you want to see only cave 1, caves 1 and 2 or all three of the caves. After the long ride, I would advise taking the tour that shows you the 3 caves. In total, this tour, including a guide that shows you around, takes around 1 hour and includes a small boat ride on a bamboo raft. Moreover, it is not allowed to enter the caves without a guide that is waiting for you at the entrance. The 1-hour tour to all 3 caves costs 600 baht (15 euros) per group, with a maximum group size of 3. Also, when driving to or from the Nam Lod Cave, you can easily stop at the Sai Ngam hot spring for a quick dip.

4 || Pai Hot Springs: Sai Ngam or Tha Pai hot spring

Pai’s surroundings are home to two different hot springs to enjoy for a quick dip: the Tha Pai hot springs, located about 8 km to the south of Pai and the Sai Ngam hot springs, located 15 km north of Pai. Because the Tha Pai hot spring is easier to reach, this could be a quick activity to add to your Pai Travel Guide and a great location to start your day. Nevertheless, based on stories and imagery, the Sai Ngam hot springs seem to be prettier so if you have some time and/or are travelling to the Tham Lod Cave anyways, you can best try the Sai Ngam hot springs.

5 || Pai Walking Street

When staying in Pai, the walking street is one of the best things in Pai. Between 6 pm and 10 pm, this street turns into a non-car zone and is packed with multiple stalls, including artwork, souvenirs and, of course, food. Try some of the smaller bites such as the sausages, gyoza or sushi or smaller meals such as Pad Thai, Khao Soi or Papaya Salad. Although you might not expect it, the sushi was my actual favourite!

6 || Chedi Pra That Mae Yen (the white Buddha)

Where Chiang Mai is full of temples and Buddha statues, there are not many to be found in Pai. Chedi Pra That Mae Yen is a white Buddha that can be found on top of a hill and overlooks Pai Town. From some places in town or around, you might see the Buddha watching over you. When in Pai, it’s worth a quick visit. Also, keep in mind the multiple stairs you’ll have to climb first.

7 || Mo Paeng Waterfall

The Mo Paeng waterfall is one of the waterfalls near Pai where you can swim. Even though the waterfall is medium size, and might not be the most impressive waterfall you’ve ever seen, it is popular with tourists. Moreover, you can slide down in the water from some parts of the waterfall and use the rocks as a natural slide. There is no entrance fee to the waterfall. 

8 || Chase the sunset at Pai Canyon or Two Huts

When in Pai, you can’t miss out on chasing the sunset over the wonderful North of Thailand. The most popular place to see the sunset is the Pai Canyon, which is a sight by itself. However, arrive early as it becomes very crowded while the paths are very narrow. If you want to enjoy the sunset, pick a medium / clear day and arrive at 4:30 pm latest so you can find your spot with limited crowds. Also, the Two Huts are a popular location for sunset and hanging around with a beer. Unfortunately, I didn’t have sufficient time in Pai to check out the Two Huts, which is why I would recommend staying a minimum of 3 days. 

9 || Hike to the Mae Yen Waterfall

Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time in Pai for the waterfall hike to Mae Yen, however, it was high on my list. This 2-hour walk leads you to a waterfall, while you cross the water stream/river multiple (over 40!) times during your walk. If you want to learn more about the hike, you can for example check out this blog.  

How to spend 3 days in pai

Looking for some support on how to best spend your days in Pai? This Pai Travel Guide has you covered with a 3-day Pai Itinerary. 

Day 1: Start the day with a smoothie bowl at Bom Bowls. Afterwards, I enjoyed a Muay Thai class, which of course is a great way to experience the culture and stay fit. Next, drive to Santichon Village, a small Chinese village and continue your way to the Yun Lai viewpoint. Subsequently, drive your bike to the Bamboo Bridge where you can enjoy lunch at Jaey Cafe and walk across the bridge. When you are done exploring, take the road back and enjoy a drink at Container Bar@Pai before you head to the Pai Canyon for sunset. I wouldn’t stop at the Pambok Waterfalls on the way, as I think this was one of my most underwhelming experiences in Pai and you can better chase different waterfalls.

Day 2: Drive to the white Buddha (Chedia Phra That Mae Yen) before enjoying breakfast at OM Garden Café in Pai. After breakfast, start your journey towards the Nam Lod Caves and stop at the Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint. Before or after your visit to the caves, you can enjoy a dip in the Sai Ngam hot springs. Once back in Pai, enjoy exploring the night market and taste the local food.

Day 3:  During day 3 you have plenty of time for a hike towards the Mae Yen waterfall. Once you finalized your hike, don’t forget to check out the sunset at the Two Huts.

The Best Restaurants and bars in Pai

As Pai is backpacker heaven, where many travellers or digital nomads decide to extend their stay, there are plenty of great restaurants and bars in Pai to enjoy a lovely meal or drink. Below, you will find my favourite places and places I got recommended but haven’t been able to visit. Because what is a Pai Travel Guide without the best restaurant recommendations? 

The best places for breakfast, lunch or brunch in Pai

• Bom Bowls – At Bom Bowls you can enjoy some great breakfast, such as pancakes or – not surprisingly – a bowl. They tasted amazing!
• Dammie Café – Located around the corner of Bom Bowls, this is a less famous spot. It’s a bakery with homemade bread and sweets, making it the perfect place to sit down for a bit.
• OM Garden Café  – Be warned, this place is popular. Get there slightly early if you want to enjoy a lovely breakfast here. The garden cafe is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a healthy breakfast or lunch.
• Earth Tone  – This is another healthy spot in Pai, focusing on vegan and vegetarian meals. I think this is a great option for lunch to enjoy one of the salad bowls.
• Tham Ma Daa Cafe  – A great place to relax. Even though they don’t have an elaborate menu, they have some decent sandwiches. Sit down and relax overlooking a small water pool.

The best places for dinner in Pai

• Pai Walking Market  – When you are only spending a couple of days in Pai, I expect you to get some local dishes at the night market most days. 2 out of the 3 evenings I’ve spent in Pai, I’ve enjoyed my dinner at the walking market. There is a great mix of smaller bites (gyoza, sushi, sausage) and small meals (pad thai, khao soi, tacos)
• Na’s Kitchen –  In Pai town, you’ll find Na’s Kitchen on one of the main roads. A friend I saw in Pai mentioned Na’s Kitchen and I had seen a line (which does not happen much in Thailand), so my other remaining night, we decided to opt for a lovely curry at Na’s Kitchen. It was honestly very good! 
• Charlie&lek – I’ve heard about this restaurant multiple times during my visit to Pai, whether it was for lunch or dinner. Moreover, everyone was very positive and it seems to be one of the best restaurants in Pai. 
• Cafecito  – Looking for a nice change to the Thai food? Cafecito is your place to be in Pai, with some lovely Mexican food being served. 
• Two Sisters  – Located near Earth Tone and Tha Ma Da Cafe, you’ll find Two Sisters, more suitable for dinner in the same area. Generally, a good place for some local food, although it is not located in downtown Pai. 

The best bars in Pai

• Two Huts  – As already mentioned, this is one of the most famous places near Pai, and especially for sunset drinks. It is known as the place where you’ll probably meet everyone you’ve seen during your travels and is currently in Pai. 
• Jazz House  – My personal favourite. I loved this place! With live music, ranging from open mic to performers, this is an amazing place to have a (cheap!) drink. Also, you are allowed to take your food inside, which is perfect if you want to eat your walking market snack. 
• The Container@Pai – If you are looking for a place to chill slightly outside of Pai, the container@Pai is the place for you. I enjoyed a beer here after visiting the bamboo bridge and waiting for the sun to set before heading to the Pai Canyon. The place closes around 5 PM.
• Jikko bar  – When on the walking street, there are not too many nice bars to sit down. Especially when waiting for people, or when you like to watch people, Jikko is a perfect place. There is a Jikko cocktail or Jikko beer bar to settle down and the IPA on tap was great!
• Bar street – e.g. Music.Bros Bar, SuperMoon and Boom Bar –  There is one street in Pai where the bars mentioned are located. It is dependent on the day where everyone goes to party, so it is best to stroll around. Also, if you want to end the night late, you can head to the  Don’t Cry  bar after other places close.

- The best places to stay in Pai -

Countryside resort - top pick.

During my time at Pai, after changing my mind about accommodations a couple of times, I stayed at the Countryside Resort . And what an amazing place this is. I would highly recommend it to everyone. The rooms are small but decent, the location is perfect (a place to relax but only a 15-minute walk to town), you can rent a scooter, they have a pool and you have your own little terrace on your roof! Moreover, you can call them and they will pick you up from Pai bus station and drop you off when you leave. And.. all of this starts from €14 a night. 

Before I stumbled upon Countryside Resort, I was planning on staying at Country Hut . The perfect location and spot to wind down, while still being able to explore Pai from your cottage. There are cottages available with shared or private bathrooms. You can get a cottage from €13 a night. 

Pai Village Boutique Resort - Luxury

If you want to go all in with your accommodation, one of the best places to stay is the Pai Village Boutique Resort. Expectedly, this place is slightly more expensive than the average room in Thailand. Nevertheless, you can get a room starting at around €75 a night. There is a massage service at the property, as well as a restaurant and a pool. You can stay in cottages, to still experience the local feel of Pai. 

First of all, accommodation in Pai is quite cheap and unique. A little cottage won’t set you back too far, especially not when shared. Nevertheless, you might enjoy a hostel better to be able to socialize. Society House Luxury Hostel is one of the best hostels in Pai and allows you to meet other travellers, while still enjoying some privacy in your hostel. If you want to stay in a bunk bed, prices start from €9 a night. 

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Asia » Thailand » 15 Awesome Things to do in Pai, Thailand

15 Awesome Things to do in Pai, Thailand

What's In This Guide?

The common thing I heard about Pai before visiting was that you would “go there for two days and stay for two weeks.” I hardly knew anything about this secluded village in the mountains. I doubted I would actually be around that long. However, I soon discovered there were so many things to do in Pai that I could hardly leave!

I went to Pai for two days, then I stayed for two weeks, as so many other travelers ended up doing. In that time I motorbiked around the region, explored the best waterfalls around Pai, hiked the canyon, chilled out in a great jazz bar, and found some epic mushrooms.

My travel friends were right, Pai is an amazing place to visit. Now I’m going to share a whole heap of my experiences with you so that you get the absolute best experience!

Oh, and would you like an awesome guesthouse with private rooms under USD 20 per night ? Of course… Check out the Pairadise Guesthouse . Cheesy name, awesome stay. Thank me later.

Top Things to do in Pai

Pai is like no other place I’ve found in Thailand. It is backpacker-friendly, yet super authentic. It is hardly talked about, yet so well known. It is a small town with nothing to do, yet has so much to explore.

Pai has stunning waterfalls, great northern Thai food, an obscure canyon, and really friendly people.

You can be swimming at one of the top waterfalls in Pai in the morning, hiking the canyon by lunch, then back in town watching a fire show for dinner. When you think you’ve seen it all, hire a motorbike and explore the mountains! Here are my top activities in Pai to keep you busy for a week (or two).

1. Explore the Waterfalls in Pai

One of the best things to do in Pai is to get out and explore the waterfalls. The waterfalls in Pai are some of my favorites in all of Thailand. They are only moderately sized but secluded in the jungle with some fantastic swimming pools. It’s a great way to escape the heat.

My favorite waterfalls in Pai are; Pam Bok Waterfall, Mor Paeng Waterfall, and Mae Yen Waterfall.

