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Located halfway between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son,
Pai is an intimate little village which draws visitors
from all over the world with its cool climate, friendly
locals and stunning scenery, which includes mountains
and waterfalls.
As soon as you arrive in Pai, the fresh mountain
air and warm smiles make you feel at home and slow
your pace a little. The absolutely stunning scenery
is just waiting to be explored, and many people hire
bicycles or motorbikes and ride out to the nearby
hill tribe villages. The village of Ban Piang Luang
makes a good day trip, and the local people are welcoming.
Pai has a total population of less than 3,000 people,
which gives a real feeling of community, a nice contrast
after spending some time in one of Thailand's bustling
cities or busy beach areas.
There are many tiny hill tribe villages located around
Pai and hill tribes include Karen, Hmong, Lisu and
Lahu. Although usually quite used to tourists by now,
many of the hill tribe villagers are shy and should
be approached respectfully.
The village of Pai takes its name from the river
that runs through the lush valley. There are a few
local temples to explore, including the very pretty
Wat Luang and Wat Klang and the beautiful forests
make a great setting for a soak in the Tha Pai Hot
Springs, where you can choose to bath in the incredibly
hot water (which can reach scorching temperatures
of 200 degrees Celsius) with friends, or treat yourself
to a private pool.
Originally a quiet market village inhabited by Shan
people, Pai has adapted to provide a haven for the
road weary traveler.
The water in Pai is cool and clear, and the waters
at Mo Paeng Waterfall are a good place to cool down
after a walk through the countryside or a visit at
one of the nearby elephant camps.
For shopping, check out the Wednesday Market, when
colorful crowds of local villagers and tribal people
from all around the Pai Valley gather to trade their
wares.
But the main past time in Pai is simply chilling
out. With a large variety of guest houses, restaurants,
bars and cinema rooms, this is a perfect place to
learn the art of relaxation.
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