Pai - A Hippie Town?
We recently visited Pai! Yes, we braved the journey up from Chaing Mai. (see why below) When researching Northern Thailand, Pai is likely to be one of the top search results, right alongside Chiang Mai! It’s a small town with a big heart, located in Mae Hong Son Province, Northern Thailand, with Chiang Mai being the nearest airport. Pai is known for its laid-back vibe and slow pace of life. It’s a popular destination for backpackers and young travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Often referred to as the ‘Hippie Town,’ Pai attracts those seeking a more meaningful existence—free from societal constraints and focused on living authentically and in harmony with the world around them. Discovered by hipsters and backpackers, you’ll find the town littered with weed shacks, bars, restaurants serving vegan Thai food, and cheap guesthouses that offer a budget-friendly stay.
How to Get from Chiang Mai to Pai and How much?
When it comes to getting to Pai, we found that the easiest option was to take our own transport. We packed ourselves into a small car and set off on a road trip in the middle of the night. It was a bit spontaneous, but the excitement of the journey made it all the more memorable. It took us over 3 hours to cover the 135 km, winding through mountain roads with 762 turns! (We didn’t count them, Google provided this info.)
One of our rider friends, who owns a motorbike, highly recommends riding all the way to Pai as one of the best motorcycle routes. We can only say that if you’re experienced and brave enough to tackle those winding mountain roads—why not!
Most travelers typically take a bus, minivan, or motorbike to get there. The roads to Pai are famous for being steep, windy, and full of twists and turns with a total of 762 turns along the route, including many hairpin and switchback curves. It’s a route known for being treacherous and definitely not for the faint-hearted.
- By Bus/Minivan: The journey from Chiang Mai to Pai takes around 3 to 4 hours. (Cost of a shared ride up is 250baht per person)
- By Motorbike/Scooter: You can rent a scooter in Chiang Mai and ride yourself (just make sure you’re comfortable with mountain roads). (Cost of a motobike rental ranges from 250baht up)
- By Car: Renting a car or taking a private taxi will take roughly the same amount of time as a minivan. (Cost of renting a car was approx 800-1000baht per day for us, cost of a private ride up ranges from 1800banht to 3000baht – depending on your group size and type of vehicle you book!)
Whichever way you choose to go, the adventure begins the moment you hit the road!
Top Tip: If you’re prone to motion sickness, be prepared for a seriously twisty ride. TAKE the motion sickness pill! (We took some, because prevention is better than cure—or actually feeling it!)
Pai - When to Visit (#avoid the burning season)
The best time to visit Pai is from November to February, during the cool and dry season. This is when the weather is most comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and cooler evenings. The skies are clear, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring waterfalls, or watching sunsets. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect a lively atmosphere, especially around Christmas and New Year’s.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons in March and October can also be a good time to visit. You’ll experience fewer crowds, though be prepared for hotter weather.
The Burning Season in Pai:
The burning season typically takes place from February to April. During this time, farmers in the region set fire to the fields to clear crops, which leads to widespread smoke and haze. This can result in poor air quality, especially in Pai, and visibility may be reduced. The burning season is known for causing haze in the surrounding valleys, which can affect outdoor activities and overall enjoyment of the area.
If you’re sensitive to air pollution or want to avoid the haze, it’s best to plan your trip outside of these months, particularly during the cooler months from November to February when the weather is at its best.
What to do in Pai?
There’s so much to do in Pai, it’s no wonder backpackers fall head over heels for this little town. It’s a haven for Westerners seeking comfort in the form of organic food, wheatgrass shots, specialty teas, and familiar Western dishes—all available in the cozy shops lining the town’s streets. Add to that cheap drinks, affordable accommodations, and late-night parties, and it’s easy to see why Pai has become a backpacker’s paradise or named Hippie, Pai is a tiny town where life moves at such a slow pace, it might even frustrate the most laid-back traveler.
However, if you look beyond the partying (which, let’s be honest, is hard to ignore), you’ll find the Pai that’s truly worth loving—the Pai that’s all about nature, and THIS is the Pai we love. It’s a place where we would emphasize the word “love” when we talk about it. It is. nestled in the mountains and surrounded by waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning natural beauty.
With only really a day here – we planned our itinerary around exploring the natural beauty of Pai, rather than the party scene. Yes, there’s the infamous “drunk tubing” with half-naked partygoers (and no, we didn’t take part in that!). Instead, we sought out the more serene side of Pai, visiting stunning waterfalls, canyons, and hot springs.
- Pai Canyon (Kong Lan): OUR ALL time Favorite! A must-see natural wonder, Pai Canyon offers a captivating 3.6-mile loop trail with narrow ridges and steep drops, showcasing the region’s unique geological beauty. We also got some amazing drone shots capturing the dramatic landscape from above (check out our video here).
- Tha Pai Hot Springs: Located just 8 km from Pai, these natural hot springs are perfect for soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, Tha Pai offers a peaceful retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. With pools of varying temperatures, it’s an ideal spot to unwind in nature’s healing waters.
- Two Huts Pai: If you’re looking for the perfect spot to chase sunsets, Two Huts is it. Watching the sky light up with vibrant colors over the serene landscape is a moment of pure tranquility.
- Mo Paeng Waterfall: Another popular spot near Pai, Mo Paeng is known for its larger cascade and beautiful surroundings—perfect for a refreshing dip or a peaceful moment in nature.
Since we were driving, here’s a bonus tip as a rest stop that we recommend – we made a stop at Dantewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park, a manmade waterfall set in a beautiful garden filled with mist. It was the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy some refreshing mist in a peaceful, almost magical setting.
Where to Stay in Pai?
When it comes to where to stay in Pai, there are plenty of options to suit every budget and style. We chose to stay at Pai Basecamp, a lovely local homestay tucked amidst lush rice fields. The accommodation is unique, featuring cozy A-frame huts crafted from bamboo in traditional Thai style. Each hut comes with an outdoor shower and a small garden, adding to the rustic charm and tranquil vibe of the place.
Staying here felt like stepping into a serene oasis. The peaceful surroundings and connection to nature made it a rejuvenating experience, far removed from the busier city life. Whether you’re planning a short day trip to Pai or looking for a tranquil overnight getaway, Pai Basecamp is a spot we highly recommend.
Is Pai worth visiting? - Absolutely!
Just 762 turns from Chiang Mai – One of the great reasons we love to stay in Chiang Mai is the road trips we can take! If you’re looking for a peaceful escape surrounded by stunning landscapes, breathtaking sunsets, and a laid-back vibe, Pai is definitely worth the visit. While it’s become a popular destination for backpackers and partygoers, the real magic of Pai lies in its natural beauty. From hiking through Pai Canyon to soaking in the healing waters of Tha Pai Hot Springs, or chasing waterfalls like Mo Paeng, this small town offers an unforgettable connection to nature. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventurer, or just in need of a serene retreat, Pai delivers on all fronts. So, if you’re ready to slow down, take in the scenery, and reconnect with the natural world, Pai is the place to be.