These three waterfalls are actually located a bit further out of Pai’s town center. You will need to hire a motorbike to visit them. Motorbikes can be hired for about 150 THB (USD 5) per day from one of the many shops around the center of town.

Pam Bok Waterfall  has a great 3-meter ledge that you can climb up the side of. The water is deep enough that you can jump off the ledge and into the waterfall below. This waterfall is a bit more difficult to get to due to the poor quality winding road, however, it is still located just 8km from the town of Pai.

Mor Paeng Waterfall is the easiest waterfall to reach from Pai and has the most people. The waterfall has a few levels to explore over a short hike. The rocks are slippery so beware. There is actually a big rock which you can slide down and into a cold freshwater pond at the end. Warning: slide down sitting up to avoid hitting your head. The Mor Paeng Waterfall is about 12km north-west of Pai and is easily accessible by motorbike.

Mae Yen Waterfall is the most difficult waterfall near Pai to visit. There is a 2.5hr jungle hike each way to and from the waterfall. Get your hiking shoes ready. When you arrive there will be hardly any other people around, and the swimming hole there is fantastic!

If you love waterfalls be sure to check out the Erawan National Park and Kratengjeng in Sangkhlaburi

2. Visit the Ethnic Villages

The area surrounding Pai is home to ethnic villages in the mountains. The people out here are from the Shan culture (From Myanmar) or Lisu culture ( from Yunnan ).

If you want to visit an ethnic village but avoid the tourist traps, you should hire a motorbike and continue west along the road past Pam Bok Waterfall. I’m not sure of the village names, but you will come across the ethnic cultures out this way. The further you get from Pai, the better.

3. Go Hiking in Pai Canyon (Kong Lan)

Pai Canyon is one of the most popular places to visit in Pai. Some compare Pai Canyon to the Grand Canyon, however that is probably overstating it. Nevertheless, it is still a stunning attraction to visit.

There is an easy walking trail that leads around the top of the canyon. Here you will see the steep 30-meter cliffs which drop down to the bottom of the canyon, and get a nice view looking over the countryside. There are some more adventurous hiking trails that lead down into the canyon. I suggest wearing some sturdy shoes if you plan to explore further.

While the Pai Canyon is open all day, the best time to visit is around sunset. It makes for a great way of wrapping up a day exploring the waterfalls in Pai.

Pai Canyon is located just 15 minutes north-west of the town. The canyon itself is only a 5-minute walk from the carpark which is located along the main road.

4. Eat Khao Soi

Khao Soi is the famous creamy, spicy, crunchy, chicken noodle soup from the north. However, in Pai, it is just that much better. Get a bowl at one of the many local restaurants in town for about 80 THB, and you will probably order a second.

A bowl of Khao Soi comes with a few condiments such as onion and chili. Be sure to add these in to bump up the experience.

When you’re done, make sure you wash all that creamy soupy goodness down with a cold bottle of Leo. This is my favorite beer in Thailand too!

5. Visit the WW2 Memorial Bridge

The WWII Pai Memorial Bridge is no longer the original, that was destroyed by a huge flood back in 1973. However, historically the WWII Pai Bridge was a significant transport route for the Japanese in their invasion of Myanmar. While visiting the bridge you will be able to read further historical information about its use.

The bridge is also a great viewpoint over the river which runs through the outskirts of Pai. We were fortunate enough to see a farmer cross the river with his herd of buffalo.

6. Relax in Tha Pai Hot Spring

A trip to the Tha Pai Hot Springs (also called Pong Nam Ron Thapai) is one activity for the winter you won’t want to miss. These natural hot springs are located approximately 8 kilometers south of Pai in the Huai Nam Dang National Park. Being part of the national park means that the surroundings are a beautiful natural forest.

There are a series of pools here ranging in temperature. The highest temperature is up to 80 degrees Celsius which is more suitable for cooking eggs than taking a dip. But don’t worry there are cooler pools too.

As the Tha Pai Hot Spring is in the national park, a 300 THB entry fee applies for foreigners. The hot spring is open daily from 7am to 6pm.

7. Relax in the Sai Ngam Hot Spring

There are actually two hot springs in Pai. The lesser-known one is called the Sai Ngam Hot Spring which is located approximately 15 kilometers north of Pai. As fewer people know about it, you can totally avoid the crowds.

The water here doesn’t get as hot as the Tha Pai Hot Spring. Instead of 80 degrees Celcius for cooking eggs, the Sai Ngam Hot Spring has one large pool which remains at a fairly comfortable 34 degrees Celcius.

The Sai Ngam Hot Spring also has a 300 THB entry fee for foreigners. The hot spring is open daily from 8am to 6pm.

8. Visit Wat Phra That Mae Yen

Wat Phra That Mae Yen is also referred to as the Big White Buddha on the hill, and is visible from around most of Pai.

To get to the top you will need to climb all of the 353 stars. While that may be a tiring and sweaty accomplishment, you will be rewarded with an amazing panoramic view of the countryside. It is particularly beautiful to visit Wat Phra That Mae Yen around sunrise and sunset.

Wat Phra That Mae Yen is located about 2 kilometers to the east of Pai’s town center. It is possible to walk, but the climb up the mountain may warrant a motorbike.

9. Try Tubing in Pai

You may have heard of the infamous tubing in Vang Vieng with the raging parties out in the jungle. Well, it’s actually possible to go tubing in Pai too. Like most things in Pai, it’s a little more relaxed here.

For about 300 THB (USD 10) you can rent a tube and get taken about 4 kilometers up the river to a drop off location. The ride back to Pai along the river takes about one hour, depending on how strong the water is flowing.

Tubing in Pai is only permitted in the dry season, or very start of the wet season. During heavy rains, the current is too strong and not safe for tubing. You can book a tubing trip from most hotels or from some tour agencies in town.

10. Wander Pai’s Walking Street

Pai has a great walking street much like those you will find in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai . At night you will find that the main street through Pai fills with lots of stalls offering food, clothing, jewelry, and other souvenirs.

If you’re not keen to buy any take-home souvenirs, then just go for the food. You are bound to meet lots of other travelers in this fun and social atmosphere too.

11. Party at one of the Top Bars in Pai

Another one of my favorite things to do in Pai is just to chill out or party up at one of the many bars in Pai. You can find daily live music sessions at Edible Jazz, watch some awesome fire shows at Don’t Cry, or just kick back and enjoy the amazing sunsets at Sunset Bar Pai. If you want to turn it up later in the night, make sure you pop into Ting Tongor Bamboo Bar for a proper party. The bars in Pai with a party vibe get going at around midnight.

Another cool spot is the Pai Circus School. Some afternoons the guesthouse throws a barbecue with cold drinks. It is an awesome place to watch the sunset from up on the hill.

12. Hang Out at a Cafe

There are quite a few cool cafes in Pai where you will find backpackers lazing about escaping the heat. With the digital nomad trend on the rise there, these cafes typically offer great wifi and allow you to work for an extended time. With good food, and good coffee, there’s no better reason to take a lazy day in true Pai style. Check out Cafecito for good coffee and Latin food, and the Pedlar for good coffee and bakery products.

Found another great cafe in Pai? Please let me know in the comments section below!

13. Motorbike to Chiang Mai

The road from Pai to Chiang Mai, route 1095, is known as the road of 762 turns. This 120-kilometer route, which winds its way through the mountains, is a paradise for motorbike adventurers.

After leaving the highways surrounding Chiang Mai, the road to Pai passes rice paddies for a while, then makes its way into the mountains and through the forest. The ride from Chiang Mai to Pai is a great way to see a stunning part of Northern Thailand. An area that seems to be endlessly green.

The ride from Chiang Mai to Pai (or vice versa) takes about 5 to 6 hours one-way.

Note: it is best to motorbike the road from Chiang Mai to Pai in the dry season. During the wet season, it can rain quite hard out here.

Love motorbike adventures? Check out my huge Vietnam Motorbike Route

  14. Mushrooms in Pai

I will not label what type of mushrooms these are, but they are great. Some of the best you will find in Asia.

Mushrooms in Pai grow in abundance in piles of Elephant poo. Ask around and you shall find the source. Having a few mushrooms while lazing out on the grass in Pai is an incredible experience. However, take my advice and don’t do it at night.

  15. Eat Northern Thai Food by the Pai River

How does a laid-back afternoon eating traditional Northern Thai food while sinking a few cold beers by the Pai River sound? Perfectly Pai if you ask me.

Just 1.5 kilometers south of Pai town centre you’ll find a great little restaurant called Northern Soul Pai. They serve up amazing boran (ancient) style northern Thai dishes which you’ll struggle to find elsewhere. Food appears seemingly simple, yet loaded with flavour. You’ll be wondering how the heck you’ve never heard of this before.

Of course, you can always opt for their Khao Soi. Or do as I do, get both!

Walk, cycle, or motorbike down there. Here’s their exact location you can’t get lost.

Don’t end up in Pai Hospital 

With all these things to do in Pai, there must be a few accidents along the way. Be careful, don’t end up in the hospital like I did.

During my trip to Pai, there were so many hospital incidents. The hospital in Pai must be one of the busiest in Thailand I had come across on my travels. Here are a few things to avoid:

• I was bitten on the eyeball by some bug. The bite got infected overnight after scratching it. The next day I spent 3 hours in the hospital with a hose under my eyelid flushing out the infection
• A friend had a bug crawl down his ear and make a nest. Back to the hospital to flush it out with water and tweezers before there was a colony of bugs down there.
• A mosquito bit an elderly woman at our guesthouse and gave her with Dengue Fever. She blackout and collapsed while walking and ended up in the hospital for a week to recover.
• Another friend crashed a motorbike while it was raining and cut his right eye open. Stitches and two days in the hospital

Given how dangerous Pai seems to be, I recommend getting some travel insurance. Check out World Nomads for a free quote. You can customize the cover to suit your trip including your destinations, duration or cover, and activities.

How to Get to Pai

Minivan – the most common way to get to Pai is by minivan from Chiang Mai. At the time of writing, a ticket cost 150-200 THB (USD 6) per person one-way. You can check ticket and timetables here.

Note: the minivan is notoriously known for making travelers vomit along the way as the road is so windy. Do not travel with a hangover.

Motorbike – Adventure travelers might consider hiring a motorbike in Chiang Mai for a week or more, then riding out to Pai. The road to Pai is one of the top motorbiking roads in Thailand, and an experience you will not forget.

Flight – as of 2019 Bangkok Airways offers flights from Chiang Mai to Pai (landing at Mae Hong Son airport). The flight time is approximately 45 minutes, making it the fastest way to get to Pai.

Where to Stay in Pai

There are plenty of cool guesthouses around Pai, and probably more opening up all the time. Here are a few great options to consider:

Budget  – Pai Circus School is a party vibe hostel located on the mountainside with a great view overlooking the village. Pai Circus School often has great barbecues and offers plenty of cool circus toys if you want to learn a few new tricks like fire spinning.

Mid-Range – Pairadise Guesthouse has comfortable private bungalows with a fan (USD 20 per night) or air-con (USD 30 per night). This is my #1 pick in town.

Luxury – Pai Island Resort may not be located on an island, but it will make you feel like you are. Rooms are kitted for total luxury with Super King Beds. Check out the prices on Agoda, they’re quite often discounted to half price!

Where to Next?

There are so many amazing destinations to visit in the north of Thailand. Pai is just one little part of this region.

You could return to Chiang Mai to explore the ancient temples and the old city center. When you have seen the city, continue on with these top places to visit near Chiang Mai , they’re all within a couple of hours of the city center.

Another option is to head further north to Chiang Rai. This is Thailand’s northernmost province, and feels more off the beaten track than Chiang Mai Be sure to read my super detailed article with loads of tips on what to do in Chiang Rai!

G'day I'm Josh (some call me Fishtank) and on this blog I'll show you how to travel Asia beyond what you thought was possible. We'll explore the highest waterfalls, most remote islands, eat the best street food, and plenty more! Josh Shephard

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Pai, Thailand: A Backpacker’s Haven and Nature Lover’s Playground

Picture a chill town filled with backpackers where the natural beauty of waterfalls, mountains, and rice paddies blends seamlessly with the buzz of bars, organic cafes, and a vibrant night market. That’s Pai, Thailand—a little hippie haven that somehow manages to be both a retreat for nature lovers and a playground for those seeking thrill.

For many travelers, including myself, Pai is a favorite stop in Thailand. It offers a unique contrast to places like Bangkok or Chiang Mai. It’s relatively remote, and getting there is an adventure involving over 700 hairpin turns!

While Pai caters to tourists, its tranquil beauty and the chance to unwind or zip through small villages on a scooter make it an unforgettable escape. Trust me, spending at least three to four nights here is a must.

Stick with me, and I’ll explain everything you need to know about visiting Pai, Thailand, from the best spots to travel tips on making the most of your journey.

[This article contains affiliate links to trusted partners.]

Best Time to Visit Pai, Thailand

The best time to visit Pai is between November and February, when Thailand enjoys cooler and drier weather, making it perfect for exploring. While this period is the peak season, Pai is less crowded than Thailand’s larger cities. Do pack a sweater, as mornings and evenings can get chilly.

The rainy season from June to October offers solitude for those who avoid crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain. However, be prepared for it to affect outdoor activities.

Try to steer clear of March and April due to the burning season in Northern Thailand, which can impact the air quality and visibility.

Getting to and Around Pai, Thailand

Getting to Pai from Chiang Mai involves a scenic yet challenging 80-mile journey on the infamous “Pai Highway,” which features 760 hairpin turns.

Most travelers opt for a minibus, which costs around 200 baht and takes three to five hours, including a break for toilets and snacks (and vomiting for those who get motion sick). For those prone to motion sickness, taking pills beforehand is a good idea.

Only experienced motorbike riders should attempt the journey from Chiang Mai themselves due to the high risk of accidents. If you’re looking for comfort, hiring a private car is an option, though more costly at 2200-3000 baht. moo

Once in Pai, the town itself is easily navigable on foot. Most travelers rent a scooter or bicycle to explore outside of the town. Catching a ride in a tuk-tuk or songthaew (shared taxi truck) is also an option.

Things to Do in Pai, Thailand

Pai offers many activities, such as exploring its vibrant night market, indulging in the amazing smoothie bowls at Bom Bowls, tubing on the Pai River, or meditating at Wat Pa Tam Wua.

Pai Night Market

A bus will drop you right into the heart of Pai’s vibrant walking street, which sets up every evening. The Pai Night Market has everything from local Thai dishes to the best falafel I’ve ever tasted.

Nightlife in Pai, Thailand

After visiting the night market, dive into Pai’s nightlife scene. Check out Jikko Bar for an impressive selection of craft beers and good music on the walking street. For those who love good vibes and techno, Boom Bar is the spot. Blah Blah Bar offers great music in a laid-back atmosphere, while Why Not Bar is the go-to for younger backpackers looking for a lively night out.

Pai Canyon is the go-to spot for breathtaking sunsets and sweaty hikes. The entrance is free, and the views are priceless. Get there early for sunset – the whole town turns up. Or, go for sunrise to enjoy the trails without the crowds.

Waterfalls in Pai, Thailand

Don’t miss the stunning Pam Bok, Mor Paeng, and Mae Yen Waterfalls, each offering unique beauty and a cool escape from the heat.

Pai River Tubing Adventures

Jungle Tipsy Tubing Experience is the ultimate adventure on the Pai River, featuring stops at three lively bars. Bring cash and sunscreen, and be prepared for two hours of “questionable decision-making” with 400 of your closest friends.

A more laid-back way to enjoy the Pai River is to rent a tube in town, get dropped off upstream, and leisurely float back to town in 1-2 hours. Opt for whitewater rafting if you can’t tube during the rainy season due to high river levels.

Hot Springs in Pai, Thailand

Tha Pai Hot Springs: Conveniently located near town and Pai Canyon, these man-made pools offer a relaxing soak for 300 baht. Visit early to avoid the crowds and heat.

Sai Ngam Hot Spring: A local favorite set in a jungle, 25 minutes from town. A serene, natural setting for 200 baht.

Santichon Village

Experience Yunnanese Chinese culture in Santichon Village. It was one of my least favorite spots, mainly due to a disappointing meal, so maybe just a quick visit while you’re out adventuring. Up the hill from here is a nice viewpoint with tons of wildflowers.

Kho Kya So Bamboo Bridge

Kho Kya So Bamboo Bridge is a picturesque bamboo bridge stretching over rice fields, leading to a temple. Perfect for a peaceful walk and some nice photos. Be sure to take off your shoes before entering the temple.

Pai Land Split

The Pai Land Split, a few miles from town, gets its name from a giant split in the ground caused by an earthquake in 2008. The land owner has turned it into a unique and educational experience, offering fresh fruits and snacks to visitors. Don’t go out of your way to visit, but make a quick pitstop on your way to Pam Bok Waterfall and the Bamboo Bridge.

Chedi Phra That Mae Yen (The White Buddha)

Chedi Phra That Mae Yen offers spiritual serenity and panoramic views on a hill overlooking Pai. Ideal for a quick visit, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Where to Eat in Pai, Thailand

Cafes: There are so many cute cafes in Pai! Two Huts Pai offers stunning views of Pai Valley, making it the perfect spot for sunset watching and sipping your favorite drink. It gets crowded at sunset, so get there early for a good seat.

Bom Bowls: A vegan haven offering mouthwatering smoothie bowls and fluffy pancakes. It’s perfect for starting your day with a burst of energy.

Om Garden Cafe: Just a few minutes from the walking street, this cafe has plenty of healthy and vegan options at slightly cheaper prices than its neighbors. A must-visit for those looking to eat well on a budget.

Fat Cat: Experience the unique treehouse vibe on your way to or from the White Buddha. Set in a beautiful garden, Fat Cat serves up refreshing smoothies, hearty salads, scrumptious sandwiches, and burgers that hit the spot.

Na’s Kitchen: Look no further for the best local Thai food in town. Affordable and delicious, but be prepared for a long wait during the dinner rush. It’s worth it!

Khaosoi Zister’s is a gem for late breakfast or lunch. It specializes in the Northern Thai delicacy of khao soi. Expect to wait for the best khao soi in Pai!

Day Trips from Pai, Thailand

Tham Lod Cave: Take an extraordinary journey through the one-mile-long Tham Lod Cave. Board a bamboo raft and gently float down the Lang River, guided by a local wielding a gas lantern. This impressive cave system makes for an unforgettable day trip from Pai, showcasing stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient coffins in high cave ledges. Watch out for bats!

Meditation Retreat at Wat Pa Tam Wua: This secluded Buddhist monastery 43 miles northwest of Pai offers peace and serenity. Surrounded by breathtaking nature, English-speaking monks offer guidance in various styles of meditation. They offer one-day classes or three- to ten-day stays. You can just walk in—no reservation necessary. If you don’t have time for a full retreat, you can also learn more about Buddhism and meditation in Chiang Mai.

Mae Hong Son: Mae Hong Son province, about 4 hours from Pai, is known as “the City of Three Mists” because of its location in the mountains. It experiences mist all year round. It is ideal for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path or needing to do a visa run to Myanmar. You’ll want to stay 3-4 days here to fully enjoy the traditional way of life.

Your Pai, Thailand Adventure Awaits

Pai is a tranquil town in northern Thailand where you can build your own adventure—it’s no wonder backpackers flock here.

This little town, surrounded by waterfalls, mountains, and rice paddies, transforms into a lively hub at night, while the daytime cafes have serious Bali vibes . It’s the kind of place where you can spend three days or three months.

Remember, the best time to visit is between November and February when the weather is perfectly cool—but you won’t have the place to yourself!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cat is a very hungry solo female traveler in her 30s who left a 6-figure job in NYC to travel (and taste!) the world. Cat is determined to prove there are ways to backpack the world on a budget without fully sacrificing the “grown-up” lifestyle you love. Visit her blog at Cat is Out of the Office.

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12 Best Things to do in Pai, Thailand

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Lying in the north of Thailand not far from the Myanmar border, the small town of Pai is a very popular haunt among both backpackers and hippies. Its small center is now full of guest houses, souvenir shops, and Western-style restaurants. Due to its lively nightlife scene, it has often been compared to Thailand’s party islands – just without the beaches.

Named after the river that runs through it, Pai is set in a gorgeous mountain valley. The surrounding area is awash with stunning natural tourist attractions, with sparkling waterfalls, steaming hot springs, and scenic mountains.

While the town is undoubtedly quite touristy, its rich heritage and culture still show through in its wonderful temples and bustling market, while the nearby hill tribes still retain their age-old traditions and customs. With numerous different things to do in Pai, the town makes for a great getaway, whether you’re into nature and culture or outdoor activities and nightlife.

12. Pam Bok Waterfall

Located just a short distance away from the town center in a very secluded spot, Pam Bok Waterfall is a great place to head to if you want to take a refreshing dip. As it is surrounded by high cliffs, it sees very little sunlight, so for most of the day, the waterfall and pool are quite shady.

Besides enjoying the magnificent scenery, visitors can go for a dip in the refreshing waters of the pool or dive off one of the cliff ledges into the deep waters below. As it sees substantially fewer tourists than many of the other more popular waterfalls in the region, Pam Bok is perfect if you’re looking to visit a quiet and relaxing spot.

11. Memorial Bridge

Built by occupying Japanese soldiers during the Second World War, the original version of the bridge was burnt down by the same army in 1944 as they retreated before the Allies. Crossing the Pai River, the bridge occupied a strategic location, so after the war, locals rebuilt it in the form we see today.

Coupled with the steel trusses and posts that line its wooden planks, Memorial Bridge – as it is now known – evokes comparisons with the more famous Bridge over the River Kwai. A popular stop on the way to Pai from Chiang Mai, Memorial Bridge is well worth checking out, and there are some fantastic photos to be had on the bridge with the river behind you.

10. Mor Paeng Waterfall

Nestled away among the dense forest with gorgeous scenery all around it, Mor Paeng is one of the most popular waterfalls in the area, and it is easy to see why. Besides basking in the beautiful views, visitors can soak in one of its many pools or even take a ride down one of its slippery slopes before plunging into the cool waters below.

Lying just under ten kilometers from the center of town, the journey there takes you through some beautiful countryside. The only downside to Mor Paeng Waterfall is that due to its popularity, it is often quite crowded.

9. Thom’s Pai Elephant Camp

In the area surrounding Pai, there are a couple of different elephant camps for visitors to check out if they want to get up close and personal and interact with the majestic creatures. Thom’s was the first to be founded, and now four generations of the family have worked closely alongside the elephants in their large sanctuary down by the Pai River.

Guests can learn all there is to know about Tutdao, Ot, and Nguan – its three residents – as well as feed and play with them in the river. As the animals are treated as if they are part of the family, Thom’s Pai Elephant Camp is a great place to head; the elephants are well looked after and seem very happy. In addition to making some new gigantic friends, you can also relax in the camp’s spa, go trekking along the river, or venture into the nearby mountains.

