How to Visit Pai Canyon & Pai Hot Springs:
Everything to Know
Discover the best day trip from Pai with our complete guide to Pai Canyon & Hot Springs
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For those looking to get out of the town and explore more of what Northern Thailand has to offer, the surroundings of Pai can keep you busy for weeks. Among the area’s top sights are Pai Canyon, a dramatic red-earth landscape with panoramic views, and Pai Hot Springs, a jungle oasis of steaming hot thermal waters. Often visited together in one trip, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Trek along the dizzying ridges of the canyon before soaking in rainforest-clad thermal pools. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting both Pai Canyon & Pat Hot Springs.
Getting to Pai Canyon
Getting to Pai Canyon from Pai town is quick and straightforward. Most people rent scooters, giving you flexibility and allowing for a scenic ride along Route 1095. The journey takes about 15 minutes and is filled with mountain views. If you prefer not to ride a motorbike, taxis and tuk-tuks are widely available in Pai, and prices are reasonable, especially when shared with fellow travellers. For those looking for a bit of exercise, biking is also an option, although the hilly landscape can make it challenging, particularly on hot days.
Pai Canyon
Pai Canyon, locally known as Kong Lan, is one of the area’s most striking natural features. Just 8km from Pai town, this geological wonder has been shaped by years of natural erosion, resulting in narrow, winding ridges surrounded by verdant green valleys. Walk the maze of pathways along the top of the canyon, some with vertigo-inducing drops below. From the parking area, a short trail leads to the main viewpoint, where you can take in sweeping views of the canyon and surrounding landscape. For those seeking more adventure, narrow ridge trails extend beyond the main viewpoint, winding along sharp drop-offs with steep edges on both sides. These trails require good balance and caution, as some paths are very narrow and may be slippery, especially after rain. If you’re uncomfortable with heights, it’s best to stick to the main viewing areas.
If you like peace and quiet, visit early in the morning when the crowds are at their quietest. One of the most beautiful times to visit is sunset; watch as the sky transitions through shades of gold, orange and pink as the sun dips below the horizon. Bring a snack or drink and simply enjoy the atmosphere. Get here at least an hour before sunset to get a good viewing spot – this is the most popular time to visit. If you want, bring a blanket and plan to stay after the sky has turned dark. The star canopy above you is breathtaking, thanks to the lack of light pollution in the area. In fact, stargazing at Pai Canyon is one of our Top 17 Things to do in Pai!
A little note… Pai Canyon is a free, natural attraction that benefits greatly from responsible tourism practices. There are no waste bins at the canyon, so please take any trash back with you. Staying on designated paths helps minimise erosion and protects the delicate ecosystem. Avoid venturing onto unstable ridges or overly worn areas, as there are no safety barriers and no personnel to help if you get yourself into trouble.
Getting to Pai Hot Springs
Just a short distance from Pai Canyon, the Tha Pai Hot Springs offer a completely different yet just as magical experience. Located within Tha Pai Hot Springs National Park, the springs are well-signposted and easy to reach from both Pai Canyon and the town centre. If you’re visiting both Pai Canyon and the hot springs in one trip, the canyon makes a good first stop, with the hot springs providing a perfect way to round off the day.
Pai Hot Springs
Nestled in a forested area, these natural hot springs are renowned for their mineral-rich waters, which bubble up at temperatures that can reach as high as 80°C (176°F) in certain spots. Don’t worry, most of the pools have a muscle-soothing temperature of between 34°C and 38°C. The springs are a spa-like experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring or a few days of travelling. Choose from multiple pools, naturally built into the riverbed with varying temperatures, including cooler spots for swimming. Relax into the steaming water and feel your aches and pains disappear, the sounds of the rainforest surrounding you.
The hot springs are open year-round and can be visited at any time of day, although early morning is the most peaceful, with the least amount of visitors. The springs are situated in a natural area with limited amenities – this isn’t a resort. We’d suggest bringing plenty of water with you to stay hydrated. While the hot springs are the main attraction here, the surrounding national park offers a few walking trails where you can explore some more of the surrounding natural beauty. If you’re up for a short walk, the trails are a lovely way to extend your visit.
Combining a visit to Pai Canyon and Pai Hot Springs in one day is a popular choice for those with limited time in Pai. Starting with Pai Canyon in the morning or late afternoon allows for a scenic hike and beautiful photos, while the hot springs provide the perfect place to relax afterward. If you choose to visit Pai Canyon for sunset, consider visiting the hot springs in the morning, or even on a separate day, for a more relaxed pace.
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