Chiang Mai to Pai: Guide to the Best Road Trip in Thailand

LOOKING FOR HOW TO GET YOURSELF FROM CHIANG MAI TO PAI?

Well, you’ve come to the right place because I’ve been to Thailand more than 10 times and motorbiked this journey twice now. I even managed not to fall and injure myself on the second trip.

The stretch between Chiang Mai and Pai is one of the best road trips in Thailand, going through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes of Northern Thailand. Along the Chiang Mai to Pai route, you’ll pass through dense forests and (freezing) rolling hills, all while enjoying the charm of small towns and villages.

But the real highlight of this Thailand trip is Pai, a laid-back town in the mountains that have become a haven for hippies and backpackers in search of natural beauty, relaxation, and real chill vibes.

This transportation guide will show you how to plan your journey from Chiang Mai to Pai and what to expect along the way. Whether you’re a beginner motorbiker or a bus traveler, this is everything you need to know on how to get from Chiang Mai to Pai.

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Distance from Chiang Mai to Pai

The distance from Chiang Mai to Pai is approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles). The exact distance will depend on your route and any detours or stops you make along the way.

The travel time from Chiang Mai to Pai typically takes about 3-4 hours by minibus or motorcycle, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Transportation Options for a Trip from Chiang Mai to Pai

• Take a minivan: You can book a seat on a minibus or van that will take you directly from Chiang Mai to Pai. This is a convenient and cost-effective option, and you can often book tickets online at 12Go, your hostel, or at the bus station.
• Rent a scooter or motorcycle: This is a very popular and flexible option for travelers, as it allows you to stop and explore along the way at your own pace. The drive to Pai takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and the route you take. There is even one company that allows one-way rentals.
• Take a tour: Another option is to book an overnight private tour that includes transportation from Chiang Mai to Pai. This can be a great option if you want to visit multiple attractions along the way and want to have a guide to show you around. Plus, they go to Lod Cave, which looks insane.

Tips: Getting from Chiang Mai to Pai

• The windy roads to Pai are notorious for causing nausea and leaving you grabbing the nearest plastic bag. For those prone to motion sickness, I suggest buying some Dramamine here before traveling or picking up some tabs from the pharmacy before departing.
• For motorbikers, this route is one of the most hazardous roads due to its winding and dangerous paths, numerous inexperienced tourists driving for the first time ever, as well as dirt and sand remnants from nearby cliffsides. (I, too, had an accident way back when.)
• Do not motorbike at night. There are very few street lights, and the wind chill can be absolutely freezing.
• You can book shuttle tickets in person at the bus station, but in peak season and holidays, your ideal shuttle times may be sold out. For that reason, I recommend booking online or reserving beforehand.
• For the ultimate Pai experience that includes convenient hotel pick-up from Chiang Mai, book a complete overnight package Private Tour to Pai highlights and Lod Cave!

Now that we’ve covered those points, let’s look at how to get from Chiang Mai to Pai.

How do I get to Pai from Chiang Mai?

1. Take a Bus from Chiang Mai to Pai

Although I think renting your own motorbike is much more fun and adventurous, most people opt to take a bus or shuttle. Honestly, it is much safer, I have to admit. I had my own scooter accident the first time I went.

Two companies sell shuttle tickets from Chiang Mai to Pai, Aya Service and Prem Pracha. 

Related Post: Here is a complete guide on transportation options in Thailand

Websites: Prem Pracha | Aya Service

Easiest And Best Way to get a Minivan Ticket – 12 Go Asia

If you’re looking for the easiest booking option, the most efficient way to get from Chiang Mai to Pai is to use 12GO. Their user-friendly platform instantly confirms your ticket and eliminates the costs associated with manually booking.

Cheapest Way to Get a Minivan Ticket

Prem Pracha sells bus tickets for only 150 baht per person one way. At least for Prem Pracha, you can change your time more than one day in advance for a fee of 40 baht.

Aya Service is a little more expensive at 200 baht one way.

Prem Pracha busses will start their journey from the Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station, while Aya Service will begin near the Chiang Mai Rail Station.

