Pai is a small city positioned in Northern Thailand and as a consequence of its attraction and the various various things to do in Pai, it has grow to be a preferred place for vacationers.
From visiting waterfalls and mountain climbing the Pai Canyon, to testing the Large Buddha and exploring by scooter, Pai gives quite a few sights for backpackers, vacationers, expats, and everybody in between.
For such a small place, the listing of issues to do in Pai is large! This city is rising and so are the various actions out there in Pai for vacationers. That is positively probably the greatest locations to go to in Thailand.
The street between the northern metropolis of Chiang Mai and Pai is an thrilling journey all by itself. In truth, this journey was the primary purpose I went to Pai within the first place.
However to my shock, Pai was a city that stole my coronary heart, and I’d return to it in a heartbeat. In truth, visiting Pai was certainly one of my Southeast Asia highlights.
Right here’s a listing of the highest 21 issues to do in Pai you received’t need to miss!
1. Be taught To Journey a Scooter
Studying to experience a scooter is first on my listing of issues to do in Pai for a purpose — it’s mainly a necessary exercise on this tiny city. Like me, in case you have by no means ridden a motorcycle or scooter earlier than, Pai is the place to don a helmet and take a look at.
Why is studying to drive a scooter important? Nicely, lots of the actions in Pai aren’t really within the city middle, however a few minutes drive out of city.
As a result of Pai is legendary for vacationers renting scooters as their foremost mode of transportation, there aren’t too many tuk-tuks on the town. Plus, a part of the attraction of Pai is that there isn’t a lot visitors, making it an excellent place for newbies to study.
That every one being mentioned, vacationers stroll round Pai like mummies, all bandaged up from scooter accidents. A lot so, that you simply don’t even must ask any person “what occurred” if you see their battered knee, it’s simply assumed it was a scooter accident.
Be sure to put on a helmet, drive cautiously, and naturally, don’t drink and drive.
I rented a scooter for 2 full days whereas I used to be in Pai and it value 500 Baht for each days for an computerized scooter, which was an amazing deal. It was loads of enjoyable studying learn how to experience, and was additionally a helpful technique of transport for getting round to the various issues to do in Pai.
There are various totally different rental outlets alongside the primary strolling avenue in Pai. You’ll have to depart a money deposit that you’re going to get again as soon as you come the scooter in its authentic situation — don’t depart your passport, even when they ask.
You should buy insurance coverage for the scooter from these rental outlets as nicely which can be a good suggestion if it’s your first time using a scooter!
If you wish to do an extended journey, the Mae Hong Son Loop is Thailand’s hottest and beautiful journey. Be taught extra about it right here.
2. Wander the Evening Markets (One of many Greatest Issues To Do in Pai within the Night)
Questioning what to do in Pai within the evenings? Each night time there are markets in Pai alongside the strolling avenue. For such a small city, these markets are fairly spectacular. Right here, you’ll find the whole lot from clothes to meals, with the most effective low cost avenue meals choices being discovered on the night time markets.
On the night time markets, additionally, you will be tempted by the buying. There are souvenirs, natural cures, clothes, and extra – mainly something you would consider, you’ll discover!
However no matter whether or not or not you need to purchase one thing, the markets are at all times loads of enjoyable and are one of many free issues to do in Pai.
3. Climb to The Large White Buddha (Wat Phra That Mae Yen)
When you’ve got been backpacking Thailand for some time, visiting one other Buddha statue won’t sound all that interesting, however this one is price it merely for the view!
The steps to get to the highest may have you working up a sweat, however the panoramic view from subsequent to the Buddha is price it. Be sure to additionally take a look on the blindingly white Buddha statue, it’s fairly spectacular.
A go to to the Large Buddha is straightforward. You will note it from city so simply drive in that path and you’re going to get there. Visiting the Large Buddha is free and can take you about an hour to stroll to the highest, benefit from the views and take photos, and stroll again down. Be sure to costume appropriately and convey some water with you.
4. Social gathering at Sundown Bar
No journey to Pai can be full with out a go to to the Sundown Bar. The Sundown Bar is simply because the title suggests, the place to go at sundown (and keep nicely after darkish.)
The Sundown Bar is among the hottest issues to do in Pai amongst vacationers because it’s located simply outdoors of the primary city middle, however nonetheless inside strolling distance (that means you don’t must drink and drive dwelling).
The bar is up within the timber and gives an amazing view of the sundown every night time. Cushions line the ground as seating and create a relaxed ambiance for backpackers eager to share some journey tales over a drink. Count on to pay round 100 Baht for a drink, however generally they do have 2-for-1 specials.
5. Go Tubing on The Pai River
Tubing alongside the Pai river is among the hottest issues to do in Pai. It’s reasonably priced, solely takes about an hour, and is offered most months of the 12 months.
Sadly, after I was there, there had simply been some heavy rainfall and the river was flowing so quickly that it was unsafe for tubing.
Some folks nonetheless tried to promote us the exercise although we had been informed by a number of others that the river was unsafe. Maintain your wits about you and solely tube when it’s protected to take action. The most typical months for heavy rain in Pai are from Might to October.
It prices between 200-300 Baht ($6 – $9) for a visit which incorporates your tube rental in addition to drop-off and pick-up. The tubing journey lasts for about one hour. Tubing will be booked simply by your lodging, by a journey company, or just with one of many guys strolling round city attempting to promote tubing excursions.
☞ In the event you’re in search of extra Thailand articles, be certain that to take a look at our Issues To Do in Koh Phangan article, and our Issues To Do in Bangkok submit. There are such a lot of superb locations to go to in Thailand!
6. Whitewater Rafting (One of many Extra Adventurous Issues To Do in Pai)
In Pai, whitewater rafting mixed with mountain climbing is changing into a preferred exercise. A number of totally different tour operators arrange these sorts of journeys and multi-day choices are additionally out there.
One of the vital widespread firms for this sort of journey is known as Lively Thailand, they are often contacted on their web site. There are additionally a lot of journey company reserving locations in Pai that may assist arrange this journey for you.
Costs rely upon the variety of folks you will get collectively for a visit, the size of the journey, and the kind of lodging you require.
For a two-day, 1 night time journey with primary lodging (sleeping in a jungle camp on bamboo with mosquito nets) anticipate to pay about 3,500Baht or 100 USD. For the outside adventurer, this might be probably the greatest issues to do in Pai.
7. Stroll the WWII (Memorial) Bridge
The WWII Bridge was constructed by the Japanese again in 1942. The bridge was used to move weapons and provides to Myanmar throughout WWII. Out of all of the locations to see in Pai, this bridge has probably the most historic significance.
However apart from its historical past, it’s additionally only a good place to go for a stroll. The bridge crosses a beautiful river making for some good picture alternatives. Going to the WWII Bridge is free, however understand that it’s a widespread vacationer hotspot so it may be very busy.
8. Eat Wholesome Meals
Until your Southeast Asia journey has included Canggu Bali, you might be in all probability craving an excellent salad full with avocado! There are a number of totally different locations in Pai the place you will get that wholesome meals repair.
A café known as Earth Tone is a extremely popular restaurant serving high-quality vegetarian meals. They’ve superb waffles with fruit, sandwiches, salads, smoothies and extra. Earth Tone is simply one of many many locations to eat wholesome whereas in Pai. In truth, you’ll discover vegetarian and gluten-free choices in cafes throughout city.
9. Eat Road Meals
Whereas the wholesome choices are nice in Pai, the unhealthy avenue meals choices are simply pretty much as good! When the solar begins taking place many various little avenue meals stands open up and low cost meals takes over the bustling daytime café scene.
Like anyplace in Thailand, Pad Thai and numerous different noodle dishes can be found for only some baht. However in Pai, the locals are just a little extra artistic with their avenue meals, with stalls promoting donuts and Indian meals! Western meals choices like pizza and hamburgers are additionally available as nicely.
Nevertheless, since probably the greatest issues to do in Thailand is to eat Thai meals, it’s really useful that you simply pattern the native eats, you received’t be disillusioned.
10. Follow Yoga
Pai is an ideal little city for yoga lovers. There are a number of totally different yoga retreats round, however there are additionally locations in Pai the place guests can simply drop in for a category or two.
The Well-known Pai Circus Hostel gives yoga lessons most mornings at 9:30 am. The Swadasee Pai Resort additionally gives yoga lessons most mornings. I like to recommend asking at your hostel or lodge if you arrive about present yoga lessons within the space, as the category occasions and areas can change.
11. Hike the Pai Canyon
In my view, out of all the issues to do in Pai, mountain climbing the Pai Canyon is the most effective! The Pai Canyon is a wonderful canyon with numerous mountain climbing trails and lookouts over the countryside.
You will have a scooter or tuk-tuk to get out to the Pai Canyon as it’s a few minute’s drive out of city. When you’re there, you’ll get pleasure from strolling alongside the canyon ridges and being out in nature.
It’s actually a wonderful place to go to. Many individuals discover the Pai Canyon at sundown for much more spectacular views. Entrance to the Pai Canyon is totally free. Simply be sure to put on good strolling sneakers and convey loads of water.
12. Have a “ Love Strawberry” Milkshake
The Love Strawberry farm and retailer is a enjoyable cease on the way in which again into city from the Pai Canyon. It’s a little bit of a vacationer entice, however that doesn’t imply it isn’t price visiting!
After I was there I had a strawberry milkshake which was scrumptious. Exploring the property and taking some photos are positively a number of the most touristy issues to do in Pai.
13. Go to Tham Lod Cave
The Tham Lod Cave is large (greater than 1,600m lengthy and 50m excessive), with a go to right here being one of the crucial widespread issues to do in Pai – however for good purpose. As a result of its sheer dimension, this cave is named one of the crucial spectacular in Thailand.
Inside you’ll discover many limestone stalactite and stalagmite formations hanging from above (and a few bats!), and because the Lang River flows by this cave, a portion of the cave is simply accessible by bamboo boat. Due to this, a information is obligatory with the intention to enter.
From Pai, it’s doable to go to Tham Lod Cave on a tour or to go by yourself with a scooter. Both means, the drive takes about 45 minutes. Count on to pay about 600 Baht ($18) for a full-day tour from Pai together with the information as soon as at Tham Lod Cave.
If you wish to go independently, you’ll nonetheless must pay for a information as soon as on the cave. The worth is determined by your group dimension however anticipate to pay about 200 Baht ($6) per particular person for the cave information. Tham Lod Cave is among the high locations to go to in Pai, don’t miss it!
14. Sai Ngam Scorching Springs
The Sai Ngam Scorching Springs is often known as the “Secret” Scorching Springs as they’re just a little outdoors of city and fewer developed than a number of the different sizzling springs round Pai. However actually, they’re no secret and will be fairly busy!
These sizzling springs are proper within the jungle making them really feel tranquil and an ideal place to chill out away from the hustle and bustle of Pai.
The gorgeous pure environment of the Sai Ngam Scorching Springs mixed with the low value makes them one of many high issues to do in Pai for each locals and vacationers.
Sai Ngam Scorching Springs are simply reached by scooter solely half-hour from Pai. They’re alongside the identical street that results in Tham Lom Cave so each of those actions might be carried out in someday. The doorway payment is 20 Baht ($0.60).
15. Discover the Santichon Village
Santichon Village is a small Yunnan cultural middle about 5km outdoors of Pai, reached with a enjoyable (very windy) street. This village was settled by the Chinese language who fled the revolution of Mao Tse Tung, and in any case these years, descendants of those settlers nonetheless stay right here making it an fascinating place to go to.
There are a few various things to do at Santichon Village. The primary can be to wander round and take a look at the clay homes and eat a number of the conventional Yunnanese delicacies. Fried shiitake mushrooms and steamed black rooster are simply a few the favored dishes.
Strolling across the village you will notice stunning buildings in typical Yunnan type, and a few fish ponds as nicely. It’s doable to purchase fish meals and feed the a whole lot of koi fish, which is surprisingly much more entertaining than I anticipated it to be. Santichon Village is totally free to enter.
16. Journey the Human Powered Ferris Wheel
On the Santichon Village, there’s a human-powered Ferris Wheel. We couldn’t get it going ourselves however then a neighborhood got here and helped us out. Whereas it appears just a little harmful it was loads of enjoyable! We in all probability spent quite a bit longer than we must always have enjoying with this child’s toy!
17. Yun Lai Viewpoint
Simply previous the Santichon Village is the Yun Lai Viewpoint. It’s accessible solely by a really bumpy street. As soon as there, it prices 20 Baht to enter after which you’ll have a view overlooking Pai. This is among the greatest locations to go to in Pai for dawn.
18. Go Piranha Fishing
This is among the most uncommon issues to do in Pai. On the Piranha Fishing Park, there’s a collection of artificial lakes for fishing. You pay for a choose period of time and the employees will present you learn how to fish for the piranhas.
You might be given a fishing rod in addition to bread and a web. I used to be having some hassle initially however the employees had been tremendous useful and taught me the methods. We solely managed to catch one small piranha throughout our time there however another folks handle to catch some large ones.
That is purely a leisure exercise and all the piranhas are launched again into the lake as soon as they’re caught. They solely use barbless hooks.
Costs rely upon the season and size of time you need to go fishing however anticipate to pay round 200 Baht for 3 hours price of fishing together with some bait.
19. Swim at Mor Paeng Waterfall
Solely 7km outdoors of Pai is the three-tiered Mor Paeng waterfall. Whereas there are various waterfalls close to Pai, Mor Paeng is among the hottest as a consequence of its quick access, and due to how enjoyable it’s to swim and slide there!
Mor Paeng is greatest reached by motorcycle alongside the identical street because the Santichon Village and the piranha fishing. It’s a free exercise however the native children will need a small tip in the event that they assist you to climb the waterfall and slide down.
There’s a small space right here for parking your bike, and from the automotive park it’s a few 200m stroll by the jungle to get to the waterfall. In the event you’re in search of one thing to chill you off, visiting this waterfall is among the greatest issues to do in Pai.
20. Drink Mojitos
I personally liked the mojitos in Pai! One afternoon, some pals and I walked the streets of Pai seeking some good “glad hour” offers. What we discovered was that glad hour existed in all places, however not for only one hour, for a lot of the day – and infrequently featured Mojitos.
I merely couldn’t flip down 2 for 1 Mojitos and for sure I had an amazing night filled with rum and sugar!
Pai is a really social place for vacationers. The ambiance in pubs and eating places is pleasant and welcoming, and I’m virtually sure that you’ll make many pals over a mojito in Pai.
21. Drive to Chiang Mai
There are various enjoyable issues to do in Chiang Mai as nicely, so when you’ve checked out Pai, make your means there. The street between Chiang Mai and Pai is legendary for being very scenic, but additionally for making folks very automotive sick!
Earlier than we left Chiang Mai for Pai, different vacationers cautioned us in regards to the many turns and the way everybody just about is assured to get no less than just a little movement sick.
No matter how uncomfortable the experience may be, it’s really stunning! I’d suggest renting a motorcycle and driving your self with the intention to cease as regularly as you need.
Nevertheless, if you’re not an skilled rider then don’t do that because it’s a street on which locals drive very quick and the various sharp turns might be an issue.
In the event you don’t need to drive a motorcycle there your self, you would rent a driver to take you, or just simply catch a bus. Whereas the buses will not be comfy and don’t cease typically, it’s nonetheless a enjoyable experience and will get you from level A to B. The drive takes roughly 3 hours with out stopping.
The place to Keep in Pai, Thailand
Listed below are a number of high really useful lodging choices in Pai. Whether or not you’re in search of some luxurious, or are touring on a finances, there’s one thing to swimsuit everybody.
Finances:
The Countryside Pai – rated “Fabulous” 8.9/10. The lovable bungalows right here provide company a personal rooftop balcony, ensuite toilet and bathe, and beautiful mountain and rice subject views. Plus, there’s an onsite pool! These cute bungalows are a novel place to remain in Pai and go from round $17-$20/night time. Click on right here to study extra and guide.
Villa de Pai – rated “Very Good” 8.2/10. These bungalows are comfy and have a personal balcony with a hammock for chillin’ out. Free espresso, tea and fruits can be found within the morning. Some rooms provide air-conditioning whereas others are followers solely. Rooms for 2 folks go from round $13/night time. Click on right here to study extra and to guide.
Click on right here to seek for extra finances lodging in Pai.
Midrange:
Pai Vieng Fa Resort – rated “Very Good” 8.4/10. This tropical property gives company lodging in stunning bungalows, full with a personal balcony and mountain surroundings. There’s air-conditioning, and an onsite swimming pool. In the event you’re in search of consolation and affordability, this can be a good possibility. Bungalows listed below are from $30/night time. Click on right here to study extra and to guide.
Tarnjedton Pai Resort – rated “Distinctive” 9.0/10. The gorgeous cottages listed below are set within the mountains, providing a peaceable keep for guests. Rooms embody a fan, ensuite toilet, non-public balcony, TV and fridge. Breakfast is included within the room price, which begins at round $39/night time. Click on right here to study extra and to guide.
Click on right here to go looking by extra mid-range properties in Pai, Thailand.
High Finish:
Pai Village Boutique Resort & Farm – rated “Great” 9.1/10. The property right here is beautiful! Set alongside the banks of the Pai River, the picket cottages provide company views of the mountains or backyard from the non-public balconies. The ensuite bogs have sizzling water showers, and the rooms have sitting areas and kettles for company’ use as nicely.
You’ll have entry to the property’s non-public farm which is 5 kilometers away, and after a day of having fun with all of the issues to do in Pai, you may chill out with a therapeutic massage. There’s additionally an onsite restaurant. Breakfast is included within the room price, which begins at $85/night time. Click on right here to study extra and to guide.
Click on right here to go looking by extra top-end properties in Pai.
Now You Know What To Do in Pai
Primarily based on this listing of issues to do in Pai, you may in all probability inform that it isn’t your typical city in Thailand. There are not any seashores, island events, or streets absolutely devoted to night-clubbing, however that is what makes Pai a novel place to go to.
With that being mentioned, it’s nonetheless an enthralling city the place vacationers really feel comfy, making it a preferred place for backpackers to go to whereas in Thailand. I hope this listing gave you some concepts for issues to do throughout your journey to Pai. Glad travels!
Pictures on this submit are courtesy of Shutterstock. Be taught extra about their royalty-free photographs right here.
Goats On The Highway Beneficial Assets For Pai, Thailand
✓ There are such a lot of adventurous issues to do in Pai. It’s vital to be sure to have enough journey insurance coverage earlier than embarking on any journey, however particularly one the place you’ll be partaking in outside actions equivalent to snorkelling, diving, kayaking, mountain climbing, and so forth. We use and suggest Security Wing.
✓ We suggest buying eco-friendly merchandise to your keep in Pai. We’re personally attempting to scale back the quantity of single-use plastic that we use, and encourage you to do the identical throughout your travels.
To keep away from buying plastic water bottles whereas in Pai, contemplate shopping for a water bottle with a built-in filter equivalent to LifeStraw or GrayL, or get your self a Steri-Pen. By way of utensils, this bamboo set is nice for picnics, whereas these glass or steel straws are good for cocktails, fruit juices or a glass of water. Say no to straws and plastic utensils, carry your personal.