The Ride from Chiang Mai to Pai
The journey to Pai is about 130 km and takes around 2.5 hours by scooter, however there are plenty of places to stop along the way, so leave more time for that. The road, Route 1095, is known for having 762 curves. I therefore recommend a 150+ cc scooter or bike to maximise your fun on the trip,take your time and enjoy the scenery .
Leave early. Try to depart earlier to give you maximum time in pai.
Refuel in Mae Sa or Pong Duet. There are fewer stations deeper into the route.
Wear a helmet and bring a rain jacket, if it’s the rainy season (June–October).
Tips for the Road:
Scenic Stops Along the Way:
Mok Fa Waterfall – definitely worth seeing and early in the ride so a good first stop.
Pong Duet Geyser – A natural hot spring and steam geyser in the forest.
Yun Lai Viewpoint (near Pai) – a last stop before hitting pai.
Lots of coffee shops to refresh along the way.
Best Food in Pai
Pai has great food, from cheap street food to really tasty western food. I highly recommend the smoothie bowls, they are sold everywhere.
Local places to eat:
Street Food at Pai Walking Street Market (open from 5 PM daily)
– Grilled meats, sushi, gyoza, smoothies, and vegan stalls line the town center.
– Don’t miss the roti with banana and Nutella or pumpkin curry from the vegan cart.
Na’s Kitchen
– Classic Thai food with home-style flavor. Try the panang curry and mango sticky rice.
Cafecito
– Mexican breakfast with good coffee and homemade tortillas.
Charlie and Lek’s
– A Thai-Burmese fusion spot known for its spicy Shan-style noodles.
Where to Watch the Sunset
Pai is surrounded by hills and rice fields, giving you plenty of magical spots to watch the sun go down.
Best Sunset Spots:
Pai Canyon (Kong Lan)
– A dramatic landscape of sandstone ridges with panoramic views. It’s only 10 minutes by scooter from town. Bring sturdy shoes if you want to explore the ridges.
Yun Lai Viewpoint
– Located above a Chinese Yunnan village, this is a quieter alternative with bamboo huts, tea, and swing chairs overlooking the valley.
White Buddha (Wat Phra That Mae Yen)
– Climb the stairs to this giant Buddha and soak in a peaceful sunset above Pai.
2 huts is a great spot to have a beer, listen to live music and watch the sunset
Live Music in Pai
Pai’s a bohemian paradise that attracts some great musicians.
Top Venues:
Yellow Sun Bar
– Reggae and rock every night. Chill atmosphere with pool tables and a great vibe.
Jazz House
– Laid-back spot with nightly bands, you can even relax in a hammock.
Blah Blah Bar
– A hidden gem for acoustic sets and great cocktails.
Many bars in Pai don’t have a fixed schedule—just wander around the Walking Street and you’ll find plenty happening.
Top Sights and Activities
There’s some really cool spots in Pai, here’s a few but just ask around there’s heaps of stuff to see
1. Pai Canyon
Mentioned earlier for sunset, but it’s also great to visit earlier in the day and wear good shoes as it’s a trick walk.
2. Tha Pai Hot Springs
Relax in warm, mineral-rich pools surrounded by forest. Entry is around 300 baht for foreigners, but worth it if you’ve been riding all day.
3. Land Split
A quirky little farm where the land literally cracked in an earthquake. The owner offers free samples of juice, fruit, and wine in exchange for donations.
4. Bamboo Bridge (Boon Ko Ku So Bridge)
A long bamboo walkway over the rice paddies. Peaceful and photogenic, especially in green season (July–October).
5. Wat Phra That Mae Yen
The White Buddha we mentioned earlier for sunset. A spiritual spot with a great view and meditative energy.
6. Santichon Village
A small Chinese Yunnanese village with tea tasting, horse rides, and local dishes like Yunnan pork.
Conclusion
Pai is one of those rare places that a lot of travelers miss out on.Its a great place to see nature. Also has a great night scene. Or if you prefer just to get baked and hang out, it’s super easy to meet people and find some great live music.For me though the ride up and down is the highlight, the road is good with lots of fun turns, great view and you’re surrounded by nature. By the time you get up you feel totally relaxed