Pai is packed with affordable things to do – I’m talking waterfall hikes, self-development workshops, community markets, sunset spots, and even the opportunity to get your hands dirty. We are in the middle of the mountains, after all. So let’s do it – a list of 14 free or very cheap things to do in Pai, Northern Thailand.
I’d recommend renting a scooter for your time in Pai as everything in Pai is spread out. It’s super cheap for even a traveller on a budget, THB 100-150 per day.
1. Soak in Pai life at Walking street
This is an obvious first, but it’s deserved. Pai Walking Street is nothing as I’ve ever seen before. It’s everything you’ll ever want on one street. You’ve got insanely diverse food for a small town, great live music venues, hidden bars, and cute bohemian shops. Well, almost everything. The only thing that’s missing is an outdoor cinema. Perhaps my next business venture.
The best time to experience Walking Street is 6-10 pm when all the food markets are set up along the street. I’m not sure of their official names for all you foodies out there, so I’ll describe them.
Must-try food at the Pai night market:
Vegan Muffin Lady stands on the corner next to Time Cafe. She’s a babe and sells three kinds of muffins: banana, pumpkin and chocolate for only THB 30. She’s usually there quite late, from 8.30 pm.
Thai Food Truck Guy opposite Kwan’s Table, who always plays Daniel Powter. I’ve spent many nights listening to the iconic Bad Day playlist at his truck. He also lets you bring your own beer from the shop.
Vegan Pad Thai Guy purely for his enthusiasm. I’ve never seen anyone cook up a pad Thai with so much passion. The Pad Thai is also the best I’ve tried in Pai. THB 50 for a vegan Pad Thai!
The Only Guy Selling Homemade Chocolates sells the best truffle chocolates for THB 20.
The Iconic Chicken Sandwich called Banh Banh Pun Pai definitely isn’t even close to an authentic banh mi but is a whole new invention in itself. Prepare to be turned away a few times by the lady who owns it. She often tells you to come back in 1hr, or that she’s stopped serving for a few hours to catch up. Keep returning until you’ve got that crispy chicken sandwich in your hand. Victory.
2. Head to Saturday Market for local vibes
Saturday Market is not to be missed. Around 10 am, head to Bodhi Tree Playground, and you’ll find a row of local stalls selling baked goods, coffee, Thai food, and second-hand clothes and items.
It kicks off around 9.30 am and dies down around 3pm. Everyone in town gathers there on a Saturday to chill with some friends, a picnic blanket and food. There’s free live music, tarot card reading, circus skills workshops, everything you can imagine. It’s a real vibe.
3. Sunday lunch at shekina garden
Shekina Garden is a gem of Pai. It’s hosted by a small Jesus devotional group that hosts free lunches every Sunday and other activities during the week. You don’t have to be religious to go. It’s really a beautiful community environment where you can meet lots of lovely people and share a free lunch.
Many people spend the whole afternoon playing in the garden and jamming out. Head to this spot at 1 pm, or if you fancy going earlier to help out with chopping, it’s much appreciated!
4. Hike to one of Pai's waterfall
There are some incredible hikes in Pai, and they’re all FREE! Every hike gives you a whole new perspective on the place. My favourite waterfall hike is Hua Chang Waterfall, a 3.5hrs round-trip. I have a whole post dedicated to the best hikes in Pai. Check it out below:
5. Walk up 362 steps to the Big Buddha Pai
For the best views over Pai, head to the Big Buddha, where the tiredness of reaching the stop will all be worth it. Remember to dress appropriately and respectfully. The cost is free, so why not?
6. Visit Pai Canyon
Okay, so it’s not the Grand Canyon, but it’s pretty cool. Instead of heading there just for sunset like most travellers, get up early and hike the Pai Canyon Loop. With water and snacks in hand, follow the trail down to the sandy bed of the canyon, and follow the dried-up river bed. You’ll feel like a teeny ant!
7. Tourist Watch at Bamboo Bridge
Bamboo Bridge is around 20 minute drive from the centre. There are three ways you can reach Bamboo Bridge:
- Rent a scooter from the centre of Pai – it’ll cost you a maximum THB 150 per day. The road is super bumpy and steep in sections, so be careful. You can split the costs with a new travel friend, maybe making it only THB 75 each!
- By hiking – If you fancy getting sweaty, you can also reach Bamboo Bridge with a wild hike through the mountains. Find the details in my post here.
- By private car or rented taxi from the centre – I’m not sure of the exact cost but I think it would likely be THB 100 return.
8. Watch live music at Jazz House
9. Wander around Wat Si Don Chai
Take a short walk out of town to visit the village of Wiang Nuea where you’ll find the oldest temple in town – Wat Si Don Chai. It’s a beautiful, relaxing village, and the temple is free to enter. Just remember to dress appropriately, covering your shoulders and legs.
Harmony Hub is just around the corner, so you can make a trip of it and head there afterwards for a creative workshop! It’s a beautiful initiative in Pai, hosting daily art and creative workshops like pottery making, live drawing, ink therapy, collage making and baking for children. Check out their updated schedule on their website here.
10. Go to one of Pai's ecstatic dance events
Ecstatic dance is an alcohol-drug-free form of dance where everyone leaves their inhibitions and worries at the door and just dances as if no one is watching. The music is always amazing with live DJs and performers. Every event I’ve been to has been so special and people are very welcoming.
Good Life Dacha and Dee Jai Pai Hostel are two great venues hosting ecstatic dance events in Pai. The price is usually THB 100 which involves an opening ceremony, 3-4 hours of escastic dance to a live DJ, followed by a closing circle. Well worth it!
11. Head to two huts for sunset
12. Volunteer at Pai Seedlings Foundation
13. Volunteer at Pete's Mission
14. Watch a free live fire show
Alright, alright! That’s a wra – a round-up of all my favourite free or very cheap things to do in Pai! If you’re in a Pai for a while check out:
