A Hidden Town In Thailand Is A Local Favorite For Mountain Views And Tranquil Vibes

Located roughly four hours north of Chiang Mai, in Thailand's strikingly scenic and budget-friendly Mae Hong Son province, the small town of Pai is tucked away from civilization amidst sprawling rice fields and mountain ranges. Once a quiet farming village, Pai has transformed itself into a beloved getaway spot that's quickly becoming one of the best places to visit in Thailand. Pai is drawing in both locals and tourists alike — especially those looking to escape the city buzz and settle into a more peaceful, slower lifestyle.

And although getting to Pai requires tackling a whopping 762 curves along a winding mountain road — a journey that's not necessarily easy or breezy for those prone to motion sickness — the town's charm and atmosphere make every twist and turn worth it. Because whether you're hoping to explore ancient temples, swim in natural hot springs, or wander through local markets and hillside viewpoints, Pai is living proof that sometimes the best destinations are the ones that take a little extra effort to reach.

Combining the natural beauty of northern Thailand with a relaxed atmosphere that sets it apart from the country's better-known destinations, Pai offers a truly unique escape that's best enjoyed at your own pace. With misty mornings that give way to warm afternoons (both of which are perfect for exploring the surrounding area), it's safe to say that this hidden mountain town lives up to the hype.

One of Pai's most iconic attractions is Pai Canyon, or Kong Lan (pictured above). Made up of narrow ridges of red earth, the canyon creates a series of pathways and viewpoints above the valley floor. And while the trails can be challenging and intimidating — some of them are barely wider than a footstep — facing your fear of heights is definitely worth the effort for the panoramic views alone. As a tip, make your way to the canyon for a sunset straight out of a postcard, but be aware that Pai Canyon can get crowded. The easiest way to reach the canyon is via local taxi from Pai ($6 or 200 Thai baht) or to rent your own scooter ($4-6 or 150-200 baht per day) and make the short drive yourself. If you do choose to rent a scooter, know that you must have an international driving permit.

Roughly an hour's drive north of Pai, the Tham Lod Caves also offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's varied landscape. Best enjoyed alongside a tour guide, the cave system is made up of over 5,000 feet of chambers, passages, and underground streams. Once there, you'll explore the caves by traditional lantern light, with the option to drift through some sections on a bamboo raft. Budget-wise, admission to the caves (including a guide and raft rental) should set you back around $16 (550 baht).

Finally, for a more laid-back experience, tubing down the Pai River has become something of a local tradition. Throw in some music, games, and three boozy stops along the way — courtesy of the team at Pai Tipsy Tubing — and you've got yourself the perfect way to fill a day in your Pai itinerary.

In addition to outdoor adventures, Pai also offers plenty of cultural experiences. One of these highlights is the gleaming white Buddha at Wat Phra That Mae Yen. Sitting tall atop a 353-step climb, the sight is worth every step and drop of sweat. That said, it's still considered a religious monument, so make sure you're cautious of the clothes you pack for your trip — even if the weather tempts you to dress down — and that you're not baring your knees, chest, or shoulders. Once at the top, give yourself a moment to rest and take in the views before making your way back down the steps, and don't miss out on grabbing a cold drink at the bottom to reward your efforts.

Despite its growth in popularity, Pai has mastered the tough balance of maintaining its small-town feel — all thanks to its walkable roads, local vendors, and streets brimming with local restaurants, boutiques, yoga studios, and coffee shops. This is especially true every evening between 6:00 p.m. and around 10:30 p.m. when Chaisongkran Road comes alive with the bustle of Pai's much-loved night market.

Featuring everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to local artwork and souvenirs, the town's market perfectly captures Pai's creative and bohemian spirit. However, the real draw is the food, which ranges with vendors serving authentic northern Thai dishes like sai ua (herb-filled sausage), the always-comforting khao soi (curry noodle soup), and mango sticky rice to wrap it all up. Once the market winds down, many nearby bars and restaurants stay open late, keeping the energy alive with music and drinks.