Payi Resort
Payi Resort is a budget accommodation option situated on Rat Damrong Road in Pai, Mae Hong Son Province, placing guests within easy walking distance of the town's popular walking street. Its central location is a consistent highlight among visitors, with the surrounding area offering access to Pai's cafes, night markets, and nearby temples that make this mountain town a favourite stop for travellers heading through northern Thailand. Rooms are fan-cooled and modestly priced at around 1,000 THB per night, making this a practical choice for budget-conscious travellers. The staff receive praise for being friendly and helpful, and the quieter setting relative to the town centre suits those looking for a calmer base. However, visitor reviews are mixed regarding room cleanliness and maintenance, with some guests reporting issues including mould, ants, and thin walls. Travellers should review recent photos and cross-check listings on third-party booking platforms before confirming a reservation, as some guests have noted discrepancies between advertised and actual room conditions. Good to know: Pai is accessible from Chiang Mai by road, roughly a three to four hour drive along a winding mountain route. The cooler months from November to February offer the most comfortable temperatures for exploring the town on foot. If you are travelling by car, parking is reportedly available opposite the resort. Given the variability in room quality, requesting a specific room type or an upper-floor room may be worthwhile when checking in.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Payi Resort, round out your day in Pai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
The location very good can walk to street walk only 3 minute , if you have private car they are also suitable to park at opposite the resort, the room i stay has only fan but the weather are good as i stay on begining of december, the room is clean the toilet is also clean but a bit smell. I recommend to stay here the price is good and everything is more than i wish on first time i saw.
Room are clean and equipped Location is close to center but quiet The staff are super nice and helpful
Great location near walking street but rooms are not clean. Tooth paste white spray on the glass door, black mold in the shower. I was able to easily clean an area of mold so I don’t know why the cleaning person wasn’t. Good price if it was a little cleaner. Nice rooms but I don’t think the furniture has ever been wiped either though… Why no bed sheets? Just a comforter to sleep under and I wonder how often it gets cleaned…
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.
Also Popular in Pai
Elephant Nature Park
Elephant rescue & rehabilitation center with volunteer opportunities, jungle tours & rafting.
Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint
A roadside viewpoint on the Mae Hong Son Loop with mountain panoramas, a café, food stalls, and toilet facilities.
Nature Life @ PAI
Pai's lively evening walking street with diverse street food, local crafts, and a relaxed mountain-town atmosphere.
Pai Walking Street
Pai's lively nightly walking street market blending handmade crafts, street food, and a laid-back bohemian atmosphere.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
Doi Suthep Temple
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.
Pattaya Walking Street
Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
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