Pai
Northern Thailand, Thailand
Daily Budget
~US$20
per day
Best Months
Climate
Tropical / Summer
Vibe
Backpacker favourite
Overview
A tiny mountain town in a lush valley about 3 hours north of Chiang-Mai, Pai has become one of Thailand's most beloved backpacker stops. The vibe is laid-back hippie meets party town, with cheap bungalows, waterfalls, hot springs, and a walkable main street lined with bars, live music venues, and street food. Most backpackers plan to stay 2 days and end up staying a week.
Editor's Pick
Pai stands out for: Ultra-relaxed atmosphere that sucks people in for days; Incredibly cheap — one of the most affordable spots in Thailand; Beautiful natural surroundings: canyons, waterfalls, hot springs, rice paddies.
Things to Do
View all 10 activitiesTop Hostels
View all 5 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | $6 |
| Food | $4 |
| Transport | $3 |
| Activities | $8 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Hostels
5 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
10 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Pai?
- Budget around US$20 per day in Pai, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Pai?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Pai are Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Pai?
- Top-rated hostels in Pai include Common Grounds Pai, Circus Hostel, Revolution Hostel. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from US$4 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Pai?
- Must-do activities in Pai include Browse the Night Market on Walking Street for cheap eats and handmade crafts, Catch the sunset from Yun Lai viewpoint over the valley, Go jungle tubing on the Pai River. There are 10 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
