Long Neck Karen Village
Situated a short 10–15 minute ride from Pai town, this Karen Long Neck village offers a direct encounter with a small community of Karen women from Myanmar, known for their distinctive brass neck rings. Rather than a walkthrough of the village itself, visitors enter a courtyard-style space where around five to seven Karen women run individual handicraft stalls, share their stories, and in some cases allow guests to try on brass rings. A history board on-site provides cultural context, making it a compact but genuinely informative stop for those curious about Karen traditions.
The atmosphere is quiet and low-key, particularly later in the day, and most of the women speak some English. The range of handmade goods on offer gives visitors a chance to make small purchases that directly support the women present. It is worth noting that entrance fees are collected by the site's landowner rather than the Karen residents themselves, so buying crafts at the stalls is the more direct way to contribute to the community.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Long Neck Karen Village, round out your day in Pai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Short but unforgettable cultural experience – totally worth the quick trip from Pai! We made the short ride out of Pai town (about 10-15 minutes by scooter/tuk-tuk) to this small Karen Long Neck village, and it was one of the highlights of our time in northern Thailand. The entrance fee is only 100 THB per person – super affordable and good value for the experience. The village is small and intimate, so the whole visit is pretty quick (30-60 minutes is plenty), but it’s incredibly unique and memorable. Meeting the women with their beautiful brass neck rings and learning a little about their traditions was fascinating. The village has plenty of unique handmade souvenirs – beautiful woven textiles, jewelry, and small crafts – perfect for bringing home a special memento. Many stalls are right in front of the traditional houses. Bonus points: they even have a simple hostel if you want to stay longer, plus food/drink options available. If you’re in Pai and want a quick, affordable, and genuinely different cultural experience, I highly recommend stopping by. It’s touristy but still feels special and respectful. Don’t miss it! 🌿 Here are some beautiful glimpses of the women and the peaceful village atmosphere:
It was quiet when we went, later in the day. The long neck women were nice, most spoke some English. I tried to buy a few trinkets at each shop, to help support the ladies. They let me try on a brass ring collar they have for tourists, it's heavy! I enjoyed learning more about them and their culture. As for some of the negative reviews, remember that you're going into their home, they are not circus clowns performing for you. They sell their entry fee and goods to help support their way of life. BTW, 100 Thai baht entry is currently $3. US dollars.
Im thai , i would honestly say there are 50THB for entrance fee. Inside was small only few Long Neck Karen Family but the Karen didn’t earn from collecting entrance fee just the landlord earn from entrance, landlord provide place for Karen to Live and the selling shop. The Karen’s only earn from selling some clothes that they made and small souvenir. I think it fair enough they provide you easier place to reach. If you go to another Original Long Neck Karen Village come from have to drive few hour to get there. Just think 50THB to save time and help them maintain the place. The golden neck can’t be take off. The girl show us singing and playing song in their language, it is a rare experience that you will always remember
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 592 reviews on Google.
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Long Neck Karen Village: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Long Neck Karen Village worth visiting?
Long Neck Karen Village holds a 3.7★ rating from 592 Google reviews. Reviews are mixed, so check recent visitor feedback above to see if it fits your plans.
What are the opening hours of Long Neck Karen Village?
Long Neck Karen Village is typically open 09:00-17:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Long Neck Karen Village?
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: March – May (hot & hazy).
Where is Long Neck Karen Village located?
Long Neck Karen Village is at 333 ม .1 ต. แม่ฮี้ Pai, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand, in Pai. Getting around Pai: Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day); Bicycle rental for town.
Location Info
333 ม .1 ต. แม่ฮี้ Pai, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand+66 93 134 0383Visitor 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
Where to stay near Long Neck Karen Village
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places

Big Buddha Pai
A hilltop Buddhist temple with sweeping valley views, reached via 353 steps above Pai town.

Wat Phra That Mae Yen
Come for the valley view from the top of 353 steps, not for the Buddha, which is under restoration.

Arts2 Pai Studio
A small studio near Pai where two patient teachers walk you through Thai-style painting, coffee included.

Pai sling bamboo bridge
A scenic pedestrian bamboo bridge spanning the river in Pai, offering peaceful views and a charming village crossing.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.

Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.

The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Long Neck Karen Village
Find hotels in Pai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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
