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

• Last Updated: April 29, 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]

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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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• See & Do

Tam Thanh Mural Village: The Painted Village

• September 7, 2018
• Kristen and Shaya

Imagine a quiet coastal fishing village, completely transformed by artists, who have worked their magic on the sides of 100 actual residential homes. This is the remarkable story of the Tam Thanh Mural Village in Quang Nam Province. Once similar to many other coastal villages in the area, it is now firmly making its mark on the tourist map for day trips of Hoi An .

In the summer of 2016, Tam Thanh was selected by a Korean-Vietnamese joint project called “Art For A Better Community.” The village was chosen to be their blank canvas. Inspired by the success of mural villages in Korea. The project set out to make Tam Thanh the first painted village of its kind in Vietnam.

The project was a success, and the village has been brought to life by the paintings. The entire town now a breathtaking walk-through gallery just waiting to be explored. The murals that adorn it capture the life and soul of the village, from young children playing, to fishermen in the ocean. Mixed in are a good number of fantasy pieces offering great backdrops for photos.

Hidden gives you the background to the creation of the magnificent Tam Thanh mural village. Providing the best ways to get there, and a couple of options if you find that you have extra time in the area.

Why Paint the Tam Thanh Mural Village?

The joint project consisted of five Korean artists and seven Vietnamese artists, along with local volunteers. They aimed to help show the Vietnamese that art could be available in everyday life—whatever one’s place in life. The venture initially spanned over the course of about three weeks and involved washing and then painting around 100 residents’ homes with colourful murals.

The effect of the stunning artworks combined with the density and proximity of the houses in the village is encapsulating. One of the real highlights being the incredibly realistic portraits of local residents who are still currently living in their decorated homes.

The Social Impact of the Art

The art painted around the town has had not only a visual but a social impact too. The village itself was chosen not only due to the location of the houses but to help with economic development opportunities in Tam Thanh. Tourists are now visiting the once quiet village of Tam Thanh, to see the impressive murals. This, in turn, creates more income for the locals making it a successful ‘art for a cause’ project.

For example, an entrepreneurial resident that owned a small local coffee shop invested in a 9,000,000 VND (390 USD) sugarcane press one week before the murals were completed. With the increase in tourism, they have now expanded. So now there are a couple of spots to try this cooling drink at a refreshingly local price of 5,000 VND (.20c USD).

Local Influence

Walking through the single street of the Tam Thanh mural village, it’s not uncommon to find locals selling refreshments and handmade goods. At one particular house, a tailor and his family are painted in incredible detail on the exterior wall. The family has started selling tote bags here, decorated by their young daughter.

The family’s asking price for the tote bags was 100,000 VND (4 USD). If you’re looking for a way to support the village’s economy, this is it. Since there’s no middleman here, it ensures your money goes straight to the community.

Since the completion of the mural project in Tam Thanh village, two other villages in the province have now been painted. The new mural villages were created with different artists this time. They draw on local Vietnamese talent to raise social awareness of issues in each community. Tam Hai Island was redecorated to bring to light the serious issue they face with their trash. Mainly due to a lack of garbage treatment plants in the area. Another village at An Binh Island was painted to raise awareness among locals and tourists of the importance of environmental protection.

How to get to Tam Thanh Mural Village from Hoi An

Tam Thanh is located roughly 45 kilometres south of Hoi An or 12 kilometres east of Tam Ky. It lies on a strip of land caught between the sea and the Truong Giang River. It’s possible to reach the village by taxi, private car, any bus , or even an organised tour. If you have your own transport, it would be easiest, by far, to drive yourself.

It’s possible to take a metered taxi from Hoi An to the mural village one-way for around 530,000 VND to 660,000 VND (23 USD to 29 USD). However, considering the distance to the village, most drivers would be happy to wait for you and negotiate a flat fee instead. When you are dropped off, take the number of the taxi or private car you came in as a back-up.  Arrange a meeting point and time. 

This is a remote area. There are no Grab cars, or motorbikes to rent and local taxis can be hard to come by. Work out a “wait and return” deal—any Hoi An hotel or guesthouse will be happy to help you arrange this. 

There is a bus that will take you a good chunk of the way to the village. But since this option is time-consuming, involves multiple changes and still some taxi rides (it’s a bit tricky), we tried it and would advise against it!

Own Transport

There are a number of roads to mix and match that gets you to the painted village. We’ve narrowed it down to just two options for you. First, make your way to the eastern side of the impressive Hoi An to Cua Dai Bridge. This is the beginning of both routes.

Watch your fuel levels! Leaving Hoi An on a full tank is a reasonable precaution as there’s no petrol available until the painted village. You may be able to find a local shop along Route #2, but don’t rely on this.

Once you cross the bridge, heading south, continue to Duong 129/Duong Ven Bien. Stay on that road for 33 kilometres. On the plus side, this road has low traffic levels, no lights, no trucks or buses. This makes it a great direct route to reach the village. However, it’s a sterile drive with not much of interest but for graveyards on either side. You’ll eventually reach a junction at Road 608.

Turning right at this junction takes you to the town of Tam Ky, while the left will bring you in the direction of the Tam Thanh mural village. Stay on Road 608 where it curves twice before reaching a bridge. Cross the bridge, and you’ll reach Thanh Nien Road. Finally, turn right to arrive at the village. This route will take roughly an hour. We recommend parking where you see other bikes parked but use your best judgement. As a reference, it is around 5,000 VND (.20 USD) to park a motorcycle.

Once you cross the bridge, heading south, continue to Duong 129/Duong Ven Bien. Stay on that road for 12 kilometres. Then, turn left on Road 613 where you’ll continue on 1.5 kilometres until you reach Thanh Nien Road. Lastly, turn right for the 23-kilometre drive to the painted village. For the majority of the trip, taking Thanh Nien road will bring you through a much more local side of the area.

