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Pai is genuinely one of our favourite destinations in Thailand. And for good reason. Pai is a dreamy romantic little town nestled into the jungle mountains of the Mae Hong Son Province in north Thailand. Even by Thai standards Pai is pretty cheap as a destination and there are so many fantastic things to do.
If you’re looking for things to do in Pai in 2026 you may find that a lot of information is out of date. Lots has changed in the past few years. Never fear, here is an up to date list of some AMAZING things to do in Pai. We have tried to mix it up so there is something for everyone. Unique quirky places to stay, local foods to try and attractions to visit.
Pai has chilled, vintage, kitsch, hippy vibes. The town itself is home to lots of boutique cafes, coffee shops and hotels. The hills surrounding Pai offer natural beauty, adventure and amazing scenery. We have travelled Pai extensively over the years, and most recently we have returned to share all of the latest with you.
Before you read on there have been some big changes in the area…
Many of the top attractions around Pai can now only be accessed with a one day pass for the Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary. This day pass costs 200 baht and can be purchased from the ticket office at any of the destinations included on the ticket. The ticket price is 100 baht for children.
If you only intend to pay for one pass, you will need to plan your itinerary 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 only one day. If you’re in Pai we highly recommend all of the following attractions (which are part of the day pass):
- Pam Bok waterfall
- Sai Ngam hot spring river
- Tham Lod cave (allow around 4-5 hours for a round trip from Pai)
All of these attractions are highly recommended. So if you only plan to pay for a single one day pass, we recommend taking a trip to the Tham Lod cave in the morning and then squeezing in these other attractions in the afternoon.
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.
Map of things to do in Pai
Here is an interactive map of things to do in Pai. Click on the pins for more information.
What is the best way to get around in Pai?
With so many epic places things to do in Pai what is the best way to get around? Here are a few options:
1 Walk around Pai town
This is the cheapest way to get around. Realistically however you are only likely to walk around the town itself (the walking street, market, bamboo bridges and a few very local attractions like coffee terraces, temples and the Buddha). Most other attractions are a little too far to walk.
2 Rent a bicycle
This is also a super cheap and healthy option and is a good way to get a little further afield. However if you plan to cycle out of town be careful because the roads are pretty fast. If you want to see some attractions close to Pai, this is a lovely option. In fact we have recommended this as one of our things to do in Pai.
3 Rent a motorbike
This is a very popular option for exploring Pai and you can rent motorbikes very cheaply in Pai. In fact we found 24 hour bike rental options for as little as 80 baht from Aya services on the Pai walking street. If your budget stretches to 100 baht (£2 or $2.50) you can find loads of options. Petrol is also super cheap in Thailand costing only 30-40 baht per liter (this is around 60p or $1).
Always check that you are correctly qualified and insured to ride a bike in Thailand. If you rent a bike you can go as far from Pai as your buttocks will permit. You can use a motorbike to visit the Tham Lod cave without too much booty trauma. Be aware that you often need to leave a deposit of money or some form of ID if you rent a motorbike in Pai.
4 Rent a car
This is probably the most comfortable and convenient way to get around Pai. However car rental in Pai is pretty expensive. Most places start at over 1,000 baht per day to rent a car in Pai. If you do plan to rent a car to explore Pai, we recommend considering car rental in Chiang Mai where you can find deals for as little as 600 baht per day (if you barter and shop around). You will normally need to leave a deposit of around 3,000 – 5,000 baht to rent a car in Chiang Mai or Pai. Remember to take photos of any scratches on the car.
5 Use taxis
Taxis are a comfortable and convenient option but can be expensive, especially if you do not barter. To give you a feel for prices, a return taxi ride from Pai to the Tham Lod cave (around 1.5 hours each way) is likely to cost in the region of 600 baht. Note, at the time of writing, the Grab app does not work in Pai. So you will need to go old school and make an arrangement with local drivers. Tour operators in and around Pai can normally hook you up with drivers. Remember to barter.
6 Arrange tours through local tour agents
If you are hoping to explore Pai but none of the above options work for you, you can also arrange tours and transportation through local tour agents. There are lots of operators based on the Pai walking street and most places are open through the day and into the evening. A couple of great tour operators in Pai: Aya Services arrange tours in and around the Pai area. Their staff are super friendly and very knowledgeable. Duang Trekking and Tours arrange tours and treks of the area around Pai. Duang Trekking offer the following one day tours:
Package A: waterfall, Chinese village, temple, Coffee in Love, Love Strawberry, Pai Canyon, WWII memorial bridge, hot spring, elephant camp, tree house and hill temple for 600 baht (£12 or $15).
Package B: Pang Aung Big lake, Chinese village, waterfall, mud spa, bamboo bridge, fish cave, viewpoint, black Lahu village amd Kiew Lom viewpoint for 1,000 baht (£20 or $25).
Duang Trekking, 6 Rangelyanon, M3, T.Wiangtai, Pai, Mae Hongson, 58130, +66847 418648
junepai2522@gmail.com
Tour operators can hook you up with LOADS of amazing things to do in Pai.
How long should you spend in Pai?
It depends on how long you have in total for your trip in Thailand and which things to do in Pai are most important to you. Most people feel that they don’t spend long enough in Pai. When you visit this gorgeous hill town you will see why. If you can afford the time we recommend slowing down and spending at least one week in Pai. One week should be sufficient to experience many of the things to do in Pai that we recommend here.
1 Nibble your way along the night market
This is probably one of those things to do in Pai that you will keep coming back to every evening. There is a gorgeous night market along the Pai walking street (Chai Songkhram road). The market normally starts around 5pm and runs into the evening (most places are still open by 9-10pm). Wander up and down the market buying nibbles and delicious foods. On the night market you can normally find BBQ food, local dishes like Pad Thai, noodle salads, roti (fried bread), kebabs, local treats, juices and shakes. Food and drinks on the night market tend to be pretty cheap. In contrast you will find Pai to be a fairly sleepy town in the morning… we’ll come back to that later.
How much does food and drink cost on the Pai night market? Small treats normally cost around 20 baht. Some dishes cost 50-60 baht.
Where can you find the Pai night market? The Pai night market can be found on Pai Walking street (Chai Songkhram road)
2 Stay in a bamboo hut by the river
Pai is a great place to slow down and connect with the beautiful surroundings. There are several places offering bamboo huts by the river. This is a great place to enjoy sunrises and sunsets – and what better way than in your own bamboo hut. This may sound like a super expensive option – but actually bamboo huts are amongst the cheapest accommodation in the area. One of our favourite places is called Golden Hut – Chill Bungalows. It is very central and right by the river and offers very affordable riverside huts. Be prepared, bamboo huts are basic. They normally have fans and mosquito nets. The amenities and furnishings will be super simple. We have included this in our list of things to do in Pai because it is all about the experience.
How much does it cost to stay in a bamboo hut by the river? Expect to pay 250 – 500 baht per night depending on location, demand and season. Its ok to barter if you’re on a budget.
Where can you find riverside bamboo huts? Try Golden Hut – Chill Bungalows on the South side of the river near Wat Pa Kham. You can also find bamboo huts on the north side of the river just across the bamboo bridge.
3 Relax in nature at Dear Your mind
Dear Your Mind is a hidden gem in Pai. Located up the hill on the north side of the Pai River (just 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 genuinely lovely calm atmosphere at this place. We recommend taking some time here. Don’t forget to bring a good book, or just come for a drink and a nap. As a place to slow down and chill out this is one of the best things to do in Pai.
