Pai Things to Do: 20 Highlights and Tips

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The small town of Pai is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and offers a very special atmosphere. Even though more and more tourists are coming to Pai, the town can maintain its originality. But why do so many guests come to Pai? Does the small town really have so much to offer? Yes, definitely, there are a lot of things to do in Pai!

20 Tips and Attractions in Pai

Pai itself is a beautiful little town, but the surroundings give it its special charm. You can discover viewpoints, temples, waterfalls, rice fields, great cafes, and much more in Pai. The town certainly doesn’t skimp on highlights, and a few days in Pai are definitely worth it.

How to get to Pai

There are many ways to get to Pai. One of the most popular options is to ride a scooter from Chiang Mai to Pai. This way, you can reach the town on your own and enjoy the beautiful landscape along the way.

You can also travel to Pai by minivan from Chiang Mai, or you can arrive at the small airport in Pai from some places in Thailand. For more information on flights and prices, you can check Skyscanner.

Info: If you don’t have time during your journey to spend a few days in Pai, there are also day trips from Chiang Mai available. This way, you can explore some of the area’s attractions and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Accommodation in Pai – our hotel tip

We stayed at the Heart of Pai during our days in Pai. Clean rooms, good Wi-Fi with a balcony, and proximity to the center of Pai were crucial for us. By the way, there’s an upside-down house at the entrance, which is often used as a photo opportunity by tourists. It’s a great place to stay and a superb starting point.

You can find more accommodations to explore Pai thoroughly here.

1. Memorial Bridge

The historic Memorial Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Pai and often the first highlight you’ll see on your way to Pai. It was built during World War II under the supervision of the Japanese army to provide a route from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son, near the border with Myanmar.

However, after the war ended, the Japanese demolished the bridge. Since it had become an integral part of the lives of the people in Pai, it was rebuilt by the Thais. The original wooden structure was destroyed during a flood in 1973, and it was replaced with a steel framework.

Pai’s Memorial Bridge is a nice short photo stop when you are exploring the area on a scooter.

2. Pai Canyon

The next highlight on the way to the city is Pai Canyon. Here in the picturesque landscape, you’ll find partially 70-meter-high canyons. But be careful, the rocks can be slippery, and it’s advisable to wear sturdy footwear, especially if you want to walk or climb around the canyon.

But you don’t have to do this to see Pai Canyon. You can reach it via a staircase where you’ll find a small viewing platform with benches and small houses that provide shade. This spectacular natural highlight is definitely a must-visit and one of the things to do in Pai!

The sunset at Pai Canyon is also incredibly beautiful. However, be particularly cautious in the darkness if you haven’t stayed near the stairs from the beginning.

3. Love Strawberry

The next destination on the road between Memorial Bridge and Pai is the Love Strawberry Cafe. A very popular stop on a tour of Pai’s attractions. Following the motto, everything here is mixed with strawberries.

But don’t expect a quiet cafe. Love Strawberry is usually bustling, as Asians love this kitsch. Treat yourself to a strawberry shake and sit on the terrace with a view of the Pai mountains. Despite its popularity, it’s a nice short stop.

4. Mae She Thai Patthana Chit Chaloem Phra Kiai

For outsiders, this appears to be just another temple in Pai, albeit impressing with its gigantic gate guarded by Naga statues (serpent beings). It is also situated right on the main road leading to Pai.

However, this is not really a temple. It is, of course, a place of reverence for Buddha, and there are both male and female monks present. More so, this is a place for Thai people who come to spend a few days or even longer on the premises.

The focus here is on dedicating oneself to Buddhist teachings, meditating, and living a monk’s life as closely as possible during these days. For visitors, the “temple” is definitely worth a short stop, as it exudes a very special atmosphere.

5. Wat Toong Pong

If you drive into the road directly in front of Mae She Thai Patthana Chit Chaloem Phra Kiai and turn left at the end, you will come across another small temple. Wat Toong Pong sees very few visitors and ultimately consists of a small compound.

However, if you enjoy exploring Buddhist temples, a short visit here is also worthwhile. In addition to some Buddha statues, you will find a golden Chedi and plenty of tranquility.

