Pai Attractions, Tours and Trekking
Pai is one of the most popular mountain towns in Mae Hong Son Province. Surrounded by valleys, rivers, waterfalls, temples, hot springs and viewpoints, Pai is a favorite base for travelers who want a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful scenery and easy access to nearby natural attractions.
The main attractions in Pai include Pai Canyon, Pai Walking Street, Tha Pai Hot Spring, Sai Ngam Hot Spring, Wat Phra That Mae Yen, Mo Paeng Waterfall, Pam Bok Waterfall, Santichon Village and the World War II Memorial Bridge. Pai is also a good starting point for visiting Pang Mapha, Tham Lod Cave and hill tribe trekking villages.
This page introduces Pai attractions, Mae Hong Son Loop tour options and trekking programs that can start with pickup and drop-off in Pai.
Visit Pai with Mae Hong Son Tours and Trekking Programs
Pai can be visited as a short private trip from Chiang Mai, as part of a Pai and Pang Mapha package, or as one of the main overnight stops on the Mae Hong Son Loop. Travelers can also use Pai as a convenient pickup and drop-off point for trekking programs in Pang Mapha villages such as Ban Mae Lana, Ban Jabo, Ban Pha Mon and Ban Muang Pam.
- 2 Days Package Tour Chiang Mai to Pai – Pang Mapha – Short Pai and Pang Mapha tour with Tham Lod Cave
- 2 Days Package Tour Rafting along Pai River and Cave – Adventure-style Pai tour with rafting and cave visit
- Mae Hong Son Loop 3 Day Tour – Classic short loop including Pai, Pang Mapha and Mae Hong Son town
- 4 Days All Highlights Mae Hong Son Loop Tour – Fuller Mae Hong Son route with more districts and highlights
- 4 Days Package Tour Pai – Mae Hong Son Loop – Best choice for travelers who want Pai as a main focus
- 4 Days Package Tour Mae Chaem – Mae Hong Son – Pai – Scenic rural route ending with Pai
Compare Mae Hong Son Tours that Visit Pai
Each Mae Hong Son tour package that visits Pai has a different route and travel style. Some programs focus mainly on Pai and Pang Mapha, while others include Pai as part of a longer Mae Hong Son Loop with caves, villages, temples, viewpoints and scenic mountain roads.
| Tour Program | Main Difference | Best For | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Days Package Tour Chiang Mai to Pai – Pang Mapha | This is the shortest Pai package. It focuses on Chiang Mai, Pai and Pang Mapha, with Pai attractions and Tham Lod Cave included in a short 2-day route. | Travelers with limited time who want Pai, Pang Mapha and Tham Lod Cave without doing the full Mae Hong Son Loop. | View tour |
| 2 Days Package Tour Rafting along Pai River and Cave | This 2-day package is more adventure-focused. It combines Pai River rafting, Pai scenery, hot spring or waterfall stops and cave exploration. | Travelers who want Pai with more activity, especially rafting and cave adventure. | View tour |
| Mae Hong Son Loop 3 Day Tour | This is the classic short Mae Hong Son Loop. Pai is included as one of the main overnight or sightseeing stops together with Pang Mapha, Tham Lod Cave and Mae Hong Son town. | Travelers who want the main Mae Hong Son Loop highlights in only 3 days. | View tour |
| 4 Days All Highlights Mae Hong Son Loop Tour | This is the most complete highlight route. It includes more districts and attractions before reaching Pai, such as Doi Inthanon, Mae Sariang, Ob Luang, Mae Hong Son town, Pang Mapha and Tham Lod Cave. | Travelers who want the fullest Mae Hong Son Loop experience with Pai included as part of a wider route. | View tour |
| 4 Days Package Tour Pai – Mae Hong Son Loop | This is the best 4-day option for travelers who want Pai as a main focus. The route starts with Pai highlights before continuing to Pang Mapha, Ban Rak Thai, Mae Hong Son town and other loop attractions. | Travelers who want Pai, Pai Canyon, Pai Walking Street, Pang Mapha caves, Ban Rak Thai and Mae Hong Son town in one route. | View tour |
| 4 Days Package Tour Mae Chaem – Mae Hong Son – Pai | This route reaches Pai near the later part of the journey. It adds Mae Chaem, rural mountain scenery, rice terraces, Mae Hong Son town, Pang Mapha and Pai. | Travelers who want a scenic rural route with Mae Chaem, rice terraces, mountain roads and Pai. | View tour |
Which Pai tour package should you choose?
- Choose the 2 Days Chiang Mai to Pai – Pang Mapha Tour if you have limited time and want a short Pai trip with Tham Lod Cave.
- Choose the 2 Days Rafting along Pai River and Cave Tour if you want Pai with more adventure, rafting and cave exploration.
- Choose the Mae Hong Son Loop 3 Day Tour if you want Pai as part of the classic Mae Hong Son Loop in a shorter time.
- Choose the 4 Days All Highlights Mae Hong Son Loop Tour if you want the most complete Mae Hong Son route with Pai included.
- Choose the 4 Days Pai – Mae Hong Son Loop Tour if Pai is one of your main interests and you also want Pang Mapha, Ban Rak Thai and Mae Hong Son town.
- Choose the 4 Days Mae Chaem – Mae Hong Son – Pai Tour if you want a scenic rural route with rice terraces, mountain roads and Pai at the end of the journey.
Trekking from Pai to Pang Mapha Villages
Although most trekking villages are located in Pang Mapha District, many programs can start with pickup and drop-off in Pai. These treks are suitable for travelers staying in Pai who want to explore caves, forest trails, mountain viewpoints and hill tribe villages without arranging separate transport by themselves.
- Trekking at Ban Mae Lana – One-day Shan / Tai-Yai culture trek with caves and forest trails
- Trekking at Ban Jabo – One-day Black Lahu village trek with mountain views
- Trekking at Ban Pha Mon – One-day Red Lahu trek with stronger hiking route
- Trekking at Ban Muang Pam – One-day Karen village trek with Lod Cave area and bamboo rafting scenery
- 2-Day Trek at Ban Mae Lana – Two-day Tai-Yai homestay trek with cave scenery and local cooking
- 2-Day Trek to Ban Pha Mon – Two-day Red Lahu homestay trek with forest hiking and cultural activities
- 2 Days Trekking to Ban Muang Pam – Two-day Karen homestay trek with rice fields, crafts and local cooking
- 2-Day Trek to Ban Jabo – Two-day Black Lahu homestay trek with mountain trails, music, dance and local cooking
Compare Pai Treks with Pickup from Pai
These trekking programs are not located inside Pai town, but they can be suitable for travelers staying in Pai because pickup and drop-off can be arranged from Pai. Most routes explore Pang Mapha villages, caves, forest trails, viewpoints and hill tribe communities.
| Trekking Program | Village / Area | Main Difference | Best For | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trekking at Ban Mae Lana | Ban Mae Lana | One-day trek with Shan / Tai-Yai culture, limestone scenery, caves, forest trails, rice fields and viewpoints. | Travelers staying in Pai who want a balanced nature and culture trek without staying overnight. | View trek |
| Trekking at Ban Jabo | Ban Jabo | One-day Black Lahu village trek with mountain views, rice terraces, forest trails and local village culture. | Travelers who want scenic viewpoints and Black Lahu culture in one day from Pai. | View trek |
| Trekking at Ban Pha Mon | Ban Pha Mon | One-day Red Lahu trek with a stronger hiking route, forest scenery, streams, fields and village life. | Travelers who want a more active trekking experience from Pai. | View trek |
| Trekking at Ban Muang Pam | Ban Muang Pam | One-day Karen culture trek with Lod Cave area, bamboo rafting scenery, forest walking and local workshops. | Travelers who want caves, nature and Karen village culture in one program. | View trek |
| 2-Day Trek at Ban Mae Lana | Ban Mae Lana | Two-day version with more time for caves, forest hiking, Tai-Yai homestay, local cooking and village culture. | Travelers who want Shan / Tai-Yai culture and an overnight homestay experience. | View trek |
| 2-Day Trek to Ban Pha Mon | Ban Pha Mon | Two-day Red Lahu homestay trek with forest trails, village walk, cooking, herbal knowledge and cultural activities. | Travelers who want stronger hiking and Red Lahu village immersion. | View trek |
| 2 Days Trekking to Ban Muang Pam | Ban Muang Pam | Two-day Karen homestay trek with creeks, rice paddies, fish conservation area, weaving, bamboo crafts and local cooking. | Travelers who want Karen culture, village activities and overnight homestay. | View trek |
| 2-Day Trek to Ban Jabo | Ban Jabo | Two-day Black Lahu homestay trek with mountain trails, rice terraces, traditional music, dance, cooking and local culture. | Travelers who want a deeper Black Lahu village experience from Pai. | View trek |
Which Pai trek should you choose?
