Heading to the dreamy mountain town of Pai in Northern Thailand, and not sure where is the best area to stay? I’ve got you. Pai is still a relatively small town with a population of 2,500 although I’d add another 50% to account for the tourists. It doesn’t have distinct neighbourhoods with official names per se; people in Pai normally locate places based on where it’s close to.
For example, you meet a fellow traveller and ask them ‘Where are you staying?’, and they’ll never say the neighbourhood but more like ‘Oh, close to Big Buddha‘, or ‘by Good Life Dacha‘.
So I’ll try my best to describe the different locations, but one thing I really want you to know is that being close to the walking street isn’t necessarily the best location.
1. Walking Street
Perfect for: travellers who are happy to be in the centre of the action
So everyone loves Walking Street. It’s the centre of life in Pai. It’s where you’ll come to drink, eat and party. But unless you love being in the thick of it, it’s not where you want to rest your sleepy head.
There are so many better areas within 5/10 minutes away from Walking Street.
Neighbourhood highlights:
Stay:
2. North Pai including Wiang Nuea Village
Perfect for: long stays, travellers looking to stay in nature and local vibes, happy to ride a scooter
Wiang Nuea is a village 3km from Walking Street where lots of long-term travellers or settled ex-pats live. It’s an authentic place, with a local majority, and is surrounded by nature.
If you stay here, I’d recommend renting a bicycle or scooter as it’s a bit of a walk to Walking Street.
- Harmony Hub | to get your creative juices flowing
- Pai Wat Si Don Chai | the oldest temple in Pai
- Romance Cafe | a stunning farm cafe and homestay
- Quiet Sunset Point by the River here
- Shaya Sundai Resort ($)
- Bulun Buri Resort Pai ($$)
- Pura Vida Pai Resort ($$)
3. South Pai heading towards Big Buddha
Perfect for: backpackers, long-stays, families
This area is located East of Pai River as you head towards the Big Buddha Statue. It’s within a 10/15 minute walking distance of Walking Street and has some real gems. Without a doubt, it’s my top choice to stay in Pai, Thailand.
Neighbourhood highlights:
- Earth Tone: vegan deliciousness
- Fat Cat: homemade bread and all round great food
- Pittalew Art Gallery
- Chang Puak Handcrafted Coffee
Stay at:
4. Riverside Pai
Perfect for: first-timers to Pai, want to be close to action, families
By this, I’m talking about the area across the bumpy walking bridge 100m from Jazz House.
Here you’re within minutes of Walking Street but in a peaceful location surrounded by nature and beauty. If you’re only staying in Pai a few nights, this is the place to stay.
- Shekina Garden: beautiful community space serving Sunday community lunches
5. Moo 8 T Road
Perfect for: backpackers, families, couples
This area covers anything past Om Garden towards Good Life Dacha and Khaotha Coffee. If you find yourself in this area, you’re in for the best time. It’s only 10/15 minutes walk from Walking Street and really lively area during the day and peaceful at night.
Neighbourhood highlights:
- Good Life Dacha: home to workshops, ecstatic dance, meditation and a cafe!
- Bodhi Tree Playground: perfect place to chill, picnic with friends and hosts a Saturday market
- Khaotha Coffee Shop
- The Co-op: for all your baked good needs
Stay at:
- Nola Hub Hostel ($/$$)
- Easy House ($)
6. Along the 1095 road towards pai canyon
There are so many accommodation options and tourist spots along this road and in my honest opinion, I don’t get why someone would want to stay along this road.
It’s my least favourite area as I think being close to the main road is not the Pai vibe. Unless you find a beautiful rental house on a small dirt road off the main road, I’d strongly recommend staying in any other areas mentioned above.
FAQs about where to stay in Pai?
1. What are the best hostels in Pai, Thailand?
- Deejay Pai Backpackers for its social vibe, daily free activities, and stunning views over the rice paddies. Only 10 minutes walk from walking street, it really is the best place to stay to build meaningful connections with fellow travelers.
- Nola Hub for its fun vibes, social activities and comfy, clean beds.
- Up2You for its chill vibes by the river.
2. What is the best area to stay in Pai for backpackers?
Pai is a small but growing town. While it doesn’t have distinct neighbourhoods with official names per se but for backpackers I’d say the best location is the Moo 8 road leading to Good Life Dacha, South Pai or Riverside Pai. This way you’re close and within walking distance to the action, but will still be able to sleep.
3. What is the best area to stay in Pai for families?
4.Where is the best place to stay in Pai for long-stays?
5. How can I find long-stay accommodation in Pai, Thailand?
6. Is accommodation cheap in Pai, Thailand?
Yes, especially in comparison to other destinations in Thailand. For example, a hostel room will cost you half the price of one on the islands of Koh Tao or Koh Phangan. The average price for a hostel bed in a good hostel in Pai is €8.
I hope you got a clearer idea of what part of Pai would suit you. Remember that no matter where you stay in Pai, you quickly rent a scooter and get from A to B in 10/ 15 minutes.
Don’t be afraid to check out my recs on:
