Pai Circus Hostel
Simple dorms & private rooms in a down-to-earth hostel offering a restaurant, a pool & a bar.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Pai Circus Hostel, round out your day in Pai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
5 Stars – My Absolute Favorite Place to Stay in Pai! I’ve stayed at Pai Circus Hostel multiple times over the years, and it never disappoints – it’s always an incredible experience that keeps drawing me back. Perched on a hill just minutes from town (with a convenient shuttle if you need it), the location is perfect: close enough for easy access to Walking Street, yet in a peaceful, quiet area surrounded by stunning nature. The views are breathtaking – especially the sunsets over the valley, which you can enjoy from the infinity pool or your bungalow. Speaking of which, the bungalows have been beautifully updated: clean, comfortable, and full of that chill Pai vibe. The staff are super friendly and welcoming, creating the best vibes – relaxed during the day, lively at night. The pool is an absolute highlight: so refreshing and relaxing under the hot Thai sun. The on-site bar serves fantastic drinks, and the food is delicious with generous portions that hit the spot after a day of exploring. It can get a bit rowdy when the party crowd kicks in at night (which adds to the fun!), but I always sleep great – the quiet setting helps. Since my last visit, they’ve added the Capybara Cafe on the property, and it’s an absolute MUST-VISIT! Hanging out with those adorable, chill capybaras is such a unique and joyful experience – easily one of the coolest things in Pai. Don’t miss the weekly fire spinning (poi) performances either – they’re mesmerizing and add that magical circus touch to the evenings. If you’re heading to Pai, do yourself a favor and book Pai Circus Hostel. Hands down one of the best hostels in Thailand – great vibes, amazing facilities, and unforgettable memories every time!
Great hostel. Has a pool which is amazing that looks over the amazing Pai veiw. Which was the decision maker when choosing this place. I wanted somewhere in walking distance to town that still had the veiw. The walk is super easy and took 10 mins, eliminating the need for a bike as they also offer tours to 2 huts and Pai canyon for 100 baht per person. Picks you up from the hostel and back which was great. It’s social but not party, there’s music and a speaker and since there’s a pool there’s always people around. But you can also chill in the pool or on the many deckchairs around in front of the veiw. I made friends by approaching people and was really nice stay after staying somewhere where no one interacted. Rooms are nice, full curtain, and you don’t need a plug as you can just plug in the leads. Shelf is big to. My only downsides are that the door to my room was so squeaky so everytime someone came in it was super loud, should defo get that fixed. And the beds are all metal framed and connected so if someone climbs into the top bunk it is noticeable but not a deal breaker. Really enjoyed my stay would defo recommend
It is a basic and cheap way for a private room (individual shacks), has pool and pool and daily large bonfire. Showers alyways had hot water, but the cleanliness could be improved. The shack room smelled damp and a hint mouldy, and opening the window all day didn't get rid of it. During sleep the matress cover removed partially and I saw that the matress is as stained as is possible - quickly put it back on 🙈
Tips for Visiting Hotels & Resorts
Book Shoulder Season
May–June and September–October offer dramatic discounts (30–50% off peak rates) with fewer crowds. Weather is mixed but rarely a washout — afternoon showers clear quickly.
Compare OTAs and Direct Rates
Always check the hotel's own website after finding a rate on Agoda or Booking.com. Many Thai properties offer a best-rate guarantee or throw in perks like free breakfast when you book direct.
Pool Villa Doesn't Mean Expensive
Private pool villas in Krabi, Hua Hin, and Chiang Mai start around 2,500–4,000 THB/night — a fraction of Bali or Maldives prices. Search specifically for 'pool villa' to surface hidden gems.
Also Popular in Pai

Pai Canyon
Serene, scenic canyon with narrow, ledgy hiking trails that offer sweeping valley views.
Elephant Nature Park
Elephant rescue & rehabilitation center with volunteer opportunities, jungle tours & rafting.

Yun Lai Viewpoint
Reached by car or scooter, this hilltop village complex offers tea service & panoramic valley views.
Santichon Village
Pony rides & a rustic Ferris wheel at a Chinese village, plus shops for artisanal souvenirs.
Similar Hotels & Resorts Across Thailand
Hilton Pattaya
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Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya
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Arbour Hotel and Residence Pattaya
Refined quarters with kitchenettes in a premium hotel offering a restaurant, a spa & a rooftop pool.
Millennium Hilton Bangkok
Upscale riverside hotel on the Chao Phraya with standout staff, river-view rooms, and full resort amenities.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (hot & hazy)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
12°C – 32°C(54°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minivan from Chiang Mai (3 hrs, ~762 curves — take motion sickness tablets). Small airport for charter flights only.
Getting around
- •Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day)
- •Bicycle rental for town
- •Walking in the town centre