Why Not Bar
A lively Pai bar with pool, big screen sports, cocktails, and a crowd-pleasing hip hop soundtrack.
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Pai after dark
Something to book for the evening in Pai.
Why go, and how to do it well
Why Not Bar is a popular watering hole in the heart of Pai, drawing a mixed crowd of locals, expats, and travelers looking for a casual night out. The bar is known for its pool table — where games are played for drinks — a big screen TV for watching sports, and a soundtrack that leans toward hip hop on its better nights. Cocktails are well-regarded by regulars, and the bar has a reputation for getting genuinely packed, giving it the kind of energy that can be hard to find in a town as laid-back as Pai.
That said, experiences here can vary. Some visitors have had a great time thanks to friendly staff and a lively atmosphere, while others have reported inconsistent service and frustration around the sports screenings. The music selection also shifts depending on the night, so what you walk into is not always guaranteed.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Aug 2026
Stay within reach of Why Not Bar
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Best rated within a 2-minute walk
Pai after dark
Something to book for the evening in Pai.
Around here, on foot
Well-rated places within a short walk of Why Not Bar, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.
- 1 minSugarcane HomeRestaurants & Food · 0 m · 4.3★
- 1 minPai AdventuresActivities & Tours · 10 m · 4.8★
- 1 minPai Authentic TravelActivities & Tours · 20 m · 4.0★
- 1 minJIKKO BARNightlife & Bars · 20 m · 4.7★
- 1 minSavoei - A Taste of PaiActivities & Tours · 40 m · 4.8★
- 1 minBanh Banh Pun Pai Sandwich VietnamRestaurants & Food · 40 m · 4.4★
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Why Not Bar, round out your day in Pai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Hit or miss. I came on a Friday night, around 9:30pm and good hip hop music was playing. I’ve walked past other nights and the music really varies. But this place does get packed. Prices seem a bit cheaper than other places around the area. Could be what brings people in.
Stopped here to watch a footy game on their big screen TV. Lots of friendly expats and locals made it a fun night and so we went back again. Serious place for pool if you like to play for drinks. Their big beers like Leo were 120THB.
Rude disrespectful Staff are just not nice Go to other sports bar
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 90 reviews on Google.
9C5V+J6R, Pai, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand
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Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars
Know the Closing Times
Legal closing time is 2 AM for most venues, though enforcement varies. In Bangkok's designated entertainment zones (RCA, Silom Soi 2/4, Khao San), some clubs stay open until 4 AM. Islands tend to be more relaxed about hours.
Buy Bucket Drinks Cautiously
Island bucket drinks (mixed spirits in a small bucket) are cheap and fun but notoriously strong and inconsistent. Stick to one, stay hydrated, and never leave your drink unattended at beach parties.
Arrange Your Ride Home
Use Grab (ride-hailing app) to get home safely — taxis outside nightlife areas late at night often refuse meters. Set up the app before going out, and keep your phone charged.
Why Not Bar: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Why Not Bar worth visiting?
Why Not Bar holds a 4.0★ rating from 90 Google reviews — a strong rating for nightlife & bars in Pai.
When is the best time to visit Why Not Bar?
The best months to visit Pai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: Mid-February – April (hot & hazy).
Where is Why Not Bar located?
Why Not Bar is at 9C5V+J6R, Pai, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand, in Pai. Getting around Pai: Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day); Bicycle rental for town.
Also popular in Pai
Nong Beer Restaurant
Pai Walking Street
Phakamong Thai Massage
Tha Pai Hot Spring
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