How to get to Pai

Pai is an atmospheric town in the mountains of northern Thailand, which has long become a cult destination for backpackers and nature lovers. To get to Pai, tourists often have to overcome the famous winding mountain road, but the picturesque views and unique relaxed atmosphere fully justify this journey. You can arrive here in various ways, most often by combining a flight to the nearest major hub with a bus or car ride.

There is no operating commercial airport within the town of Pai itself, so arriving solely by air is impossible. The nearest major aviation hub is the international airport in the city of Chiang Mai (CNX), located approximately 85 km away. It receives many flights from Bangkok and other international destinations, serving as the main entry point for travel to this region.

An alternative option could be the airport in Mae Hong Son (HGN), situated 91 km from Pai. However, the number of flights there is significantly limited, so most travellers prefer to fly via Chiang Mai, which is well-connected to Pai by ground transport.

Direct rail service to Pai is unavailable due to the difficult mountainous terrain. The nearest railway station is in Chiang Mai, which is the terminus of Thailand's Northern Railway Line. Comfortable overnight and daytime trains arrive here from Bangkok.

After arriving at the station in Chiang Mai, travellers need to transfer to road transport to cover the remaining 85 km of mountain road. This combined route is very popular among tourists wishing to enjoy views of the country from the train window before heading into the mountains.

Traveling by bus or minivan is the most common way to get to Pai. The main route runs from the city of Chiang Mai: the distance is about 139 km, and the travel time takes approximately 4.3 hours. The road consists of the famous serpentine with hundreds of turns, so the trip can be tiring for people prone to motion sickness.

Minivans run regularly and often depart from both the bus terminal and tour offices. Despite the winding nature of the route, drivers usually drive carefully, making a stop halfway for rest and refreshments.

A journey by car or rented motorbike offers complete freedom and the opportunity to stop at viewpoints. The route from Chiang Mai, spanning about 130 km, will take approximately 2.9 hours of pure driving time, excluding stops. It is a scenic but challenging road, requiring the driver to have focus and experience driving on mountain serpentines.

If you are heading from the direction of Mae Hong Son, the journey will be 192 km and take about 4 hours. Taxis from neighbouring cities are also available, but the cost of the trip will be significantly higher than public transport due to the specific nature of the mountain road.

Pai is a place with a special atmosphere and climate that differs from southern Thailand. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible, consider a few important nuances before your trip.

1. Clothing and Climate: Since the town is located in the mountains, evenings here can be cool, especially in winter (November–February). Be sure to bring a light jacket or hoodie.
2. Transport in town: The most popular way to get around is by scooter. However, rent one only if you have driving experience, as the roads can be steep and slippery.
3. Health on the road: The path to Pai is known as the "road of 762 curves." If you suffer from motion sickness, take motion sickness tablets in advance before traveling by bus or car.
4. Finances: There are ATMs and currency exchanges in the city centre, but small cafes and guesthouses outside the centre often accept only cash Baht.
5. Safety: Be careful on the roads and always wear a helmet when riding a bike. Police checks on tourists for driving licences are a frequent occurrence.
6. Respect for culture: When visiting temples, shoulders and knees must be covered. Remove your shoes before entering indoor spaces and private homes.
7. Accommodation features: Many bungalows are made of bamboo and have natural ventilation. Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes are active in the jungle.

By following these simple tips, you can fully immerse yourself in the relaxed rhythm of Pai and avoid minor inconveniences. Enjoy the mountain air, hot springs, and incredible sunsets!