7 Amazing things to do in Pai, Thailand

By Pete | March 2023

We spent an amazing 2 days and 3 nights in Pai and have come up with 7 Amazing things to in Pai. This list consists of the best sunset spots, viewpoints, waterfalls and much more.

How To get there

Most travellers and backpackers arrive in Pai from Places like Chiang Mai, it’s really quick and cheap to get a shuttle van between the the places but if you are carsick then be prepared for the 750 tight turns.

We didn’t fancy this option and prefer to have our own adventure so we hired a motorbike in Chiang Mai for the duration of the trip and returned it when we came back. I would recommend this option if you are the more adventurous type but maybe only if you have experience on a motorbike.

Head to 12GoaAsia website for all of your transport needs, book ahead to make sure you aren’t left disappointed and to get cheaper rates.

Where to stay

Pai has hundreds of accommodations to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Budget

Luxury

1. Sunset at Pai Canyon

Before we arrived in Pai we had no idea that it had its own scaled down version of the grand canyon, Located just 7 km outside of town hosting some of the best views in the region. I recommend you go for sunset to get the perfect light.

Tip: There are three Viewpoints at the canyon but make sure you bring good footwear if you want to get to the furthest away which is the quietest for good reason. it starts off with a big drop/climb down to the footpath then a climb up at the other end. Take a head torch or head back before it gets to dark.

2. Bamboo Bridge

The best time to visit the Bamboo bridge in pai is during rainy season to make sure you get those lush green rice fields, we did not have that luxury unfortunately. However it was still worth the trip.

If you visit outside of rainy season you will be greeted with brown/yellow fields but the surrounding landscape is still beautiful and makes for great photos as seen below.

Tip: we headed to the Bamboo bridge around 9 am and we nearly had the place to ourselves. any later and you will be sharing the bouncy bridges with hundreds of people

7 Amazing things to do in Pai, Thailand

3. Mor Paeng Waterfall

This waterfall is located around 9km to the west of the centre of Pai, i took my rented motorcycle for a sunrise trip to Yun Lai Viewpoint then made my way to the waterfall at around 9am. Surprisingly there is no entrance fee at Mo Paeng Waterfall so just pull up and park towards the top under the trees.

Tip : As this was free the steps and bridges were not in the best condition so be careful. Mo Paeng Waterfall has multiple small waterfalls so don’t just visit the top one, head down to the bottom to check out the rest.

Related article | Mae Hong Son Loop – 5 day tour

4. Explore the surrounding are on a motorbike

In my opinion there is no better way to explore a new place than on a motorcycle. We visited Pai as part of the Mae Hong son loop and made a blog about it that you can read HERE.

Safety doesn’t happen by accident..

As boring as it sounds SAFETY is one of the most important factors for any motorbike, trip let alone an epic journey of a lifetime. When riding for hours and hours around tough terrain and roads, fatigue can set in leaving you open for mistakes and unfortunately accidents.

Thailand does rank number one as the most motorcyclists killed on the road every year, so do bear that in mind.

Our advice would be only do this trip if you have the required experience or training

Setting off on the Mae Hong son Loop from Pai

5. Sunrise at Yun Lai Viewpoint

Yun Lai Viewpoint hosts one of the best panoramic views over the whole of Pai so it has quickly become a favourite place for tourists to watch the sunrise over the valley. We visited just after the pandemic so it was quiet but there were still crowds of people. As always try and find a quieter spot to yourself. Head down to the lower levels of the flower fields were you can take in the views with complete peace and quiet

Tip : Entrance to Yun Lai viewpoint is 20 baht so bring some cash, you can also get some breakfast and hot drinks whilst you wait for the sun to rise.

Must Read – 7 Best Photography Spots In Bangkok

6. Try some delicious food on pai walking street

Head down to Pai walking street at night time as the road gets closed from motorists and you can wander the stalls and shops trying all sorts of delicious food on offer. We fell in love with Ganitas cafe so head here for an amazing buddha bowl.

7. Catch a sunset with the White Buddha

The White buddha is instantly spotted from anywhere in the town, sitting up on the hill, perfectly positioned overlooking the whole valley. If you hired a motorcycle add this to your itinerary at sunset or just before you head to Pai Canyon like we did.

One of the benefits of turning up here towards the end of the day is there is around 200 steps waiting for you which is much more pleasant in cooler temperatures. Thank me later

Tip : Head here for sunset, Once you have made it to the top You will have a great view over Pai. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing for this temple.