8. Mae Yen Waterfalls

As it is the most remote and inaccessible of Pai’s many waterfalls, part of Mae Yen’s allure is actually getting there. You have to hike for three hours both there and back through some dense jungle.

Following the Mae Yen Luang river, the trail takes you through some stunning scenery. As you often have to cross from one bank to the other, it is a good idea to wear waterproof shoes.

Once you finally arrive, the waterfall certainly makes for a spectacular sight as it is surrounded by lush trees and vegetation. As its idyllic setting is very peaceful and picturesque, many people while away a few hours bathing in the pool or enjoying a picnic on its banks. Due to how long it takes to get there and back, it is well worth setting off early in the morning so you can spend as much time basking in the marvelous natural beauty of the waterfalls as you like.

7. Boon Ko Ku So Bridge

Stretching over 800 meters in length, the Boon Ko Ku So Bridge snakes its way just a meter or so above a huge patchwork of rice fields; its unique look and location make it a delight to stroll along. Hemmed in by forest-covered mountains, the bamboo bridge is set in a scenic spot. The rainy season is the best time of year to visit, as a sea of green rice plants rises around you.

While its picturesque landscape is undoubtedly its main attraction, visitors can also check out its charming little Buddhist shrine, as well as stop off for a coffee at the little cafe that lies amid the paddy fields.

6. Pai Hot Springs

Tucked into the forest in Huai Nam Dang National Park, the Pai Hot Springs are wonderful for relaxing in, and their warm waters are widely reputed to have therapeutic properties. Welling up from the undergrowth, the natural springs can reach up to a whopping 80 degrees Celsius, and these hot jets of water are thankfully cooled by the bubbling stream that runs through them.

Bathing in the hot springs with the forest all around you is a very memorable experience; you’ll come away feeling refreshed and replenished by their soothing waters.

5. Wat Phra That Mae Yen

Overlooking Pai from atop of a hill, Wat Phra That Mae Yen is definitely worth visiting if you have the chance. The spiritual site is a very peaceful place to spend some time in quiet contemplation. Once you’ve panted your way up the 353 steps it takes to reach Wat Phra That Mae Yen, you’ll be greeted with an incredible view of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

Besides its beautiful temple, golden chedis, and astounding view, the main attraction is its stunning white Buddha statue that towers over the complex. Particularly spectacular to behold at either sunrise or sunset, the temple and its dazzling white Buddha are among Pai’s most popular tourist attractions.

4. Conserve Natural Forests

Established in 2014 to protect and preserve the Mae Hong Son Province’s natural landscapes and ecosystems, Conserve Natural Forests will delight nature lovers with its sustainable message, environmental ethos, and successful rehabilitation projects.

Bordering the Pai River, its forests and farms are home to various endangered species, and it is a great place to visit if you want to interact and engage with Asian elephants in their natural habitat.

Besides meeting these gentle giants on their terms, visitors can get involved in some of the foundation’s conservation programs or learn more about Thailand’s biodiverse fauna and flora.

3. Land Split

Located on the way to Pam Bok Waterfall, the appropriately named Land Split marks the point where an earthquake tore apart a local farm with a large crack appearing between his fields. Quite peculiar to gaze upon, the steep, narrow rift cuts its way through his property, and the distinctive geological feature seems to indicate that a fault line runs deep beneath the earth.

Besides checking out this unique phenomenon for yourself, you can also enjoy some fantastic local produce and fresh juice that the farmer has on offer at the entrance to his farm.

2. Pai River Tubing

One of the most fun and popular activities that Pai has to offer, tubing along the river is simply a must if you’re looking for a good time. In contrast to Vang Vieng in Laos ‘ famous and raucous river parties, tubing along the Pai River is a very peaceful affair.

Visitors start upstream of Pai and over the course of an hour or two slowly drift with the current back down river until they reach the town. Reclining on the inflatable tubes and feeling the cool water below you as you float past Pai’s many landscapes is a lovely experience, and the whole excursion should only set you back around $10 or so.

1. Pai Canyon

Covering a vast expanse of territory, Pai Canyon will delight nature lovers and outdoor aficionados with its wealth of incredible landscapes that some people rather optimistically claim is Thailand’s version of the Grand Canyon.

While its narrow ruddy red ridges that overlook steep drops and forest-filled valleys do look impressive, this comparison may be a bit of a stretch, although the nature on show in Pai Canyon certainly is beautiful in its own right.

As you explore its many hiking trails and paths, you’ll come across some fantastic viewpoints. Sunset is a particularly lovely time to visit for the soft glow that illuminates the canyon. Lying just under ten kilometers from the center of town, Pai Canyon is certainly worth visiting for its breathtaking landscapes. Many people grab a beer and come here to watch the sun go down.

Best Time to Visit Pai

November through February is the high season in Pai as this is when the weather is warm, dry and the humidity is much lower. These months are ideal for cycling about its lush, green countryside, visiting hot springs, waterfalls and hill tribe villages.

Although the town is quite crowded and expensive during this cool season, temperatures of between 24 and 28°C (75 to 82°F) make hiking, cycling and motorbiking about the mountains much more pleasant. As there are loads of national holidays in December, Pai is packed with people.

While some people still visit in March and April to enjoy the colourful Songkran and Poy Sang Long celebrations, the hot season’s high temperatures make outdoor activities arduous and tiring. In addition, many farmers set fire to their fields during this period so the countryside looks all charred and the air quality is terrible.

From May through October is the monsoon season with most tourists avoiding Pai due to the heavy downpours. While July and August are the wettest, the small town sees a spike in backpackers due to the European summer holidays. If you don’t mind getting wet, the landscape is a gorgeous green with the relaxed Pai Jazz and Blues Fest also being held then.

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Pai itinerary 7 days – 2024 thailand travel guide.

Table of Contents

Here is a step-by-step Pai itinerary for an amazing one week holiday. Pai Thailand is a stunning destination and well worth visiting. Pai is a small dreamy town located in the remote Mae Hong Son Province of Northern Thailand. If you love adventure, natural beauty and getting off the beaten track, then Pai Thailand is the place for you. 

Like most of the world, lots of things have changed in Pai in the past couple of years. It’s more important than ever that you plan your trip carefully. That’s where we can help. This guide is designed to be an up-to-date and step by step guide to the BEST things to do in Pai AND how to do them. No need to dot between lots of different sites in your planning – everything you need in one might article! We really do hope this itinerary helps you plan a fantastic trip to Pai – one of the prettiest towns in Thailand!

Looking for somewhere to stay in Pai? Don’t miss our guide on the BEST hotels in Pai

One week Pai itinerary overview

Day 1 Visit the white Buddha, the Twin Huts, the Pai Hot Spring Resort and the night market 

Day 2 Sai Ngam hot springs, epic viewpoint, Tham Lod Cave and Pam Bok waterfall 

Day 3 I Love U Pai cafe, The land split, The Bamboo bridge, Love Strawberry and Pai Canyon

Day 4 sunrise at yun lai, santichon yunnanese village, mo paeng waterfall & the karon village, day 5 breakfast by the river, trek to hua chang waterfall and tubing on pai river, day 6 visit the mork fa waterfall, the highland coffee plantation and pong dueat geyser.

Day 7 Cookery School course, Art Gallery, Dear Your Mind coffee terrace and a Massage 

How can you use this Pai itinerary?

We have tried to give you detailed information in this Pai itinerary to minimize the work you need to put into planning your trip. We have also included information about budget, culture and getting around. We have travelled northern Thailand extensively and visited Pai many times. On a personal note, we absolutely love Pai – this is where we got engaged so it really is a personal favourite. 

The pace of this Pai itinerary should allow for time to enjoy relaxing before and after trips on most days. The beauty of our travel itineraries is that they are totally adaptable to your needs and desires. If you just need a more relaxed holiday any of these activities can be dropped and you can just enjoy a much needed day chilling by the pool. Alternatively if you have time, you could spread these activities across two weeks and enjoy a slower pace. On the other hand, if you are short of time but not energy we have also suggested an alternate three day Pai itinerary. 

Our step-by-step Pai itinerary is designed to give you the best varied experience of all of the activities and attractions that Pai has to offer so that you don’t need to pre-book an expensive tour. It also means you don’t need to spend hours (or even days) trying to pull together information from lots of sources to make your own itinerary. Who has time for that?! 

This Pai itinerary is designed to make sure you don’t miss any of the main attractions in Pai and to show you how to do each trip and activity in detail. In contrast, tours tend to be expensive and lack the flexibility our itinerary offers. We hope to tell you everything you need to know about Pai to have the holiday of a lifetime! 

So grab a cuppa and read on…

Map of this Pai itinerary

Here is a map of this Pai itinerary:

What is the Pai one day pass?

You now need to plan your Pai itinerary more carefully than ever. The Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary pass is a ONE DAY pass that allows you access to a range of attractions in and around the Pai area. The Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary day pass costs 200 baht and can be purchased from the ticket office at any of the destinations included on the pass. The price is 100 baht for children.

If you only intend to pay for one pass you will need to plan your trip carefully so that you can see everything you want to in one day. The one day Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary gives you access to the following attractions near Pai for one day only: 

• Pam Bok waterfall
• Sai Ngam hot spring river
• Tham Lod cave (allow around 4-5 hours for a round trip from Pai)

We have included each of these amazing attractions on day 2 of this Pai itinerary. So if you follow our Pai  itinerary you will only need to purchase one pass. However, if you do wish to visit other attractions, you may need to consider purchasing a pass on another day too. 

The Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary pass also covers some other attractions further afield: The Doi Mieng viewpoint is above the Pam Bok waterfall and bamboo bridge. Trekking above the Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint (this viewpoint is actually on the way to Tham Lod). You can visit the Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint without a ticket, but to trek further up the hill you now need a ticket. You can also visit the remote Nam Bor Pee sinkhole, the Mae La Na cave, the Susa waterfall and the Luk Khao Lam viewpoint. None of these additional attractions are included on our Pai itinerary. 

Is Pai expensive? (Prices in Pai Thailand)

The short answer is no. Pai Thailand is not an expensive destination to visit. In fact this Pai itinerary is only likely to cost a few hundred pounds including food and accommodation. We have given you a full breakdown of prices for this Pai itinerary below. 

Whether you are travelling on a budget or taking a luxury holiday, you will probably be surprised how far your money goes in Pai. Prices in Pai are cheaper than the average prices in Thailand, and Thailand is a cheap country. 

Examples of things that are very cheap in Pai: 

• Street food: You can find delicious street food all around Pai. In the evening there are many places offering BBQ food and lots of nibbles from around the world along walking street. Example prices: Chicken Schnitzel 20 baht, sushi 5 baht, Thai sausages 20 baht, pancake 40 baht, 30 baht for a large fruit shake.  
• Bicycle and motorbike rental: You can rent push bikes for 50 baht per day. We have been able to find motorbike rental for as cheap as 80 baht for the day. This is probably not suitable for a family with kids. 
• Massages and beauty treatments: You can get a one hour Thai massage for as little as 150 baht in Pai. Other spa and beauty treatments are also very cheap in Pai town.
• Some accommodation is very cheap: In town you can find fan dorms for 100 baht per night. It is not necessarily cheaper out of town. You can rent a very simple bamboo hut by the Pai river for as cheap as 200-300 baht. If you want the absolute cheapest deals you need to turn up and barter rather than pre-booking.
• Entry to attractions around Pai: It is generally very cheap to visit local attractions. Some places are free of charge and others will cost 50-100 baht. The only expensive attractions on this itinerary are the elephant sanctuary, which is not in Pai, and the Pai Hotspring Spa Resort. 

