
Pai
Northern Thailand, Thailand
5.0
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.
Daily Budget
~$20
Best Months
NovDecJanFebMar
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (USD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | $6 | |
| Food | $4 | |
| Transport | $3 | |
| Activities | $8 | |
| Total | ~$20 |
Hostels
5 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
8 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Top Hostels
View all 5 hostelsThings to Do
View all 8 activitiesBrowse the Night Market on Walking Street for cheap eats and handmade crafts
food
Catch the sunset from Yun Lai viewpoint over the valley
tours
Go jungle tubing on the Pai River
culture
Hike Pai Canyonat sunset
adventure
Soak in Pai Hot Springs in the jungle
tours
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Pai?
- Budget around $20 USD 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 $4 USD 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 8 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.