- Choose Ban Mae Lana if you want Shan / Tai-Yai culture, caves, forest trails and a balanced one-day trek from Pai.
- Choose Ban Jabo if you want Black Lahu culture, mountain viewpoints and a local village atmosphere.
- Choose Ban Pha Mon if you want Red Lahu culture and a stronger hiking-focused route.
- Choose Ban Muang Pam if you want Karen culture, Lod Cave area, bamboo rafting scenery and village workshops.
- Choose a one-day trek if you are staying in Pai and want to return to your hotel the same day.
- Choose a two-day trek if you want homestay, local cooking, village activities and a deeper cultural experience.
Pai, located 111 km. from Mae Hong Son, is a quiet, relaxed little town set amid superb scenery and popular as a base for exploring the natural attractions of the area. Enclosed in a lofty mountain range, Pai district is endowed with many forms of natural wonders such as waterfalls, gorges, caves and hot springs. The famous destination for adventurous travellers is Pai River, the longest river in Mae Hong Son which welcomes its visitors with a series of rapids dancing along its scenic gorges.
Attractions in Pai
Maenam Pai
Maenam Pai is the longest river in Mae Hong Son, originated at Thanon Tongchai and Danlao mountain ranges through Pai which flows to the south passes by Mueang Mae Hong Son and eventually joins the Salawin river in Kaya, Myanmar, a total distance of 180 kilometres. Its depth is one meter in Summer. In rainy season the tide is very strong so tourist should have a professional guide for rafting. Rafting trip is very popular during July to December either bamboo rafts or rubber rafts. Many travel agents provide such a trip. The best time for rafting is from October to March.
With its approximately length of 180 kms., 30 m. width and 7 m. depth, the Pai River is the biggest and longest river in Mae Hong Son. This challenges the adventurous lover to raft along this river, and three most suitable points are recommended. They are:
- Source of the River to Amphoe Pai: Starting from Hua Chang Kaeo, 16 kms. Amphoe Pai to Wiang Nua Bridge or Ban Chumphon near Amphoe Pai, taking about 6 hours. Most suitable time to raft is between October – March, and 2 weeks prior contact for the raft is recommended.
- From Amphoe Pai to Amphoe Muang Mae Hong Son: Starting from Ban Mo Tang, 30 kms. from Amphoe Pai to Ban Pang Mu in Amphoe Muang. The distance of this route is about 70 kms and takes at least 5 days of rafting, and dug to much difference in water level at one point of the River along this route therefore, two rafts setting are required to change at this mentioned point.
- From Amphoe Muang to Thai – Myanma Border Starting from Ban Huai Dua, Tambon Pha Bong, about 6 kms. from Amphoe Muang, to the border at Ban Nam Phiang Dir. Normally this section of the River is more enjoyable to cruise along by the long – tailed motor boat which only takes 2-3 hour returned trip or trekking on elephant back instead of rafting since the nature and scenery are fascinated and beautiful.
Wat Klang
Wat Klang is located in Tambon Wiang Tai. Its chedi shows Thai Yai architectural influence and houses Buddha images connected with the days of the week.
Wat Nam Hoo
Wat Nam Hoo is at Mu 5 Tambon Wiang Tai, located 3 km. from Pai hospital. This temple housed Phra Une Muang, sacred Buddha image in Lanna style, 500 years of age, in the attitude of Subduing Mara (victory over Mara).
The Buddha image is highly respected by local people. Its topknot can be opened and is believed to contain holy water.
