Pai is a small town half way between Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand it has a population of approximately 3000. The majority of people are Thai but there a small number of Muslim Chinese who congregate in the southern part of town.
Entering the small, unique town of Pai, pronounced ‘bye’ is similar to boarding a time machine and pressing the button that flashes 1970. The streets are lined with bars and restaurants, most playing Led Zeppelin music or classic Bob Marley. If your mid life crisis depicts changing your hairstyle to dreadlocks then Pai is most definitely the place to achieve this. The town has a calm relaxed feel about it and even though it has influences from the USA it contains pockets of typical Thai culture. The local market which only operates in the evening has an array of fresh food and vegetables and fantastic street food. Once a month the town hosts a food fair, all the eateries in the town come together in a park set with stalls and tables. Coupons are purchased and freshly cooked food can be purchased direct, a stage provides entertainers from singers to comedians. Motorcycle is the most preferred and cheapest way to appreciate Pai and surrounds. Rental is cheap and Pai is easily navigational only boasting four main streets.
Transport to Pai in Northern Thailand
The bus journey which departs Chiang Mai daily is not for the faint hearted, the scenery is magnificent and permits the traveller plenty of time for appreciation as the journey is long and arduous, every turn in the well maintained road is a hair pin bend and travellers with an iron clad stomach may find it tough going. Once there the journey is well worth it.
Pai Hot Springs – Thai Pai
In easy reach of Pai about 8 kilometres south are the Thai Pai Hot Springs which are situated in a well maintained, picturesque park. Numerous streams formed in the nearby hills surrounding Pai flow down and meet hot springs forming bathing pools. The spring water is also piped into bathing houses for more private bathing.
Thom’s Elephant Camp Tours
Thom’s Elephant Camp tours are situated South East of Pai and offer jungle treks. There are several tours on offer, the tour can also incorporate bamboo rafting and a visit to local hill tribes.
Volunteer in Pai - Teach English
Travellers wishing to extend their stay and give something back to the community can volunteer by teaching English in the small villages surrounding Pai which are inhabited by Shan, Lisu and Lahu hill tribes.
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