If you are planning to splash out you will probably still be surprised how far your money goes in Pai. For example:

• There are more expensive western restaurants around town aimed at tourists – amazing food costs 150-300 baht for a dish
• Alcohol prices are similar to the rest of Thailand tourist spots. Cocktails are around 100 baht on happy hour. A large beer is also around 100 baht
• You can find a very nice Pai hotel for 1,000 baht per night including breakfast and a swimming pool. If you really want to splash out you can find you can stay in a beautiful Pai Villa for around 5,000 baht for a night.

Be aware that many places in Thailand operate a dual pricing system. This means that there is a cheap price for locals and a much higher price for tourists. This can feel frustrating and disappointing for some tourists. Try not to let this spoil your experience when you are visiting some of these amazing stunning places. It’s nice to know that locals can enjoy their beautiful attractions for a good price. 

Best budget tips a cheap Pai itinerary

• Bartering is fine in Thailand and sometimes necessary. Barter for tuk tuks and also if you are shopping on the market
• Try the local street food. It is both delicious and cheap
• Plan your transport – if you hire a local driver shop around for someone you like who will go for a good price and agree on repeated business for other day trips

How much will this one week Pai itinerary cost? 

Please remember these are really rough estimates to help you plan. We have not included the cost of flights or visa costs so you need to factor these into your budget. Also be aware that local prices may vary, as will your day to day spending and this can have a big impact on the actual amount you will end up spending for this Pai itinerary. If you are travelling on a shoestring, you could do it even cheaper by finding alternative activities. 

The cheapest part of the Pai itinerary is clearly the activities. So your choice of accommodation and food will be the main thing that determines the overall cost of your trip. Also be aware that if you add more people on to the trip, the cost wont increase as much as you expect because transport and accommodation costs will generally be shared. 

What activities do you need to pre-book for this Pai itinerary?

Most of the activities and attractions on this Pai itinerary do not need to be booked in advance (in fact for most of them it is not possible to book in advance). For this Pai itinerary you only need to pre-book tubing on day 5, the cookery course on day 7 and any return buses you may need (which should be booked a couple of days in advance). 

To pre-book tubing (day 5 of this Pai itinerary) visit Aya Services on Pai Walking Street (Chai Songkhram Road) a day or two before your tubing trip. Check that trips are running and timings. 

To pre-book the cookery course (day 7 of this Pai itinerary), contact Savoei, A Taste of Pai cookery school. This is also located on Pai walking street, near Wat Pa Kham. It costs 500 baht for a 2 hour class cooking 2 dishes (this is around £10 or $13). It costs 800 baht for a 4 hour class cooking 4 dishes (this is around £16 or $20). They offer two classes per day: 9.30am – 1.30pm and 4pm – 8pm. You can book courses in advance by email: [email protected]

Buses can be booked at the Pai bus station on Pai walking street (near the Pai Mae Hong Son Provincial court)

Day 1 White Buddha, Twin Huts, Hot Spring & night market 

Your Pai itinerary starts with a fairly relaxing day. Pack a small day bag including swimming costumes and some water and snacks to keep you going. Remember that you will need to dress respectfully when you visit the temple and White Buddha statue. Keep shoulders and knees covered.  

Your day starts with a visit to the White Buddha statue which is located at the hill temple called Chedi Phra That Mae Yen (เจดีย์พระธาตุแม่เย็น). This is located 2km southeast of Pai. You could easily walk here from Pai in around 30 minutes. Once you get there there is a beautiful staircase to walk up to get to the temple. The temple is situated on a hill that affords a lovely view of the Pai region. Next to the temple is a large statue of Buddha. This is likely to take 30 minutes to an hour. 

After the temple, head to the Two Huts cafe and viewpoint for a coffee. Two Hut’s cafe is situated at a stunning spot for enjoying breathtaking views of the Pai valley and surrounding jungle mountains. There are two thatched roof huts with hammocks for relaxing. Drinks range in price from 50 – 80 baht (around £1 – £1.60 or roughly $1.30 – $2).

Continue south down the rural road to visit the Pai Hotspring Spa Resort. Keep your eye open for a local elephant farm on the way to the hotspring resort. You may see the elephants chilling out on the left side of the road. The location of the local elephant farm is around 6km south of Pai down Rural Road Mae Hong Son 4024.

FIND OUT more about the AMAZING Pai hot springs

The Pai Hotspring Spa Resort is a beautiful riverside resort and spa. They have a beautiful hot spring and a larger cold pool for visitors and guests to enjoy. A visit to the resort will take around 2-3 hours depending on what you would like to do here. You can use the hot spring for a humble 100 baht per person (this is £2 or around $2.50). 

There is also another hotspring nearby which is not included in this Pai itinerary. Tha Pai hot spring is located near to the Pai Hot Spring Spa Resort and costs 300 baht. We have recommended the Pai Hotspring Spa Resort due to the lower price. 

Finally, an essential part of any good Pai itinerary. Visit the Pai night market. Along Pai walking street (Chai Songkhram road) there is a lovely night market selling food, drinks, clothing and gifts. The Pai night market has a lovely chilled vibe. The night market starts every evening from around 5.30pm until late evening (10pm or after). Along the night market you can also find lots of cafes and streetside restaurants offering a range of foods and drinks. There is often live music too. The night market is something you may want to do most evenings in Pai. 

Day 2 Wild hot springs, viewpoint, Tham Lod Cave & Pam Bok waterfall 

This is a long and enjoyable day on the Pai itinerary. All of the attractions you will visit today are included on the Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary pass which costs 200 baht per person (100 baht for children). The Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary pass is only valid for one day. The pass can be purchased from the entrance of any of the attractions that are included on the pass. 

Pack for a long day trip including swimming costumes and towel, sun screen, plenty of water and snacks. Also remember to bring good shoes for the cave. You can often buy drinks and food along the way but it’s always worth having some in your bag. 

The first stop on day 2 of the Pai itinaray is the Sai Ngam hot spring (น้ำพุร้อนธรรมชาติป่าอนุรักษ์ไทรงาม). This is a beautiful warm slow flowing river nestled in the beautiful Chiang Mai rainforest. The water is not very deep as it is a natural hot spring, but you can sit in it and it is a very pleasant experience. 

The Sai Ngam hot spring is normally quieter than the Tha Pai hot springs, but it can get busy in the afternoon as some local tour operators include these hot springs in their trips. We recommend getting over to the hot spring early if you would like it to be much quieter – maybe even to yourself. You will probably want to spend an hour or two at the hot spring. 

How do you get to the Sai Ngam hot spring independently? To get to the Sai Ngam hot spring take route 1095 north bound. The 15km journey should take around 20-30 minutes. Cross a bridge, keep an eye out for the Lum Nam Pai Wildlife sanctuary, the right turn is a few minutes further. There is a sign for the hotspring. There is a checkpoint at the start of this road where you can pay for your wildlife sanctuary pass. They may also charge a small fee for your vehicle. Another 10-15 minutes along an exciting road with steep ups and downs. This is pretty challenging if you are riding a bike. Taxis may try to charge as much as 200 baht per person for a trip to the Sai Ngam hot spring if you share. It is definitely worth bartering. 

After enjoying Sai Ngam hot spring river visit Tham Lod Cave (ถ้ำน้ำลอด) stopping at an epic viewpoint on the way. The Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint (ดอยกิ่วลม) is located on the top of a hill 24km northwest of Pai town. The journey takes about 45 minutes by motorbike. To get there continue to drive up the 1095 in the Mae Hong Son direction. The Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint affords an incredible view of the lush, jungle covered rolling hills of Mae Hong Son Province. The Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint is on the way to Tham Lod Cave. They sell hot drinks, snacks and you craft at the viewpoint.

The next stop is the amazing Tham Lod river cave (sometimes called “Lod cave”). How to get to the Tham Lod cave: It will take around 45 minutes to get to Tham Lod from the Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint. Continue to drive along route 1095 away from Pai, you will be going downhill this time. After roughly 30 minutes there is a right turn in Soppong village. There is a t-junction immediately after right turn, turn right again. Follow the road for another 15 minutes. When you get to the Tham Lod village the road forks- go right and follow the road around 500m to the cave. 

Tham Lod cave is genuinely spectacular and well worth the long journey. In fact, we love Tham Lod cave so much we have done a dedicated guide on Tham Lod . During the dry months (December – July) you take a raft ride though a huge cavern with several stops to explore side caverns within the complex. During the rainy months (August – November) you can only enter the cave by foot with a guide. 

Expect to see epic stalactites, stalagmites and an impressive cave column. Ancient inscriptions on the cave walls. Also the cave mouth is huge and spectacular. 

Prices for Tham Lod cave: 

200 baht for the Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary (if you have already been to Sai Ngam you will have purchased this already)

400 baht for a bamboo raft (up to 3 people)

150 baht for a guide (required to visit the cave)

We recommend doing the raft one way then walking back (this may be a little cheaper). The river flows through the main cavern and then emerges on the other side of the hill. It is a very beautiful walk back around the hill (not through the cave). The cave tour takes around 1 hour and then there is a 15 minute walk back. 

If you are not visiting the cave by bike or car, locally booked tours to Tham Lod cave are good value for money. They can be booked from many offices in Pai along the main street (walking street). It costs around 350 baht per person for the cave only (£7 or $10). 450-500 baht for a day tour including the cave, hot springs and Pai canyon for sunset (this is around £10 or $13). Alternatively you could hire a taxi or private Songthaew for the day. This would be the most expensive way to visit the cave. 

Finally head over to the Pam Bok waterfall (น้ำตกแพมบก). Another attraction not to miss on a Pai itinerary. This is an impressive waterfall in a narrow canyon in the rocks. There is a pretty good plunge pool which varies in depth throughout the year. You can swim and paddle at the bottom of Pam Bok waterfall. Be aware that this is a popular spot so it is unlikely that you will have the place to yourself. 

Find our more about AMAZING waterfalls in Pai

To get to Pam Bok waterfall you need to travel all the way back to Pai and back out the otherside (in the Chiang Mai direction). Pam Bok waterfall is around 15 minutes from Pai by road. When you reach the waterfall car park there is a ticket office and some steps. The waterfall is a short walk up the steps (a few hundred meters). When you reach the top of the path at the waterfall, you will need to climb over rocks to get close to the waterfall. There are some other attractions near the Pam Bok waterfall (such as the Pai Land Split and the Bamboo Bridge) but we have put these on day 3 of this itinerary because this is a long day already. 

This sounds like a lot for one day on your Pai itinerary. But all of these attractions are pretty close to each other, so you will probably find the pace of this day quite relaxing. These attractions also don’t take too long to experience and enjoy. 

Start the day with a coffee and cake at the impressive and chilled I Love U Pai cafe. Situated in the Pai valley with stunning views of the mountains, I Love U Pai cafe is a great place to have a relaxing start to your day. We love the hanging swing chairs and decadent choice of drinks and treats here. You can also order a range of Thai dishes here too. 

The next stop is the Pai land split (แผ่นดินแยก) which is not too far from the I love U Pai cafe. This is a charming, beautiful natural split on farm land located around 6km to the south west of Pai town. The split appeared on a farmer’s land in 2008 after an earthquake. Sadly this made his land worthless for farming or even selling. However the creative land owner decided to re-purpose his land. He makes a variety of products from the plentiful hibiscus (Roselle) plants on the land. You can try hibiscus juice, hibiscus jam and even hibiscus wine. He also offers fruit and hibiscus juice to tourists on their way to the Pam Bok waterfall. He is super kind and friendly. Rather than charging an entrance fee the farmer has a donation box so you can donate an amount that seems appropriate. 