You’ll pass houses, businesses and ornate graves that also occupy the Duong Ven Bien road. The trade-off with this alternate route is that the road is smaller and is in a condition that requires a lower speed. This route will take roughly half an hour longer than Route #1 so you’re looking at a drive time of approx. 1.5 hours.

Organised Tours

There are only a few companies offering organised tours to the painted village. As its popularity grows this will likely change. They are half-day tours and some even offer a couple of noteworthy stops along the way to the village. We’ve listed a couple of options below.

Hoi An Food Tour  includes a stop at the Heroic Mother Statue and provides a guide that will take you around Tam Thanh’s mural village.

Price: Adult 340,000 VND (15 USD). Children 6 to 10-years-old 180,000 VND (8 USD). Free for children under 5

Business hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday to Sunday

Duration: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How to book: Book in person at their office or through their website  –  Address: 567 Hai Ba Tung

Southeast Asia Backpacker  tour includes a visit to the Chien Dan Cham Tower, Ky Anh Guerrilla Warfare Tunnel Complex, and the Vietnamese Heroic Mother Statue. All before reaching the star of the day—Tam Thanh’s mural village.

Price: 340,000 VND (15 USD). Extra 140,000 VND (6 USD) for pickup from Da Nang

How to book: Book through their online booking system on their website

Accessibility

Moving around the village will prove no harder than a leisurely stroll. The main road through is well paved, and the small alleys that branch off are much the same. The only element that may make a leisurely stroll difficult would be the time of day that you choose to go. In hot weather try to avoid arriving when the sun is at its peak. Come either in the early morning or the late afternoon.

For drinks, snacks, and other food, there are a number of sugarcane stands and a couple of local convenience stores lining the road. There are also a few local cafés if you’re looking to sit down, rest your legs and escape the sun. If you’re after a larger meal, there are many restaurants two kilometres south of Jack Trans Beach House. A two-bedroom villa which has accommodation right on the beach. If you have chosen the self-drive route and are in need of petrol, there are local pumps dotted along the main street of the painted village.

What Else is in the Area?

Since you’ve taken the time to drive out to the area of Tam Thanh, there are a couple of other attractions we recommend going to if you have the time.

Tam Thanh Beach

The southern end of Tam Thanh consists of a market, a couple of shops, restaurants and a beach. During the day, the area is tranquil and uneventful, but in the early evening, it comes alive.

So as the heat of the sun begins to subside, the local tourists and residents of Tam Thanh flock here to cool off. This area of Tam Thanh Beach is kept clean and well-manicured by the local beach chair providers. Lounge chairs are available at a small price. Refreshments and local snacks are available for purchase chairside. The beach is fully equipped with a net and lifeguard stands for your safety. It’s not uncommon to see groups of aspiring karaoke singers bring their speakers to the beach. So get ready for some very local entertainment.

Vietnamese Heroic Mother Statue

Located 7.7 kilometres inland from the mural village is the Vietnamese Heroic Mother Statue. The biggest heroic mother statue in Vietnam. Designed by artist Dinh Gia Thang and executed by architect Nguyen Luan, at a total cost of over 20 million USD. The structure pays tribute to the many mothers who lost their children and grandchildren in national liberation.

The granite statue stands 18 metres high and 120 metres wide at its base. It resembles the image of the heroic mother Nguyen Thi Thu. Nguyen Thi Thu had a number of children and grandchildren who died over the course of two wars. She also hid many soldiers and guerillas in five secret tunnels situated in the garden of her house.

At the entrance leading to the monument are eight pillars. They are sculpted with images of heroic mothers from across the country as well as young female volunteers. Also on the grounds is a small exhibition space with images and artefacts of the noble mother. A visit to the monument is free. It costs you 5,000 VND (.20 USD) for parking. It’s not a long stop, so it can easily be added into your day.

Hidden Hoi An’s Thoughts:

Tam Thanh’s painted village was the first of its kind in Vietnam. Above all, a day trip here provides a great mix of local life and art all in one comfortable visit. It is not only physically beautiful, but the thought behind it is enticing as well. For instance, the murals have lifted, what could have been, a poor struggling village into a bright tourist attraction with a feel-good factor. So the residents directly benefit from the town’s rejuvenation. Therefore they delight in having you visit.

However, the village is gaining popularity and is on the teetering point of becoming a well-known tourist attraction for travellers to the area. There are likely to be more villages soon as the murals expand as a canvas for expressing issues of social awareness. Therefore the fear would be to lose the community and local feel of this small stretch of road to an influx of tourists. However that being said, now is the perfect time to visit. The village remains quaint, and the quality and creativity of the murals are well worth appreciating.

So if you’re after an escape from the hustle and bustle of Hoi An, come for a day trip out here. Visit the village, and support the local people. In addition, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the refreshing sea and local life all-in-one, then end your day at the beach in Tam Thanh and make a day of it.

Map: Route from Hoi An to Tam Thanh Mural Village

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Things to do in Paia, HI: Maui’s Chilled Out Hippie Town on the North Shore

last Updated: April 24, 2024 hawaii maui

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Maui and looking for the best things to do in Paia?! I’m sharing all about this funky little chilled out beach town on the North Shore of Maui, which we absolutely love! 

This massive guide will showcase not only my favorite things to do in Paia, but where to eat, where to stay, and all the best beaches to visit in this hippy surfer town. It’s the perfect escape from the bustling resort area of Kaanapali — super laid back and one of the most eccentric places in Maui.

