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So if you’ve landed on this page, I’m guessing you’re wondering how to get to Pai from Chiang Mai? The road to Pai has roughly 762 curves, and yes, it’s as wild as it sounds. If you’ve heard travellers talk about this journey, they probably mentioned the twists & turns and sharp bends! But here’s the thing: the drive from Chiang Mai to Pai isn’t just about reaching this amazing destination. It’s also about enjoying this adventurous journey.
Pai itself is dreamy, think lush green landscape, mountain views, and a laid-back vibe. But you’ve got to get there before you can enjoy all that.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about how to get to Pai from Chiang Mai, what the drive is really like, and how to make it as enjoyable (and comfortable) as possible.
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How To Get To Pai From Chiang Mai: Best Transport Options
I’m going to talk about three different ways to travel from Chiang Mai to Pai, and each suits a different kind of traveller. Here’s what you should know before you choose.
Private Car or Taxi
If comfort and convenience matter most, this is the way to go. You can book a private driver through the DayTrip website; it’s an easy and reliable option. You’ll be picked up directly from your accommodation in Chiang Mai and dropped off in Pai without any stress. The price is higher than other options, but the comfort and flexibility make up for it.
Minivan
This is the most popular option for many travellers. Minivans run frequently between Chiang Mai and Pai, taking around 3–4 hours. They’re affordable and are easy to book at local travel agencies, at the Arcade Bus Terminal or online at 12Go. This is a popular route, so your ideal travel time may book out. I would recommend booking a few days prior.
However, these minivans can be cramped and bumpy due to the winding mountain road. And, if you aren’t first in line, your luggage could be stored on the van’s roof. Plus, if you’re prone to motion sickness, I’d come prepared.
Motorbike/Scooter
I’d say this one’s for confident riders only. Many travellers ride from Chiang Mai to Pai for the freedom and epic views, but it’s not a trip for beginners. The roads are steep and full of really sharp bends. If you do ride, wear protective gear, check your brakes before leaving, take it slow and make sure you have travel insurance.
🕒 Travel time to Pai: Around 3–4 hours for all transport options, depending on traffic and stops.
💰 Costs (approximate):
* Private car: 3,000 – 3,500 THB
* Minivan: 200–300 THB per person
* Motorbike rental: 200–300 THB per day (plus fuel)
The Drive From Chiang Mai to Pai: What It’s Really Like
The road from Chiang Mai to Pai is one of Thailand’s most unique drives. You’ll pass through lush jungle, small mountain towns, and a handful of waterfalls (although there aren’t many waterfall views from the road).
Yes, the 762-ish bends are real, and yes, you’ll feel some of them. But generally, drivers take these slowly, so they aren’t too harsh on your tummy. The road winds through mountains with steep climbs and tight corners, but the views are always worth it.
This journey is notorious for causing motion sickness, so if you’re someone who gets sick, pack ginger candies or medication, and try to sit near the front of your vehicle.
I wouldn’t say all these sharp corners are scary, because we were never going very fast. But it did make me a little nervous when I regularly saw drivers stepping out of their lane and driving in the middle of the road, with little to no view of who was coming from the other direction!
Tips to Survive the Drive From Chiang Mai to Pai
Get ahead of motion sickness: Bring ginger chews or take medication before you leave Chiang Mai. And, keep your eyes on the horizon when possible.
Start early: The morning is usually quieter and clearer. And, depending on the season, you could also avoid an afternoon downpour.
Pack snacks and water: There aren’t many stops along the way.
Stay comfortable: Bring a neck pillow, music, or a podcast; it makes the ride even more enjoyable.
Mindset matters: Expect the roads to be winding, but remind yourself that it’s one of the most unique routes in northern Thailand.
Travel Safety Tips
– Motorbike riders should have experience with mountain roads. And, never travel at night.
– Slow down in the rain; it can get slippery.
– Watch out for slow-moving local vehicles and sharp turns.
– If you’re renting a bike, check the brakes and tyres before leaving.
– Make sure your travel insurance covers driving or riding a motorbike.
– Check driving license requirements for Thailand
How to Make the Most of the Journey to Pai From Chiang Mai
Don’t be in a rush and allow extra time to arrive in Pai. It’s not safe to take all these bends and sharp turns at high speed, even if locals are travelling fast, they know the roads better than we do. So, take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Here are a few potential stops you could make along the way:
Mok Fa Waterfall: A refreshing stop about halfway to Pai.
Doi Kiew Lom View Point: About a 10-minute drive off the road to Pai, if it’s a clear day, it would definitely be worth stopping.
Tha Pai Hot Springs: This isn’t far from town, so you could always come back here during your stay in Pai.
Local coffee shops: You’ll find small cafes with mountain views and friendly locals.
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Getting Around Pai
Now that you’ve arrived in Pai, what is the best way to get around?
Walking: My favourite, and the town is small enough to explore on foot.
Motorbike rental: A great way to explore nearby waterfalls & hot springs.
Bicycle: Perfect for short, scenic rides, and the traffic in Pai is minimal.
Hotel Shuttle Service: Many hotels that are on the outskirts of Pai’s town will offer a free shuttle service to the Pai Walking Street.
Fuel stations are limited, so if you’re riding around the countryside, fill up before leaving town. And, note that Grab and Bolt aren’t available in Pai.
Final Thoughts on How to Get to Pai From Chiang Mai
I looked at all the transport options before my trip, and my family and I decided to travel in a private car from Chiang Mai to Pai. It was definitely more expensive than the minivan, but the comfort and ease of the whole trip were hard to beat. If you want a relaxing way to travel, I highly recommend booking through Daytrip. It made the journey smooth, comfortable and stress-free.
The drive to Pai can sound intimidating, but honestly, it’s part of what makes the town so special. Once you arrive, the peaceful atmosphere, mountain views, and relaxed vibe make it all worthwhile.
Thanks for reading,
Happy Travels.
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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
762 curves? I can’t imagine what it looks like. I wonder if the roads are curvy all the way to Pai. I’ve been to Chiang Mai, but I missed visiting Pai.
Once you’ve left Chiang Mai and before you drive into Pai’s town, it’s all curvy!! Such a crazy drive
This is a great guide for getting to Pai. I did the trip back in 2018 and was baffled at first when a lady in my minivan was offering me motion sickness pills before we even began the journey. Driving yourself on those windy roads seems wild to me. The visibility coming around some of those turns seemed to be nil. A local who knows the winding paths is definitely the safest way to go. Pai is such a fun town; it makes the journey worth it.
But it makes sense right! haha. I agree, I wouldn’t want to drive myself but I saw lots of foreigners doing it… ekkk
Pai looks beautiful! How long do you recommend for Chiang Mai and how long for Pai? Should I split my time between the two?
Pai and Chiang Mai are both worth the time for sure. Although there’s more to do in Chiang Mai so you’d need longer there 🙂 I’ve written a few more guides on the area if you’re interested
I have been to Chiang Mai but not to Pai. Looks like it would have been pretty cool too.
Thank you for adding the route map to the top! That helps me so much to visualize the trip before reading about it. This sounds like a daring adventure–I’d probably hire a driver haha. The windiest road I’ve been on was to La Fortuna, Costa Rica and that made me feel sick–I never get motion sickness! So thanks for the heads up on this drive.
You’re welcome! Yeah I wouldn’t be game to drive myself Lol