Fresh air, green mountains, friendly Lanna people – no wonder so many hippies decided to settle in the quiet, riverside town of Pai, Thailand. Situated in the mountains just four hours north of Chiang Mai, Pai is an accessible escape when the tourist hordes start clogging the moat around Chiang Mai.
Pai remained one of Thailand’s best-kept backpacker secrets until recently when an improved road, new airport, and even a popular Thai movie put it on the map. Today, Pai is busier than ever with a jump in tourism.
Fortunately, the charm hasn’t been all lost; use this guide for Pai, Thailand, to get the most out of your visit!
Things to Do in Pai
Aside from relaxing, meeting other travelers, and enjoying the scenic surroundings, Pai has a few simple attractions on offer.
- Visit Waterfalls:
Mo Paeng Waterfall is the most accessible of Pai’s waterfalls; locals use a large, smooth rock which serves as a natural slide into a deep pool for swimming. Mae Yen Waterfall, slightly more impressive, is about four miles outside of town.
- Ride an Elephant:
Pai is a popular place to take your first elephant ride; a variety of camps and operations are located around the edges of town. For the best elephant ride, choose an operation that does not use the wooden bench seat and allows tourists to sit directly on the elephant. Most rides end with a splash in the river to cool down.
- Visit the Hot Springs:
A simple trail parallels a bubbling, sulphuric spring through Pai’s small national park. Swimming is allowed if you can handle the extreme heat and gagging smell!
- Enjoy the River:
Much more serene than the party-scene tubing in Vang Vieng, Laos, both tubing and white water rafting are available between Mae Hong Son and Pai.
- Try Fishing:
An expat-owned bungalow operation just outside of town offers several pay ponds where you can purchase bait and fish by the hour. The staff are friendly, and fishing makes for quite a relaxing day even if little is caught. The ponds are stocked with a large variety of exotic fish including piranha!
- Explore:
The refreshing mountains and verdant rice fields surrounding Pai just beg to be explored by either bicycle or motorbike. Rentals for both are available in town. See what you need to know before renting a motorbike in Southeast Asia.
Accommodation in Pai
The wooden bungalows just across the river are cheap and peaceful, yet still close enough to walk nearly everywhere. Many secluded and romantic options can be found on private properties surrounding Pai.
Travel guide to Pai
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