We visited Paia on our most recent trip to Maui, and fell in love with the entire town. Coming from San Francisco, I loved the hippy, bohemian vibes, and just how vibrant and carefree all the locals seem to be. It’s honestly kinda reminiscent of a funky and laidback California beach town from the 60s, which I discovered is totally my scene. 

The town is full of old-school hippies, professional surfers, and tourists looking for the best things to do in Paia. And of course everyone’s looking to soak up the artsy vibes of the little beach shops (lots of surf and swimwear here!) and fine art galleries. Let’s not forget the hemp store, Buddhist stupa, and the best natural food store on the entire island. Take a break from the beach and head to Paia for a day for some shopping, art, and relaxation! 

And just to set the record straight, make sure you pronounce Paia “pah-ee-ah” — you don’t wanna give away your tourist status right away!

Planning on doing some island hopping? Check out these additional resources:

• The Perfect 5 Day Oahu Itinerary
• 3 Days in Kauai  (well worth a few days!)
• My Favorite 5 Days in Maui (all the best spots!)
• 10 Days in Hawaii  (ultimate island-hopping resource)
• The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List 
• 25+ Places to Eat in Oahu  (foodies trip, anyone?!)

Things to Know Before Visiting Paia

Where is Paia exactly?!

Paia is located on Maui’s North Shore, not terribly far from where most visitors book hotels. It’s about a 45 minute drive from the buzzy beach areas of Lahaina and Kaanapali in West Maui, and only about 20 minutes from Kihei in South Maui. 

The town is concentrated on the cross section of Hana Highway and Baldwin Avenue, and it’s really hard to miss. Just put Paia Fish Market into your GPS and it’ll take you right to town!

You might have heard of Paia when researching stops on the Road to Hana . This is because it’s essentially the last little town before making the long and windy drive to Hana! Psst – you’ll wanna fill up on gas here.

Many tourists breeze right through Paia with hopes to reach Hana faster, but don’t be like them! Definitely make a stop (just not on the same day you’re driving the road to Hana — Paia deserves a full day of its own!). 

How long to Stay in Paia:

I’d say a day trip to Paia will suffice, but you definitely won’t get to everything on this list! It’s a tiny town, but there’s a whole bunch of things to do and restaurants to check out. 

There’s definitely enough beaches and other things to do in Paia for two days or so, so if you wanna explore in-depth (and eat all the things), plan to spend the night!

Us? We typically visit on day trips when we’re staying in Lahaina/Kaanapali, but next time we’re on Maui, I kinda wanna spend the night!

Weather in Paia

Just like elsewhere in Hawaii, there’s a rainy season and a wet season. The rainy season typically lasts between November-March, with the dry season being April-October. Thankfully, in regards to temperature, highs are consistent in the 80s and lows consistent in the 60s/70s year-round. 

Honestly, there’s really no bad time to visit this artsy town. Just avoid visiting in mid-summer if you’re not a huge fan of the heat, as some will say the weather can become uncomfortably warm. 

Where to Stay in Paia

Paia is home to some of the most unique lodging options in all of Maui! I mean, there’s even a treehouse surrounded by mango trees (and yes, of course it’s on my Hawaii bucket list )!

Would I spend my whole trip in Paia? Probably not — Maui is filled with tons of things to do around the island (find my detailed Maui itinerary here ). BUT, I would spend a night or two here in addition to a few nights in Kihei or Lahaina/Kaanapali.

Psst — if you’re hoping to get a head start on the Road to Hana , I highly recommend spending the night before in Paia. You’ll be about 45 minutes ahead of everyone starting in Kaanapali/Lahaina! And those 45 minutes sometimes mean beating all of the traffic!

My Paia recommendations:

Paia Inn : Check out Paia Inn, a boutique hotel just steps from Paia Bay and located across the street from Paia Fish Market (yum!). This Bali-inspired hotel offers private patios, concierge services, and on-site dining. Be sure to lounge on their private beach and relax in their tropical outdoor spaces (and yes, complimentary Wifi is offered of course).

Mangolani Inn : If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, check out Mangolani Inn, a boutique bed and breakfast — in an actual treehouse! Yes, a treehouse!! Just steps away from the main town, Mangolani Inn’s tranquil scenery consists of mango trees, avocado trees, and passionfruit (can we get any more tropical than this!?). 

If this isn’t relaxing enough, don’t forget to lounge in the hammocks and take a dip in the hot tub. Of course, we can’t look past Mangolani Inn’s effort to promote green energy by using solar panels!

Aloha Surf Hostel : Looking for a budget-friendly option? Aloha Surf Hostel, located between two of the most famous surf spots on Maui, offers both dorm-style and private lodging options. This tropical-themed oasis offers free breakfast, tours, and Wifi. And it’s where you’ll find that super Instagrammable surfboard fence!

Take a break from walking the town to play pool, ping pong, or relax in their hot tub. Traveling solo ? You’ll be sure to meet fellow travelers here! 

The Best Things To Do in Paia, Maui

Shop in Paia Town: If you’re looking for beachwear or island-themed gifts, the town of Paia offers some of the most unique and eclectic shops to wander around in. Bring your wallet though because these small shops can get quite pricey. A few to check out:

• Don’t miss Alice in Hulaland (one of my favorite shops in Paia), where you can find a reasonably priced beach bag and lots of Hawaiian themed clothing (good quality trendy stuff, not your typical Hawaiian luau shirts). :p
• If you’re looking for some uniquely designed jewelry, be sure to stop into Heart in Paia, where you can buy pieces directly from the artist. Shop small and support!
• And I always love stopping in Pakaloha — their bikinis come in a rainbow of colors (and you can never have enough bikinis!). They are kinda pricey but I’ve been happily wearing mine for years without much wear and tear. 

