As I stepped off the bus in Pai, a small town nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, I was instantly captivated by its laid-back charm and stunning scenery. Just a few hours from Chiang Mai, this hidden gem has become a must-visit on any trip to Thailand. Choosing where to stay in Pai can make or break your experience, with options ranging from bustling areas near the bus station to tranquil outskirts where you’ll find gems like Baan Kati Sod. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly hostel or a luxurious retreat like Montis Resort, Pai’s got you covered. Before we dive into the best areas to stay, don’t forget to sort out your travel insurance – then let’s explore Pai’s neighborhoods and find your perfect Thai home away from home!
Our pick of the best hotels in Pai💎:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Reverie Siam
- ✨ 5-Star: The Oia Pai Resort
- 🏨 4-Star: The Quarter Pai
- 🛏 3-Star: 17stories
- 💸 Cheap: UP2U Guesthouse
- 🏢 Apartment: Pai Apart Hotel
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Pai Village Boutique Resort
- 🏩 For Couples: Belle Villa Resort Pai
Quick Guide on Best Place to Stay in Pai ☀️
- 🥘 For street food: Downtown Pai
- 🧘 For relaxing atmosphere: Riverside Pai
- 🧗 For adventure activities: North Pai
- 🗺️ For off-the-beaten-path experience: South Pai
1. Downtown Pai – Best for The Lively Heart of the Village 🏙️
🎶 Vibrant Walking Street: The famous Pai Walking Street is the heart and soul of downtown, transforming into a lively night market each evening. It’s a sensory delight with local crafts, mouth-watering Thai street food, and live music, all within walking distance of your accommodation.
🌍 Traveler’s Hub: Downtown Pai is a melting pot of backpackers, travelers, and locals, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to meet fellow adventurers and exchange travel stories.
🏨 Convenient Location: Staying downtown means you’re right in the heart of Pai, with cafes, bars, and shops at your doorstep. You’ll be able to easily explore the surrounding area and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance.
💰 Budget-Friendly Options: From hostels to guesthouses, downtown Pai offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations. You’ll find clean and comfortable places to stay without breaking the bank.
🚶 Must-Visit Spots:
- Pai Night Market: A bustling spot for food and shopping.
- Wat Phra That Mae Yen: A serene temple with a giant Buddha statue.
- Fluid Swimming Pool: A refreshing oasis to cool off and relax.
Where to stay in Downtown Pai?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels in Pai
- Reverie Siam – A charming resort offering 2 outdoor pools, Mediterranean cuisine, and traditional Thai-style rooms with vintage colonial flair.
- The Oia Pai Resort – An elegant resort with Mediterranean architecture, surrounded by a man-made saltwater lake and offering free shuttles to local attractions.
- Pai Village Boutique Resort – A delightful property along the Pai River, featuring rustic wooden cottages and beautiful mountain views.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Pai
- Soi One Boutique Bedrooms – Tastefully decorated rooms in the heart of Pai town, close to the walking street and night market.
- The Quarter Pai – Spacious rooms with balconies, scenic mountain views, and a lovely swimming pool.
- Pai Iyara Resort – A resort with air-conditioned rooms, balconies with sunrise views, and two pools, located just outside the main area.
🛏️ Best Budget-Friendly Options in Pai
- Pai Country Hut – Cute cabins along the Pai river with hammocks, offering good value for budget travelers.
- UP2U Guesthouse – A hostel on the edge of Pai with wooden decor and mosquito nets, offering a quiet atmosphere within walking distance of the main street.
- Hakka Guesthouse – A charming guesthouse in a quiet area, offering cozy rooms and a relaxing atmosphere close to town attractions.
2. Riverside Pai – Perfect for Tranquil Oasis 🌊
🕊️ Serene Surroundings: Nestled along the Pai River, this area offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush greenery. Wake up to the gentle sound of the river and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
🌿 Nature’s Embrace: Riverside Pai is a haven for nature lovers. Many accommodations feature private bungalows and hammocks, providing the perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with nature.
🧘 Relaxing Activities: Take advantage of the serene setting by indulging in relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, or simply lounging by the river with a good book.
🚶 Proximity to Downtown: While offering a peaceful retreat, Riverside Pai is still within walking distance or a short scooter ride from the lively downtown area, giving you the best of both worlds.
💎 Riverside Gems:
- Fluid Swimming Pool: A stunning pool with river views.
- Pai Bamboo Bridge: A picturesque spot for a leisurely walk.
- Tubing: Float down the river on a tube for a unique experience.
Where to stay in Riverside Pai?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels in Pai
- The Quarter Pai – Located right in the heart of Pai, this serene resort is one of the best places to stay for those looking to splurge. You’ll be able to enjoy scenic mountain views, an outdoor pool, and spacious rooms with balconies.
- Family House Zen Boutique Resort – A top pick for travelers wondering where to stay in Pai Valley. This resort is a great choice for those who want to stay close to all the action while enjoying a peaceful retreat with an outdoor swimming pool.
- Pai Village Boutique Resort – One of the 5 best resorts in Pai, this property is perfect for those who want to stay surrounded by nature. Located right along the Pai River, it offers a serene environment with beautiful mountain views.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Pai
- Namu Pai – A charming hotel located in a quiet area of Pai, perfect for those looking for a peaceful stay. You’ll be able to enjoy the common area and easy access to the small village center.
- The Sylvana Pai – This hotel is a great choice for travelers who want to stay in a place that offers both relaxation and proximity to Pai’s attractions. It’s located right in an area where you can easily get from A to B.
- Prawdao Resort – A serene resort that’s perfect for those who want to stay around Pai’s beautiful rice fields. It’s one of the best places to relax and enjoy the mountain village atmosphere.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels in Pai
- Soi One Boutique Bedrooms – A top choice for budget-friendly Pai accommodation. This hotel is perfect for backpackers and travelers looking to stay in Pai on a budget without compromising on comfort.
- No. 8 Pai – One of the many hostels in Pai that offers great value for money. It’s a perfect spot to relax and meet other travelers and backpackers.
- Pai Village Farm Homestay – For those looking to stay in a unique setting, this homestay offers a chance to experience life in a small village. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to enjoy the rural charm of Pai.
3. North Pai – Best for Scenic Beauty and Adventure 🌿
🌄 Breathtaking Landscapes: North Pai is renowned for its stunning scenery, with rice paddies, mountains, and lush greenery. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
🚴 Outdoor Adventures: This area is perfect for those seeking adventure. Rent a scooter or bicycle to explore attractions like Pai Canyon, Tha Pai Hot Springs, and the many waterfalls in the region.
🤫 Serene Atmosphere: North Pai offers a more laid-back and peaceful vibe compared to downtown. It’s ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
🎨 Cultural Experiences: Engage with the local community by visiting nearby villages, attending cooking classes, or participating in traditional craft workshops.
💎 Hidden Gems:
- Lod Cave: Explore this impressive cave system by bamboo raft.
- Mor Paeng Waterfall: A stunning waterfall with a natural water slide.
- Sai Ngam Hot Springs: Relax in these natural hot springs amidst the jungle.
Where to stay in North Pai?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels in Pai
- Belle Villa Resort Pai – This resort is located in one of the most scenic areas of Pai, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot for those who have made it to Pai and are looking for a luxurious stay.
- Baan Krating Pai Resort – A boutique resort located on the banks of the Pai River, offering a serene escape. This is one of the top hotels in Pai for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.
- Yoma Hotel, Pai – With views of Mount Mae Yen, this hotel is perfect for those trying to figure out where to stay in Pai. It offers a great balance of luxury and convenience, with free shuttle services to town.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Pai
- Pai Flora Resort – This resort is located in a quiet area of Pai, offering a peaceful retreat. It’s a great choice for exploring the area during the day and relaxing in comfort at night.
- Kirina Retro House – A charming hotel that captures the essence of Pai’s laid-back atmosphere. It’s conveniently located for those who want to explore different areas in Pai.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels in Pai
- UP2U Guesthouse – A budget-friendly option perfect for backpackers. It’s located on the edge of Pai, offering a quiet atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the main street.
- Mind's Home Stay – This homestay offers a unique experience in Pai. It’s a great choice for budget travelers who want to experience local life in this small village.
4. South Pai – Perfect for Off-the-Beaten-Path Charm 🛤️
🏡 Authentic Local Experience: South Pai offers a glimpse into the local way of life, with charming guesthouses and a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic experience away from the tourist crowds.
💎 Undiscovered Treasures: This less-explored area is a goldmine for travelers looking to uncover hidden gems. Discover secluded waterfalls, lesser-known temples, and quaint local markets.
🧘 Immersive Experiences: Engage with the friendly locals, learn about their traditions, and participate in community activities. It’s a chance to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the culture.
🌳 Scenic Surroundings: South Pai is surrounded by picturesque countryside, offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Enjoy scenic walks, bicycle rides, or simply relax and take in the beautiful views.
🗺️ Off-the-Beaten-Path Highlights:
- Pam Bok Waterfall: A hidden waterfall with a swimming hole.
- Wat Nam Hoo: A unique temple built inside a cave.
- Pai Land Split: A fascinating geological wonder to explore.
Where to stay in South Pai?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels in Pai
- Reverie Siam – Located in a serene setting, this resort offers world-class service and is one of the top luxury options in Pai. With its colonial-style architecture and beautiful gardens, it’s perfect for those looking for a tranquil escape in this small town.
- The Oia Pai Resort – Inspired by Mediterranean architecture, this resort offers a unique experience in Pai. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to enjoy luxury amenities while being close to Pai’s natural attractions.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Pai
- 17stories – This stylish hotel offers comfortable accommodations in the heart of Pai. It’s a great base for exploring the town and surrounding areas, including the famous Darling View Point.
- Pai Apart Hotel – A modern hotel that provides a comfortable stay for travelers. Its central location makes it easy to explore Pai and enjoy the town’s laid-back atmosphere.
- Keys Essential Resort Pai – This resort offers a relaxing stay with its pool and garden views. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy Pai’s natural beauty while having easy access to the town center.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels in Pai
- Tabletop Tavern Pai – A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on comfort. It’s perfect for travelers who want to save money for activities around Pai, like renting a motorbike to explore the countryside.
- Timn Hostel – This hostel offers affordable accommodations in a convenient location. It’s a great choice for backpackers and budget travelers looking to meet other visitors while exploring Pai.
FAQs about Visiting Pai, Thailand ❔
Is Pai worth visiting in Thailand?
Yes, Pai is definitely worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, laid-back atmosphere, and unique attractions.
How long to stay in Pai, Thailand?
You should plan to spend at least 2-3 days in Pai to experience the main highlights and soak in the relaxed vibe.
Is Pai a party town?
While Pai has a lively nightlife scene with bars, live music, and parties popular among backpackers, it is not primarily a party town.
What to wear in Pai?
In Pai’s hot season (March-April), pack light, breathable clothing. For the cooler dry season (November-January), bring a light jacket for chilly mornings and evenings.
