Is Pai worth visiting in Thailand?
After a fun, but hectic couple of weeks in Bangkok and Chiang Mai…
It was time to check out that tiny town in northern Thailand everyone keeps talking about - Pai…
The secret’s definitely out these days, so I wanted to find out for myself: Is Pai really worth visiting?
If you’re unsure whether Pai is worth the detour from Chiang Mai… Especially with that long, winding road… You’re in the right place.
This guide covers everything from the town’s unique sunset spots and budget tips, to whether you’ll fall into the infamous Pai Hole.
Northern Thailand is stunning, and Pai’s vibe is unlike anywhere else. So, is it worth it?
Let’s just say… I didn’t plan to stay long, but things didn’t quite go to plan.
Pai Canyon.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.
Why visit Pai?
Pai is one of those places that you just fall in love with.. instantly!
It’s a small town with a big personality and a laid-back vibe, that inspires creativity and connection.
It was no surprise that the fellow backpackers I met were musicians, artists, and generally driven, creative people doing cool things with their time.
The atmosphere is chill and a little bit hippie, making it an awesome South East Asian destination to escape life for a short while.
Nature is a big draw to Thailand, and with Pai Canyon, the hot springs, waterfalls, and scenic rice fields all worthy of interesting day trips.
Renting a scooter and exploring the area was a true highlight of my 3 month backpacking trip.
One other big draw to Pai are the cheap prices, with delicious street food costing pennies, and nice accommodation being affordable.
In short, visit Pai if you’re craving:
A relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.
Some budget-friendly travel in a scenic setting.
Authentic local experiences with just enough comforts.
A break from the hustle of places like Chiang Mai or Bangkok.
The sign near Coffee in Love.
An affordable backpacker-friendly destination.
I found that Pai is one of the easiest places in Thailand to travel on a budget, so it’s no surprise it’s such a big draw for travellers.
With a mix of cheap eats, a high-energy social scene, and affordable accommodation, it ticked every box for me.
This small, quirky town is a popular stop on the Southeast Asia backpacking route, as it is super chill, easy to meet people.
It’s full of solo travellers, digital nomads, and long-term wanderers, most of whom came for a few days and just... stayed.
Pai Graffiti Art.
Feel the unique energy in town.
As I mentioned above, hippie is one way to describe the town’s energy!
The surrounding nature and beautiful sunsets contribute heavily towards the chilled vibe.
I remember getting off the bus from Chiang Mai and feeling the switch in tempo immediately.
The popular cities in Thailand are fun, however, between the jungle views, gentle music, and laid-back locals, Pai has a rhythm all its own.
A fun cafe.
I enjoyed the chill vibe everywhere in town… The cafés, bars, and night markets, even the random nightclubs I visited.
If you’re after good vibes, easy days, and a proper reset, Pai just hits different.
Ganesh in town is very lively.
Weed shops are popping up everywhere.
Enjoy the region’s beautiful nature.
One of my favourite things about Pai is how easy it is to escape into nature.
Within 10 to 30 minutes by scooter, you’ve got access to lush rice fields, hot springs, waterfalls, canyons, and quiet jungle roads.
I loved my days exploring the area!
If you’re after more of an adventure, spots like Pai Canyon, Mor Paeng Waterfall, the Bamboo Bridge, and Yun Lai Viewpoint are all worth checking out.
Each one has its own vibe, and most are either free or very cheap to visit.
Whether you’re cruising around on a scooter, climbing up for a viewpoint, or just finding a quiet spot to chill and take it all in, Pai’s is awesome.
Visiting Pam Bok waterfall.
A beautiful display near Pai.
Relax during one of Pai’s magical sunsets.
When it comes down to what to do in Pai at sunset time, you are spoilt for choice!
This laid-back town somehow becomes even more chill as the sun goes down, with a few iconic spots that backpackers always seem to gravitate toward.
Most travellers stay in Pai for at least 3 or 4 nights, which gives you plenty of chances to experience golden hour in different ways.
On my first night, I headed to Pai Canyon with some new friends from a day tour. We spent a good hour before sunset wandering across the ridges and hunting for viewpoints.
Eventually we found an epic spot to sit down and crack open a couple of Changs!
Just a heads-up: Pai Canyon gets busy. If you want a quieter experience, you’ll need to head deeper into the ridges to find a bit of peace.
If you’re more in the mood to chill after a hot day, Two Huts is the perfect sunset alternative… Live music, food, cocktails, and a super laid-back vibe.
Most day tours in town include either Pai Canyon or Two Huts, along with the other famous Pai attractions.
I did this one and loved it - Check availability here.
Enjoying sunset at Pai Canyon.
Two Huts vs Pai Canyon.
Pai Canyon
Easily the most popular sunset spot in Pai.
Epic panoramic views over jungle and mountains.
