Embarking on an adventurous journey from Chiang Mai to Pai promises an exhilarating scooter road trip through the captivating landscapes of Northern Thailand. This article serves as your comprehensive guide, providing essential tips, highlighting remarkable stops, and suggesting unique accommodations along the famous route 1095. Getting from Chiang Mai to Pai is possible by bus or by scooter, which will both take approximately 3-4 hours. However, going by scooter will give you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace.
If you are not used to ride a scooter, don’t ride your way up to Pai! The roads can be challenging, especially after rainfall, with numerous sharp turns and steep paths. Since there is only one route available, you’ll have no choice but to either turn back or continue forward. However, if you do have prior experience and feel comfortable riding a motorbike, continue reading to discover the exciting stops and accommodation options along the renowned Route 1095.
Renting a scooter in Chiang Mai in 2023
Before embarking on the coolest motorbike route in Thailand, you have to find yourself… of course: a scooter! For renting a scooter in Chiang Mai, it’s advisable to reserve your scooter in advance since locals were forced to sell a lot of their scooters during the Covid pandemic. Take the time to choose a reputable rental company and remember to thoroughly document the scooter’s condition through photographs, avoiding any potential disputes upon return. For the challenging twists and turns of route 1095, it’s recommended to opt for a 150cc scooter, especially if you’re traveling with a companion.
Best stops along the way: from Chiang Mai to Pai
Starting point: The city center of Chiang Mai
Start your journey in the vibrant city center of Chiang Mai, where you can explore temples, indulge in shopping for souvenirs, and experience the local culture. Remember to buy your souvenirs in the Northern part of Thailand, as prices are lower compared to the Southern part while you will buy the exact same things.
The best breakfast spot in Chiang Mai is without any doubt Vipuya. This little Hawaiian café offers the best oatmeal bowls and breakfast shakes in northern Thailand! If you’re wondering where to stay in Chiang Mai’s city center, consider Tha Phae Gate Lodge, the helpful French went above and beyond, even allowing us to store our backpack for a whole week, free of charge.
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An absolute must do is the Chiang Mai night market on the Rachadamnoen Road, probably Thailand’s most vibrant night market! This bustling thoroughfare is a sensory delight, offering an array of delectable treats, from customizable sushi rolls to mouthwatering desserts and local delicacies such as pad thai and curry. You can easily spend two hours at this place. After strolling your way from one place to the other, treat your weary feet to a well-deserved Thai massage. Make sure to choose a reputable massage salon by checking reviews beforehand to avoid disappointment! I highly recommend the oil back and feet massage at White Orchid. It’s maybe the best massage center in Chiang Mai, they are absolutely incredible!
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First stop: Sticky Waterfalls
The Sticky Waterfalls also known as Namtok Bua Thongnam Waterfalls, is the first stop on your way to Pai. It takes about 2 hours to get there on scooter, leaving the city life behind you, and embracing the mountain area. However, it takes about a 45-minute drive in a very polluted area in order to get out of the city center, and there is no way to avoid this part.
The jungle gem is free of entrance and you can leave your luggage in lockers and make your way down to the waterfall. Here you can climb the waterfall, feeling like a jungle monkey! It’s an amazing way to refresh yourself, especially on a hot day. There is also a jungle café nearby where you can relax and enjoy a snack. It’s a perfect afternoon activity of approximately two hours.
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Exploring the Mae Hong Son Route on a scooter transcends mere convenience ; it becomes an enchanting activity itself. Just an hour’s ride beyond the Sticky Waterfalls, lies a hidden gem nestled deep within the jungle: The Chater at Kaengkud homestay. This secluded haven remains blissfully unknown to most tourists, offering a truly authentic local experience. You’ll get the feeling of being completely alone in the world. It’s the most local experience we had during our one month trip through Thailand.
When it comes to dining, I highly recommend following the host’s suggestions and grab a bite in the delightful Just-for-rest’ café. It is situated alongside a picturesque river with a mountain view, offering the perfect place to experience local dining. Despite the language barrier, we managed to communicate our desires through animated sign language, ordering 3 plates and 2 side dishes… for only 4 euros!