6. Route 1095 Cafe

The Route 1095 is another cafe that springs up partially in Pai. Here, you can comfortably settle down on cushions in hanging seats and let your gaze wander over the surrounding mountains. Add a delicious shake, and Route 1095 is perfect for a break while sightseeing in Pai.

7. I Am Pai – Coffee in Love

Just before Pai, you’ll find Coffee in Love with the popular I Am Pai photo spot, which also offers a great view of the mountains. This small cafe is great for a coffee stop or even for some cake when you want to escape the strong Thai sun.

The cafe is especially popular among Thais and Chinese as it served as a film set for “Pai in Love” in 2009 and “Lost in Thailand” in 2012. Nevertheless, you will always find a place there, and it’s not completely overcrowded.

8. Pai Walking Street

Every evening in the city center, along Chaisongkran Road and Rungsiyanon Road, you’ll find Pai’s Walking Street. Most stalls open between 5.00 PM and 6.00 PM and close around 10.00 PM to 11.00 PM.

Outside the high season from November to February, there might be a few fewer stalls, but an evening visit is still worth it. From souvenirs and handmade mementos to a variety of Thai delicacies, you can spend a few hours here or relax along one of the bars on Pai Walking Street with live music.

9. Land Split

An earthquake in 2008 and 2011 created the Pai Land Split. The farmer’s land was torn open to a depth of 11 meters and a width of 2 meters due to the seismic activities. After the owner’s initial shock, this display of natural force became a must-see attraction in Pai.

While visiting the Pai Land Split, you can also find many tropical fruits on the premises, such as papayas and more, which are grown by the owner.

To conclude your visit, there are even free snacks from his garden and homemade wine. Nuts, tamarind, potatoes, banana chips, and more. Additionally, the owner is happy to tell you more about the Land Split if you’re interested. Admission is free, but donations are very welcome and justified given the variety of snacks available here.

10. Pam Bok Waterfall

The Pam Bok Waterfall is located on the route between the Land Split and the Bamboo Bridge. You can find the parking lot directly by the road. However, for the waterfall, you’ll need to walk into the jungle for a few minutes. Sturdy shoes are recommended here.

The waterfall is hidden among rocks, and you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool in front of it. The Pam Bok Waterfall is usually not very crowded. You can reach the waterfall via a bridge and descend the rocks. Please be cautious as the rocks can be slippery in places. The entrance fee here is 200 Baht (National Park fee), which is also valid for the Secret Hot Springs and Cave on the same day. Additionally, parking a scooter costs 20 Baht.

11. Bamboo Bridge

The Bamboo Bridge, Boon Koh Ku So, is one of the highlights and things to do in Pai. You can find it by following the road after the Pam Bok Waterfall as soon as you come across many rice fields.

The Bamboo Bridge takes you over 800 meters across the rice fields, making it a great spot for fantastic photo opportunities. During the rainy season, it becomes even more beautiful when the rice turns lush green.

You’ll often encounter very few visitors here, and the “Bamboo Bridge” is continually being extended. Take a leisurely walk and let the charm of the rice fields captivate you. Admission costs 30 Baht, and it’s free for children under 10 years old.

12. Wat Phra That Mae Yen

On a hill outside of Pai stands Wat Phra That Mae Yen, with its large white Buddha, which you can often see from other parts of Pai in the distance. The temple is one of the most famous attractions and things to do in Pai and is definitely worth a visit.

You can park on the temple grounds and then walk the last few meters up the stairs. Once at the top, you’ll realize how massive the Buddha statue actually is and you’ll simultaneously have a beautiful view of Pai and the mountains.

No matter what time of day, the view is always spectacular. However, most visitors come here in the evening so that they can watch the sunset. There is also a small shop on-site that offers drinks and snacks. By the way, there is no admission fee.

13. Mae Yen Waterfall

The Mae Yen Waterfall is located deep in the jungle of Pai, so this is a longer hike to reach the waterfall. The trail starts near Wat Phra That Mae Yen and takes about 3 hours. If you’re not up for that, you might want to visit the other waterfalls that are easier to reach.

In general, you just need to follow the Pai River towards the waterfall. Along the way, you will also find signs, so you know you’re on the right track. If you enjoy a little hiking, then Mae Yen Waterfall is the right place for you.

14. Wat Mae Hee

Near Wat Phra That Mae Yen with the huge white Buddha statue, there is another small temple. It exudes a pleasant calmness, sees hardly any visitors, and also features a beautiful white Buddha statue, just not as gigantic.

The grounds are really small, and you can explore everything in a few minutes. Nevertheless, I found Wat Mae Hee to be one of the most beautiful temples in Pai.

15. Tha Pai Hotspring

Pai’s most famous hot spring is a great half-day activity. It is part of the Huai Nam Dang National Park and is only 8 kilometers south of Pai. On-site, there are several natural pools, which gradually become less hot. The hottest part of the Tha Pai Hotsprings is, by the way, 80 degrees warm.

Some of the pools are so hot that you can even cook eggs there, which are also available for purchase on-site. A little snack for in-between, so to speak. It is open daily from 7.00 AM to 4.00 PM, and the entrance fee is 300 Baht per person.

16. Sai Ngam Hotspring

About 15 kilometers north of Pai, you’ll find the Sai Ngam hot spring. It is the most popular hot spring after the Tha Pai Hot spring. Sometimes it’s also called the Secret Hot Spring, but that usually attracts even more visitors instead of fewer.

There are several natural pools where you can swim. At the very top, you’ll find the largest and most popular one with water temperatures of up to 34 degrees Celsius. The crystal-clear water, warmth, and jungle surroundings create an absolutely fantastic atmosphere.

It’s open daily from 8.00 AM to 6.00 PM, and the entrance fee is 20 Baht per person. Additionally, there’s a 200 Baht national park fee and 20 Baht for parking a scooter. If you want to visit a hot spring, then Sai Ngam Hotspring is worth it.

17. Mor Paeng Waterfall

A bit outside the center to the west of Pai but easily reachable by scooter is the Mor Paeng Waterfall. From the parking lot, there’s a short beaten path to the waterfall that you can reach in just a few minutes.

While you can take beautiful pictures of the waterfall at the lowest stage, the next higher stage is perfect for bathing in the natural pool. There’s also a third stage, but it’s difficult to reach. It’s a beautiful place if you want to relax in nature and great for cooling off.

18. Santichon – Chinese Village

The Chinese village of Santichon is another attraction in our things to do in Pai. However, it’s not a typical Chinese village as you might imagine at first; it’s artificially created.

Tourists can learn about the way of life there, visit adobe houses, dress up, or try Chinese delicacies. So, you can get a bit of Chinese culture here. However, the real Chinese village is located just behind the tourist center.

But there’s relatively little presence of the Chinese-descendant residents there. For a short and entertaining stop on the way to the Yun Lai Viewpoint, Santichon is worth it.

19. Yun Lai Viewpoint

Behind the Chinese village, the path leads up the mountain to the Yun Lai Viewpoint. Mostly not very crowded, here you are offered a fantastic view of Pai and the surrounding area. A great spectacle is also in the evening when the sun sets, and Pai sinks into darkness.

The entrance to the viewpoint is also manageable at 20 Baht, and you also get a small pot of tea. Otherwise, the view of the valley where Pai is located is simply breathtaking and requires no further explanation.

20. Trip to Mae Hong Son

Pai is located in the Mae Hong Son region, and the city of the same name in the region doesn’t see too many tourists. The city of Mae Hong Son is about 100 kilometers away from Pai. Perhaps a bit too far for a day trip, but highly recommended for a multi-day trip.

The small town may not have as much to offer as Pai, but you won’t get bored there either.

Pai – Tours and Tickets

Do you prefer to travel with a guide who knows the area very well? Then we recommend a guided tour with a local. This way you can get to know Pai in a completely different way. GetYourGuide offers a wide selection of exciting tours for Pai.

Have you been to Pai? How did you like the city and the surroundings? Do you have any more tips? Leave us a comment!