After exploring the Pai Land Split continue up the road, past the Pam Bok waterfall and follow the road up the hill to the Kho Koo So Bamboo bridge (สะพานไม้ไผ่ โขกู้โส่). This is a beautiful walkway over rice paddies leading to a temple in the hills. It is 813m in length. This is a particularly beautiful location, especially during the rainy season. The bamboo bridge was built  in 2016 by the Baan Pam Bok village community to allow monks to walk from the monastery to the village. The construction of the bridge took approximately 3 months. 

Further up the hill above the bamboo bridge is the Doi Mieng viewpoint (this requires a 200 baht one day Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary pass).

After enjoying the Bamboo Bridge, head back to Route 1095. Love Strawberry is on the 1095 around 7km south of Pai. There is no entry fee for Love Strawberry Pai. It costs 200 baht to pick one kilogram of strawberries in the garden. Love Strawberry do have a small cafe and gift shop. 

After a visit to Love Strawberry Pai head to the beautiful Pai Canyon (ปายแคนยอน). To get the Pai Canyon continue heading south bound on Route 1095 in the direction of Chiang Mai. Pai canyon is only a few hundred metres from Love Strawberry Pai.

Entry to Pai canyon is free and it is a short 5 minute walk up the hill from the carpark. Once you reach Pai Canyon you will be confronted by a beautiful landscape of deep valleys and scary ridges.

This is a popular sunset spot. If you want to explore the Pai canyon make sure you wear good shoes – trainers are recommended rather than flip flops. It is likely that you will spend anything from 30 minutes to an hour or two here depending how much you wish to explore. 

Any good Pai itinerary needs to include at least one sunrise. Start the day with a sunrise at the Yun Lai viewpoint (ทะเลหมอก หยุนไหล). Due to the east facing view, this is a great spot to see the sunrise. It costs 20 baht for entry (40p or around $0.5).

If you arrive early enough (around 6.30am) you can sometimes see oceans of clouds filling the valleys early in the morning. If you are planning to travel by bike, be aware that the road is steep near the viewpoint. A sufficiently powerful bike is advised. This is a popular spot and can often get busy even in the early morning.

After enjoying the sunrise visit the Santichon Yunnanese Village (บ้านสันติชล). The Santichon Yunnanese Village has a unique history and culture and is well worth a visit. Situated in the hills the village offers a spectacular view point over the Pai valley.

The Santichon Yunnanese village was formed by Chinese settlers from the Yunnan province who fled Chairman Mao’s revolution. These Chinese refugees maintained their culture, dress, food and traditions. There are also local hill tribes people living in the village. The Santichon Yunnanese Village is now a popular attraction near Pai, and you can enjoy Chinese food and tea in the village. Entry to the village is free. 

After exploring the Santichon Chinese Village, head over to the Mo Paeng waterfall (น้ำตกหมอแปง). Mo Paeng waterfall is a three-tiered waterfall. When the water level is high (rainy season) this waterfall is fun for swimming. People slide down some sections of the rock. Entry to the waterfall is free. Don’t miss the fruit farm a few hundred metres down the road, a great place to stop for a refreshing smoothie. 

After visiting Mo Paeng waterfall, return to Pai village, grab some lunch and have a rest. In the afternoon visit the Karon long neck village. 

The Karon Long neck village is a small community of long neck people living approximately 2km from Pai town. The Karon long neck people are an ethinic group originating from the Shan State of Myanmar. They are notable for the brass rings that females gradually put around their necks as they grow, this depresses their clavicle and lengthens their neck.  Over the years many Karon people have sadly been displaced from Myanmar by conflict.

Karon people can now be found in the border regions of Thailand, especially in the northwest of the country. In some places, such as Pai, they have set up Karon villages to support these wonderful people. The Karon villages are small communities where Karon women make crafts and artwork to sell to visitors. 

It costs 100 baht to visit the Karon Long Neck village. You can pay on arrival. The village is not very big, comprised of a main area where women make and sell art and craft. 

Note: Today would be a good day to book your bus to your next location. Buses can get busy so pre-booking your bus a day or two in advance is recommended. Pop to the bus station on Pai walking street to pre-book your bus.

Start the day with a serene breakfast by the river at the Family House @ Pai (7.30am – 10.30am). Enjoy your breakfast and coffee as you experience the morning light gradually filling the valley and watch the jungle hills come to life. It is the location that makes this place the perfect spot for a Pai breakfast by the river. Located just next to one of the bamboo bridges, Family House at Pai offers a comfortable and scenic location for breakfast. Most breakfast options range in price from around 50 baht – 250 baht. Family house @ Pai is located by the river, next to Golden Bungalows and near the bamboo bridge (close to Wat Pa Kham). 

After a good breakfast, trek to Hua Chang waterfall. The Hua Chang waterfall is a large impressive triple head waterfall located deep in a jungle valley north east of Pai. This is the most intrepid activity on our Pai itinerary and it is well worth the challenge. The other waterfalls around Pai are very near to roads (Pam Bok and Mo Paeng are both a few hundred metres from a carpark). Hua Chang on the other hand is around 7km from the nearest parking spot, or around 5km if you are able to drive a little further up the muddy bumpy track and find a good spot to pull in. Due to the remote location, you are much more likely to get the place to yourself. 

You can visit Hua Chang waterfall for FREE. There are no national park fees or permits to visit this area.

The Hua Chang waterfall is more challenging to reach than the Pam Bok waterfall and the Mo Paeng waterfall (which are very close to the road). Hua Chang is also a lot more impressive as waterfalls go. To get to the Hua Chang waterfall be prepared for a trek around 13km for the return journey (depending exactly where you park). With a motorbike or 4 wheel drive car you may be able to get a few kilometers closer. The 14km round trip is likely to take 4-5 hours depending on your pace. 

Trekking route to the Hua Chang waterfall:

Getting to Hua Chang waterfall is an intrepid jungle adventure. The trekking route follows the Mueng Luang river up a jungle valley to the north east of Pai and returns back along the same trail. Fortunately this long trek is relatively flat and trees afford good shade from the sun. The trek to Hua Chang waterfall involves some 20+ crossings of the Mueng Luang river. There are no bridges. The crossings are not too deep but be prepared for your feet to get wet. Trainers are probably the best footwear for this walk. It is normally easy to spot the trail on the other side of the river. Keep following the trail and stay close to the river. At one point there is a fence with a wooden frame to climb over.

At points navigation can be a little tricky. Be aware that some of the river crossings are diagonals, making the trail on the other side hard to spot at points. At one or two points there are logs across the trail that can also make navigation tricky. The trail is generally well worn and not grown over. When you get to the final few hundred meters the path seems to disappear from the riverside (as the valley becomes narrow). At this point it is easier to just wade carefully up the river. To get close to the waterfall you also need to scramble over rocks. Take care at this point – remember this is a very remote location. 

Very important: Whenever you are adventuring into the wild, always prepare carefully. Bring plenty of water and food. Bring a charged phone and dress appropriately. We recommend trainers, loose comfortable clothing and mosquito repellant. Always make sure someone knows where you are going and when you expect to be back. We cannot take responsibility for anyone’s safety who attempts this, or any of the activities, that we share on our website. 

Depending on the time you return to Pai, there may also be time to do a tubing trip on the Pai river. If not, this could be arranged on your final day of your Pai itinerary (day 7) which is a deliberately relaxed day.  

Tubing is another way to see and experience the beautiful Pai river. Drift gently along in a large inflatable ring taking in the beautiful scenery and river life. Tubing trips can be arranged at Aya Services on the Pai walking street (Chai Songkhram road). They generally run trips every day and we recommend booking at least one day in advance. The cost is 250 baht per person and this price includes transportation, waterproof dry sack rental, tube rental. Tubing trips normally take 1-3 hours. 

This is a long day on your Pai itinerary. Consider the best and cheapest transport options for this day (normally bike rental is best if possible). Alternatively, car rental may be a cheaper option than a taxi due  to the distances. 

NOTE: All of these attractions are on the route between Pai and Chiang Mai. If you are planning to travel to Pai from Chiang Mai, an alternative way to see these attractions is to include a stop at each place on your journey to or from Pai (rather than using a day of your Pai itinerary). However, this will not be possible if you are planning to travel by bus. 

We have included this first attraction in the Pai itinerary because it is stunning. The epic Mork Fa waterfall is the epitome of the perfect jungle waterfall. This stunning waterfall is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the Pai region. The Mork Fa waterfall (หน่วยพิทักษ์อุทยานแห่งชาติดอยสุเทพ-ปุยที่) is a dramatic sheer drop waterfall from a cliff with a large plunge pool at the bottom. It is possible to bathe in the water at the bottom of the waterfall. There is also a trail that you can climb to a small cave on the cliff beside the waterfall. This affords an impressive view of the waterfall from part way up. 

How do you get to the Mork Fa waterfall? The waterfall is around 70km south of Pai on route 1095. Keep your eye open for a right turn to the waterfall. You then drive up a small road for around 1.5km until you get to a car park and ticket office. This is where you buy your entry tickets for the waterfall. Entry to the waterfall costs 100 baht. You can visit the Mork Fa waterfall daily from 8am – 5pm.

After enjoying the Mork Fa waterfall stop by Pankled Coffee for a treat. Pankled coffee is a small coffee shop with a roastery and organic farm. They also sell a range of tempting baked treats. This is a lovely place to relax with a coffee.  You can also visit the Highland Coffee Plantation and coffee factory.

The plantation is around 10km from the Mork Fa waterfall in the Pai direction. The turning to the coffee plantation is small and not labelled, so you would be forgiven for driving straight past it. It is a left turn, when you are travelling on the 1090 towards Pai. The Highland Coffee Plantation is open between November – March. 

Finally, on your way back to Pai stop at the Pong Dueat Geyser and Hot springs. This is a lovely geothermal park with a Geyser and mineral hot pools. It is also beautifully situated in the jungle mountains allowing excellent views.

Pong Dueat is conveniently located on the way back to Pai from Mork Fa waterfall. There are several trails in the area for trekking too. Entry to the Pong Dueat Geyser and Hotspring Park costs 300 baht for foreigners. 

Day 7 Cookery School course, Art Gallery, Dear Your Mind coffee terrace and a Massage

The final day of your Pai itinerary is a relaxed day around Pai town. Enjoying some relaxing local experiences. 

A cookery course is a great way to connect with the culture, learn and enjoy some great food. There are several cookery schools in Pai. Check out Savoei located on the Pai walking street (Chai Songkhram road). They have a good range of Thai dishes you can choose from and can adapt dishes for vegetarians and vegans. Options include but are not limited to: Red curry, Green curry, Yellow curry, Panang curry, Soups, Noodle dishes, desserts and appetisers. Cooking courses normally include a visit to the local market (if possible), making your own curry paste using local spices and ingredients, preparation of 4 dishes, a recipe book and tea or coffee, water and fruits. 

How much does a cookery course cost in Pai? For a 2 hour class cooking 2 dishes it costs 500 baht per person, for a 4 hour class cooking 4 dishes (this is around £10 or $13). It costs 800 baht per person (this is around £16 or $20). There is a minimum of 2 people and maximum of 4 people. Savoei, A Taste of Pai Cookery School is located on Pai Walking Street near Wat Pa Kham. They offer two classes per day: 9.30am – 1.30pm and 4pm – 8pm. We recommend that you book courses at least a couple of days in advance. You can book courses in advance by email: [email protected]

Around Pai you can find lots of small art galleries selling local art and craft. Some places function as both a cafe and gallery. There is a range of art styles and media available locally; you can find everything from oil on canvas to water color paintings in traditional Thai styles to modern art. Depending on where and what you buy you can normally by artwork from around 100 baht – 500 baht (approximately £2 – £10 or $2.50 – $13) Here are a few art galleries to check out: The Pai Siam gallery on Chai Songkhram road, Art in Pai on Khet Khelang road and the Art Farm Studio in Wiang Nuea.

Another MUST DO on a Pai itinerary is a drink at Dear Your Mind coffee terrace. Located up the hill on the north side of the Pai River, next to the Pai Circus hostel, Dear Your Mind is a beautiful open terrace hang out with cushions and hammocks. They serve a small range of excellently prepared teas, coffees and east asian drinks. The terrace affords views of local farmland and the rolling hills around Pai. There is a lovely calm atmosphere at this place. Most drinks cost around 60 – 80 baht (roughly £1.20 to £1.60 or $1.50 – £2.00)

Where is Dear Your Mind cafe located? Dear Your Mind cafe is located on the north east of Pai river just down the road from the Pai Circus school. 

When you get back to Pai try a relaxing Thai massage. Thai massage is an excellent way to relax. Most of the massage is focussed on stretching and bending your body in directions that you never thought possible – yet it is surprisingly nice. They also have an incredible ability to locate pressure points with their elbows and hands and squeeze just enough to take all that tension away. There are several massage spas around town. Typical starting prices are 200 baht for a 60 minute Thai massage (around £4 or $5). 350 baht for a 60 minute aromatherapy oil massage (around £7 or roughly $9). 

Check out Massage Lalita on   Rat Damrong road

What are the best places to stay in Pai Thailand?

We have selected a range of great accommodation options in Pai. We have tried to include something for everyone.

It’s a bit cheeky but if you plan to stay in any of the Pai hotels that we’ve recommended please could you use our links to book them as we get a little commision at no extra cost to you (it’s the big boys at booking.com that take the hit, not you or us) This helps keep us on and our family on the road writing blogs to help you adventure with your families too!

1 Reverie Siam – TOP PICK for style and luxury

Find out the latest prices at the Reverie Siam

The Reverie Siam is our TOP PICK luxury hotel in Pai. With a stylish vintage colonial this resort is situated amongst beautiful rolling hills of the Pai valley. Reverie Siam boasts two beautiful outdoor pools. The restaurant serves Mediterranean, European and Thai cuisine. They also offer a shuttle service to Pai town.

There is a very good range of spacious stylish rooms to meet everyones needs. Rooms range in price from 6,000 baht – 14,000 baht (roughly £120 – £280 or around $160 – $380)

2 Pai Village Boutique Resort – TOP PICK for location

Find out the latest prices at the Pai Village Boutique Resort

The Pai Village Boutique Resort is a stunning property conveniently located right in the centre of Pai near the river and the Pai walking street. This pretty property is surrounded by tropical gardens and has a warm natural wooden feel. They also have a private farm, free for guests to visit and explore. The Pai Village Boutique resort has an outdoor infinity pool.

The Pai Village Boutique Resort offers rooms ranging from approximately 4,000 baht – 12,000 baht (roughly £80 – £240 or $100 – $300). We particularly love the Rasa Villa which offers all of the natural beauty of a simple bungalow with the stylish comfort of a luxurious hotel.

3 The Oia Pai Resort – TOP PICK for character and experience

Find out the latest prices at the Oia Pai Resort here

The Oia Pai resort really is one of a kind. This remarkable resort is modelled on a Grecian Maritime theme. There is a man-made lake with quirky features like a light house. You can get around the resort on a Kayak (or take the back route and walk). The Oia Pai resort also has a swimming pools and decadent restaurant. We love the fruit boat which goes from room to room delivering fresh tropical fruits. The location of the Oia Pai resort is also a top spot for the beautiful Pai sunsets.

The Oia Pai resort has a range of rooms. Rooms are comfortable, spacious and stylish. Rooms range in price from 3,000 baht – 8,000 baht (around £60 – £160 which is roughly $80 – $200) Top tip: If you want to be able to stroll out of your room to a kayak you need to pick one of their “river access” rooms. They also offer a free shuttle bus service to the Pai night market. Win.

Don’t miss our full review of the Oia Pai resort

4 Family House Zen Boutique – TOP PICK for value for money

Find out the latest prices at Family House Zen Boutique

The Family House Zen Boutique has a contemporary stylish theme. This hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, bar and garden. The Family House Zen Boutique is conveniently located on the north east side of Pai river close to the river side, the bamboo bridge and the Pai walking street.

Rooms are modern, stylish, clean and well maintained. Rooms range in price from 2,000 baht – 3,000 baht (around £40 – £60 or roughly $50 – $80)

5 The Lookout Pai – TOP PICK for a nature retreat

Find out the latest prices at the Lookout Pai

This stunning private bungalow is the perfect place to retreat into nature. It is a little further from Pai town centre (around 2.5km) and it does not offer the same range of services and amenities as a full resort.

Rather this is a super stylish, comfortable spot for a technology detox. Relax in nature in this beautiful place. The pictures speak for themselves…

You can stay here for as little as 1,000 baht per night (around £20 or $26)

6 Golden Hut Chill Bungalows – TOP PICK for location and budget

Finally Golden Hut Chill Bungalows by the river is our top pick for super simple, gorgeous BUDGET accommodation right by the river. Bungalows range from about 400 – 600 baht per night. This really is a great spot if you’re looking for nature rather than luxury.

Other things to do in Pai

Swimming pool and mountains picture – Pai Circus Hostel

Pai is a great place to slow down and enjoy a more relaxed pace. Here are a few more activities that we have not included in this Pai itinerary that you might enjoy doing if you have more time to stay in Pai: 

Visit the Muang Paeng hot spring: The Muang Paeng (น้ำพุร้อนเมืองแปง) is very natural. The water near the source is extremely hot (we’re talking boiling eggs rather than swimming). However, there are pools downstream where you can relax in warm water. There is something pretty impressive about a river that is so hot it is steaming. The beautiful journey from Pam Bok waterfall to the hot spring is just over 30km and will take around one hour each way. These hot springs are a long journey from Pai, so if you are satisfied with your hot spring experience so far, you may want to skip this one and head back to Pai to relax. 

Visit a hill tribe village: We have recommended a visit to the Karon long neck village near Pai in our Pai itinerary. However, if you want to go further into the wild to meet these wonderful people you can arrange guided treks into the hills. We found guided treks to visit remote villages Karon for around 1,500 baht per person. There are lots of tour operators along the Pai walking street who can help organise treks. Remember to barter. You can also arrange treks from Chiang Mai if you are planning to stay in Chiang Mai on your trip.

Learn circus skills: Yep you read that right! There is an awesome circus hostel in Pai. If you’re not a guest 100 baht entry. There are a range of classes and entertainment. They also have infinity pool. Although its not part of our Pai itinerary, this is a lot of fun and well worth a morning or afternoon. For more information email [email protected]

Learn yoga at the Bodhi Tree Yoga school: Embrace the chilled hippy vibe of Pai and take a yoga class. Group classes cost 250 baht per person for a 90 minute class. You can also do private classes for 500-600 baht per person for a 60 minute lesson. 

For more information visit the website: https://bodhitreeyogapai.com/

Learn Muay Thai: If you have more time in your Pai itinerary then we highly recommend learning Muay Thai. The Sor Wisarut Muay Thai Gym offers classes to people with no experience or any level of experience. Morning classes run from 8am – 10am and afternoon classes run from 3pm – 5pm. Single lessons cost 300 baht, two lessons in a day costs 400 baht. You can train for one week for 2,000 baht and if you really want to become a beast you can do one month for 7,000 baht. [email protected] +6680 6785269 or +6699 7477627 (change the +66 for a 0 if you are calling from Thailand).

Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary: 

We haven’t included this on our Pai itinerary due to the distance from Pai. The elephant nature park is an ethical elephant sanctuary in north Thailand. They offer a range of packages including overnight stays if you have time. They also include a very good lunch. The length of the package and activities vary so plan what you would like to do. Most of the short single day packages do not actually include elephant washing or feeding, so if you want to do these activities make sure they are included in the package you select. For more information check out their website: https://www.elephantnaturepark.org/enp/

The elephant nature park is around 115km east of Pai. The best way to visit the elephant sanctuary depends how you are getting around. They normally arrange tours from Chiang Mai and include transport. So if you are planning to be in Chiang Mai at the start or end of your trip, we recommend doing the tour from there rather than visiting from Pai. 

However, if you are only visiting Pai it is still possible to visit the Elephant Nature Park. If you have your own transport (motorbike or rented car) you can do the journey from Pai but allow around 2.5 hours each way. Alternatively you could arrange a taxi or songthaew for a day trip. This is likely to be quite expensive so barter. If possible share with more people to divide the cost further. 

Short of time? Alternative three day itinerary

Many people only come to Pai for a few days as part of a longer trip around southeast Asia. If this is you, don’t worry. If you only have a few days to visit Pai you can still see all of the main attractions. We have picked the best bits and condensed them into this three day itinerary. The pace of this itinerary is pretty high and would rely on getting a fairly early start each morning to make sure you have enough time to enjoy each of the beautiful locations we recommend. 

Day 1 Sunrise Yun Lai viewpoint, Santichon Chinese Village, Mo Paeng waterfall and the Karon Long Neck village and Pai night market

Day 2  Sai Ngam hot springs, Tham Lod Cave, Pam Bok waterfall and Pai canyon for sunset

Day 3 Pai land split, Pai Hot Spring Spa Resort, Coffee at Dear Your Mind and a Thai Massage 

For full descriptions of each activity see the one week itinerary. 

Things to know before your holiday to Pai 

When is the best time to visit pai.

You can visit in any season, although the cool season from November – February is probably the most pleasant time to visit.  Pai is generally hot throughout the year however it is slightly cooler than Chiang Mai due to its location in the hills. North Thailand has three seasons. The seasons are as follows:

Hot season: January – May 

Rainy season June – October

The cool season: November – February

When you explore the surrounding hills it can actually be quite cold at the top of the hills, especially in the morning and during the wet season. We recommend taking an extra layer with you when you are exploring the hills. Although there is more rain in the wet season, it is liable to rain at any time of the year in the hills. 

What currency is best to take to Thailand?

Thai Baht is the main currency used in Thailand. It is easy to get Thai Baht before your trip and sell them at the end of the trip. You may get a better rate exchanging money in Thailand. You can find some ATM machines around Pai. We would recommend bringing plenty of money because if you do have problems using your card in some machines, there are less options here than there are in cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok. 

Do people speak much English in Thailand?

Many people do speak English in Thailand especially in bigger cities and tourist hubs. Pai Thailand is a peaceful rural town in northern Thailand and the locals are generally very relaxed and friendly. Many locals in Pai town do speak some English – especially people who work with tourists regularly such as drivers, hotel staff, vendors on the night market, tour agents and people who run coffee shops and restaurants. However, when you venture out of town you are likely to meet locals who don’t speak any English. 

Are there any child care options in Pai?

If you are looking for a holiday with some childcare options we recommend Chiang Mai. Pai is a relatively small rural town and does not have daycare options available. If you are very keen to find child care in Pai your best option would be to look for a hotel that offers it. At present we are not aware of any places that do offer child care in Pai. 

What are people like in Pai?

Northern Thai culture is friendly, warm and welcoming. Locals are very helpful but may seem shy unless you approach them. There are less scams in northern Thailand compared to the south. In fact we haven’t come across any scams in the north. The worst that is likely to happen is being overcharged for a taxi ride or a bag on the night market. Remember bartering is fine in their culture and can actually be a lot of fun if you keep it friendly. 

Northern Thailand is off the beaten path and does not have the mass tourism that south Thailand attracts. This seems to make the relationship between tourists and locals much nicer. However, locals in Pai are very accustomed to having tourists visiting the town and you will find plenty of amenities and services to make your trip smooth. 

In terms of a dress code, in the city you can dress for the climate – showing knees and shoulders is generally fine. However we recommend that you cover your knees and shoulders when you are visiting temples and rural villages. 

Is Pai safe? 

Pai is a very safe place to visit and travel. Crime rates are low and locals are welcoming. The main risks are things that you will encounter when you do activities around Pai. For example riding a scooter can be risky so make sure you are covered by your insurance and always wear a helmet. Remember to purchase a good travel insurance policy before your trip. 

How do you get to and from Pai Thailand?  

Don’t miss our FULL guide on how to travel from Chiang Mai to Pai

The cheapest way to get to Pai in Thailand is to fly to Bangkok and then take a night train to Chiang Mai. From Chiang Mai you can then take a minibus to Pai. This option may add a few days to your trip but gives you the opportunity to see Bangkok and Chiang Mai. A more expensive, faster and more convenient option is to fly to Chiang Mai and then take a minibus to Pai. 

There is a night train that runs from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with air conditioning and beds with bedding. The train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes around 13 hours. One option is to book tickets directly from the main train station (Hua Lamphong station). It is best to book tickets a few days in advance. Alternatively travel agents around the Khaosan road area may be able to book train tickets for a small commission. You could also ask your hotel or hostel to help you book tickets. A lower bed on the train costs around 900 baht and an upper bed costs around 800 baht. We recommend that you go for a lower bed if possible. The top beds are closer to the over zealous aircon and they leave the lights on overnight. The lower beds are wider and you can enjoy the sunrise and views from the comfort of your bed. 

Once you are in Chiang Mai you can take a minibus to Pai: To book buses to Pai go to the Chiang Mai Arcade Bus terminal 2. Prempracha Bus Service offers a minibus service between Pai and Chiang Mai. Aya Services are another company who have offered a bus service on this route. Tickets cost 150 baht and it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially in busy periods. Buses depart daily from Chiang Mai to Pai at 8.30am, 10.30am and 4.30pm. For the return journey buses depart daily from Pai to Chiang Mai at 7.00am, 1.00pm and 4.00pm. The journey takes around 3 – 4 hours and normally includes one stop where you can buy food, drinks and use the toilet. We recommend sitting towards the front of the bus if possible. The bendy road can make travellers feel sick, especially at the back of the minibus. 

Can you go from Chiang Mai to Pai by bike? 

Many travellers do travel from Chiang Mai to Pai by motorbike. This is a very beautiful and enjoyable journey over the beautiful jungle covered hills. We recommend spending a little more to get a better bike if you plan to do this journey. The advantage of doing this journey by bike is that you can then use your bike to get around in Pai.

Can you rent a car to get to Pai?

Yes. Car rental is slightly cheaper in Chiang Mai compared to Pai. If you are planning to get to Pai using car rental, we recommend renting a car in Chiang Mai. Prices start at around 700 baht in low season (June – November). In high season (December – May) it is hard to find anything for less than around 1,000 baht. Try to book early. Check out Chiang Mai Wheels for a great range of cars and excellent service. 

What is the best way to get around Pai Thailand? 

You will need to be quite mobile for this Pai itinerary as many of the places that you visit are a long distance from Pai (too far for walking or going by bicycle). 

Tuk tuks, taxis and Songthaews:

We found that taxi apps did not work in Pai. So if you want to get around by taxi you will probably need to go old school and speak to someone in person. We’re well aware that this could change soon if drivers in Pai start to use taxi apps. As a rough guide, expect to pay around 1,000 – 2,000 baht for a long day to several attractions around Pai. 

Renting a motorbike in Pai is a very popular cheap option for single travellers and couples: Aya Services (the bus company) offer a range of bikes for rental. Bikes can be rented for as cheap as 80 baht for 24 hours. These bikes would be fine for one person. With two people it may be worth splashing out. Check the power of the bike. We recommend 115-125cc’s for two people on the hills. If you don’t have much experience riding a bike make sure it is automatic. You normally have to leave some ID as a deposit. If you are not comfortable with this you could offer to leave a sum of money. Also check what late fees apply if you return your bike late. Petrol is around 25-30 baht per litre. Petrol stations have a minimum spend of 40 baht. Automatic roadside pumps can also be found with a minimum spend of 20 baht. 

• Check your bike and remember to take photos of any damage before you take the bike. You may wish to consider additional insurance for theft (around 40 baht) or damage (also around 40 baht).
• Some areas of Pai alternate which side of the road you can park on each day and may give fines if you park incorrectly. Keep an eye out for signs. 
• Most insurance companies will not cover you to ride a bike if you are not qualified to ride that power of bike in your home country. 

Car rental may well be the best option for a family: 

A small economy car is sufficient for all of the attractions on this itinerary. Remember car rental may be more expensive in Pai than it is in Chiang Mai. You can rent a small car in Chiang Mai starting at around 5,000 baht (£100 or $130) for 7 days in low season (June – November). In high season it is more likely to cost around 7,000 baht for 7 days (around £170 or around $220) You could then drive to and from Pai. 

You normally need to leave a deposit (local companies are often happy with a cash deposit of 3,000 baht). By the time you add up the cost of doing some of the long journeys by tuk tuk, it may be a similar price, but a lot more convenient to rent a car. Make sure that you check the license requirements for your nationality e.g. do you need an international driver’s license from your country? 

Make sure you try these local dishes: 

Pad thai – stir fried noodles and vegetables -very popular in Thailand

Khao Soi – coconut noodle curry

Crispy roast pork rice – served with egg, rice and a marinade and soup

Mango Sticky Rice – Khao Neow Mamuang

What do you need to pack for a trip to Pai Thailand?

Pai is a hot climate so we recommend thin loose fit clothing. In addition to the general things that you would want to pack we also recommend the following: 

• Bring a day bag that you can pack up for day trips
• Swimming stuff and a travel towel
• Umbrella or sun hat 
• Sunglasses 
• High factor sunscreen (SPF 30 or more)
• Light scarf for sun protection 
• Insect repellant (ideally containing DEET) – particularly for trekking
• Long trousers for the evenings
• One warmer top for air conditioned buses and when you are in the hills
• Bring sandals or flip flops and also bring some trainers or lightweight hiking shoes 
• A waterproof dry sack can be a great way to keep your valuables dry if there is a tropical downpour and you are out and about
• A breathable raincoat is recommended – try to find something with a Pertex material
• Bring a universal travel adaptor: Most plugs in Thailand have two pins. Plug types A, B or C generally work in Thailand.

Where are you going next?  

If you are visiting Pai, it is very likely that you will be spending some time in Chiang Mai. 

Here are some other amazing places to visit in north Thailand further afield: 

• Mae Surin waterfall – impressive waterfall 
• Chiang Dao – stunning wildlife Sanctuary
• Khun Chae National Park – beautiful national park
• Chiang Rai – the magical white and blue temples

Have we helped you? 

We really hope this Pai itinerary helps you to plan an amazing one week trip to Pai. Pre-booking your holiday through a travel agent may seem like a less stressful option but it often adds thousands of pounds on to your trip and pre-booked tours don’t often include that much. Once you are on a tour you also lose the ability to be flexible and go at your own pace. The main challenge of planning your own trip is the time and effort that you need to put into researching your itinerary to make sure you don’t miss anything. We really hope that this itinerary saves you that time and money and helps you to get the most out of your trip to Pai Thailand.

If we have helped you plan your family holiday to Pai Thailand please help us by sharing our website with your friends and family. Also please use our links to book your accommodation. We use affiliate links, and this means we get a small commission for any booking made through our links – at no extra cost to you. This means that we can keep writing guides and help more people get the most out of their travels. 

We hope that this step-by-step guide tells you everything you need to know to have a smooth and enjoyable trip to one of the most beautiful towns in the world. We do everything we can to make sure our travel advice is accurate, clear and relevant. If you think we have missed something important in this itinerary please let us know. Or if you think there is a mistake in this itinerary – also let us know. 

Looking for more inspiration?

If you’re after more inspiration for Pai – Don’t miss our epic guide on 56 Incredible Things to do In Pai . 

ALSO, if you’re visiting Pai, you will probably be visiting Chiang Mai too. Don’t miss THE BEST Chiang Mai 10 day itinerary out there .

AND FINALLY… Don’t miss these AMAZING things to do in Thailand

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Pai is a convenient place to stop if you are driving back from Mae Hong Son  to Chiang Mai. Once a quiet little backwater, it has been discovered by more intrepid travelers in recent years.

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Suggested itinerary featuring Pai

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Pai, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Active Thailand: beyond the beaches

14 days from $9,750pp

Places & hotels on the map

Places near pai.

• Mae Hong Son 32 miles away
• Chiang Mai 53 miles away
• Doi Angkhang 56 miles away
• Fang 64 miles away
• Chiang Rai 99 miles away
• The Golden Triangle 123 miles away
• Nan 159 miles away
• Sukhothai 187 miles away
• Loei Province 252 miles away

Photos of Pai

Accommodation choices for Pai

We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Pai. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

Reverie Siam

Pai Travel Essentials

Ideal duration: 3 days

Best Time: November to February Read More

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

"Hippie hillside"

Pai tourism.

Located between Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai, this beautiful little town of Pai is surrounded by mountains everywhere, and is a dream destination for a traveller. The alluring river Pai flows across this town which makes rafting a popular sport here. Besides that, trekking and hiking are other adventurous options.

Pai is a stunning destination for both kinds of people: who want a lazy and chilled vacation, or an adventurous one. It is one of the most picturesque landscapes of Thailand offering endless mountains to hike, and the beautiful Pai river to rest by. There are also a few Burmese style temples, waterfalls and hot springs to visit. A lot of travellers sometimes get involved with the ethnic hill-tribe villagers for a local and natural experience. Since 2006, tourism in Pai has increased greatly, resulting in a lot of accommodation options for travellers to choose.

Things To Do In Pai

Nam Lod Cave

Tubing in Pai

Bamboo & White Water Rafting

Trekking in Pai

WWII Memorial Bridge

Top Hotels In Pai

9.4 (66 reviews)

₽ 13,910 onwards

9.3 (47 reviews)

₽ 14,739 onwards

9.2 (431 reviews)

₽ 22,017 onwards

9.1 (514 reviews)

₽ 18,885 onwards

9.1 (431 reviews)

₽ 37,679 onwards

9.1 (399 reviews)

₽ 8,751 onwards

More on Pai Travel

Nightlife in pai, shopping in pai, exchanging money in pai, daily budget for pai, religion of pai, pai customs, language of pai, history of pai, best time to visit pai, nearby places.

How to Reach Pai

How to reach overview, how to reach pai by flight, how to reach pai by road, how to reach pai by bus, local transport in pai, browse package collections, nearby destinations for packages.

Mae Hong Son

Phi Phi Islands

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How To Reach Pai

Faqs on pai, what is the best time to visit pai, what is the local food in pai, what is the best way to reach pai, what are the top hotels in pai, what are the places near pai, have a question on pai.

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