How much do drinks cost at Dear Your Mind cafe? 60 – 80 baht for drinks
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.
4 Drink herbal tea and make friends
The Malamong art cafe is conveniently located right in the centre of Pai town on the Pai walking street (not too far from the bamboo bridge). The Malamong art cafe has all of the hippy-tastic, rustic earthy vibes that you would expect in a place that brews herbal teas over a fire. This is a fantastic place to stop by for a drink in the evening and take a rest from all of the eating. Malamong art cafe has a relaxed welcoming atmosphere. If you’re lucky there may also be street music nearby. If it’s not your scene, don’t worry there are loads of other things to do in Pai.
How much do drinks cost at the Malamong Art cafe? Drinks range from around 20 baht (40p or 50cents to 100 baht (£2 or $2.50)
Where is the Malamong Art cafe located? The Malamong art cafe is located on the Pai walking street (Chai Songkhram road) near the bamboo bridge.
5 Try Kombucha
Kombucha is one of those magical drinks that is both superpower healthy and also super tasty! It is also a popular drink in north Thailand. Kombucha is made from fermented sweetened green tea or black tea. After a few weeks of fermentation at room temperature it is bottled to promote carbonation, giving it a gentle fizz. It is then refrigerated and ready to be served. Kombucha is often flavoured with herbs, flowers or fruits. In North Thailand it is common to find Kombucha flavored with rosella, butterfly pea flower, lemongrass, lychee, honey and ginger.
How much does Kombucha cost in Pai? Kombucha normally costs around 50 – 100 baht for a bottle (£1-2 or $1.30 – $2.50)
Where can you buy Kombucha in Pai? You can find Kombucha in cafes and coffee shops around the Pai walking street. The Malamong Art Cafe on the Pai walking street serves Kombucha.
6 See the Pai water wheel
We already mentioned the beautiful Pai river. Don’t miss the Pai water wheel. It may not be the most epic thing you do in Pai… this is one of those cute quirky things to do in Pai. Driven by the steady flow of the Pai river, the Pai water wheel is a lovely addition to the riverside. This water wheel appears to serve two functions: Firstly to look pretty and secondly to lift water up to a bamboo pipe that drops the water right back into the river a few meters downstream. Pai is all about the art.
How much does it cost to see the water wheel? It’s totally free to see the water wheel
Where is the Pai water wheel? The waterwheel is very easy to get to – it is located on the north side of the Pai river just outside the Pai Loess resort and between the two bamboo bridges.
7 Visit Wat Pa Kham Temple
No list of things to do in Pai would be complete without a temple visit or two. It’s all part of appreciating the culture and art work of this beautiful part of the world. The Wat Pa Kham Temple (วัดป่าขาม) is a beautiful temple located in Pai town near the river and the Pai walking street. If you explore the temple grounds expect to see colourful Buddhist artwork, Pagodas, shrines and statues. If you plan to enter the temple it is important to dress appropriately; in general knees and shoulders should be covered.
How much does it cost to visit Wat Pa Kham temple? It is free to visit the Wat Pa Kham temple
Where is Wat Pa Kham temple located? The Wat Pa Kahm temple is located on the Pai walking street not far from the river.
8 Stay in a Kayaking hotel (The Oia Pai Resort)
The Oia Pai resort has a quirky unique Grecian maritime theme with Mediterranean architecture and a salt water kayaking pool for getting around the resort. There is also a swimming pool and they offer a fruit boat which delivers fruit to rooms along the lakefront. This place is especially spectacular in the evenings as the sunsets over the west facing lake and pool. Rooms are well furnished, spacious and comfortable. Many of the rooms offer lake access, so you can literally roll out of bed into a kayak and paddle to breakfast. It really is a surreal experience. The Oia Pai resort also offer a free shuttle service to the Pai night market. This is probably one of the most quirky and unique things to do in Pai.
Don’t miss our full review of the Oia Pai Resort
How much does the Oia Pai resort cost? Rooms range from 3,000 baht – 8,000 baht (which is approximately £60 – £180 or roughly $80 – £220)
Where is the Oia Pai resort located? The Oia Pai resort is located in Pai town on the east side of the Pai river.
9 Have a decadent bagel breakfast
Pai does western treats surprisingly well. A good breakfast should definitely have a spot on a list of things to do in Pai. Along the walking street (Chai Songkhram road) there are lots of beautiful small boutique cafes. They tend to serve an impressive menu of western breakfast options, delicious shakes and of course amazing coffee. You don’t have to look far to find an excellent bagel in the area. Some places even offer dishes like eggs benedict and eggs royale (that’s the one with smoked salmon). Even though the prices are higher than local food, the prices are still surprisingly good for what you get.
How much does a bagel cost? Expect to pay in the region of 100 – 200 baht per dish depending what you order (this is roughly £2 – £4 or around $2.50 – $5)
Where can I find a good bagel in Pai? Loads of places. Here are a few to get you going: Pai Siam Bar and Bistro, Lemon Thyme cafe and Cafe de Pai
10 Go old school and send a postcard
Go old school and surprise your family with a postcard. There is a little shop on walking street that sells postcards and has pens so that you can write a postcard to your family. You do have to pay a little for the card, but we think this is a fun thing to do that at least deserves a spot on our list of things to do in Pai. Perhaps we’re just getting old! Depending where you are posting the card to and what type of post you use it is likely to take several weeks for your sentimental card to make its way back to your family.
How much does it cost to send a postcard? You should be able to buy and send your card for 50 – 100 baht
Where can I send a postcard in Pai? There is a little shop on walking street that sells postcards and even provides pens and pencils so you can write your card.
11 Explore Pai by bicycle
Pai is one of those places that you slow down, chill out and enjoy the natural beauty around you. What better way to do this than steadily pedaling around and enjoying the calm mountain air. There are plenty of hostels and tour operators along the Pai walking street who can rent bicycles. A bicycle is a great way to see some of the attractions that are closer to town.
Cycle to cafes, restaurants and markets around town. If you’re feeling adventurous there are lots of things to do in Pai further out of town: I love U Pai coffee, the Land Split, Pambok waterfall and the bamboo bridge, Love Strawberry Pai and the Pai Canyon. The World War II memorial bridge, The Pai Hotspring Spa Resort, the Twin Huts and the Tree House resort. The White Buddha and the Rice Paddies. Take care on the roads. On a bicycle it is not likely that you will get to the Dow Kiew Lom viewpoint or the Tham Lod cave.
How much does it cost to rent a bicycle in Pai? You can rent bicycles for around 50 baht per day (£1 or $1.30)
Where can you rent a bicycle in Pai? Tour agents, guest houses and hostels along the Pai walking street offer bicycle rental.
12 Learn Muay Thai
If all this chilling out has left you with some unspent energy try a Muay Thai training session. There are several Muay Thai gyms around Pai offering one off classes and courses. Muay Thai is the local martial art which focuses on tough body conditioning, balance and explosive powerful muscle movement. Many Muay Thai gyms offer one off classes, one day classes and even longer courses for a week or a month. Just a heads up. Muay Thai classes are genuinely hard core. Expect to get exhausted and sweaty with training regimes and workouts. This is not just one of our things to do in Pai, we have also recommended this on our list of Things to do in Thailand.
