Chiang Mai & Pai, Thailand 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Explore Wat Chedi Luang

Visit the impressive ancient temple complex of Wat Chedi Luang, once home to the Emerald Buddha.

Wander through the ruins and marvel at the grand chedi.

Dress respectfully (knees and shoulders covered). Entry fee is typically around THB 40-50 per person. Find good vegan street food nearby for breakfast.

Vegan Lunch in Chiang Mai

Enjoy a delicious and budget-friendly vegan lunch at one of Chiang Mai's many excellent plant-based restaurants or local eateries.

Chiang Mai has a vibrant vegan scene. Look for 'Happy Cow' app recommendations or ask locals for 'jay' food (vegetarian/vegan).

Minivan to Pai

Board a comfortable minivan for the scenic, winding journey to the mountain town of Pai.

Enjoy the views of the Northern Thai countryside.

Book your minivan tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Companies like Aya Service and Prempracha Transport are popular. The journey involves many curves, so motion sickness medication may be helpful.

Check-in to Pai Accommodation

Arrive in Pai and settle into your budget-friendly hotel, Laph Kham House.

Laph Kham House offers comfort and good amenities for a budget price.

Pai Walking Street

Explore the vibrant Pai Walking Street, browse local crafts, souvenirs, and enjoy the diverse street food.

Many stalls offer vegan options.

Look for fresh spring rolls, fruit shakes, corn on the cob, or ask for 'pad thai jay' (vegan pad thai).

Rent a Scooter

Rent a scooter to explore the beautiful Pai countryside independently.

This is the most common and flexible way to get around.

Ensure you have an international driving permit for motorbikes. Always wear a helmet and drive carefully. Many shops on Walking Street offer rentals.

Pai Canyon Hike

Hike along the narrow, eroded ridgelines of Pai Canyon, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Wear comfortable shoes. The canyon can be slippery and exposed to the sun. It's especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset.

Pam Bok Waterfall

Visit the secluded Pam Bok Waterfall, a refreshing spot to relax and cool off.

The walk to the falls is short and pleasant.

The water can be chilly but very invigorating. There's a small parking area for scooters.

Vegan Lunch at a Local Cafe

Enjoy a delicious and healthy vegan meal at one of Pai's charming cafes, many of which cater to plant-based diets.

Pai is very vegan-friendly. Try 'Earth Tone' or 'Om Garden Cafe' for great options.

Sai Ngam Hot Springs

Relax and soak in the natural mineral waters of Sai Ngam Hot Springs, often referred to as the 'Secret Hot Springs'.

Entry fee is typically around THB 20-50 per person for the springs plus a national park fee. Bring swimwear and a towel. Check the current fee before you go.

Dinner in Pai Town

Enjoy dinner at one of Pai's many restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines with ample vegan choices.

Explore local eateries or revisit the Walking Street for more options.

Wat Phra That Mae Yen (Big Buddha)

Ascend the 353 steps to the white Big Buddha statue for panoramic views over Pai and its surrounding valley, especially beautiful in the morning light.

Wear comfortable shoes for the climb and dress respectfully. The view at the top is worth the effort.

Pai Land Split

Visit the unique Land Split, a natural phenomenon caused by an earthquake.

Enjoy a complimentary snack and drink from the friendly local family.

The family operates on donations, so consider giving a small contribution for their hospitality.

Coffee in Love

Enjoy a coffee or vegan smoothie at the picturesque Coffee in Love cafe, known for its stunning views and photo opportunities.

A popular spot for tourists, offering great photo ops of the Pai valley.

Vegan Lunch at the Market

Explore the local market in Pai for fresh produce and try some vegan dishes from local vendors, ensuring an authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Look for fresh fruit, sticky rice, or simple noodle dishes (ask for 'jay' or no meat/fish sauce).

Pai Bamboo Bridge (Boon Koh Ku So)

Walk along the scenic Boon Koh Ku So Bamboo Bridge, which stretches over rice paddies and leads to a temple.

Enjoy the tranquil rural scenery.

A beautiful and peaceful spot, great for photos.

Evening Relaxation & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening in Pai, perhaps with dinner at a riverside restaurant or revisiting your favorite spot on Walking Street.

Pai has many cozy spots with live music or a quiet ambiance. Many places offer vegan options or can adapt dishes.

Mo Paeng Waterfall

Visit Mo Paeng Waterfall, a multi-tiered waterfall popular for swimming and relaxing in its natural pools.

Great for a morning dip. Can be busy with locals and tourists alike, especially on weekends.

Vegan Thai Cooking Class

Learn to cook authentic Thai dishes with a vegan twist at a local cooking school in Pai.

Enjoy your creations for lunch.

Many cooking schools in Pai offer vegan options. Book in advance. It's a fun and interactive way to experience Thai culture and food.

Traditional Thai Massage

Indulge in a relaxing traditional Thai massage, a perfect way to unwind after days of exploration.

Many budget-friendly massage parlors are available, especially on the walking street.

Farewell Dinner in Pai

Enjoy a final dinner in Pai, perhaps at a restaurant offering a cozy ambiance and a delicious vegan menu.

Consider trying a different restaurant you haven't visited yet, or returning to a favorite.

Pai Morning Market

Experience the authentic local life at Pai's morning market.

Grab some fresh fruit or a vegan breakfast before heading back.

A great place to observe local culture and find fresh, inexpensive produce.

Vegan Breakfast in Pai

Enjoy a final delicious vegan breakfast at a cafe in Pai.

Many cafes offer delicious vegan smoothie bowls, oatmeal, or scrambled tofu.

Check-out from Hotel

Complete check-out procedures from Laph Kham House.

Minivan to Chiang Mai

Take a minivan back to Chiang Mai, completing your journey through the mountains.

Pre-book your return ticket. The same tips for motion sickness apply.

Late Lunch in Chiang Mai

Enjoy a final vegan meal in Chiang Mai, reflecting on your trip to Pai, before heading to your next destination.

Chiang Mai has endless vegan options; try a new spot or revisit a favorite.