Colorful Surfboard Photo Opp: Make a quick stop at the Aloha Surf Hostel to take a picture with the array of colorful surfboards (can’t miss this perfect Instagram opportunity!). You’ll find the hostel right on Baldwin Avenue, a little up the road (221 Baldwin Ave). It’ll take all of 5 minutes, but worth it in my opinion!

Hang at the Beach : Need to cool off? I hear ya – all that walking around in the hot Hawaiin air is difficult ?. Take a break and head to the beach, watch the surfers, and take a dip. 

There’s quite a few beaches in Paia, but I highly recommend Baby Beach for a chilled-out lagoon and Ho’okipa Beach if you wanna see some turtles! See below for information about specific beaches in Paia!

Take a Yoga Class: Yogis, you’re gonna LOVE Paia! And all you beginners as well (promise)! Paia is the perfect spot to reconnect your body and mind — there’s a whole slew of yoga studios to check out in this peaceful beach town. 

A few recommendations:

• Relax and clear your mind and body at Maha Yoga & Wellness Center by taking one of their many, reasonably-priced (!!!) yoga classes. Unwind even more by enjoying a massage or foot bath treatment — there’s lots of services to choose from!
• In the mood for a more intense workout? Check out Infusion Barre & Hot Yoga where classes are offered for all levels and instructors are known for their positivity and friendliness. 
• Looking for a beginner yoga class or simply want to expand your yoga skills? Check out Iyengar Yoga , also located in the main town, where a variety of yoga classes (beginner to advanced) are offered. 

Due to the close proximity of these 3 yoga studios, all are comparable in price, and reasonably-priced for yoga in paradise 🙂

Ho’okipa Lookout: Take a short drive to Ho’okipa Lookout, famous for watching windsurfers, surfers, and spotting an abundance of sea turtles lounging in the sand. Be cautious as the cliffs can be dangerous and the rocks can be slick. If you’re lucky, you may be able to catch the food trucks and local artists sellings goods near the parking lot. 

Speaking of parking, it can be tough, so arrive early in the day and maybe even catch the sunrise! Check out details about Ho-okipa Beach Park below. 

Head to Twin Falls: Continue your journey on this rustic side of the island by heading to Twin Falls, just a 20 minute drive from the town of Paia. This is the perfect stop if you’re wanting to avoid the treacherous road to Hana. 

Twin Falls is known to be the first stop on the Road to Hana, so obviously can get crowded. Plan to get there early in the day. Park on the street and follow the jungly trail to the waterfalls. 

This short trail (it’s less than a mile!), will lead you to a beautiful freshwater pool where you may see locals jumping off of cliffs or tourists simply cooling off in this refreshing natural pool. Be sure to bring a waterproof camera and get those insta-worthy pics!! 

This spot is a DREAM for the ultimate jungly Hawaiian photos. Take the trail back to the parking lot — you’ll find a Hawaiian Farm Stand full of fresh juices, smoothies, and popsicles. Indulge!

FYI — It’s best to wear hiking/water shoes or shoes with grips on the bottom as this trail can be muddy, wet, and slippery at times. 

Huelo Lookout: If you wish, continue on the Road to Hana to Huelo Lookout (it’s about 25 minutes east of Paia). There’s views of the ocean in the distance and of course, those not-to-miss jungly lookouts. Stop at the Huelo Lookout Shack for some fresh banana bread, smoothie, or sugar cane juice (my favorite!). 

Makawao Spa Treatments: Experience the tranquil upcountry town of Makawao by getting a massage, facial, or an ultimate, luxurious spa treatment from Ho’omana Spa. Ancient Hawaiian techniques and natural remedies are incorporated to give you the ultimate relaxation experience. The coconut milk and honey bath is calling my name! 

Maui Pineapple Tours: Take a 10 minute drive from Paia up to Makawao to experience Maui Pineapple Tours to learn about the history and culture of harvesting this yummy fruit! Tour the actual pineapple fields and learn all about the growing cycle of a pineapple. 

This 1.5 hour tour can be a bit pricey, but included in the price is an airport safe pre-packaged pineapple to take home and enjoy on the mainland! The ultimate Hawaiian souvenir!

Take a Helicopter Tour: Looking for more adventurous things to do in Paia and want to get a bird’s eye view of the island ? Take a helicopter tour from OGG and experience the Hana Rainforest, where you’ll land and explore a former taro plantation in the Wailua Valley. 

Continue your journey by exploring the lush jungle! Experience aerial views of Maui’s north coast, specifically Paia, Haiku, and the Road to Hana. This is the perfect alternative to experiencing Hana if you’re not wanting to take on the well-known treacherous drive. It’s honestly not that scary though — just use common sense and go slow!

After landing in Kahului, make an extra stop at Geste Shrimp Truck for lunch. Be sure to try their flavorful garlic shrimp!! One of the best on the island. Need a pick-me-up? Be sure to grab a cup of authentic Hawaiian coffee from Akamai Coffee. 

Read Next: My Helicopter Experience in Maui (psst — we loved it!)

Attend the Obon Ceremony and Festival at Mantokuji Mission of Paia: If you’re lucky enough to be in Paia during the Obon Ceremony and Festival, head to the Mantokuji Mission of Paia. The Obon Ceremony and Festival is a Japanese ceremony to celebrate the lives of ancestors by participating in traditional dances and eating lots of food (count me in!). 

Famous for serving local favorites like andagi (deep-fried donuts), shave ice, and chow fun, this vibrant and lively ceremony takes place in the summer. Be sure to check the exact dates at Mantokuji Mission for this festival’s arrival. It’s by far one of the most cultural things to do in Paia!

Beaches in Paia

Baldwin Beach Park: Be sure to check out Baldwin Beach Park, the North Shore’s most popular beach. This long, white sandy beach offers bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, BBQs, and lifeguards (for good reason)!! The surf can be rough at times, making this a popular destination for experienced body boarders and windsurfers. 

Baby Beach: Looking to cool off after strolling the shops or taking a hot yoga class? Head over to Baby Beach – the perfect spot to relax as this lagoon offers protection from the big waves.

Swim some laps, float on your back, or take a stroll on the large sand dunes and wooded area that backs the beach. It’s kid-friendly but can get windy in the afternoons, so be sure to hit this beach earlier in the day.  I LOVED seeing the turtles swim around in the water.

Ho’okipa Beach Park: Not in the mood to go snorkeling in Maui , but want to see more Hawaiian green sea turtles and professional windsurfers? Head over to Ho’okipa Beach Park! This beach is home to a world renowned windsurfing destination due to its impressive surf. But my favorite part — the sea turtles! There’s lot of them relaxing on the shore and the exposed reef that runs along the water. Don’t get too close; they’re federally protected!

Like Baldwin Beach, it’s best to be careful of the surf and rip currents over here. Two lifeguard stands are located at each end of the beach — be sure to ask them about the swimming conditions for the day. 

Want to get a better view? Head up to Ho’okipa Lookout, located on a cliff along the beach. It may be best to drive to this spot, as the lookout offers its own parking lot. More information on the lookout can be found under “Things to do in Paia”.

Tavares Beach: Next up, Tavares Beach, a sandy spot near Paia known for its snorkeling, swimming, rock jumping, surfing, and windsurfing. You may even spot some sea turtles along the reef! The beach is a favorite among locals, so try to hit this beach during the week to avoid crowds. 

Tavares is easy to miss, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. It’s often referred to as “Blue Tile House Beach”, as there is a beach house with a ceramic blue tile roof used as a landmark (so look out for that!).

Paia Secret Beach: Between Paia Bay and Baldwin Beach, you’ll find Paia Secret Beach. Known as a clothing optional or nude beach, this beach is relatively private and often visited by locals. 

To access this beach, park at Paia Bay and walk through the wooded area along the west end of the bay. Clothing is expected on the Paia side of the beach, unlike the Kahului side, where some swim nude. There is no vehicle access for visitors and there are better beaches for swimming adjacent to this one, but head here if you’re looking to avoid crowds or simply want to swim nude!

Kaulahao Beach: Need to see more sea turtles? Head over to Kaulahao Beach, located just about a half a mile away from Paia town. This isn’t the best beach for swimming due to the rocks, but sea turtles on the sand!!!! There is a small parking lot, where visitors come and go, likely making a stop before beginning the Road to Hana . 

Where to Eat in Paia

Mama’s Fish House: My all time favorite place to eat in not just Paia, but in all of Maui(!!!). Whatever you do, don’t miss this spot! There’s Polynesian decor, a seafood-driven Hawaiian menu, and even epic ocean views. 

The menu changes daily depending on what the local fishermen catch — it doesn’t get more fresh than that! And while everything on the menu is great, obviously get fish and dessert (I’d die for some lobster-stuffed mahi mahi and liliko’i creme brulee right about now)! 

Psst → You’ll definitely need to make a reservation (way) in advance, as Mama’s is popular for a reason. Check sunset time and make your reservation for a bit after. Come extra early to wander the lush grounds, watch the sunset, and grab a tiki drink at the bar!

Paia Fish Market: Time to fuel up after shopping and beach time? Be sure to check out the well-known Paia Fish Market. This casual dine-in restaurant has fresh seafood plates, tacos, and pasta. If you’re not a fan of seafood, they offer burgers, salads, and plenty of appetizers. Definitely order the shrimp and fish tacos — some of the best I’ve ever had!

Cafe des Amis: Not in the mood for seafood? How dare you (haha). Cafe des Amis serves up both Mediterranian and Indian dishes for breakfast and all throughout the day. I cannot stop thinking about their crepes! 

Not hungry? Grab a cocktail, glass of wine, or a refreshing fruit smoothie! Be sure to check out their happy hour from 4-6! We always look for happy hours on the island to stay within budget, while still getting to try all of the yummy, island food! 

Ice cream lover? Head over to Cafe des Amis’s Artisan Ice Cream shop, located right next door. With raving reviews and local flavors like toasted coconut (vegan) and lilikoi butter, you’ll definitely want to try this homemade ice cream! 

Paia Bowls: If you haven’t had an acai bowl in Hawaii yet, do yourself a favor and make that a TOP priority. And lemme tell you — the acai from Paia Bowls is top-notch (they also have smoothies, but who are we kidding, just get a bowl. Add some of their tropical toppings like coconut, ashwagandha, papaya (my favorite!), and even peanut butter! 

The outdoor patio is just as lush as you’d imagine. Need a pick-me-up? You’re in luck — there’s bulletproof coffee and a golden turmeric latte here, too!

Milagros Food Company: Need a heartier meal or simply a cold cocktail? Head over to Milagros Food Company for fresh Mexican food, mai tais, and margaritas! Try something Hawaiian like a Li Hing Mui marg and a mahi-mahi burrito.

Psst → Happy Happy is EVERYDAY from 3-6, and the drink and appetizer specials are a really great price!

Mana Foods: Yup, Mana Foods is actually a grocery store — BUT, here me out! Imagine aisles of fresh tropical fruits, organic local produce, delicious bakery goods, and even a smoothie bar. It definitely ain’t your regular market!

Pick up some deli meat, tropical fruit, a salad from the salad bar, or a dish from their hot food bar and head to one of the beaches mentioned above for a picnic and some more sunshine! 

