Airports Near Pai
ปาย
Quick Overview
| Airport | Code | Distance | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chiang Mai International Airport Nearest | CNX | 135 km | Recommended |
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
Distance: 135 km from Pai
Getting to Pai
* Prices and schedules are based on traveler reports from Pantip and may change. Always confirm with service providers.
| Transport | Price | Duration | Convenience | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Van from Chiang Mai Airport to Pai (AYA Service) | 250 THB | - | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Direct service from the airport, but may be old/unsafe |
| Taxi from Chiang Mai Airport to Arcade Bus Station + Bus/Van to Pai | - | 3 hr | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Taxi fare to Arcade Bus Station + bus/van ticket to Pai. |
| Bus/Van from Arcade Bus Station to Pai (Prem Pracha) | 150 THB | 3 hr | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Bus or van from Arcade Bus Station to Pai |
| Private Car/Taxi from Chiang Mai to Pai (One-way) | 1,500-3,000 THB | - | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Charter a private car, price depends on car type and negotiation, fuel included. Higher price for round trip. |
| Flight from Chiang Mai to Pai (Kan Air) | 2,000-4,000 THB | 35 min | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Limited flight options. |
| Rental Car from Chiang Mai Airport | 1,500-3,000 THB | - | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Self-driving, consider road conditions and driver experience. |
Local Tips
Real advice from Thai travelers: These tips are collected from Pantip, Thailand's largest online community where locals share travel experiences.
Driving from Chiang Mai to Pai can be tiring, consider staying overnight in Pai.
- shared by Thai travelers
The road from Chiang Mai to Pai has many curves; inexperienced drivers should be cautious.
- shared by Thai travelers
Renting a car with a driver is more convenient, especially for group travel, as it allows everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery. The cost, when split among several people, might be cheaper than driving yourself.
- shared by Thai travelers
If renting a car, ensure it's suitable for mountain driving. A car with at least a 1.5-liter engine is recommended. Avoid eco-cars unless it's a new City with a 1.0 Turbo engine.
- shared by Thai travelers
Be aware of drivers with poor manners who may overtake dangerously, especially on blind corners.
- shared by Thai travelers
Flying from Chiang Mai to Pai is possible but may require a connecting flight and limited flight options. Check the airline schedules.
- shared by Thai travelers
AYA van service from Chiang Mai Airport to Pai: the vans are old, not comfortable, and potentially unsafe.
- shared by Thai travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most convenient way to get from Chiang Mai Airport to Pai?
Hiring a private car directly to Pai is the most convenient, but the most expensive option. Alternatively, AYA van service from the airport to Pai is convenient but might be old/unsafe. Taking a taxi to Arcade Bus Station and then a van is cheaper.
Is it possible to do a one-day trip from Bangkok to Pai?
It's generally considered too tiring for a one-day trip. Consider an overnight stay.