Get around at Pai
The town itself is best explored on foot. For exploring further afield, bicycles (40-100 baht/day) and motorbikes
(from 100 baht/day) can be rented from many agents along the main street. Motorbike taxis are also readily available.
The town itself has no special sights; most people come simply for the relaxed atmosphere. Nearby attractions include
hot springs and waterfalls, and a hilltop temple. There is also a wonderful canyon which provides the perfect spot for
a sunset. This is a great spot to visit after seeing the WWII bridge built by Japanese-held POWs.
Poi Sang Long is a famous buddhist children ordaining festival, especially in Mae Hong Son. Thai Yai cultural
dance show can be seen at the temple fair, in the night.
Rent a bicycle or motorbike and visit one of the nearby waterfalls and hill-tribe villages. Pai is also a major starting
point for organized trekking tours which are offered by every guesthouse and travel agent.
Whitewater rafting trips abound and there are numerous elephant camps. Additionally there are several hot springs
in the area.
Visit Tham Lod cave, approximately 55km from town on the road towards Mae Hong Son, 9 km from Soppong
(Pangmapha). About an hour and a half on motor bike, or join a tour. Visit just before sunset (3pm-6pm) and see
the thousands of birds descending into the cave for the night.
Elephant Antics
For several years now, travellers have enjoyed riding an elephant and concluding the trip with a romp in the Pai River.
For this ‘adventure’, take as little as possible – you’ll be enjoyably wet as the elephant is encouraged to shower you.
Some operators – and there are several – are willing to take photo’s of you while you enjoy the elephant antics in the river.
Waterfalls
- Mae Yen – 7 kilometers out of town with no bikes allowed for the last 6km of that. Head East over the
bridge heading out of Pai and follow the signs.
- Pam Bok - on the road to Chiang Mai before Pai Canyon. Nice secluded waterfall with high cliffs surrounding it,
making this a very cool place to escape the heat. Go for a relaxing bathe in the shade during the dry season.
- Mo Paeng - West of the city past Santichon (Chinese refugee Village). The upper section of this waterfall is a
natural water slide during the dry season. The rocks are smooth, just find a small section and slide on down like the locals do!