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Without a shred of doubt, this was the finest dining experience we had ever encountered. Intrigued by the café’s limited options in the neighbourhood, we inquired about the availability of an English breakfast. To our surprise and delight, the warm-hearted staff graciously opened their doors the following morning, serving us a delicious English breakfast, just for the two of us! If you’re journeying from Chiang Mai to Pai, please make a stop here. You support the super friendly local family and you can taste the best curry and pad thai from Thailand!
Second stop: Elephant Nature Park- Thailand’s most ethical elephant sanctuary
If you choose to stay at the Chater at Kaengkud homestay, the Elephant Nature Park is a 10 minute drive away from the accommodation. Make sure to reserve your tickets a few months in advance! The Elephant Nature Park may entail a slightly higher price tag compared to other sanctuaries, but it guarantees an ethical elephant experience!
Upon arrival, you will be divided into groups of 10 people, each accompanied by a personal guide who will tell you stories of these majestic animals and their remarkable and sad stories.
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The true magic unfolds as you witness the elephants roaming freely within the vast nature reserve, fully enjoying their newfound lives of tranquility. The Elephant Nature Park refrains from facilitating tourist bathing sessions to maintain an ethical elephant encounter. Instead, they gently guide the elephants to the river in the afternoon for their bathing time, not pushing them back if they don’t feel like playing in the water. It’s amazing to see them in such a joyfull way. A day at the sanctuary will ensure you a memorable day.
If you’re not ready to say goodbye to the elephants, you can opt to spend a night in the Elephant Nature Park or doing voluntary work for a few days.
Third stop: The Chiang Dao mountains
The Chiang Dao Mountains are a paradise to hiking lovers! However, be sure to plan ahead and secure your spot well in advance, as the number of daily visitors is limited and reservations fill up quickly. We, unfortunately, couldn’t secure a spot for the summit hike, but our journey around the Chiang Dao jungle and through the traditional Mae Mae villages proved to be a truly enriching day.
Although our ascent was shrouded by thick foliage, denying us the panoramic views we had hoped for, the captivating biodiversity of the fauna and flora captivated us for hours on end. A valuable lesson for our future selves: make sure to reserve a spot for the Chiang Dao Top mountain hike, where the vistas are rumored to be absolutely breathtaking.
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If you’re wondering on where to stay in Chiang Mai’s jungle after an exhausting hiking trip, look no further than the enchanting ‘True Nature Yoga Retreat’, a unique accommodation nestled in the jungle. Owned by a fierce small Thai women and her mom. This retreat boasts a stunning parcel of land where they cultivate their own fruits, crafting a delectable breakfast for guests. The yoga platform, offering an unobstructed view of the surrounding banana trees, becomes a sanctuary of serenity and introspection.
They have several cabins with different themes. We got the ‘earth’ theme which meant we had an outdoor shower which was amazing! Showering with the sound of geckos in the background really makes you connect with nature. There is a small restaurant in the retreat as well. Upon placing your order, you are graciously informed of the estimated time of your meal’s preparation, allowing you to unwind and soak in the tranquil atmosphere before dinner. For an unrivaled sunset over the verdant jungle, this sanctuary is an absolute must-visit.
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Fourth stop: Mok Fa Waterfalls
From the True Nature Yoga Retreat, it’s a 20 minute drive to the Mok Fa Waterfalls in Huai Nam Dank National Park which are absolutely worth to check out. As you explore the area, be sure to visit the captivating bat cave, adding a touch of mystique to your adventure.
Very close to the waterfalls lies the Pong Duet Geyser. We didn’t stop here due to the bad weather, but we heard it’s also an interesting spot to explore.
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Final stop: Pai
After that, the two-hour drive from the jungle of Chiang Mai to Pai is the last effort you’ll have to do before you can discover the numerous things to do in Pai, the bohemian paradise.
