Pai, once renowned as a hippie haven sought by those looking for a unique escape from the rest of Thailand, has evolved over the years. Today, it remains one of the emblematic destinations for travelers to Thailand.
While the atmosphere of this northern town may no longer be the same as it was in the past, it still offers a more tranquil environment compared to other tourist hotspots. It’s an ideal place for a restful stay, especially if you choose your accommodation wisely.
Located exactly 762 curves away from Chiang Mai and 650 meters above sea level, the valley in which Pai is located offers travelers several activities to complement their days off.
The river area full of huts is a perfect haven of peace to put the perfect end to each day. The small town enchants some but disappoints others. We have already been there 4 times, draw your own conclusions…
Pai is located in northern Thailand, near Chiang Mai, in a mountainous area. Here’s the best time to visit:
Travel Tip: Check out our article on the best time to visit Thailand for month-by-month climate information.
It goes without saying how important it is to travel to Thailand with a good insurance. We were the first ones to offer the famous 5% discount on IATI Insurance, but you also have it available with Heymondo Travel Insurance.
Follow the links below to get a discount on their website:
While many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants in Thailand offer free Wi-Fi, some travelers prefer or need a constant connection. We’ve included details on obtaining a eSIM Thailand card with unlimited data (from Holafly) or with fixed data but cheaper (from Saily).
If you want to get it directly, here’s the link (with a discount) for both companies:
Most people travel to Pai by minivan, and you can purchase tickets from nearly any accommodation or travel agency in Chiang Mai.
The online platform 12go.asia allows you to book tickets for buses, trains, or ferries in Thailand quickly and easily. For more information, refer to the link above.
Another option, if you’re seeking some adventure and aren’t deterred by winding roads, is to rent a motorbike for a few days and make the trip to Pai on your own. However, exercise caution!
One of the highlights of Pai is its night market. As evening approaches, vendors begin setting up stalls selling food and souvenirs. By nightfall, the street is brightly lit, bustling with people, and filled with the aroma of various dishes being prepared.
Haven’t bought any elephant-themed clothing yet? Don’t worry, you’ll find plenty of options here.
During our last visit to Pai, we discovered the Bamboo Buddha Bridge, which offers a glimpse into rural life in northern Thailand. This long bamboo bridge, about two meters above the ground, provides a vantage point to observe the work being done in the rice fields without disturbing the laborers or water buffaloes.
If it’s sunny, it can get quite hot here with limited shade, so be sure to bring some sun protection.
There are at least three waterfalls around Pai: Mo Paeng, Mae Yen, and Pam Bok. Pam Bok is the closest and most accessible, reachable in about 15 minutes by motorbike.
Although they are not very large, these waterfalls are a great spot to take a refreshing dip and cool off on the hottest days (especially in March and April), or if you’re on your way to the Bamboo Buddha Bridge.
If you’re spending a few days in Chiang Mai and have limited time to visit Pai, consider this interesting activity:
If you have more time, here are some highlights to explore:
Not for the faint of heart or the clumsy, Pai Canyon is more impressive for its views than its geographical significance. Located a few kilometers from Pai, it isn’t an extraordinary geological feature, but since there is no entrance fee, it is worth a visit.
Take a deep breath and climb the stairs; but be cautious near the edges, they don’t seem very safe.
The touristy part of the Chinese Yunan Cultural Village or Santichon Village is mostly a collection of shops with overly artificial decorations. However, if you continue along the road and climb a bit higher, you’ll reach one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Pai area: Yun Lai.
There is a 20 baht fee to access the viewpoint, but the views are stunning and the walk there is enjoyable. For more information on visiting the Pai viewpoint through the Chinese village, refer to the link above.
Located about 8 kilometers from Pai toward Chiang Mai, the Memorial Bridge was constructed by the Japanese during World War II to transport weapons and supplies to Myanmar.
Despite its historical significance, the bridge you see today is not the original one; it was rebuilt. Only curious pedestrians cross it, taking photos as souvenirs.
The Mae Hong Son Loop is for the adventurous and motorcycle enthusiasts. This route starts in Chiang Mai, passes through Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son, and Pai, and returns to the starting point. You can explore more about it through the link above (coming soon).
We’ve completed sections of this route a couple of times, traveling from Chiang Mai to Pai on an automatic motorbike or from Pai to Mae Hong Son (you can read about the experience in the “Motorcycle Ordeals” chapter of our trip). You can also try this Private Mae Hong Son Highlights by Car from Pai.
What we love most about Pai is staying in one of the many riverside cabins and drifting off to the sound of live guitar music from nearby bars. Having visited several times, we recommend these accommodations (all of which have private bathrooms), as we liked all three.
Family Huts: Located on the opposite side of the river, this is the simplest and most affordable option of the three. The huts are basic but feature a porch and a hammock where you’ll spend most of your time.
Pai Country Huts: Also situated on the opposite side of the river, these huts are a slightly upgraded version of the Family Huts. They are more spacious and have a more pleasant interior. The porch with a hammock overlooks the garden, which is our favorite feature.
We also leave you these accommodations by price range (from cheapest to most expensive), so you can choose the one that best suits your budget:
Twin Hut: Located 700 meters from the bus station and less than 1 km from Pai Night Market, this property offers accommodations with a balcony featuring mountain views and a shared bathroom with a shower. Facilities include a shared lounge, a garden, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The property also has a restaurant serving à la carte breakfast daily.
Baan Pai Riverside Resort: Situated 100 meters from Pai Walking Street, this resort is surrounded by greenery. Rooms with river or mountain views come equipped with a fan, balcony, bathroom, and shower. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and there are 24-hour front desk and laundry services.
KK Hut: Located about a 5-minute drive from Pai Walking Street, KK Hut offers simple huts built with natural materials. Each hut includes a fan and a shared bathroom. The property also features a tour desk and luggage storage.
The Nest House: Just 300 meters from Pai Night Market, this resort offers family rooms with a living room and a terrace overlooking the garden. It includes a shared kitchen, luggage storage, and free Wi-Fi.
Baan Pai Nai Wieng: This property is a few minutes from Pai Walking Street and offers simple rooms with wooden flooring, air conditioning, a balcony, and a private bathroom with a hot shower. Free Wi-Fi and a complimentary pick-up service from the bus station or Pai Airport are available.
Slow Life Sabaidee Pai Bed and Breakfast: This bed and breakfast offers air-conditioned rooms with a TV, a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer, and Wi-Fi. It features a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, a shared lounge, and a garden, and serves vegan or vegetarian breakfast options.
The Rim Pai Cottage: Featuring traditional architecture, this property offers air-conditioned accommodations with hot showers, a TV, and tea/coffee making facilities. It is located a short walk from Pai Walking Street and includes a swimming pool for guests.
Pai Village Boutique Resort: Located on the banks of the Pai River and surrounded by tropical gardens, this resort offers rustic wooden cottages. Featuring private balconies with beautiful mountain or garden views, the Thai-style cottages come equipped with an electric kettle and a seating area. Each cottage has a private bathroom with a hot shower. Transfers to and from Chiang Mai, as well as massage services, are available.
Family House Zen Boutique Resort: Just 200 meters from Pai Bus Station and a 5-minute walk from Pai Walking Street, Family House Zen Boutique Resort offers accommodations featuring an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a bar, and a garden. Luggage storage is available on-site, and Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.
The easiest way to get around Pai is by car. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle, and all the points of interest are within a few kilometers and easy to find. You can see them all marked on the map below.
Click on the image and it will take you to a new Google Maps window with all the points of interest to travel around Pai.