How much does it cost to learn Muay Thai in Pai? Prices are normally around 300 baht for a single morning or afternoon session (£6 or $8) and 500 baht per hour for private training sessions (this is £10 or $13). You can normally find week long courses for around 2,500 baht (£50 or $70)
Where can you learn Muay Thai in Pai? Check out Charn Chai Muay Thai https://www.charnchaimuaythai.com/
13 Try a local north Thai breakfast
Did we already mention breakfasts in Pai? Probably. Pai is great for it’s breakfast options. Whilst you’re here make sure you try a local breakfast! Local breakfasts in north Thailand often include sticky rice, fried chicken, friend dough and sweet milk. You can also find noodle soups and places offering crispy pork, sweet chinese sausage rice and egg. To find more local breakfasts in Pai you will need to venture away from walking street (although you do find small local places here too). We recommend exploring around the market to find the best selection of local food.
How much does a local breakfast cost in Pai? Local breakfasts will typically cost 30 – 50 baht (around 60p – £1 or $1 – $1.30)
Where can you find a local breakfast in Pai? You can find lots of street side stalls offering local breakfasts especially around the market. Also check out the Yellow Noodle Cafe on route 1095
14 Learn circus skills at the Pai Circus Hostel
Why else would you come to Pai if not to learn circus skills? The pai circus hostel is a very unique hostel beautifully situated on the hill to the north east of the Pai river. Like most things to do in Pai there is a relaxed hippy vibe here (like most places in Pai). It is a great place to meet people and make friends. The circus hostel has a swimming pool with a stunning view of the hills. They also have a bar and cafe serving and a range of food and drinks. The Pai circus hostel has circus equipment to play with and learn new skills.
How much does the Pai Circus hostel cost? At present the circus hostel is temporarily closed. We really hope it will reopen soon.
Where is the Pai circus hostel located? The circus hostel is around 10 minute walk from the Pai walking street. Located up the hill to the north east of the river just up the road from Dear Your Mind coffee terrace. The best way to get here is to cross the bamboo bridge and walk up the road.
15 Walk across the bamboo bridges
If you don’t stay in a bamboo hut you can still enjoy the beautiful river. Pai has a couple of bamboo bridges for pedestrians. Over the years these have been replaced and developed. They may sound scary but they are actually pretty strong. And very beautiful. The bamboo bridges are located near the end of walking street. A great spot to get that North Thailand dreamy insta shot! The north side of the river has plenty of places to stay but is a little less developed compared to the south side of the river. If you’re taking a stroll over the bamboo bridges you might also want to wander up to Dear Your Mind coffee terrace.
How much does it cost to visit the bamboo bridge? Nothing – they are free to visit and cross as many times as you like!
Where are the bamboo bridges located? The bamboo bridges are located at the end of the Pai walking street.
16 Relax with a coffee at I love U Pai cafe
The I love U Pai cafe is perfectly situated in the Pai valley to afford stunning views of the valley and surrounding hills. The cafe itself is set up to help you enjoy the views whilst relaxing with a drink. There is a sheltered terrace upstairs with hanging swing chairs and a balcony downstairs with more swing chairs. The decor is quirky and kitsch. The cafe serves a range of excellent hot drinks, decadent cakes and Thai dishes. A trip to I love U Pai cafe can be tied in with a visit to some other attractions in the area: the rice paddy fields, the Pai Land Split, the Pambok waterfall, the bamboo bridge, Pai canyon and the World War II memorial bridge.
How much do food and drinks cost at the I love U Pai cafe? Most drinks cost 50 – 100 baht (roughly £1 – 2 or $1.30 – $2.50) food costs 100 – 200 baht per dish (around £2 – £4 or $2.50 – $5)
Where is the I love U Pai cafe located? The I love U Pai cafe is open daily from 8am – 5pm. It is located around 3km south of Pai on the route 1095.
17 See rice paddy fields in Pai valley
Pai is a lovely little town with some scenic rice paddy fields in the valley by the river. There are several places around Pai where you can see scenic paddy fields. During the rainy season (May – October) the paddies fill with water creating a panoramic reflection of the mountains and sky. This is also even more stunning on a sunset evening. One option is to see the paddy fields at the bamboo bridge above Pambok waterfall. If you head down into the valley from the I love U Pai cafe you can find an area of rice paddy fields. This is a lovely area for trekking or to ride a bicycle. If you are interested in staying right next to the rice terraces check out The Moon at Pai.
How much does it cost to visit the Pai rice paddy fields? You can visit the Pai rice paddy fields for free
Where are the Pai rice paddy fields located? The Pai rice paddy fields are located around Pai. There is a large area of rice paddy fields located around 3km south of Pai in the valley.
18 Visit the White Buddha
The impressive White Buddha is located on the hills to the west of Pai (also known as the Big Buddha Pai พระพุทธโลกุตระมหามุนี). It is visible from many places around Pai town and is one of the most prominent things to do in Pai. The White Buddha statue is located at the Wat Phra That Mae Yen temple. You can actually drive up the road to this temple and then walk up the steps to the big Buddha statue. This is also a great place to get panoramic views over Pai town and valley. If you do visit the Big Buddha Pai remember to dress respectfully; it is important to cover knees and shoulders.
How much does it cost to visit the White Buddha in Pai? You can visit the Big Buddha Pai for free. If you wish you can make a donation.
Where is the White Buddha located? You can visit the Big Buddha daily from 6am – 6pm
19 Visit the Karon Long Neck village
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 depressing the clavicle and giving the appearance of a lengthened neck. Anthropologists are uncertain of exactly why this practice originated with a range of reasons being suggested from increasing attractiveness to protection from enslavement. 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. For many people this is one of the most significant things to do in Pai.
How much does it cost to visit the Karon Long Neck village? It costs 100 baht to enter the Karon long neck village near Pai.
Where is the Karon long neck village located? The Karon Long Neck village is located in the hills around 2km to the east of Pai.
A couple of reflections on the Karon Long neck village
Ok, let’s pause from our list of things to do in Pai for a moment’s reflection. People sometimes criticized the Karon Long neck village for a couple of reasons. Some people have expressed concern that it puts “people on display” in an unethical manner. This seems misguided. Karon people have now genuinely settled in Thailand. Our experience of the Karon village is a happy community where women support themselves and their families by making and selling craft.
They genuinely seem to enjoy interacting with visitors and sharing stories. For the most intrepid travellers you may feel like the set up is not authentic enough. Afterall the villages have undeniably been set up for tourists to visit. In our view, if you are interested to learn about their culture and meet genuine Karon people in person, then we don’t think this should concern you. These are genuine Karon people who are using the village to support themselves.
20 Relax at the Pai Hot Spring Resort & Spa
Visiting the Pai hot springs is one of the things to do in Pai that you should not miss. Thanks to all of the geothermal activity in the area there are many hot springs around Pai. Some are totally natural hot springs (such as the Sai Ngam hot river). Other places allow you to enjoy hot geothermal water in a man made pools. We highly recommend a visit to the Pai Hotspring Spa Resort. This place is surprisingly affordable at only 100 baht per person to use their pool and hot spring (this is roughly £2 or $2.50). You can visit the Thapae Hot Spring nearby but to be honest we think this place is overpriced at 300 baht for foreigners (£6 or $8). There aren’t many pools to sit in and some people have commented on the dirty water here.
Where is the Pai Hotspring Spa Resort located? The Pai Hotspring Spa Resort is located to the south of Pai town and to east of the Pai river not far from the Thapae hot springs.
How much does the Pai Hotspring Spa Resort cost? It costs only 100 baht for visitors to use the hot spring pool here.
DON’T miss our EPIC GUIDE on the BEST Pai hot springs.
21 Have a drink at the Two Huts cafe
The Two Huts Cafe is appropriately named after the two huts situated with an impressive view across the Pai valley. This is a great spot to see the rice terraces and jungle hills around Pai. The huts have thatch roof tops and hammocks. The cafe also has seating in the main building too (just next to the two huts) so there is normally plenty of space. The Two Huts cafe also has a swimming pool which is available to use for a humble 50 baht (£1 or $1.30). The cafe sells a range of hot drinks (and sometimes food). The Two Huts cafe is not too far from the Tree House resort and also pretty close to the Pai Hotspring Resort and Spa.
Where is the Two Huts cafe located? Located around 5km to the south of Pai town and on the east side of the Pai river.
How much do drinks cost at the Two Huts cafe? Drinks range in price from roughly 50 – 80 baht.
22 Visit the Pai Treehouse Resort and restaurant
You can now live out that childhood dream of staying in a real treehouse. The Pai Treehouse Resort (also known as the Baan Pai Tree House) is a quirky resort located in the Pai valley surrounded by beautiful hills. The resort has tree house rooms, some of which have tree’s literally growing through the rooms. They also have a range of luxurious villas. The resort grounds have beautiful, well kept gardens with tropical plants and trees and a small children’s playground. They also have a restaurant onsite too. Whether you stay here or just visit, this definitely earns its place on our things to do in Pai list.
Where is the Pai Tree House Resort located? The Pai Treehouse Resort is around 1km south of the Two Huts cafe.
How much does it cost to stay at the Pai Tree House Resort? Treehouse rooms are around 1,000 baht per night. Private villas cost up to 10,000 baht per night at the highest end.
23 Check out the Mo Paeng waterfall
The Mo Paeng waterfall (น้ำตกหมอแปง) is a beautiful cascading waterfall located to the north west of Pai, not too far from the Santichon Chinese village. It is possible to swim in the river at the bottom of the waterfall. The rocks of the waterfall are also relatively smooth and people sometimes slide down the waterfall into the pool at the bottom. This waterfall is best enjoyed in the rainy season (May – October) when the flow rate is higher. Don’t miss the fruit farm a few hundred meters down the road from the waterfall – a great place to stop for a smoothie. This is genuinely a nice place to visit but if you are short of time for things to do in Pai, we recommend prioritising the Pam Bok waterfall and Sai Ngam hot spring.
How much does it cost to visit the Mo Paeng waterfall? You can visit the Mo Paeng waterfall for free.
Where is the Mo Paeng waterfall located? The Mo Paeng waterfall is located to the north west of Pai. The journey is around 10km.
P.S. If the idea of throwing yourself down a waterfall appeals to you, there is another, even more impressive slidey waterfall, located between Pai and Chiang Mai. Check out the Sagee waterfall in the Kuet Chang hiking area. It is steeper than the Mo Paeng waterfall, and people do take a terrifying slide down the waterfall into the plunge pool at the bottom. We do not and cannot accept any responsibility for your safety if you choose to slide down waterfalls.
Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE to the best waterfalls in Pai
24 See the sunrise at the Yun Lai viewpoint
Amongst the unforgettable things to do in Pai is seeing an amazing sunrise. The Yun Lai viewpoint (ทะเลหมอก หยุนไหล) is one of the best spots to see a stunning sunrise over the Pai valley thanks to the east facing vantage point. At the Yun Lai viewpoint there is a viewing deck affording panoramic views over the Pai valley, which is sometimes filled with low lying clouds in the early morning giving the effect of an ocean landscape.
You can reach the Yun Lai viewpoint by road – so whether you’re using a rented motorbike, car or taxi, this is a super easy spot to get to. If you wish to arrange a taxi, we do recommend arranging this the night before as Pai is a pretty sleepy town in the morning. Be prepared that the Yun Lai viewpoint can get busy – even at sunrise time. So don’t necessarily expect to have this place to yourself.
How much does it cost to visit the Yun Lai viewpoint? You can visit the Yun Lai viewpoint for a humble 20 baht.
Where is the Yun Lai viewpoint located? The Yun Lai viewpoint is located on a hill to the west of Pai. It is further up the hill past the Chinese village.
25 Explore the Santichon Chinese village
In the hills on the western outskirts of Pai there is a Chinese settlement called the Santichon Chinese Village, also known as the Chinese Yunnan Cultural Village (บ้านสันติชล). This settlement was formed by Chinese people who fled the Yunnan Province to escape the cultural revolution in China. The village has traditional clay houses, Chinese temples, red lanterns, Chinese artwork and architecture. The Santichon Chinese Village was officially opened to tourists in 2005 and since then it has become one of the most popular things to do in Pai. Visitors to the Santichon Chinese village can try traditional Chinese food, green tea and buy gifts and local crafts.
How much does it cost to visit the Santichon Chinese Village? It is free to visit the Santichon Chinese village
Where is the Santichon Chinese village located? The Santichon Chinese village is located to the west of Pai around 5km from the centre of town. This would be a good activity to do after seeing the sunrise at the Yun Lai viewpoint.
26 Take a dip in the Sai Ngam hot river (pronounced “Sai Nag-am”)
This is one of our favourite things to do in Pai. The Sai Ngam hot spring (น้ำพุร้อนธรรมชาติป่าอนุรักษ์ไทรงาม) is a geothermally heated river with a small man made dam to form a pool for bathing. The water is genuinely a comfortable bathing temperature and you could easily spend a long time enjoying the serene natural beauty here. There is also a section with natural clay to scoop up and make a clay mud mask.
Sai Ngam is situated in a beautiful valley and the river itself enjoys the shade of the trees. More recently the area has been developed and now has facilities such as toilets and seating areas. Sai Ngam has become very popular as an attraction over the last few years so it can be tricky to get this place to yourself. We recommend arriving nice and early to beat the crowds. Officially the Sai Ngam hot spring opens at 8am and this is probably early enough for it to either be very quiet or to have the place to yourself.
How much does it cost to visit the Sai Ngam hot spring? To visit the Sai Ngam hot spring you will need a Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary for 200 baht. Remember this is the same pass for the Tham Lod cave and Pam Bok waterfall (plus some other attractions too). So plan your itinerary carefully.
Where is the Sai Ngam hot spring located? The Sai Ngam hot spring is located approximately 10km north of Pai by road. The ticket office for the Sai Ngam hot spring is located at the junction on route 1095 where you turn right to the hot spring (if you’re coming from the Pai direction). After this right turn you follow a road for approximately 3.5km. This section of road is very steep at points. If you are coming by bike we recommend a bike with a more powerful engine.
27 See the hills of the Myanmar border region
Gaze deep into the golden triangle at the Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint (ดอยกิ่วลม). This is a breathtaking viewpoint located approximately 20km northwest of Pai on the route 1095. Located some 30km from the Myanmar border this is a stunning place to see the strange shaped hills that characterise the Myanmar borderlands. There is also a hiking trail above this viewpoint. To access this hiking trail you need to have a one day pass for the Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary (200baht). At the Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint you can find little stalls selling hot drinks, snacks and craft items. This is a great spot to stop on the way to the Tham Lod cave.
How much does it cost to visit the Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint? It is free to stop at the viewpoint itself. However there is also a hiking trail that costs 200 baht (Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary one day pass)
Where is the Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint located?
Note: On Google Maps there is another Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint to the south east of Pai (on the Chiang Mai – Mae Hong Son border).
28 Explore Tham Lod river cave
The Tham Lod cave remains one of our favourite caves in the world. So much so, we have produced a specific guide on the Tham Lod cave. This is also one of our top pick things to do in Pai. In the Tham Lod cave you can see impressive stalactites and stalagmites and a massive cave column (21.45m in length). You can sail on a bamboo raft down an underground section of the Nam Lang river which flows through a huge subterranean cavern (600m long, 200m across and 130m high). Expect to see loads of birds and bats and ancient carvings and a teakwood coffin that is thought to be around 1,400 year old. You can also see a 2,000-3,000 year old cave painting of a deer.
This area also has its share of wildlife; you can also see fish in the river near the cave entrance and some very beautiful jungle around the cave. During the dry months (December – July) it is possible to take raft trips into the cave. During the rainy months (August – November) there are no boats due to the high water levels in the river. It is still possible to explore Tham Lod by foot during the rainy months. These seasons can vary a little depending on the year. Also remember that the ticket for Tham Lod is the same one day ticket that gives you access to Sai Ngam hot river and the Pam Bok waterfall.
How much does it cost to visit the Tham Lod cave? This depends on who is going and what you want to do. The cost is in three parts: Every visitor needs a Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary one day pass for 200 baht (100 baht for children). A bamboo raft costs 400 baht (or 300 baht one way) and can be shared by up to three people. A guide costs 150 baht (they have lanterns).
Where is the Tham Lod cave located? The Tham Lod cave is located some 50km to the northwest of Pai. The journey takes around 1.5 hours each way by car or bike. The cave tour takes around 30minutes – 1 hour. The journey itself to the cave is VERY beautiful and passes the Doi Kiew Lom viewpoint. Due to the distance, a return taxi ride is likely to cost at least 600 – 1,000 baht if you arrange it through a tour agent in Pai.
29 Visit the Pai Land split (This is currently closed but we hope it will reopen soon!)
The Pai land split is one of those fascinating and inspiring things to do in Pai. The Mae Hong Song province has a lot of geological activity. Hotsprings, geysers and the occasional small earthquake can all be experienced in this area. One morning in 2008, a farmer woke up in Pai only to discover that a split had formed on his farmland, rendering the area unusable for agriculture. It turns out that the farmland rests on a fault line.
The farmer came up with the innovative solution of opening up his farm for visitors and tourists to explore and see the land split. Several pathways lead up the hill around the land split allowing you to see this natural landmark from different angles. The lovely farmer also serves fruit platters (organic fruits grown on his farm) and refreshing juices such as Hibiscus juice and Rosella juice. What’s more, this family do not charge anything to visit the land split or enjoy fruit, instead they have a humble donation box and sell other local produce. This is a great place to stop on the way to Pam Bok waterfall.
How much does it cost to visit the Pai land split? The Pai land split is free to visit. Just drop a donation in the box.
Where is the Pai land split located? The Pai land split is located to the south of Pai on the road that leads up to the Pam Bok waterfall. The journey by road is around 6km and takes around 15 minutes from the centre of Pai.
30 Take a dip at the Pam Bok waterfall
The Pam Bok waterfall (น้ำตกแพมบก). The Pam Bok waterfall is a sheer drop waterfall dramatically located in a narrow rocky canyon. The pool at the bottom of the waterfall is deep enough to swim – especially in the rainy season and particularly as you get closer to the waterfall itself. From the car park there is a short walk up to the waterfall (a few hundred metres). When you get to the waterfall you can see the waterfall from the path. To get the best view of the waterfall you need to scramble over rocks and through the river.
There are a few more impressive waterfalls in the area but these are more tricky to get to: The Mork Fa waterfall is larger and more impressive than Pam Bok, but is a long drive. The Hua Chang waterfall is also more impressive, but requires a challenging jungle trek that will take several hours. Both of these other waterfalls are also on this list of things to do in Pai. After visiting the Pam Bok waterfall we recommend a visit to the bamboo bridge and temple, a little further up the same road.
How much does it cost to visit the Pam Bok waterfall? To visit the Pam Bok waterfall you need a Lum Nam Pai wildlife sanctuary one day pass for 200 baht (100 baht for children). Remember this also includes Sai Ngam hot spring and the Tham Lod cave so we recommend that you plan to see all of these attractions on the same day (unless you plan to buy more than one pass)
Where is the Pam Bok waterfall located? The Pam Bok waterfall is located to the south or Pai a little further up the road from the Pai Land Split.
31 Visit the Kho Koo So bamboo bridge
The Kho Koo So bamboo bridge (สะพานไม้ไผ่ โขกู้โส่) is a scenic walkway 813m in length over rice paddies leading to a temple in the hills. This is a particularly beautiful location, especially during the rainy season. The Kho Koo So bamboo bridge was built by the Baan Pam Bok village community in 2016 to allow the monks to walk from the monastery to the village. The construction of the bridge took approximately 3 months.
If you are interested in seeing the bamboo bridge with monks walking out for alms we recommend visiting early in the morning 6.30am – 7.30am. If you plan to visit the Kho Koo So bamboo bridge we recommend tying it in with a visit to the Pai land split and also the Pam Bok waterfall. 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).
How much does it cost to visit the bamboo bridge? There is a 30 baht entrance fee (honesty box)
Where is the bamboo bridge located? The bamboo bridge is a short drive up the road from the Pam Bok waterfall.
32 Visit Love Strawberry Pai
Love Strawberry Pai is a strawberry plantation that sells lots of strawberry products and also allows you to pick your own strawberries for 200 baht per kilogram (£4 or $5). It is also a lovely spot to take in the view over the Pai valley. Like most places in Pai, Love Strawberry is packed with color, character and quirky artwork. Love Strawberry Pai has a small cafe selling drinks, snacks and strawberry treats. This is a great place to drop in and wander around – you don’t need too long to enjoy this cute quirky place. If your planning to visit the land split, Pam Bok waterfall and the bamboo bridge, you could then come to visit Love Strawberry. A little further along the route 1095 you can visit the Pai Canyon – a great spot for sunset.
How much does it cost to visit Love Strawberry Pai? You can visit the plantation for free. Drinks range from 50 – 80 baht (roughly £1 – £1.60 or $1.30 – $2).
Where is Love Strawberry Pai located? It is hard to miss Love Strawberry Pai. It is located around 7km south of Pai on the route 1095. Love Strawberry Pai is open daily from 8am – 6pm
33 See the sunset at Pai Canyon
Pai canyon is a breathtaking region of ridges, deep canyon valleys and undulating terrain with panoramic views of the Pai valley. It is possible to walk around the ridges to enjoy various vantage points. This area does get busy and a visit at sunset is definitely one of the classic things to do in Pai. So don’t expect to have the Pai canyon to yourself. It is possible to enjoy the canyon from the viewing platform without needing to follow any precarious trails. However, if you’re feeling adventurous you can walk round the paths along the top of the ridges to explore the area. We recommend good footwear and lots of caution. There are some steep drops – so explore this area carefully. As ever we cannot accept responsibility for people’s safety here. We do not recommend this for families with young children due to the steep drops.