Expect crowds, especially in high season.
The narrow ridges can be sketchy if you’re not great with heights.
Worth it for the photos, but not the most peaceful place.
Best for: First-timers, photographers, adventurous types.
Two Huts
Quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.
Local bar with hammocks, chill music, and a few drinks on offer.
Sunset views are still beautiful, just less dramatic.
Great place to meet other solo travellers or wind down after a long day.
Feels more like a hidden gem.
Best for: Relaxing, social vibes, off-the-beaten-path sunset.
If you want epic views, head to Pai Canyon… Just don’t expect it to be quiet.
If you’re more about chilled-out energy and a beer with a view, Two Huts wins.
Two Huts at sunset.
Best time to visit Pai.
Pai’s vibe shifts a lot depending on when you visit.
Some months offer misty mornings and glowing green rice fields, and others causing hazy skies, or surprise tropical downpours.
I went in February and absolutely loved it… Long sunny days, clear skies, and just warm enough without being too hot. I couldn’t have timed it better.
Here’s what each season brings, so you know what to expect:
☀️ Cool Season (Nov–Feb) – The Best Time to Visit Pai.
Dry weather, blue skies, and perfect temps.
Cool mornings, warm sunny days, ideal for hiking, scooters, and sunsets.
Most popular season with backpackers and travellers.
🔥 Hot Season (March–Mid-May) – The Burning Season.
Very hot with rising temperatures and smoky skies.
Burning season peaks (especially March–April), reducing air quality and visibility.
Not ideal for outdoor activities or viewpoints.
🌧️ Rainy Season (Mid-May–Oct) – The Green Season
Afternoon rain showers + vibrant, lush landscapes.
Fewer tourists = peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Great for waterfalls, rice fields, and chilled-out travel.
Does burning season affect Pai?
I won’t lie, the burning season can definitely take the shine off Pai if you time it wrong.
The air gets smoky, views disappear, and it’s just not the same laid-back vibe Pai is known for.
It usually kicks off around late February and can run through to April, so it’s worth planning around these dates if you can.
Some beautiful scenery near Pai.
Will you feel safe in Pai?
Yes… Pai feels like one of the safest places in Thailand, especially for backpackers and solo travellers.
I travelled alone and had no issues at all!
I walked home from a nightclub at 4 am one night, and there was no stress, no hassle, just a peaceful stroll through town.
For solo travellers (including solo female travellers), Pai is a popular and comfortable place to explore.
Just stay sensible, and stay off your scooter after drinking!
Positive vibes can be found all over the town.
Is Pai still cheap?
Short answer: yes…
Pai is still one of the most budget-friendly spots in Thailand. Whether you’re backpacking or just trying to make your baht go further, it’s a great place to slow down without spending big.
After a very busy couple of weeks in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, it was nice to save some pennies and relax a little!
Accommodation:
Dorm beds can be found for 150 – 300 baht (£4 - £7) per night in some quieter spots, but in the high season I ended up paying £30 for one night in Revolutions.
I actually secured a room for the next few nights in a nice hotel (see later in post) for less than this.
Private bungalows which may have breakfast included, and a swimming pool can be found for 500 – 1000 baht (£10 - £20) if booked in advance.
Food & Drink:
This is where I found Pai to be amazing. I spent less than £10 per day on my food, and I ate very well, with a mixture of street food and restaurants.
I found local Thai dishes for 40–80 baht (£1 - £2), plus loads of cheap eats at the night market.
If you fancy a change from Thai food, then the more Western cafés are a bit more expensive, but still reasonable.
A beautiful Khao Soi in Pai.
Scooter Rental:
You can easily find somewhere in town which charges 100 – 150 baht (£3 - £4) per day, and petrol costs next to nothing.
Perfect for cheap days exploring Pai Canyon, hot springs, and rice fields.
Activities:
Many of the popular attractions in and around Pai are free, or cost less than 100 baht.
Day tours are also super affordable, and can make your day more relaxed.
Pad Thai can still be found for a very cheap price in Pai.
My favourite things to do in Pai.
Pai might be small, but it’s packed with things to see and do…
Especially if like me, you’re into nature, slow travel, or just soaking up a bit of weird, wonderful energy.
I originally planned to stay just a couple of nights, but with so many chilled-out spots and easy day trips, it quickly turned into one of my favourite stops in Thailand.
Whether you’re into hot springs, jungle walks, sunsets, caves, or just chilling in quirky cafés, here are a few of the best things to do in Pai (and some of my personal favourites):
A sign in the centre of town.
Visit the White Buddha (Wat Phra That Mae Yen).
The White Buddha (aka Wat Phra That Mae Yen) is one of Pai’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s totally worth the short climb.
The views of the small mountain town are stunning!
