How much does a one-week (7 days) trip to Pai cost?

A one week trip to Pai costs ฿20,349 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much does a two-week (14 days) trip to Pai cost?

Two weeks in Pai costs ฿40,698 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much does a one-month (4 weeks) trip to Pai cost?

One month in Pai costs ฿87,210 per person on average. This information comes from the actual expenses of travelers and includes accommodation, food, local transportation, sightseeing, and other typical travel costs.

How much do hotels cost in Pai?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Accommodation in Pai is ฿514

How much does transportation cost in Pai?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Transportation in Pai is ฿1,351

How much does food cost in Pai?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Food in Pai is ฿1,336

How much do alcoholic beverages cost in Pai?

The average daily cost per person, per day for Alcohol in Pai is ฿476

Pai Travel Cost - Average Price of a Vacation to Pai: Food & Meal Budget, Daily & Weekly Expenses

Q: How much does it cost to travel to Pai?

$87(฿2,907) is the average daily price for traveling in Pai. The average price of meals in Pai for one day is $40 (฿1,336). The average price of local transportation in Pai for one day is $40 (฿1,351). The average price of a hotel in Pai for a couple is $31 (฿1,027).

Pai is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Pai?

You should plan to spend around $87 (฿2,907) per day on your vacation in Pai. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

$40 (฿1,336) on meals
$40 (฿1,351) on local transportation
$31 (฿1,027) on hotels

A one week trip to Pai for two people costs, on average, $1,215 (฿40,698). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

Travel Style:
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day

$87

฿2,907

One Week Per person

$607

฿20,349
2 Weeks Per person

$1,215

฿40,698
One Month Per person

$2,603

฿87,210
One Week For a couple

$1,215

฿40,698
2 Weeks For a couple

$2,429

฿81,396
One Month For a couple

$5,205

฿174,420

This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. .

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Pai cost?

A one week trip to Pai usually costs around $607 (฿20,349) for one person and $1,215 (฿40,698) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Pai on average costs around $1,215 (฿40,698) for one person and $2,429 (฿81,396) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Pai will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Pai on average costs around $2,603 (฿87,210) for one person and $5,205 (฿174,420) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Is Pai expensive to visit?

Pai is a smaller destination that charms visitors with a variety of travel styles, expenditure habits, and budgetary considerations. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

Pai can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like looking for discounts and coupons.

On average, budget travelers spend $37 (฿1,286) per day, mid-range travelers spend $84 (฿2,907) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $157 (฿5,420) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Pai.

Within Asia, Pai is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Shenyang or Yangshuo.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Pai Expensive?

Pai, Thailand

How much money do I need for a trip to Pai?

The average Pai trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Pai travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Pai cost?

Pai on a Budget

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation¹ For 1 person in double occupancy	$7 (฿227)	$15 (฿514)	$28 (฿954)
Local Transportation¹	$18 (฿595)	$40 (฿1,351)	$75 (฿2,527)
Food²	$18 (฿587)	$40 (฿1,336)	$75 (฿2,516)
Entertainment¹	$20 (฿656)	$44 (฿1,480)	$81 (฿2,702)
Alcohol²	$3-9 (฿105-315)	$7-21 (฿238-714)	$13-40 (฿442-1,327)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Pai with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.

Who are Budget Travelers?

You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $37 per day that younger budget travelers manage.

Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.

Fortunately, there's plenty of hostels in Pai, like The Famous Pai Circus Hostel, Common Grounds Pai, and Nolo Hub Pai. Here, you can score affordable dorm accommodation along with a vibrant social scene, though amenities may be lacking.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, dine at well-known restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most travelers to Pai will be eager to explore the key attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come with a cost. Therefore, it's reasonable to anticipate that your daily budget will be around $84 per person, per day.

Pai offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Reverie Siam is an excellent choice, while Pai Village Boutique Resort & Farm is also a great option. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Pai.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

If you're looking for a high-end escape with every amenity and high-quality service, be prepared for daily expenses around $157. Staying in upscale hotels, enjoying meals at award-winning restaurants, indulging in lavish excursions, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the destination will entail a more premium price tag.

