Ultimate 3 Day Itinerary in Pai, Thailand
Explore Pai like a local: The only 3-day itinerary you need
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Pai is a little bohemian town tucked into the far north of Thailand. It’s on everyone’s radar, and despite its popularity, still retains a laid-back vibe that’s addictive. You’ll find this a hard place to leave. We’ve put together the ultimate 3 day itinerary for Pai that covers the best this corner of Thailand has to offer. Waterfalls, hot springs, canyon sunsets, live music and delicious food. Immerse yourself in the charm of Pai and experience the magic for yourself.
Day 1 - Pai Essentials
Morning
Explore Pai Town
Once you arrive in Pai, settle into your accommodation and get ready to explore the town. Begin your day with breakfast at Om Garden Café, a peaceful spot in the centre of Pai that serves everything from smoothie bowls and freshly pressed juices to homemade pastries and all day breakfast dishes. Choose from their colourful chalkboard menus, surrounded by greenery and a relaxed, gentle vibe. After you’ve fuelled up on Thai tea with coconut milk and ginger, head into town to wander the streets, particularly Pai Walking Street. Craft shops and cafe’s spill out from every corner, and the more relaxed pace of life is world’s away from the busier cities of Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
Lunch
Discover the Chinese village
We’ll continue exploring the streets of Pai come nightfall, when the walking street transforms into a bustling night market. But for now, take a short drive to Santichon Village, a pretty Chinese village just outside Pai. Founded by Chinese settlers from Yunnan, this village is a window into Yunnanese culture with traditional clay houses, tea shops and gardens. Wander through the village, try the local Yunnan-style tea and walk up to the nearby Chinese Viewpoint, with sweeping views out over the Pai valley. Have lunch at one of the many restaurants in the town, serving up traditional Yunnanese food, often with an obligatory Thai twist.
Afternoon
White Buddha Temple
On your way back towards Pai, stop and visit Wat Phra That Mae Yen, also known as the White Buddha Temple. Situated on a hill overlooking Pai, the temple has beautiful views over Pai town and the far distant mountains. Reaching the White Buddha involves climbing a staircase of around 350 steps, but the views are well worth the effort. You want to build up an appetite for tonight anyway! Spend some time at the top, soaking in the jungle-clad beauty of Northern Thailand.
Evening
Pai Walking Street
In the evening, head to Pai’s famous Walking Street. Lined with food stalls, craft stalls and street performers, it will feel like a different world from the quiet street you experienced this morning. This area is the beating heart of Pai’s nightlife. There is so much delicious street food here to sample that you’ll need to roll back to your hotel later. Find succulent grilled pork, sweet, moreish kanom krol (thai pancakes), fresh, piping hot spring rolls, vegan and vegetarian delights and fruit smoothies. Authentic and really affordable, this is a quintessential Pai experience and not one to be missed. Head to a nearby bar for a nightcap and to soak up the incredible atmosphere.
Day 2 - Waterfalls & Hidden Gems
Morning
Bamboo Bridge and Rice Fields
After breakfast, start your second day with a visit to Pai’s famous Bamboo Bridge, also known as Boon Ko Ku So. Just a short 20 minute drive from town, this handmade bridge zig-zags over emerald green rice fields. Originally made for monks to cross from the temple to the village to collect alms, today, you can stroll along the bridge and be transported to the heart of rural Thailand. It’s so peaceful here in the morning, with the sound of birdsong and a gentle breeze. After strolling through the fields, head back on the road to Pai and stop at Pambok Coffee to enjoy a drink in one of the hanging egg chairs, overlooking the jungle from their beautiful wooden terrace. We loved the honey lemon coffee – a must try.
Pam Bok Waterfall
Drive a few minutes down the road to find Pam Bok Waterfall, a waterfall tucked away in a rocky canyon. It’s only a short hike from the parking area, and the cool waters are perfect for a refreshing dip – especially now the heat of the day will be kicking in. During the rainy season, this waterfall is at its peak. But even outside of this time, you can still enjoy the tranquil little grove that’s been carved out of the rainforest around you. Spend some time soaking in the peace here before the short drive to Coffee View Family Restaurant. This beautiful wooden house serves up fresh, authentic Thai food with views over jungle-clad mountains. This is simple, homemade cooking at its best. Enjoy stir fried pork with basil before relaxing in one of the hammocks overlooking the valley.