I went up late one afternoon and the light was unreal, with sunset time bringing in golden skies, which along with the chilled vibe, makes it the perfect spot to recover after your short sweaty hike.
It’s one of the best Pai viewpoints… It was one of my favourites anyway.
I spent around 45 minutes enjoying some peace and quiet with some awesome views.
The beautiful white buddha can be seen for miles.
There’s no entrance fee, but it’s a temple, so as with the other famous temples in Thailand, you should be respectful and cover your shoulders.
Insider Tip: Bring water and wear decent shoes, the stairs feel steeper than they look, especially in the Thailand heat!
Nearly there!
Walk along the Boo Ko Ku So Bamboo Bridge.
The bamboo bridge in Pai was one of the first things I added to my itinerary when planning my trip in Northern Thailand. And it didn’t disappoint!
Postcard views, with scenic rice fields, a traditional temple, and a beautiful mountain backdrop, make it a picturesque spot in Pai.
I definitely noticed the Instagram vibes as well, with tourists using the swings to capture their perfect shots.
It’s got that perfect quiet Pai vibe, and it’s only a 20–30 minute scooter ride from town.
Walking on the famous bridge.
This is another unique activity in Pai which should be a must in your travel plans.
Insider Tip: Go late afternoon, bring water, and there’s no ticket required, just a small donation box.
Pai is so picturesque.
Enjoy bamboo rafting at Nam Lod Cave.
If you’re after a bit of adventure, a day trip to Nam Lod Cave (also called Tham Lod) is 100% worth it.
It’s about 45 minutes from Pai, which is on those windy roads again… However, the adventure soon has you replacing the motion sickness with adrenaline once you arrive.
The bamboo rafting takes visitors through a massive cave system, with prehistoric drawings, towering stalactites, and local guides leading the way by lantern.
It’s completely different from anything else in Pai, and definitely worth adding to a longer itinerary.
I did it as part of a Pai day tour that also hit up waterfalls and viewpoints, with the whole thing costing around 600 baht and was totally worth it.
Insider Tip: Wear decent shoes, as you’ll get plenty of steps in walking around the cave.
Time for some bamboo rafting.
Slow down and enjoy the Town’s unique cafés, markets & nightlife.
One of the best things to do in Pai is… is not much at all.
Especially if you’re recharging on a longer backpacking trip.
The town is built for a slower pace of life, with quirky cafes offering the good stuff… great coffee, some unique decor, and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat.
Pai café culture is so awesome
An edgy cafe in town.
In the evenings the night market runs everyday, and has so many options, with cheap eats (both Thai and International food options), smoothies, and some of the naughty stuff.
Which is also very popular in Pai, if that’s what you are into!
I ate there most nights for under 100 baht (£2.50).
The shops and market stalls are the manifestations of the weird vibe in town with trippy t-shirt designs, crafts, and herbs all for sale along the main walking street.
Insider Tip: Start at the night market, and see where the evening takes you. With Pai being very walkable, I ended up in some random situations with some cool people.
Walking Street comes alive every night in Pai.
Head to Pai Hot Springs
The nearby hot springs are easily one of the most relaxing things to do in Pai.
Tha Pai Hot Springs are the most popular, and are just 15 minutes from town by scooter.
The hot springs are tucked into the jungle and have a peaceful, spa-like feel, with a few pools at different temps and even a little hiking trail on-site.
They remind me of my time in La Fortuna in Costa Rica, which also has similar hot springs.
Entry is around 300 baht (£7) for foreign visitors.
Sai Ngam Hot Springs is further out, and feels more local, and only costs about 100 baht (£2.50). It’s smaller, less developed, and way quieter (if that’s what you’re looking for?).
I visited early in the morning and had some of the thermal baths to myself… A very relaxing couple of hours!
If you are wondering what to do in Pai, this is a must on any travel itinerary!
Insider Tip: Make sure visit early in the morning if you want to avoid crowds and the midday heat. I also advise to take water, swimwear and a towel.
The hot springs near Pai.
How to travel around Pai.
Pai is a small town compared to other destinations in Thailand, which makes it easy and fun to explore more actively. Just keep in mind, it can get seriously hot in Northern Thailand, especially during the dry months.
Renting a Scooter in Pai.
Scooter rental is by far the best way to explore Pai. It’s cheap (around 100–150 baht a day), reliable, and gives you the freedom to visit waterfalls, hot springs, Pai Canyon, and all the out-of-town spots.
We had some epic rides out through the region to find some of the natural beauty spots!
There are scooter shops everywhere… Like most places in Thailand, you can’t walk 200 metres without seeing one
As always, check the condition of the bike and take a video to protect yourself.
I didn’t have to leave my passport as a deposit for my scooter in Pai, which is always a win!
Is Pai walkable?
Yes, Pai town centre is super walkable.
