Things To Do in Pai

Pai has a few nice temples and some top-notch nature sites to visit, but no "bucket list" items, and that is part of the charm since most people simply come to put their feet up. While in town, make like a local and rent a motorbike because Pai is a great place to explore along country lanes. The Pai River itself is one of the main attractions here. Outfitters organize rafting adventures on some pretty raucous rapids from July to January. Trekking is also popular, with two- and three-day organized treks to Karen, Lahu, and Lisu villages. And many simply strike out on their own, grabbing local maps from guesthouses for self-guided hikes to nearby waterfalls and caves. Every day feels like a lazy Sunday in Pai, and local business owners are foreigners, or bohemian Thais, who come here for a slower pace than bustling Bangkok or Chiang Mai.  

If you’re thinking of leaving your hammock for a trip to the Chinese village of Ban Santichon or going to view the Memorial Bridge, might we suggest that you stay put? The former is a cheesy photo-op spot, and the latter is a recreation of the original bridge. If all that relaxing has you feeling restless, there are a few small temples and sites worth visiting.