Silhouette Bar
Afternoon
Slip n Slide at Mo Paeng Waterfall
Continue your exploration of Pai’s nature spots by spending the afternoon enjoying Mo Paeng waterfall. Lounge on the rocks in the afternoon sun while reading a book, cool off with a swim in the pools and when you need an energy boost, slide down the natural rock face! It’s a beautiful spot in the rainforest, and only a short hike from the parking area. Wile away a few hours here in the Thai jungle, listening to the sounds of running water, birdsong and cicadas before heading back to your accommodation to get ready for the evening.
Evening
After such a busy day exploring, head into town for a relaxing evening. For dinner, make a reservation at Silhouette, a secluded spot serving incredible Thai and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Dine on traditional recipes from the Lanna, Akha and Thai Yai tribes while enjoying the romantic, oasis-like outdoor terrace. The food here is expertly made, unpretentious while still being delicious. On-hand sommeliers can help with wine pairings too – this is the place to indulge. If you’re in the mood for a nightcap afterwards, head to the achingly cool Jazz House, where you can sit on the soft cushions and enjoy live music, before calling it a night. This bar has one of the best atmospheres in town.
Day 3 - Hot Springs & Canyons
Morning
Soak in Tha Pai Hot Springs
Start your final day in Pai with a soothing visit to Tha Pai Hot Springs. Located within a beautiful forested area just outside of town, these natural hot springs are known for their mineral-rich waters that are a luxurious 34 – 38°C. If you arrive here early, before the crowds, this is a zen, spa-like experience as yous soak in thermal waters, surrounded by lush rainforest. Spend a couple of hours here, bathing in the hot springs and enjoying the peace and quiet.
Source: Reverie Siam
Local lunch + Bamboo Rafting
As you leave the hot springs, make a pit stop at Skunk Land Bar & Rest, a gorgeous ramshackle restaurant and bar with the friendliest hosts. During the day, they serve incredible, authentic Northern Thai dishes, freshly made for you. Chill out in one of their bamboo huts, nestled in lush forest, as you enjoy larb, banana flower curry or tom yum soup. Fuel up here before making your way to the Pai River, which you’ll be exploring on a bamboo raft. Cruise beneath the famous memorial bridge, and make your way down the lazy river, enjoying scenes of rural life along the banks. Farmers tend to their rice paddies, local fishermen catch their dinner, and cows munch on grass. The 1 hour trip is a relaxing and beautiful way to experience a side of Thailand not many people get to see.
Evening
Pai Canyon Hike and Sunset
In the late afternoon, make your way to Pai Canyon, one of Pai’s most iconic destinations. Arriving in the late afternoon will give you time to explore the trails before the sunset. The main trail from the parking area leads to panoramic viewpoints over this red-rock valley. It’s a magnificent geological wonder. For the more adventurous among you, head off along the narrower trails for more quiet, scenic viewpoints. Not recommended for those with a fear of heights! These trails are only a few feet wide, with steep drops either side. However, the rewards are high as you can explore the canyon without the crowds. Find a spot to watch the sunset, early if you can – this is a popular spot! As the sun disappears below the horizon, the canyon rocks are bathed in golden light, casting beautiful colours over the red earth and green valleys. The sunset at Pai Canyon is truly magical and one of the highlights of any Pai visit.
Farewell Dinner at The Witching Well
For your final evening in Pai, head to The Witching Well, a beautiful, greenery-clad restaurant that’s like stepping into a fairytale – a fairytale that serves up delicious and authentic Italian cuisine, from fresh caprese salads to stonebaked pizzas with imported Italian wheat. Their wine selection is the best in Pai, with a choice of Italian craft beers to sample too. The atmosphere here is always buzzing, and you are a short hop away to lively bars for a final night cap. We love Boom Bar just around the corner – with a classic Pai vibe, live music and DJ sets later on if you’re not ready for the night to end.
where to stay
things to do