Tobi’s Shave Ice: Shave ice a MUST in Maui, and Tobi’s doesn’t disappoint. The syrups are locally sourced and there’s lots of outdoor seating. And always add the coconut ice cream for that perfectly creamy flavor. 

If you need more than a snack, their fresh tuna poke is the way to go.

Vana Paia: We like to come to Vana Paia (part of Paia Inn) for breakfast. Yes, it’s a bit on the pricier side, but I promise you won’t be disappointed. The food is high-quality and fresh, there’s fresh-pressed juice (my fave), and you can eat under the tropical trees on the outdoor patio. Loaded bloody mary’s anyone?! You betcha they fill up that glass with all of the fixings!

Coming later in the day? Vana offers pastas, sandwiches, and fresh fish dishes like scallops and prawns. They’ve even got their own sushi bar — make sure to try a few sushi rolls and some fresh sashimi.

Paia Bay Coffee and Bar: Paia Bay offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or come here simply for some coffee! You might even catch some chill live music! 

There are so many options — think breakfast plates, nutella croissants (<3), fresh salads, sandwiches, and a mahi mahi curry bowl (yum!). Again, look for their happy hour, which runs from 3-6 and offers food and drinks! 

This outdoor restaurant is tucked behind the storefronts, so be sure to keep an eye out! I recommend stopping here to fuel up before heading on the Road to Hana. 

Flatbread Company: Ohhhh, one of my favorite dishes — wood-fired pizza! And they’re over here at Flatbread Company. With fresh ingredients for salads and pizzas, no one should be disappointed (and tehre’s even a bunch of vegan options!). We like to share a pizza and a salad here and it’s enough for the two of us! 

I hope you’ve enjoyed all my favorite things to do in Paia! Are you planning a trip to the North Shore of Maui anytime soon?!

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March 9, 2022 at 12:26 pm

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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’s Mountain Backpacker Paradise (or Hell?)

I didn’t like Pai. Wait. Check that — I liked Pai, I just didn’t love it.

For years, travelers have told me how much they loved Pai. “It’s aaaaa-mazing! It’s so much fun. There’s healthy food, lots of booze, waterfalls, and mountains to hike. You’ll never want to leave,” they would explain as if talking about the Garden of Eden.

When I started traveling around Southeast Asia in 2006, I rarely heard Pai mentioned. It was far off the beaten path, and back then I was all about staying on the beaten path. I wanted people and parties.

Over the years, Pai grew in fame as a destination where people smoked weed, drank, hiked, and did yoga. And the longer I traveled, the less destinations like that appealed to me.

But, given its popularity — and the number of questions I got about it — I decided that it was time to finally see what all the fuss was about.

Driving through northern Thailand into the mountains, my bus followed the many twists and turns. The road to Pai has over 700 turns, but I barely noticed them as I stared out the window at the densely covered hills that rolled like waves into the horizon. It was green as far as I could see, and I was again struck by the beauty of the Thai countryside.

On arrival, it didn’t take long to see why backpackers love Pai, why they write so effusively about it and stress the word love when they mention it. Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by waterfalls and wondrous hiking trails, Pai is a tiny town where life moves at a pace that would frustrate even the most laid-back Spaniard.

It’s also a Western paradise: there’s organic food, wheatgrass shots, specialty teas, and Western food in stores lining the streets of the town. Additionally, drinks and accommodations are cheap, and the parties run late.

It is a backpacker’s mountain paradise.

But it was precisely those things that turned me off. The town is simply too touristy and culturally washed out for me.

I’m not one to hate the tourist trail — I’m writing this in a Western café in Luang Prabang while drinking lemonade. But when people seek out imported food and drink beers from Belgium , and when the street food consists of burgers, bruschetta, and lasagna, I think things have gone too far.

Thailand itself seems to have gotten lost in Pai as waves upon waves of Westerners and Chinese tourists reshape much of it. I actually had to wander somewhat to find Thai restaurants that catered to the local population. (They were delicious and cheaper than the food found at the “market” on Walking Street.)

Of course, Pai is not all bad, and there’s plenty to see and do. From town, you can hike to waterfalls, wander through farms and rice terraces where the only sounds are the birds and farm animals, and bike to caves and more waterfalls.

I especially loved the day trip to the Tham Lod caves. In mid-afternoon, you’re driven by one of the many tour operators (don’t worry which, they all go the same way) to Mo Paeng waterfall, where you can go for a swim, and then to Sai Ngam hot springs, a viewpoint, and finally the caves, where you arrive right before sunset.

After a hike along a short path, a Thai guide leads you through three large chambers before you board a raft to float down the river that splits this cave in half. There the cavern opens up as you witness thousands of birds flocking around the entrance. It was mystifying, breathtaking, and the highlight of my time in Pai.

What I loved about Pai was the setting, not the vibe. In a town that charges you to plug your computer in, I found watching bare-chested backpackers get drunk on the beach an obnoxious sight.

But I can see why so many travelers come here and love it: cheap accommodation, excessive partying, the beautiful setting, and Western food to remind them of home. If I were a much younger, first-time traveler, this would be great. You get to interact with a lot of other travelers, maybe meet a few locals, and have a wild time. There’s nothing wrong with that.

But it’s not for me anymore.

The Pai of the backpacker is not the Pai that interests me. I love what made Pai famous in the first place: the mountains and the long forest paths to secluded waterfalls, majestic caves, stunning viewpoints, and a quiet place to read a good book.

This is where Pai shines. This is what makes it the place to be.

If you should go to Pai, be sure to stay on the outskirts of town in a lovely little bungalow. Rent a bike, traverse the hills, bathe in cool waterfalls, and explore some caves.

Find the Pai that is not a haven for Western hippies, backpackers, and yoga teachers, and you’ll find a place worth visiting.