Time Schedule for Minivan Service

Aya Service (From CNX – Pai): 9:00AM/10:30AM/12:30PM/14:30PM

Prem Pracha (Schedule Pictured Below)

Minivan Tickets from Accommodation

From your hostel or accommodation, I have seen people upcharging as much as 400 baht one way. But, more commonly, I have seen a 200-250 baht ticket price.

Where will the Minivan Drop You off in Pai?

Both minivan companies will drop you off in the center of Pai in the middle of the walking street at the Pai Bus Station and at the Aya Service. They are both within a 5 minute walk from one another.

From there, you can walk, rent a scooter, or take a tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi for an additional fee to get to your accommodation. If you’re staying in town, most accommodations are within a comfortable walking distance as Pai is relatively tiny. 

2. Rent a Scooter or Motorcycle

Experiencing the scenic view from Chiang Mai to Pai is fantastic, and many people opt to ride a motorbike for that purpose. I’ve personally done it twice now, once in 2016 and then in 2023, and I wouldn’t get there any other way!

Renting a Scooter from Chiang Mai

The abundance of scooter rental options in Chiang Mai makes it easy to find one for a low cost.

Rental prices begin at 250 baht per day and decrease with longer rentals – if you’re planning on making the trip back and forth from Pai, inquire about weekly rates; that could potentially save you more money in the long run!

Related Post: Here is a complete guide on renting scooters in Thailand

One-Way Scooter Rental Service

Most travelers only want to drive one way and take public transportation back the other way. This is where Aya Service comes in. Aya Service is the only service in Pai that allows for one-way returns between Chiang Mai and Pai for an additional fee.

When renting a bike, you can opt for any available bike models starting at 250 baht daily. No matter the type of bike chosen, there is an additional 300 baht service fee to return your rental to another location.

Insider Observation: Even though you can use Aya Service in both directions, I meet many more travelers who drive down from Pai to Chiang Mai rather than the other way around.

Which Type of Bike to Rent?

I have seen this popular route driven by all types of bikes. The road conditions are good, but if you are two people, I recommend getting at least 150cc to ensure you get over the hairpin turns easily. 

Since renting a scooter in Northern Vietnam for the Ha Giang Loop, I have liked using a semi-automatic scooter, which has more flexibility on the gears.

Fuel Costs

The fuel costs of driving from Chiang Mai to Pai are almost negligible. Currently, the average price of a 91 petrol is ~35 baht per liter, and driving one way didn’t even take up a tank which would be around 70-90 baht.

3. Renting a Car from Chiang Mai to Pai

If you are a larger group with lots of baggage and intend to explore Pai when you get there, I recommend renting a car for the journey.

Though I have yet to see travelers opt for this route, it undoubtedly has its perks. Pai has limited transportation outside of renting a scooter, so with your own set of wheels upon arrival to Pai, flexibility is at your fingertips for the whole group!

4. Taking a Tour To Pai

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get from Chiang Mai to Pai, look no further than this 2 day one night private tour!! They offer an all-inclusive package that conveniently takes care of all your transportation needs and Pai highlights in one go.

Their package includes a roundtrip transfer from Chiang Mai, a visit to Pai and its surrounding attractions (especially Lod Cave), 3 star hotel stay, and a knowledgeable local guide. Plus, enjoy tasty Thai lunches both days!

Related Post: Discover tours from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, Pai, and the whole Mae Hong Son Loop!

The Journey: Where should I stop between Chiang Mai and Pai?

Once you turn off the highway, the journey from Chiang Mai to Pai is filled with sharp turns and ups and downs, boasting sweeping views of lush jungle and towering hillsides.

Starting at the bustling city of Chiang Mai, you’ll pass by Huai Nam Dang National Park. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to witness geysers and hot springs as you drive past lush green rice paddies and traditional wooden houses.

The trip will take you through quaint small towns where you can stop for a bite, like the Witch’s House, and experience the locals’ warm hospitality. After winding your way up the mountain roads, you’ll find yourself in Pai – the tranquil hippy town with its laid-back atmosphere.

Honestly, as much as I enjoyed the drive there, I wouldn’t say there was one viewpoint you must stop at or that blew me away.

Best Time of Year to Visit Pai

The best time to visit the small town of Pai is supposedly from November to March, during the cooler and drier winter months. But, I would avoid December and January and add more time around the shoulder months.

The weather in this region of Thailand stays mostly hot all year round. I agree, the daytimes are still amazingly sunny and great. Still, in December and January, any type of driving post-sunset is brutally cold, with a strong wind blowing into your face.

Be aware that the winter months are also the busiest time for tourism in Pai, so prices for accommodations and activities may be higher than usual. You can check the weather forecast here.

Is Pai worth visiting?

Pai is a great place to be social with travelers around the world, has a surprising number of outdoor things to do, and is a great place to just chill. 

From watching fire shows and tripping the day away to soaking in hot springs and exploring the unique geographic formations, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Pai.

Beware! If you are going for Thai culture, you may be sorely disappointed, but that is not the main draw of Pai.

What is there to do in Pai?

Some top things to see and do in Pai include hiking, tubing, soaking in hot springs, visiting the walking street markets, partying, and exploring the surrounding countryside.

Here are the can’t miss things to do in Pai:

• Eat your way through the walking street from 6pm – 10pm
• Watch the sunset from:
  • 1) Pai Canyon
  • 2) Paradise Bar/Sunset Bar (Every Sunday and Thursday Night at 8:30pm, Paradise Bar has a fire dancing performance)
  • 3) Two Huts
• Soak in one of the many hot springs
• If you have time: Explore Lod Cave

What is there to do at night?

Party your night away at Spirit Bar, Boom Bar, Paizy Bar, or literally anywhere else on the walking town.

Pai has an active nightlife scene with many bars, restaurants, pubs, and live music venues. Most spots stay open only until midnight, and then funnel into a few organized raves in the jungle or more on the outskirts of town.

Where can I stay in Pai?

Accommodations are aplenty in Pai. You can find a place to stay in the town center, or opt for a more secluded location in the countryside.

It is a good idea to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist season. I went for New Year’s, and there were almost no options.

FAQs: How to Get from Chiang Mai to Pai

Can I Drive a Car or Motorcycle in Thailand?

To drive a car or motorcycle in Thailand, you will need a valid driver’s license from Thailand or an international driving permit. However, rental companies will not ask you for documentation, so avoid police checks and make sure to wear your helmet.

Can you do a day trip to Pai from Chiang Mai?

Yes, seeing Pai on a day trip is possible, but you will be very rushed. With a three-hour journey time back and forth, that only leaves a little time to explore. If you only have a day to dedicate to Pai, then join this all-day tour to maximize the sights you can see.

Can I Fly to Pai?

Currently, there are no scheduled commercial flights to Pai, Thailand, even though they do have a single runway tiny airport just outside town. In the past, Wisdom Airways offered a direct flight from Pai to Chiang Mai, but the airline has since stopped operations. 

The closest airport to fly to is Chiang Mai, and then follow this guide by scootering or taking a shuttle bus to Pai.

Final Thoughts: Chiang Mai to Pai

The road trip from Chiang Mai to Pai is one of the most popular and rewarding experiences for travelers in Thailand. Come for stunning sunsets over the north Thailand hillsides, wild drunken nights, hot springs, and bustling night markets.

The journey itself is just as memorable, with winding mountain roads and stunning views of the valley below. With a bit of planning, you can make the road trip from Chiang Mai to Pai an amazing adventure.

Where Next in North Thailand?

I’ve been to Thailand 10+ times in my life and now spend my winters there. Check out these other posts to see if any of these destinations pique your interest. 

• 9 Best Cooking Class In Chiang Mai, Thailand With Local Chefs
• 7 Best Tours To Chiang Rai From Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Grand Canyon, Chiang Mai: A No FOMO Thailand Visitor’s Guide
• Baan Dam Museum (Black House, Chiang Rai): A No FOMO Thailand Guide
• Blue Temple, Chiang Rai: A No FOMO Thailand Guide
• White Temple, Chiang Rai (Wat Rong Khun): A No FOMO Thailand Guide
• Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls, Chiang Mai: A No FOMO Thailand Traveler’s Guide
• Discover The Best Of Pai Canyon, Thailand: A Traveler’s Guide
• Golden Triangle, Thailand: 14 Best Things To Do In Chiang Saen
• Chiang Mai To Pai: Guide To The Best Road Trip In Thailand

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