Accommodation Budget in Pai

Hotel prices in Pai can vary significantly. Some hotels charge much higher rates but also offer more luxury and better amenities. During peak season, these prices rise even more. In the off-season, the average room costs around $23, while in peak season it jumps to an average of $43. Budget accommodations range from $11 to $112, but hostels are usually cheaper, especially in dorm rooms. Save money by traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, or by booking in advance and watching for deals.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Pai for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $31 (฿1,027). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $15 (฿514) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

Accommodation¹ Hotel or hostel for one person

$15

฿514
Accommodation¹ Typical double-occupancy room

$31

฿1,027

Hotels in Pai

Looking for a hotel in Pai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Pai include:

Reverie Siam starting at $98
Pai Village Boutique Resort & Farm starting at $50
Pai Vimaan Resort starting at $32
Family House Zen Boutique Resort starting at $58
Pai Cherkaew Boutique House starting at $45

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Pai

If you plan to avoid and visit during the low or shoulder season, you'll find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer tourists.

Recommended Properties

Transportation Budget in Pai

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

On average, past travelers have spent $40 (฿1,351) per person, per day, on local transportation in Pai. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Pai is significantly more than public transportation.
Transportation¹ Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.

$40

฿1,351

If you are curious as to how you are going to be able to visit all these neat destinations, a rental car or moped can suffice quite satisfactorily, with the price sufficiently placed around 120 baht. You can rent both vehicles along Pai's main shopping street. For those seeking to rent a moped, though a helmet is included, be sure to pay for full insurance of the bicycle. As well, be careful to check the weather as the rental moped companies will not hesitate to have you pay for any damage that coincides with your gorgeous ride around Pai.

If you are looking to explore lands beyond Pai, such as Mae Hong Son or Chiang Mai, using a bus or mini-van is a cheaper alternative. Buses leave usually every two hours, but try to get to the bus station early in order to get a good seat. Halfway through your trip, the bus will stop for a snack/break, so have your money handy! However, during tourist season, it may be more practical to take advantage of Pai's mini-vans. Though quicker and more expensive, travelers get the ease of having a seat to themselves and a completely operational air conditioner. It is all up to you in the stunning town of Pai!

A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:

Pa Pae Meditation: Private Car transfer to/from Chiang Mai for $78 details
Chiang Mai Private Car transfer to or from Pai(Mae Hong Son) for $137 details
Chiang Mai City to/from Pai Hotel: Private Transfer for $146 details

Recommended Services

Flights to Pai

How much does it cost to go to Pai? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Pai

The price of renting a car in Pai will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.

Food Budget in Pai

Food is a major reason many people explore new destinations, so don't skip the chance to try local delicacies.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

While restaurant and meal prices in Pai can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Pai is $40 (฿1,336) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
Food² Meals for one day

$40

฿1,336

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Pai is around $39 (฿1336) per person, with previous travelers spending from $17 to $73. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Pai are as follows:

Breakfast: $4 to $12
Lunch: $6 to $15
Dinner: $12 to $27
Coffee: $3
Fast Food or Street Food: $6

Nevertheless, the 360-panoramic views found on Pai Canyon are just as beloved as the food found within the village. The Om Garden Cafe located on Wiang Tai offers a cheap, friendly environment for all types of eaters, especially vegans and vegetarians. The menu works to bring the magic of Asian cuisine to life, only using the freshest ingredients from Thailand. Noted as quite popular amongst tourists, the interior design of the cafe is very much influenced by the Buddhist currents found throughout Thailand. The Om Garden Cafe welcome walk-ins and accepts take-out, but be sure to bring your baht as this is a cash-only restaurant.

If you yearn for a more elegant method of dining, check out Le Reve de Pai, Pai's first and only wine house. Though wine delivery is available, don't hesitate to venture beyond your hotel room to visit this chic establishment. Open from 5 PM to 11 PM, be sure you don't miss the live entertainment and local artworks within the house as you sip upon your drinks and enjoy the small tapas style plates.

Check out plenty of other amazing restaurants in Pai here. Vegan options are also plentiful in the area.

Food & Dining Tips

Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.

Instead of buying drinks, carry a water bottle with you. It's also a good choice for the planet.

When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.

Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Pai

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Pai typically cost an average of $44 (฿1,480) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
Entertainment¹ Entrance tickets, shows, etc.

$44

฿1,480

If you are looking to gaze upon the wondrousness of Mother Nature, look no further than the famous Pai, Thailand. One of the most popular attractions includes the Pai Canyon, located on route 1095, not far from the World War II Memorial Bridge in Ban Rong Yang village. This amazing site can be easily reached by rented moped/car or tuk tuk ride, with admission being completely free. Once you have parked in the designated parking lot, take a climb up a 300 mt paved stairway to find a variety of hiking options to discover Pai Canyon's distinguished beauty. The best times to enjoy this hike, nevertheless, range from early morning to late afternoon, when the climate seems most temperate.

After finishing an amazing hike from Pai Canyon, you will be surprised to find that Pam Bok Waterfall is located on your way back to town. Just as easily accessible as Pai Canyon, head south on route 1095 towards Chiang Mai and turn right to follow the signs for Pam Bok Waterfall. You will find Pam Bok to be characterized by a peaceful serenity as you listen to the crash of gliding water falling from its peak. Though the water is a bit brown and murky, it can be enjoyable for a quick swim.

If you find yourself getting a little hungry on your way to/from Pam Bok Waterfall, feel free to stop by the Land Split, where a friendly farmer will welcome you with Thailand's freshest fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other delicacies at his stand right outside his farm. After refreshing oneself with a cool beverage in his complimentary hammocks, you may be curious to venture to the Split itself. Prior to becoming the Split, this land was simply a soy farm. However, in 2008, the land spontaneously cracked without any cause from flooding, earthquake, or storm. The land cracked 2 meters wide and 11 meters deep, causing the farmer's land to be transformed into one of Pai's most happening tourist destinations.

Despite the many adventures that can come from the town, Pai is just as much known for its excitement as it is for its relaxation. Located in the Huai Nam Dang National Park, just two kilometers off route 1095, the Pai Hot Springs reside. The pool is usually around 80-degrees Celsius and is known for its surrounding forests to be buzzing to life with local wild animals. If you are somewhat on the more venturesome side, feel free to camp there!

Another great activity near Pai is walking along the Pai Bamboo Bridge Trail, which is highly recommended and fairly easy for anyone.

And if you're looking for a great day of fun on the river, don't miss a "Tipsy Tubing" rafting trip on the river. You'll meet plenty of other travelers and see some amazing scenery while partaking in plenty of drinking, too.

A nice way to explore destinations in Pai is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

From Sunrise Private Tour Jabo Viewpoint & Nam Lod Cave for $110 details
From Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour for $123 details
From Private Mae Hong Son Highlights Car Tour for $185 details

Recommended Activities

Nightlife Budget in Pai

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average person spends about $14 (฿476) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Pai per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
Alcohol² Drinks for one day

$14

฿476

Nightlife Tips

Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Pai. A few favorites from other travelers include:

Pai Pub Crawl: The Best Nightlife in Town! For $10 details

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Pai

In , you'll find prices climbing and the destination brimming with visitors. For a more affordable and peaceful experience, try to plan your visit during the shoulder or low seasons.
Taking your time to travel can help you save, allowing you to relish the area's beauty while you unwind. Cramming too many activities into your day often leads to higher costs. By slowing down, you can typically enjoy your trip more while spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

Pai doesn't have many public transport options available. You may want to consider setting up transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour or private driver. Just be aware that this might affect your budget elsewhere.
Pai doesn't offer many hostel choices, so if you planned to stay in a budget dorm, it's time to rethink your options. Instead, look for a low-cost hotel or an apartment rental.

Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Pai.

How can you save money during your time in Pai?

It's easy to live cheap here because the hostels and food are all so cheap! We explored the area on foot along the river and into the jungle. We hired a guide for a day tour and he was also very affordable. It was grand!

seasia_guy

Jan 17 2024

Traveling in Pai

Elephant in Pai, Thailand

As the lush green mountains adorn the blue horizon amidst its creamy clouds, Pai, in northern Thailand, works as one of the many hubs for some of the world's most exciting cultural adventures and natural wonders. Within this small town just north of the Mae Hong Son Province, near the Myanmar border, Pai lays on the Pai River and holds a population of no more than 2,500. Despite its geographical insignificance, this town attracts a wide array of tourists. From breathtaking waterfalls to relaxing hot springs, you will find yourself astonished at how much this little city holds within its borders.

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Travel Budget for Pai Visit Pai on a Budget or Travel in Style

How much does it cost to travel to Pai?