Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
12/08/2025
Bernd Feurich, Pexels
Pai offers a captivating escape nestled within Northern Thailand's mountains, known for its laid-back, bohemian atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in stunning natural landscapes, including canyons, waterfalls, and hot springs, while enjoying a relaxed pace of life.
The Pai Walking Street buzzes nightly with activity, serving as a central meeting point for enjoying street food and local crafts. For those looking to connect with other travelers, numerous cafes and bars throughout the town foster a social environment. Hostels are often hubs for interaction, organizing group dinners and events, while specific bars like Boom Bar and Jikko Beer provide lively settings for socializing and enjoying music.
Top 6 Things to do in Pai
Activities in Pai generally revolve around exploring its distinctive natural landscapes, visiting cultural landmarks, and engaging with local experiences.
1. Pai Canyon (Kong Lan)
Pai Canyon offers a unique geological formation with narrow walking paths along dramatic ridge lines, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. It is particularly popular for witnessing spectacular sunsets, where the red soil of the canyon glows in the golden light. While some trails can be challenging with steep drops, the initial ascent to the first viewpoint is relatively easy.
Cost: Access to Pai Canyon is free of charge.
Transport: Located approximately 8 kilometers (a 10-15 minute drive) from Pai town center, the most convenient way to reach the canyon is by rented scooter. Taxis are also an option, and it is often included as a sunset stop on half-day or full-day tours that can be booked in town.
2. Sai Ngam Hot Spring
Known as the 'Secret Hot Spring,' Sai Ngam offers a serene and natural setting for a relaxing soak. The spring features several crystal-clear pools surrounded by lush jungle, with comfortable water temperatures ideal for prolonged enjoyment. It is less crowded than other hot springs, offering a more peaceful experience, especially if visited early in the morning.
Cost: An entrance fee of 200 THB per person applies, which is a National Park fee that may also cover other attractions within the Lum Nam Pai Wildlife Sanctuary if visited on the same day. There is an additional 20 THB charge for scooter parking.
Transport: Situated about 15 kilometers north of Pai town, approximately a 20-30 minute scooter ride, visitors can easily self-drive. Alternatively, tours that include the hot spring can be booked, with prices ranging from 400 to 1,000 THB, sometimes including the entrance fee.
3. Wat Phra That Mae Yen (White Buddha)
Perched atop a hill, Wat Phra That Mae Yen is home to a large white Buddha statue visible from most parts of Pai. The temple offers stunning panoramic views of the entire Pai valley, making it a prime location for both sunrise and sunset. Reaching the top involves climbing 353 steps, providing a moderate physical activity rewarded by the serene atmosphere and expansive vistas.
Cost: There is no entrance fee to visit the White Buddha, though donations are welcome.
Transport: Located approximately 2 kilometers east of Pai town, it is easily accessible by scooter, a short walk, or a motorcycle taxi. A round trip by motorcycle taxi can be negotiated for around 150 THB.
4. Pam Bok Waterfall
Pam Bok Waterfall is a charming natural spot nestled within a cool, shaded canyon. Though not the largest waterfall, its deep pool is suitable for swimming, offering a refreshing escape. It provides a peaceful setting to relax amidst lush surroundings.
Cost: The entrance fee is 200 THB per person, which is part of the Lum Nam Pai Wildlife Sanctuary fee. This fee may also grant access to other attractions within the sanctuary.
Transport: The waterfall is located about 9 kilometers southwest of Pai, a short 10-minute drive by scooter. Taxis are also available, with a ride typically costing between $6-8 (approximately 200-280 THB). It can be easily combined with a visit to the nearby Land Split or Bamboo Bridge.
5. Kho Ku So Bamboo Bridge
The Kho Ku So Bamboo Bridge is an 800-meter long, hand-built bamboo walkway gracefully stretching across vibrant green rice fields. It leads to a small forest temple, offering a unique glimpse into rural Thai life and providing picturesque photo opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk, appreciating the tranquil agricultural landscape.
Cost: There is a nominal entry fee of 30 THB per person, which often includes parking for scooters.
Transport: Situated around 10-11 kilometers southwest of Pai town, the bridge is about a 30-minute scooter ride on winding roads. While the road can be challenging in parts, it is the most common way to get there.
6. Tham Lod Cave
Tham Lod Cave is an impressive limestone cave system with a river flowing through it. Visitors explore the cave on unique bamboo rafts, guided by a local with a gas lamp. Inside, one discovers ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and even ancient cofins. This experience offers a blend of adventure and natural wonder.
Cost: The cost is typically 600 THB per bamboo raft, which can accommodate up to three passengers and includes a local guide.
Transport: Located approximately 50 kilometers from Pai, Tham Lod Cave requires a longer journey. It is best reached by scooter for those comfortable with longer rides, or by joining an organized tour.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
