Nestled in northern Thailand’s verdant landscapes, two gems emerge as major hotspots for those seeking adventure: Chiang Mai and Pai. But which should you visit?
Both of these destinations beckon those seeking a taste of Thailand beyond the bustling cities and well-trodden tourist paths.
Chiang Mai might be a popular spot, but Pai is a relative newcomer to the Thailand tourism scene. Though it’s quickly rising in popularity among both backpackers and those looking to explore Thailand’s lesser-travelled trail.
Ideally, we urge you to visit both of them. But, if you only have time to stop in either Chiang Mai or Pai, here’s what you should consider.
Explore this Guide
Why Visit Chiang Mai?
We’re a little bit obsessed with Chiang Mai. As the largest city in Northern Thailand, it has the buzz of a city with the beauty of rural Thailand. It’s a great place to visit if you want to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary, as well as being home to many impressive temples.
The area hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the beautiful Chiang Mai Flower Festival and Songkran (Thai New Year). Chiang Mai is also very easy to get to from Bangkok (more on that later) and has an epic coffee and dining scene. What’s not to love?
Why Visit Pai?
Pai, on the other hand, is ideal if you’re looking for a laidback retreat. The town beckons with its mountainous landscapes and jungle adventures. Plus, Pai’s allure extends to its rejuvenating hot springs, the perfect way to unwind and soak in its natural beauty.
Pai is less crowded than Chiang Mai, though it’s quickly emerging as one of the top places to visit in Thailand. This has led to a poppin’ nightlife scene, too.
Head here for dramatic caves and hikes off-the-beaten-track in Thailand.
Chiang Mai vs Pai: Which Place Is More Expensive?
Chiang Mai and Pai are pretty similar in terms of food and activity costs. However, accommodation generally tends to be cheaper in Pai than it is in Chiang Mai.
As Pai is a lot more rural, scooters are important when it comes to getting around; but you can rent them for less than £4/$5 per day. You’ll also need to factor in the extra cost of getting to Pai from Chiang Mai.
Things to Do in Chiang Mai
Explore Doi Inthanon National Park
When in Chiang Mai, you need to check out one of Thailand’s best national parks, Doi Inthanon. There’s so many things to do inside this park alone, but hiking along the Kew Mae Pan Trail to Thailand’s highest peak is our top recommendation.
Booking a guided tour can make the logistics of getting to Doi Inthanon National Park easy, otherwise you can rent a scooter and get there in around 90 minutes.
Check Out an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
Visiting an elephant sanctuary is a bucket-list item for most people when visiting Thailand – and it’s so important to pick somewhere ethical. Chiang Mai is home to quite a few places that really look after their animals, but Elephant Nature Park takes the top spot.
As a general rule, you want to avoid places that offer elephant riding and bathing. We love that Elephant Nature Park only allows visitors to observe these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. You can choose between half-day visits and overnight stays that include getting up-close with the resident elephants.
Read Next: Picking an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand
Visit Doi Suthep Temple
Chiang Mai is filled with stunning temples, but the most popular is Doi Suthep which sits nestled atop the lush Doi Suthep mountain. This iconic temple, officially known as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of northern Thailand.
As you approach the temple complex, the gleaming golden chedi (stupa) comes into view, standing tall against the backdrop of the surrounding forest. The temple’s architecture is a fusion of Lanna Thai and classical Buddhist styles, adorned with ornate carvings, golden embellishments, and colourful murals that narrate the tales of Buddha’s life.
You can either choose to head up the many steps to reach the temple or take the elevator to the top for a small fee.
Climb the Sticky Waterfall
Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a total newbie, climbing the Sticky (Bua Thong) Waterfall in Chiang Mai is a must-do. And did we mention it’s totally free?
Okay, so the rocks aren’t sticky, just incredibly gritty, making them easy to scale. There’s a section with a rope that is generally considered the easiest (this is the bit we recommend you attempt) but you’ll see climbers scrambling the rocks at all angles.
Short on time? Combine a trip to Doi Suthep Temple and Sticky Waterfall to see both of these impressive landmarks in one day.
Marvel at Gibbons on a Jungle Trek
There are hundreds of incredible hikes in Chiang Mai alone, but we recommend you book a guided tour that allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s incredible wildlife.
First, you’ll head into the heart of Chiang Mai’s pristine wilderness, where you’ll get to see one of the oldest trees in Thailand. Then make your way to Mae Kampong, a picturesque village nestled amongst rolling hills, before your guide leads you to a secret idyllic waterfall.
The main attraction: getting to see adorable gibbons in the wild. These creatures often swing from the trees surrounding Chiang Mai, and your guide will take you to the best spots so you can snap some epic photos.
How to Get to Chiang Mai
The easiest way to get to Chiang Mai is to book a train or bus from Bangkok via 12Go.com. Both methods of transportation take around 10-12 hours, though the train tends to be significantly cheaper (we spotted tickets for approx £6/$7.70.)