Wat Phra That Mae Yen
Wat Phrathat Mae Yen is at Ban Mae Yen, Tambon Mae Hee en route Pai-Mae Hong Son. The Chedi located on a hill with a good panoramic view of Amphoe pai.
Namtok Mor Pang
Mor Pang waterfall is at Mu 4 Ban Mo Paeng Tambon Mae Na Toeng, is about 7 km. from Pai’s town. The waterfall is 5 metre height with good atmosphere and suitable for swimming.
Mae Yen Waterfall
Mae Yen Waterfall is a peaceful waterfall located in a forested area of Pai. It is suitable for travelers who enjoy nature walks, quiet scenery and a more adventurous route outside town.
Pai Walking Street
Pai Walking Street is a kind of open-air shopping district. There are lots of goods on sale there. You can find food, beverage, clothes, souvenirs etc. In the past, the booths were much smaller. But nowadays, you can shop for many more goods from much bigger booths.
Mueang Paeng Hot Spring
Mueang Paeng Hot Spring is 28 km. from Pai’s town. Take Highway No.1095 Pai-Mae Malai route, then, turn right at km. 85-86 to take Highway No.1065. This is a big hot spring with average temperature of 95˚c.
Huai Nam Dang National Park
Huai Nam Dang National Park is at Km. 65 on the Pai-Mae Malai route Highway No.1095, there is a turning leading to the headquarters of the Huai Nam Dang National Park. Visitors can spend the night in tents to wait for the spectacular views of sunrise and mist-shrouded mountain views in the morning. Cherry blossom during January adds charms to the attraction.
Pong Dueat Hot Springs
Pong Dueat Hot Springs is a geyser type hot spring which rises up 2 metres high. At Km. 42 of Route 1095, there is a six-kilometre road leading to Pong Dueat hot spring.
Tha Pai Hot Spring
Tha Pai Hot Spring is another attraction in the area of Huai Nam Dang National Park. The Pai hot spring is two kilometres off Route 1095 at Km. 87. It has an average temperature of 80˚c. Steam from the spring permeates the site in the morning creating fascinating sights. The area is also rich in teakwoods and suitable for overnight camping.
Pai Canyon
Along highway 1095 before reaching the World War II Menorial Bridge, there is a road sign to Pai Canyon on your left. Pai Canyon or Kong Lan is another interesting tourist attraction in Pai. The steep cliff has been eroded for a long time ago, creating the 20 meter-deep valley amidst the scenic settings of the red hill of dry dipterocarp and pine forest. It is best to visit this place in early morning or late evening, because in the afternoon the area could be extremely hot.
Tha Pai World War II Memorial Bridge
Tha Pai World War II Memorial Bridge is located at the kilometer marker 88 on highway 1095 (Mae Malai-Pai Road). This bridge was built in 19424, during the World War II. At that time the Japanese troops chose Pai to be their military base since Pai was completely surrounded by mountains and rivers, and therefore served as a very advantageous spot. So a bridge made of iron over the river was constructed in order to transport weapons and provisions to Myanmar. Although this bridge was only nearly complete when the war was over, it has become one of many fascinating tourist attractions of Pai.
Santichon Village or Chinese Yunnan Cultural Village
Santichon village is a village of descendants of migrants from Yunnan who still cherish many aspects of Chinese culture and traditions. Visitors can learn about Yunnan Chinese culture, traditional houses, local food and the history of the community at Santichon Village.
Sai Ngam hot spring
Sai Ngam hot spring is completely natural hot springs in the middle of lush jungle vegetation. The water is so clear and warm like a nice bath. The Sai Ngam Hot Spring (also known as the Secret Hot Springs) are located 15 kilometres north of Pai.
Land Split
The Land Split is a geological feature caused by seismic activity, an earthquake in 2008. Subsequent quakes including those of 2009 and 2011 have further produced severe rifts along the main line. To date, the ground movement and their consequential geological evidences have confirmed that “The Land Split” is indeed an active Fault line.
Pam Bok Waterfall
Pam Bok Waterfall itself is probably not the most impressive waterfall you’ve ever seen but as it is surrounded by high cliffs it still looks pretty amazing, this waterfall offered a great place to cool down on a hot day. If you feel adventurous enough there is a small dirt path which leads to a cove from where you can jump down into the pool.