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Book Your Trip to Thailand: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. It is my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as it has the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Common Grounds Pai
• Nine House Pai

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money too.

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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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HOW TO SPEND 6 DAYS IN KAUAI | TRAVEL GUIDE + ITINERARY

Spring break, we knew we didn’t want to go anywhere too far from home. It was either a staycation on Oahu or an island hop. We decided to go back to one of our favorite islands, Kaua’i. As the planner in the family, I made sure we we’re doing an activity or sightseeing each day. The last time we went to Kaua’i (our first time), we didn’t do many activities. We accomplished a lot on our mini vacation! If you ever plan a trip to Kaua’i and need help with your day to day, maybe this will help you plan; here’s what we did:

We departed Oahu at 10:02am and arrived on Kaua’i at 10:52am (very quick and easy flight). As soon as we landed, we took a shuttle to get our rental car. Around 12pm, we arrived to our hotel, Kaua’i Shores , which was approximately 20 minutes from the airport. We did an early check-in at the hotel and dropped off our bags to get our touring started.

First stop: Queens Bath. I’ve always wanted to go to Queens Bath after seeing pictures on social media. It was a quick small hike down to tide pools… being that it was Spring, close to Winter time, the waves were still high and seas were rough making it perilous to swim in but we did have fun walking around and exploring the area.

We continued to follow the only road heading North East and followed it as far as possible by car. At the end was a wet & dry cave (picture above is the dry cave). Such an amazing feeling being inside the cave. We were able to go all the way inside!

After doing our sight seeing on the first day, we headed to Princeville to have dinner at Nanea Restaurant . If you’re around Princeville or looking for an amazing high end restaurant, this is the place to go! The price is definitely worth the food!

To get the day started, we had breakfast in a place we like to call “food truck box” because in a general shape of a square, with tables at its center, there were multiple food trucks, great for a pit stop no matter what time of day. At 8am, we went to  NOM Kauai  and tried their chicken and waffles. Other food trucks had things like crepes, pancakes, and other breakfast items.  After eating, we walked along a bike path right behind the food trucks (toward the sea) to kill some time since our first activity for the trip was not until 12pm.

3 hours of fun tubing on an old sugar plantation with Kauai Backcountry . If you’re looking for a great family activity, this is the perfect one! Make sure to book ahead of time as the tours get full fast. They have multiple tours throughout the day but again, it fills up fast. This is one of the most popular activity on Kaua’i.

After finishing up tubing at 3:30pm, we decided to go to Wailua Falls. We were just gonna sight see and take some photos from the top but we ended up going down all the way to the waterfall and I’m glad we did! It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and definitely one of the most incredible experience ever! Being that it’s not a legal hike down, we’re not going to disclose any more information.

We got back to our hotel around 6pm, freshened up and had dinner at our hotel at a restaurant/bar called Lava Lava Beach Club.

Reid’s parents arrived on Kaua’i and we met up with them for quick breakfast at Kountry Kitchen, located a few minutes from our hotel. After breakfast, we checked out from Kaua’i Shores and checked in at Courtyard Kaua’i at Coconut Beach by Marriott. Being that Reid’s parents are in town as well, we decided to have a family day around Kaua’i.

One of the places we wanted to go to while there was Waimea Canyon . Which is one of the main tourist attractions and should be visited by every first time coming to Kauai! The drive to the canyon is breathtaking! Definitely plan about 2 hours for this place (or more if you plan on hiking). Waimea Canyon has a many hiking paths and one was to a waterfall. We didn’t do any of the hikes as we had other plans throughout the day but we went to the Waimea Canyon lookout which is a must while there! We definitely need to go back for those hikes.

After a few hours at Waimea Canyon, we headed out to Polihale Beach to watch the sunset being that this is the West side of Kaua’i. One of our favorite beaches to go to! If you decide to go to this beach, prepare for a few hours because it’s beautiful! All sand beach and not crowded at all. Perfect for sunsets!

Almost 7pm, we left Polihale beach and went to Kaua’i Kookies for dinner which is the last stop of the day.

Reid and I planned the morning to do part of the Na Pali Coast hike while Landon spent some time with his grandparents.

Being that we had free time in the morning, and because our activity for the day (Na Pali Boat tour) was cancelled due to rough seas and strong winds, we decided to go outside and still see Na Pali Coast on foot. Although we didn’t do the entire Na Pali Coast hike which would take all day and then some, we did a few hours and enjoyed the beauty of it. The Na Pali Hike sign is at the end of the road on the east side of Kaua’i, lots of things to do at the end of the road such as hikes, beaches, and wet caves.

After a few hours of hiking, we headed back to the hotel and got ready for the Luau. The Luau was located at our hotel which was very convenient! Luau started at 5:30pm and ended around 9pm. As soon as it ended, we went back to our room and called it a night.

Early morning start today, we booked a Kipu Zipline Tour with Outfitters Kauai . We had a breakfast buffet at the hotel by 7am and quickly headed to our destination. We had to check in by 8am. As soon as we arrived, we got our kayaking gear, briefed, and started kayaking right away! This was only the first activity of the day.

We kayaked, hiked, and ziplined, all in one day for 6 hours. If you want to experience a jam packed activity while on Kaua’i, this is the perfect tour for the family! After the full day of activities, we headed back to our hotel and got ready for dinner. We met up with some relatives on Kaua’i for dinner at the delicious Garden Island Barbecue & Chinese Restaurant.

Very last day, we saved the best activity for last… Well we had no choice since our first tour was cancelled due to the weather. Luckily, the last day, Kaua’i gave us nice weather to be able to go on a Na Pali Coast boat tour.