Alternatively, you can book a direct flight to Chiang Mai from either Bangkok, Phuket, or Surat Thani airport. This is more expensive but takes less than two hours, so it’s worth it if you don’t fancy spending 10+ hours on, let’s face it, a pretty cramped bus.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
El Barrio Lanna
El Barrio Lanna is our top pick for those looking to stay in Chiang Mai. This dreamy hotel is situated in the centre of the city, an ideal location for those who want to see Tha Phae Gate and Wat Lok Moli.
The hotel itself is stunning, with spacious rooms and a leafy pool area. You’re also mere steps away from a variety of stunning coffee shops and restaurants.
Smile Lanna Hotel
Not far from Chiang Mai Airport, the Smile Lanna Hotel is a brilliant mid-range option for those seeking comfort and relaxation in one of Thailand’s most popular cities.
With decent breakfast options and large, bright rooms, this is an excellent option in central Chiang Mai.
Things to Do in Pai
Take a Stroll Across the Bamboo Bridge
One of the most popular Pai attractions is the Bamboo Bridge, or Boon Ko Ku So in Thai. Situated about 20 minutes from the centre of town, you’ll need to pay a 30 Baht (60p/80¢) entrance fee to access the beautiful bridge.
There are a few things to do here – grab a coffee from the cafe, visit the nearby Buddhist Temple, and wander along the bouncy bridge. Take our advice and visit during the rainy season (July to November) to get beautiful photos with lush green rice fields.
Head to Pai Canyon
Another reason many people continue onto Pai from Chiang Mai is to see Pai Canyon (Kong Lan.) This stunning natural attraction is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes featuring narrow, winding paths along the edges of steep cliffs.
Thrill-seekers and intrepid explorers are in for a treat as they traverse the paths that snake through the canyon. The further you go, the prettier the view. And, better yet, it’s free to visit.
Sunset is a popular time to visit, but it’s certainly the most beautiful. You could also opt to visit at sunrise for the same orange glow but without the huge crowds.
Visit the Big Buddha (Wat Phra That Mae Yen)
Spending time in Pai and not visiting Wat Phra That Mae Yen, AKA the Big Buddha, is criminal. This giant white statue sits atop an equally impressive staircase, surrounded by leafy jungle.
Bring your comfiest shoes; there are 353 steps to reach the top. But the epic views of Pai are worth it, we promise. It’s also worth bringing some cash in case you want to make an optional donation, plus something to cover your shoulders and knees as this is a religious site.
Chill Out in Tha Pai Hot Springs
Visiting the Tha Pai Hot Springs might just be our favourite reason to visit Pai. The waters have an average temperature of 80°celsius and are the perfect place to unwind surrounded by Pai’s leafy landscape.
The entrance fee for these springs is 300 THB (approx £6.50/$8) and they are open between 8am and 6pm every day. We recommend getting there early to beat the crowds.
Go Tipsy Tubing Along a Pai River
If you want to sample Pai’s, erm, culture, there’s no better way than through the iconic Tipsy tubing activity. This is one of the top things to do in Pai for backpackers.
The aim of this tubing adventure is to really soak in the beautiful scenery… and stop at secret bars along the way to top up your drink. There are also live DJs at each of the three bar stops, which get increasingly rowdier along the river.
Kayak Through Tham Lod Cave
There are a few caves in and around Pai, but the one we recommend you visit is Tham Lod. Book a guided tour and you’ll spend 2 hours exploring the three elevated caverns and the main river tunnel.
For a more adventurous escapade, join Cave Lodge’s kayaking expeditions during the wetter months (typically from July to December, contingent on river levels). Paddle through Tham Lod and continue downstream exploring wild, undeveloped caves along the way.
Additionally, next to the visitor centre lies an archaeological gem – an excavation site revealing a 20,000-year-old human skeleton, the oldest in Northern Thailand.
How to Get to Pai
In most cases, you’ll need to go through Chiang Mai to get to Pai. We recommend flying to Chiang Mai and then taking a four-hour bus ride to reach Pai. This costs around £5/$6.50.
You can opt to call a taxi, though this will be expensive and take around three hours. It’s also worth checking with your hotel in Pai whether they offer a transfer package.
Where to Stay in Pai
Pai Village Boutique Resort
Hidden amongst tropical gardens, Pai Village Boutique Resort is a stunning hotel. Rooms come in the form of cosy wooden cabins but, don’t panic, this resort is a luxury gem.
Boasting comfy queen beds and private balconies, each room has a private bathroom and dreamy views. We recommend you opt for the Boutique Grand Village offering for a perfect blend of rustic opulence.
Oia Pai Resort
You might not imagine a Greek-inspired hotel to be the best place to stay in Pai, but the Oia Pai Resort is a stellar option.
The rooms in this hotel are decked out in Mediterranean stylings, with white furnishings and marble floors. Some rooms even offer direct pool access, a nice touch that you’re guaranteed to appreciate.