Cafés, markets, bars, and hostels are all packed into a small, backpacker-friendly area, so you can easily get around on foot if you’re staying central.
I walked about 15 minutes to Pai Fit every morning for my Thai boxing class.
But by the afternoon, with the heat ramping up, I was either on my scooter or cooling off by the pool!
Bicycle rental is also available in many places, but Pai’s heat and hills can be a challenge!
I did see many people enjoying a nice bike ride in the sunshine though.
The scooter I rented in Pai.
Getting to Pai from Chiang Mai.
There are a few popular ways to get from Chiang Mai to Pai, depending on your vibe and budget:
🚐 Minivan – The most common choice. Affordable, frequent, and takes around 3–4 hours.
🛵 Scooter – For the adventurous. The famous winding road is scenic but challenging.
🚗 Private car – More comfort, less motion sickness, and a good option for groups.
🚌 Local bus – Cheapest option, but slower and less comfortable (Do Not Recommend!).
I opted for the minivan option both ways from Chiang Mai to Pai, but preempted it by taking some motion sickness tablets, and they worked. However, the heat still makes it a tough 4/5 hours.
I’ll go into more detail about that crazy road next…
This way to Chiang Mai.
Is the infamous winding road really that bad?
Short answer? Yes…
However, the rewards of spending time in Pai make it absolutely worth it!
The road from Chiang Mai to Pai is famous (or infamous) for a reason… 762 curves packed into around 3-4 hours of mountain driving. If you get motion sickness, be prepared!
I took the minivan and felt okay by the end, but I wasn’t exactly fresh. A couple of people in my van looked seriously green, and one poor guy had to get out halfway through for ‘fresh air’.
So yeah, the road’s no joke, but it’s also part of what makes getting to Pai feel like you’ve properly arrived.
Next time, I’m definitely taking the motorbike!
The winding road between Chiang Mai and Pai.
A beautiful accommodation option.
If you’re ready to swap hostels for something a little more special, Pai Village Boutique Resort is the one.
I stayed here for a couple of nights at the end of my trip, and honestly… It was the perfect reset.
Wooden cottages, peaceful gardens, and a chilled-out vibe just steps from walking street.
Despite being right in the heart of Pai, it somehow still feels like a jungle retreat.
The rooms are gorgeous, the staff are lovely, and they’ve nailed the balance between rustic charm and comfort. Think bamboo, rainfall showers, and soft lighting.
Bonus: there’s an amazing on-site restaurant serving delightful pad ka prao and a picturesque koi pond.
If you're planning a couples’ trip, a solo recharge, or just fancy a few nights of calm after hostel-hopping… This place is 100% worth the splurge.
✨ Rooms fill up fast in high season — check availability & prices here.
Pai Village Boutique Resort is located centrally.
Is Pai still a hidden gem?
One thing’s for sure, Pai is still a gem… but it’s definitely not a secret anymore.…
At least, not during the high season!
Some nights, accommodations were fully booked. Tour prices were bumped up (though still very affordable), and restaurants were packed during the day, with nightclubs even more so once the sun went down.
It all adds to the atmosphere in some ways, but if you’re chasing that untouched, quiet corner of Thailand, Pai isn’t quite it anymore.
That said, renting a scooter and heading out into the hills felt like a completely different experience.
I found chill little bars with bean bags and barely anyone around, and even stumbled on a secret jungle café that I had entirely to myself.
So yeah, Pai isn’t the hidden backpacker town it once was.
But if you’re up for exploring beyond the main strip, there are still secret hangouts, welcoming locals, and the kind of random, unforgettable moments that make travel so good. 😉
A random hidden garden I found near Pai.
My travel tips for Pai.
Go slow – Pai’s not about ticking boxes. Give yourself a few days to settle into the vibe.
Carry cash – I encountered some of the small cafés and shops not accepting cards.
Book accommodation early in high season (Dec–Feb) – Pai gets packed and hostels/hotels sell out fast.
Rent a scooter – It’s the best way to explore Pai’s hot springs, canyons, and rice fields.
Early mornings are magic – Visit viewpoints, hot springs, or cafés before the crowds.
A live sunset performance at Two Huts in Pai.
My honest opinion after visiting Pai.
I didn’t fall into the famous ‘Pai Hole’ on my last trip… There were still too many more South East Asian destinations to explore.
That being said, I enjoyed every minute of my time in the bohemian mountain town.
Like with all my favourite Thailand destinations, I felt free… Beautiful nature, long sunshine hours, and constant social vibes — it’s the perfect mix to boost your mood.
There is something very special about Northern Thailand…
You just have to experience it to truly get it.
Pai and Chiang Mai are perfect places to slow down, breathe, and recharge in a natural paradise.
So yeah… Make sure Pai makes the cut for your next Thailand trip.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.