Kho Kuu So Bridge
Kho Kuu So is a bamboo bridge running through rice fields. If you see it from the top view, you will see that the bridge is very long and, also, the fields are all large and look so beautiful in fresh green colour. The name of the bridge, ‘Kho Kuu So’ originated from Shan word ‘Kho Kuu So’. ‘Kho’ means ‘bridge’ and ‘Kuu So’ means ‘merit’ .
Wat Sri Don Chai
Wat Sri Don Chai, Located northeast of the district center, this temple has the most sacred ancient Buddha statute in Chiang Sean style. There are blessed medals that are highly believe to make miracles blessed at this temple.
Thom’s Pai Elephant Camp
Thom’s Pai Elephant Camp is the Oldest Elephant Camp in Pai and the first camp that wants to let you interact with these beautiful, sensitive animals in an ecologically responsible fashion. Thom’s elephants live in the mountains of Pai. Every day, they are taken to the river to bathe and brought to the pens for feeding and for the enjoyment of the tourists.
Our Services for Pai Tours and Trekking
My Chiang Mai Tour offers private Mae Hong Son tour packages that include Pai, Pang Mapha, Tham Lod Cave and other highlights along the Mae Hong Son Loop. Travelers staying in Pai can also choose trekking programs with pickup and drop-off from Pai to explore nearby Pang Mapha villages, forest trails, caves and hill tribe communities.
- 2 Days Package Tour Chiang Mai to Pai – Pang Mapha – Short private tour for Pai, Pang Mapha and Tham Lod Cave
- 2 Days Package Tour Rafting along Pai River and Cave – Pai adventure tour with rafting and cave visit
- Mae Hong Son Loop 3 Day Tour – Classic short loop including Pai, Pang Mapha and Mae Hong Son town
- 4 Days All Highlights Mae Hong Son Loop Tour – Complete Mae Hong Son Loop package with Pai included
- 4 Days Package Tour Pai – Mae Hong Son Loop – Best option for travelers who want Pai as a main focus
- 4 Days Package Tour Mae Chaem – Mae Hong Son – Pai – Scenic rural route with Mae Chaem, Mae Hong Son and Pai
Pai Trekking Programs
- Trekking at Ban Mae Lana – One-day Shan / Tai-Yai culture trek with pickup from Pai
- Trekking at Ban Jabo – One-day Black Lahu village trek with mountain views
- Trekking at Ban Pha Mon – One-day Red Lahu trek with a stronger hiking route
- Trekking at Ban Muang Pam – One-day Karen village trek with Lod Cave area
- 2-Day Trek at Ban Mae Lana – Two-day Tai-Yai homestay trek
- 2-Day Trek to Ban Pha Mon – Two-day Red Lahu homestay trek
- 2 Days Trekking to Ban Muang Pam – Two-day Karen homestay trek
- 2-Day Trek to Ban Jabo – Two-day Black Lahu homestay trek
Pai Map
Pai Travel FAQ
Where is Pai?
Pai is a mountain town in Mae Hong Son Province, located on Route 1095 between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son town.
What is Pai famous for?
Pai is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, mountain scenery, Pai Canyon, hot springs, waterfalls, temples, Pai Walking Street and nearby villages.
Can I visit Pai from Chiang Mai?
Yes. Pai can be visited as a private 2-day tour from Chiang Mai or as part of a longer Mae Hong Son Loop package.
Which Mae Hong Son tour is best for Pai?
Choose the 2 Days Chiang Mai to Pai – Pang Mapha Tour if you have limited time, or the 4 Days Pai – Mae Hong Son Loop Tour if you want Pai as a main focus within a longer route.
Can trekking programs start from Pai?
Yes. Some Mae Hong Son trekking programs can start with pickup and drop-off in Pai, especially treks around Pang Mapha villages such as Ban Mae Lana, Ban Jabo, Ban Pha Mon and Ban Muang Pam.
Is Pai good for the Mae Hong Son Loop?
Yes. Pai is one of the most popular overnight stops on the Mae Hong Son Loop and is often combined with Pang Mapha, Tham Lod Cave and Mae Hong Son town.
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