After having breakfast, we packed our bags and checked out of the hotel. After our Na Pali Coast boat tour, we’re headed off to the airport. Really squeezing in time but again, we had a full itinerary for this trip. At 12:30pm, we drove to the other side of the island which took about an hour. Arrived at the harbor at 1:30pm, perfect time to check-in for the tour. From 2pm-6:30pm, we saw the most amazing views of Kaua’i. Definitely worth the wait for this tour and the best way to end our trip!

As soon as the tour ended, we headed straight to the car rental place and took a shuttle to the airport, making us 1 hour before departure! What a fun packed and busy itinerary! Good luck on yours!

MORE KAUAI RELATED POSTS

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There are Airbnb’s available throughout Singapore. If you’re not familiar with Airbnb, it’s an online marketplace for arranging or offering lodging, primarily homestays, or tourism experiences. Get $40 off your first booking at any Airbnb in Kauai!

For more places to stay in Kauai, Booking.com offers hotels, apartments, and hostels. You get free cancellation on most rooms and the best price guarantee!

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Can’t visit Kauai without going to see the NaPali Coast! 🙂 It’s our favorite island too. Aloha!

Very true! One of the most majestic places to visit while in the islands. Can’t forget Waimea Canyon also!

Very nice itinerary and great pics too as usual! Curious to know what you think of our 7 day Kauai itinerary: https://lookintohawaii.com/hawaii/48051/kauai-itinerary-intro-information-kauai-hi

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สวรรค์นักเที่ยว! 4 เกาะสวยเที่ยวครบ ทะเล น้ำตก ภูเขา ธรรมชาติสมบูรณ์

อากาศร้อนแบบนี้ ถ้าจะให้นึกถึงสถานที่ท่องเที่ยวคงหนีไม่พ้นเกาะ ทะเล ภูเขา น้ำตก มันก็น่าไปทุกที่จนเลือกไม่ถูก งั้นเอาอย่างงี้ Undubzapp ได้รวบรวมสุดยอดแหล่งท่องเที่ยวธรรมชาติมารวมที่เกาะเกาะเดียว ซึ่งเป็นเกาะที่มีธรรมชาติสวยงามครบถ้วนทั้ง ชายหาดงาม ทะเลใส ภูเขาวิวสวย น้ำตกเย็นฉ่ำ 4 IN 1 ในเกาะเกาะเดียวไปเลยค่า งานนี้เที่ยวคุ้มฟินทุกอารมณ์แน่นอน จะมีที่ไหนกันบ้าง ตามไปเช็กอินกันเลยค่า

เกาะขนาดใหญ่เป็นอันดับ 4 ของไทย มีความอุดมสมบูรณ์ค่อนข้างสูงทั้งทะเล ภูเขา ลำห้วย ชายหาดขาวสะอาด แนวปะการังสวยงาม จนได้รับฉายาว่า “อันดามันแห่งทะเลตะวันออก” มีน้ำตกชื่อดังคือ น้ำตกคลองเจ้า น้ำตกสามชั้นที่มีน้ำใสไหลเย็นตลอดปี เรียกได้ว่ามาเที่ยวครั้งเดียวครบจบทั้งทะเลสวย ดำน้ำดูปะการัง ขึ้นเขาชมวิว ชิลริมน้ำตก

2. เกาะพะงัน

เป็นอีกหนึ่งในไม่กี่เกาะ ที่มีธรรมชาติครบทั้ง ทะเล ภูเขา น้ำตก เริ่มที่เล่นน้ำหาดริ้น อ่าวแม่หาด อ่าวโฉลกหลำ นั่งชิลขาแช่น้ำจ๋อมแจ๋มที่อุทยานแห่งชาติน้ำตกธารเสด็จ และสัมผัสประสบการณ์ชมวิวขั้นเทพที่ เขาหรา จุดชมวิวสวยตระการตาที่สามารถมองเห็นวิวของเกาะเต่าได้อีกด้วย

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3. เกาะช้าง

เกาะท่องเที่ยวสุดฮิต ใหญ่เป็นอันดับสองรองจากเกาะภูเก็ต เรียกได้ว่าเป็นเกาะที่มีความอุดมสมบูรณ์ทั้งธรรมชาติ สถานที่ท่องเที่ยว ร้านอาหารชื่อดัง วิถีชีวิตผู้คน ไม่ว่าจะเล่นน้ำที่ หาดคลองพร้าว แบบปาร์ตี้มันส์สุดเหวี่ยง หรือ นั่งชิลๆ ในหาดสงบๆ อย่าง อ่าวกะรัง เที่ยวป่าโกงกาง ที่อ่าวสลักคอก เริงร่าที่น้ำตกคลองพลู ที่สุดของน้ำตกบนเกาะช้าง ปิดท้ายด้วยวิวพระอาทิตย์ตกสุดตระการตาบนจุดชมวิวไก่แบ้ เที่ยวเกาะเดียว ฟินครบทุกอารมณ์

4. เกาะสมุย

อีกหนึ่งสุดยอดเกาะยอดนิยมของนักท่องเที่ยว จนได้ชื่อว่าเป็น “สวรรค์กลางอ่าวไทย” เหมาะแก่การท่องเที่ยวช่วงหน้าร้อน เพราะนอกจากจะมีทะเลชายหาดที่สวยงามอย่าง หินตาหินยาย หาดบางปอ หรือ หาดบางรัก ยังเป็นเกาะไม่กี่เกาะที่มีน้ำตกขนาดใหญ่อยู่ใจกลางเกาะคือ น้ำตกหน้าเมือง อันแสนสวยงามน้ำไหลแรงสะใจในช่วงอากาศร้อนๆ แบบนี้ สายเที่ยวต้องห้ามพลาด!

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