How much does it cost to visit the Pai canyon? It is free of charge to visit the Pai canyon. This is impressive for such a beautiful and popular spot.
Where is the Pai canyon located? The Pai canyon is located roughly 7.5km south of Pai on the route 1095. Keep an eye open for the car park on the right (around 0.5km further along the 1095 from Love Strawberry Pai). From the car park it is a short walk up some steps to the Pai Canyon.
34 Visit the World War II Memorial bridge
The World War II memorial bridge is located on the Route 1095 and crosses the Pai River. The World War II memorial bridge is also known as Saphan Prawatsart. The first bridge was originally built here in 1942 by the Japanese in order to create a supply route to Burma for troops and weapons. However, the original bridge was destroyed when the Japanese army retreated. Since then several rebuilds have taken place. The bridge that stands here now was constructed in 1975 and stands as a memorial to those who fought in World War II.
How much does it cost to visit the World War II memorial bridge? You can visit the World War II memorial bridge for free.
Where is the World War II memorial bridge located? The World War II memorial bridge is located approximately 10km south of Pai on the route 1095.
35 Visit the Mork Fa waterfall (a long way from Pai)
The Mork Fa waterfall is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the area. It is a tall breathtakng sheer drop waterfall. The giant sheer cliffs and tropical foliage create the perfect jungle waterfall scene. You can also swim in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall. The Mork Fa waterfall is a short walk from the car park (only a few hundred metres).
If you cross the river and take a short walk up some steps you can follow a path that leads round to the side of the waterfall roughly halfway up the cliffs for an even more impressive waterfall view. There is also a small cave up here called the Tham Naa Khon cave. This is a fantastic detour if you are travelling between Chiang Mai and Pai. If you are planning to visit the Mork Fa waterfall as a day trip from Pai, consider visiting the Highland coffee plantation and the Pong Duet Geyser.
How much does it cost to visit the Mork Fa waterfall? Entry tickets to the Mork Fa waterfall cost 100 baht.
Where is the Mork Fa waterfall located? The Mork Fa waterfall is located in the Doi Suthep Pui National Park, over 70km to the southeast of Pai. Being so far from Pai it is a little cheeky including this on our list of things to do in Pai. But Mork Fa waterfall is so epic it is well worth the journey. If you have your own transport we recommend visiting the Mork Fa waterfall on the way to or from Pai if you are planning to use this route. Alternatively, this could be a great day trip from Pai. You can visit the Mork Fa waterfall daily from 8am – 5pm.
36 Have a coffee at Pankled coffee (near the Mork Fa waterfall)
This is a great spot to stop in if you are visiting the Mork Fa waterfall. Pankled coffee is a beautiful countryside coffee shop with a roastery onsite. They have an art studio and organic farm plantation that you can explore. Pankled coffee serves a range of fresh coffees and hot drinks. They also have a tempting bakery serving a delicious range of freshly baked goodies. If you’re travelling between Chiang Mai and Pai this is a great point to stop for a rest and a drink.
How much do drinks cost at Pankled Coffee? Drinks range from 50 – 100 baht (£1 – £2 or $1.30 – $2.50)
Where is Pankled Coffee located? Pankled coffee is located on the route 1095 just on the junction for the Mork Fa waterfall.
37 Visit the Highland Coffee plantation
The tropical mountain landscape of northwest Thailand provides the right environment for growing coffee. If you’re taking a visit to the Mork Fa waterfall don’t miss the Highland Coffee plantation. This is a great spot to try freshly roasted coffee at the source, learn more about coffee production, try some local food and buy some all important bags of coffee. The Highland coffee plantation is open in between November – March.
How much does it cost to visit the Highland Coffee plantation? It is FREE to visit the Highland Coffee plantation.
Where is the highland coffee plantation located? Not far from the Mork Fa waterfall on the route 1095.
38 Visit a Geyser and hot spring park
Pong Dueat Geyser and hot spring park (โป่งเดือดป่าแป๋) has a geothermal geyser where high pressure heated water can be seen spurting out of the ground (also spelled Pong Duet). The water is heated by pockets of magma deep underground. Under pressure the water is heated to 170 – 200oC until it starts to boil further increasing the pressure. This build up in pressure causes the water to move rapidly up towards the surface until it spurts out of a crack in the ground. There is also a hot spring pool where you can take a dip and benefit from the mineral rich water.
Around the hills of Pong Duaet you can also find jungle trekking trails. This is one of the things to do in Pai if you plan to be around for a while. Consider visiting the Pong Dueat park if you are planning a day trip to the Mork Fa waterfall. Alternatively you could visit the Pong Dueat geyser and hot spring park on your way to and from Pai. We have included a visit to the Pong Dueat geyser and hot spring park due to the beauty of this area and the unique nature of this amazing place.
How much does it cost to visit the Pong Dueat geyser? The only downside of this amazing place is the relatively expensive entrance fee of 300 baht for foreigners. It is also quite a long way from Pai. So we only recommend this if you’re around for a while and looking for something different to do.
Where is the Pong Duaet Geyser located? Around 60km southwest of Pai by road.
39 Visit a local art gallery in Pai
You don’t have to look far to find an array of creative artwork in Pai. In addition to arty coffee shops and cafes you can also find lots of small art galleries selling local art and craft. Some places offer everything – cafe, gallery and art shop all in one. You can even find beautiful authentic artwork being sold on the night market. 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. In our experience local art makes for affordable and beautiful gifts. Paintings tend to pack down very well and barely add any additional weight to your luggage. Local artwork also often expresses unique features of this beautiful part of the world.
How much does it cost to visit an art gallery in Pai? Most galleries are free to visit. They make money from selling art work. 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)
Where can you find art galleries in Pai? Here are a few options: The Pai Siam gallery on Chai Songkhram road, Art in Pai on Khet Khelang road and the Art Farm Studio in Wiang Nuea.
I can’t believe we’ve made it to 40! If you’ve been with us all this way thank you AND stick with us. Loads more epic things still to come…
40 Go Tubing on the Pai River
If you’re looking for more unique and memorable things to do in Pai consider a tubing trip. We have already mentioned the beautiful Pai river with its bamboo bridges, rolling jungle hills and water wheel. You can now enjoy the Pai river from the comfort of an inflatable tube. Bring along a drink and relax as you gently drift down the river taking in the stunning scenery. This is also a great way to meet people and make friends with other like minded hippies. If you do a tubing trip we recommend bringing swimming stuff but be aware that you will be exposed so consider sun protection too.
How much do tubing trips cost in Pai? 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. Book one day in advance in order to find out the timings.
Where can you arrange a tubing trip in Pai? You can arrange tubing trips from Aya Services located on the Pai walking street.
41 Drink a healthy refreshing fruit shake
Pai has a fantastic selection of tropical fruits grown locally. Bananas, coconut, mango, pineapple, lemon, orange, lime, star fruit, dragon fruit, papaya, strawberry, passion fruit, lychee to name but a few. Shake places often create innovative mixtures of fruits blended with ice, syrup and sometimes milk or yogurt. If you’re staying in Pai make sure you don’t miss the amazing fruit shake places, especially along the Pai walking street. A few of our favourite shakes include; Banana and Coconut for a thick smooth nutritious blend. Mango and passion fruit is a sweet tangy combi and lemon for a refreshing hit. If you spot avocado – this blends beautifully with milk and syrup.
How much do fruit shakes cost in Pai? You can find fruit shakes starting at around 30 baht (60p or $0.80). If you mix fruits you may need to pay a little more but they will still be amazing value for money.
Where can you find fruit shakes in Pai? Most cafes have fruit shake options. You can also find small shake stalls on the Pai walking street.
42 Learn to cook authentic Thai dishes
Taking a Thai cookery class definitely earns its place on our list of amazing things to do in Pai. This is a great way to connect with the culture, have fun and learn some sweet skills. There is a lovely little cookery school & restaurant called Savoei located on the Pai walking street (Chai Songkhram road). 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. 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.
They offer two classes per day: 9.30am – 1.30pm and 4pm – 8pm.
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 it costs 800 baht per person (minimum of 2 people and maximum of 4 people)
Where is Savoei cookery school located? Savoei, A Taste of Pai Cookery School is located on Pai Walking Street near Wat Pa Kham. 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
43 Visit the local Pai market
Another way to connect with the culture of a place is to visit a local market. And if you’re looking for things to do in Pai – the Sang Thong Aram market (ตลาดแสงทองอร่าม) is a genuinely local experience. The night market is lovely – but is more directed towards tourists than locals. In contrast the Sang Thong Aram market is the main local market in Pai where locals come to buy fresh products. It is nice and central and only a 10-15 minute walk from the Pai walking street (where you find most accommodation in Pai). In Thailand the markets come to life early in the morning. Packed with fresh fruits, spices, local treats and food stalls, a Thai morning market is a multi-sensory experience. You can visit the Sang Thong Aram market throughout the day but we recommend arriving 6am – 7am to experience it at its best.
How much does it cost to visit a local market in Pai? It is free to Sang Thong Aram market independently. Food and drinks are very affordable.
Where is the Sang Thong Aram market? The Sang Thong Aram market is located in the centre of Pai town on the route 1095 6am -6pm
44 Trek to Hua Chang waterfall
Trekking to the Hua Chang waterfall is one of the more active things to do in Pai and it is well worth the sweat. The northwest corner of Thailand is well known for its epic waterfalls, and Hua Chang earns its place on this list. The Hua Chang waterfall is a large triple head waterfall. Located deep in the jungle hills, this place is exhilarating and breathtaking. Getting to Hua Chang waterfall is an intrepid jungle adventure. 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. Fortunately this lengthy trek is relatively flat. The trek to Hua Chang waterfall follows the Mueang Luang river up a valley (เมืองหลวง) involves some 20 river crossings. The crossings are not too deep but be prepared for your feet to get wet, over and over again.
At points navigation can be a little tricky. Firstly 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. For the last few hundred metres of this route there is no longer a path beside the river. You will need to be prepared to walk up the river to the waterfalls. To get close to the waterfalls you also need to scramble over some rocks (take care doing this – remember you are in a very remote location).
Here is a super helpful route map to help you navigate to the Hua Chang waterfall. Be aware that even with a GPS navigation on this route can still be a challenge. Always stick to the trail.
How much does it cost to visit the Hua Chang waterfall? You can visit Hua Chang waterfall for FREE. There are no national park fees or permits to visit this area.
Where is the Hua Chang waterfall located? Hua Chang waterfall is located approximately 15km to the north east of Pai. Depending where you park the trek to Hua Chang waterfall is around 5-7km each way.
Warning: When you are trekking in the wild (especially the jungle) always take measures to protect yourself. Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you are expecting to be back. Take a well charged phone. Remember to bring plenty of water, food and dress appropriately (trainers are best for a trek like this). For this route mosquito repellant is highly recommended. Trees provide good shelter from the sun on most of this route. We cannot accept any responsibility for anyones safety doing this or any of the other activities that we share.
45 Relax with a Thai massage
Treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage. There are several spas located around Pai town offering a range of treatments including Thai massage. Spas can particularly be found around the Pai walking street and surrounding streets. Thai massage is about applying pressure and stretching the body to release tension. The Thai massages are normally fully body massages including hands, feet, limbs, back, neck shoulders and head. By the end you are likely to feel both relaxed and invigorated. A Thai massage is definitely one of the most relaxing things to do in Pai.
How much does a Thai massage cost in Pai? Most places charge around 150 – 250 baht per hour for a Thai massage (this is around £3 – £5 or $5 – $7).
Where can you get a traditional Thai massage? Check out Massage Lalita on Rat Damrong road
46 Breakfast by the river
We have already mentioned that breakfasts are a thing to do. And we didn’t want to let the opportunity pass without giving a shout out to the Family House @ Pai. This is a hotel and restaurant which is known as the place to go for excellent steak. Less well known are the breakfasts at Family House @ Pai. 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. Enjoy your breakfast and coffee as you experience the morning light gradually filling the valley and watch the jungle hills come to life.
How much does breakfast cost at the Family House @ Pai? Most breakfast dishes range in price from around 50 baht – 250 baht.
Where is the Family House @ Pai located? Family house @ Pai is located by the river, next to Golden Bungalows and near the bamboo bridge (close to Wat Pa Kham).
47 Buy some handmade jewellery
The Pai night market on Chai Songkhram road is not only amazing for super cheap fresh food and drinks. This is also a top spot to buy handmade jewellery and kitsch accessories. The Pai night market seems to have a wider and more creative array of accessories and jewellery compared to other markets in different places around Thailand. On the Pai night market Jewellery styles include stylish boho, tasteful vintage and full blown new age hippy.
You can also often find small stalls selling handcrafted leather accessories. You’re not likely to find high-end expensive jewellery or knock offs on the Pai night market. Instead expect to find totally unique local handmade items that will forever remind you of your time in this beautiful little town. Make sure you plan some shopping time amongst your things to do in Pai. It is advisable to barter when you are buying clothing, gifts, jewellery and accessories on the Pai night market.
How much does jewelry cost on the Pai night market? It totally depends on what you wish to buy. You can find super simple bracelets starting at around 20 baht each (around 40p or $0.5). Sellers may charge as much as 500 baht or more for some of the more unique and beautiful pieces (this is around £10 or $13). These prices are just to give you an idea of the range of prices to expect to pay.
Where is the Pai night market located? Uncase you missed it earlier, the Pai night market is located on Chia Songkhram road and runs from around 5.30pm until late in the evening.
48 Get a western fix with a juicy burger
Sometimes only a good burger will cut it! There are several burger places around Pai but one of them stands out from the rest by a mile! If you’re in Pai and you love a good burger, don’t miss IP Burger & Grill. They have a drool-tastic creative menu of gourmet burgers and meals (including crocodile burgers!!!). We were super impressed with the quality of the burgers and the portions are very generous too. Light fluffy burger buns, and the pates are seriously juicy – and packed with rich peppery meat. It is rare to find burgers of this quality – especially for such great prices. So if you’re a burger lover – a meal at IP Burger and Grill is a DO NOT miss things to do in Pai. Their menu includes the following meats (in order of increasing price): chicken, pork, beef, wild boar, crocodile and venison burgers.
How much does a burger cost at IP Burger & Grill in Pai? Prices range from roughly 60 baht to 100 baht (yes, thats around £1.20 to £2 or $1.50 to $2.50). French fries cost 40 baht for a generous portion (this is around 80p or just over $1)
Where is IP burger and Grill located? IP Burger and Grill is just located on a small street off Pai Walking street (Chai Sonkhram road), near the Pai Provincial Court.
49 Take a cooling dip
This may not be one of the most unique things to do in Pai. However, if you have a little more time in Pai, a refreshing swim is a great way to cool off in the heat of the day. Some of the swimming pools around Pai have great vibes and are a great way to meet people (such as the Fluid Pool and Bar). Other pools have amazing views (such as the Two Huts pool). If you’re into wild swimming you can swim at some of the waterfalls (such as Mo Paeng and Pam Bok waterfall) or even take a dip in the Pai river which is fairly slow flowing.
How much does it cost to swim in Pai? Depending where you swim
Where can you swim in Pai? There are several places to swim around Pai. There is a pool at the Twin Huts cafe (50 baht). The Pai circus hostel also has a swimming pool. Check out the Fluid Pool and Bar for a swimming pool with good vibes. You can also find lots of hotels around Pai XXXX with swimming pools. They often let visitors use the pool either for a small cost or if you buy a drink at the bar.
50 Try Rosella juice
Rosella juice is a sweet red juice made from the flower of the roselle shrub (also known as red hibiscus juice). Roselle grows locally in Pai and you can often find cafes and juice shops selling rosella juice. Roselle has been used Medicinal plant for centuries and is one of those super healthy gems of nature. Rosella juice is reputed to have a wide range of beneficial properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant properties. It is also thought to enhance your immune system and much more. So if you get a chance to sample this gift of nature, we highly recommend it.
How much does Rosella juice cost? You can normally buy Rosella juice for 20-30 baht in Thailand (this is 40p – 60p or roughly $0.5 – 0.8)
Where can you find Rosella juice in Pai? Some juice shops and cafes may sell Rosella juice. You can try fresh Rosella juice at the Pai land split. The Malamong art cafe often sells teas or Kombucha that include rosella.
51 Try fresh homemade vegan food
In Thailand it can be hard to find good vegetarian and vegan food. Although Thai food does not use much milk or cream – they do use a lot of meat, eggs and seafood. If you are looking for fresh quality vegan food in Pai for an excellent price you’re in luck. On Pa Kham Road (just next to Wat Pa Kham) there is a vegan cafe serving super fresh, wholesome and satisfying vegan dishes. Street Vegan #1 have a creative menu of meals – which are often western or mediterranean in style.
How much does food cost at Street Vegan #1? Dishes range from around 100 – 200 baht (roughly £2 – £4 or $2.50 – $5)
Where is Street Vegan #1 located? Street Vegan #1 is located on Pa Kham road (just next to wat Pa Kham) very close to the Pai walking street. It generally opens around 5pm and stays open through the evening.
52 Stay in a luxurious villa
Reverie Siam rightfully earns its place on our list of THE BEST things to do in Pai. Reverie Siam is a luxurious 5 star hotel with a classic traditional colonial theme running throughout the resort. This stylish hotel mixes up vintage antique and asian art to create a stylish interior. The villas are impressively spacious and comfortable. They have two outdoor swimming pools and the restaurant is highly recommended. Reverie Siam also offers an array of daily experiences, which are included with some of their rooms and suites.Even if you don’t stay at Reverie Siam, take a moment to check out their rooms. You will be astounded how much you can get for the money here.
How much does it cost to stay at Reverie Siam? Rooms and villas range in price from 8,000 baht – 18,000 baht depending on the season (this is roughly £160 – £360 or approximately $200 to $450). Keep an eye out for special offers and discounted prices on booking.com.
Where is Reverie Siam located? Reverie Siam is located to the south of Pai town on the west side of the river a few kilometers from walking street.
53 North Thai sausage
There are so many things to do in Pai for food lovers. Sai Oua (ไส้อั่ว) is a spicy north Thai sausage made with minced pork meat, spices such as galangal, kaffir lime and lemon grass and red curry paste. Sai Oua tends to be thick with a medium grain mincemeat, and also a little gristle. In Thailand Sai Oua is sometimes known as “Chiang Mai sausage” being strongly associated with the area. Sai Oua is often served with sticky rice. Your best be for finding Sai Oua in Pai is to try small streetside stalls.
How much does it cost to try Sai Oua? You can normally try Sai Oua for around 30 – 60 baht depending on the size of the portion
Where can you find Sai Oua in Pai? Look out for Sai Oua on small streetside stalls, especially around the market
54 Visit the Mueng Paeng hot spring
With so many things to do in Pai, this is one to do if you feel like you have a bit of extra time. The Mueng Paeng hot spring is a scenic hot spring river located around 30km south of Pai. The advantage of the remote rural location is that Mueng Paeng hot spring is a quiet non-touristy spot. What’s more you can enjoy this natural hot spring FREE of charge. Just take a relaxing dip in the water and enjoy the rural surroundings. We would recommend Mueng Paeng if you have visited the other hot springs in Pai (Sai Ngam and the Hot Spring Resort & Spa) and you have a bit more time.
How much does it cost to visit the Mueng Paeng hot springs near Pai? The Mueng Peng hot spring is located in a valley approximately 30km south of Pai.
Where is the Mueng Paeng hot spring located? It is free to visit the Mueng Paeng hot spring.
55 See monks collecting alms in the morning
Monks can often be seen walking around their local community early in the morning, often dressed in saffron robes and barefoot. The monks in Thailand collect alms by walking around the community with an offerings bowl. Locals will generally make offerings including food, flowers and sometimes money. The idea behind this is that donating food and gifts to the monks sustains them in the monastic life and allows locals to support and contribute to the monastery. The monks can be seen saying blessings over the person. The monks in Thailand normally collect alms early in the morning – generally between around 6am – 7.30am. We recommend taking a walk around Pai early in the morning to see this religious ceremony (especially near the wats).
How much does it cost to see the alms collection in Pai? It may cost an hour or two of sleep in the morning but it is well worth seeing
Where can you see monks collecting alms in Pai? You can normally see monks collecting alms in Pai all around the town.
56 Visit an elephant sanctuary (a long journey from Pai)
If you are staying in Pai and you want to have an ethical elephant encounter, we would recommend a visit to the Elephant Nature Park. There are several small elephant camps in Pai (especially to the south of Pai and on east side of the river). Our impression is that the elephants are well cared for in these local elephant camps, however they don’t have the same space and freedom that elephants have in ethical santuaries like the Elephant Nature Park. The only downside of the Elephant Nature Park is the long distance from Pai.
With so many things to do in Pai, it is surprising that there aren’t any good ethical elephant sanctuaries closer the village. You can still visit an ethical elephant sanctuary as a long day trip from Pai – so we are including this as one of our things to do in Pai. However, it is a pretty long journey from Pai to the nearest ethical elephant sanctuary (115km and takes roughly 3 hours each way). If you do visit the Elephant Nature Park it would be an early start, most of their activities start around 8-9am.
How much does it cost to visit the Elephant Nature Park? Packages typically cost 6,000 baht per person depending what you wish to do. Not all of the packages involve elephant bathing. Make sure you carefully check your package includes everything you want to do.
Where is the Elephant Nature Park located? The Elephant Nature Park is located approximately 115 km to the east of Pai. The journey will take approximately 3 hours each way. It would be possible to do this as a long day trip from Pai.
Top tip: If you are planning to travel between Pai and Chiang Mai, consider visiting the Elephant Nature Park on your journey if this is possible.
There are of course even more amazing things to do in Pai – we have just tried to give you a taster of some of our favs. If you know of other things to do in Pai please drop us a comment.
