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.
| Total cost LOW budget | Total cost MID budget | Total cost HIGH budget | |
| Accommodation | 1,800 baht for 6 nights (300 baht per night) | 6000 baht for 6 nights (1,000 baht per night) | 105,000 baht Private 5 star villa(15,000 baht per night) |
| Food and drinks | 2,100 baht for a week 300 baht per day Street food and cheap drinks. | 5,600 baht for a week 800 baht per day Eating comfortably at most cafes and restaurants. | 7,000 baht for a week 1,000 baht per daySpending freely on food and drinks |
| Activities | 2,300 baht not including transport (doing the activities on this itinerary) | 2,300 baht not including transport (doing the activities on this itinerary) | 5,000 baht Activities on this itinerary with private tours (locally booked) |
| Transport | 2,000 baht for using buses, tuk tuks and locally booked tours | Car rental for around 8,000 baht | Car rental for around 13,000 baht SUV rental |
| Total cost for a one week Pai itinerary | 8,200 baht (Roughly £160 or $200) | 21,000 baht (roughly £420 or $550) | 130,000 baht (around £2,600 or $3,400) |
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: mayworldtravelpai@gmail.com
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.
Day 3 I Love U Pai cafe, The land split, The Bamboo bridge, Love Strawberry and Pai Canyon
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.
Day 4 Sunrise at Yun Lai, Santichon Yunnanese Village, Mo Paeng waterfall & The Karon Village
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.
Day 5 Breakfast by the river, trek to Hua Chang waterfall and tubing on Pai river
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.
Day 6 Visit the Mork Fa waterfall, the Highland Coffee Plantation and Pong Dueat Geyser
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: mayworldtravelpai@gmail.com
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 paicircushostel@gmail.com
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. sitwisarut.muaythai@gmail.com +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
