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All types of travelers can find what they’re looking for in Pai, whether it be a hippy community to try those infamous shroom shakes with, or a place to read and relax after a day of exploring. Where you stay in this town can make or break your trip, so we’ve detailed the top Pai hostels for backpackers to ensure you fulfill all of your travel dreams. Read on to discover the best budget-friendly options in Pai!
Best Overall Hostel in Pai: Mad Monkey Hostel Pai
Formerly Brick House Hostel, the newly opened Mad Monkey Hostel Pai is guaranteed to show you a good time. With beautiful bungalow dorms, each with their own porch, Mad Monkey will be your home away from home. Mad Monkey is situated just east of the river, next to the popular Fluid swimming pool, and is just a quick ten-minute walk from dozens of bars and restaurants in town. The staff here are incredibly helpful and can help you plan your excursions in Pai and beyond. For those just wanting to chill, the garden here is gorgeously green, spacious, and perfect to relax in.
Location: Mae Hi, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 22 82 6171 | Website
Most Scenic Pai Hostel: Tribal Pai Backpackers
For the most picturesque stay in Pai, book your place at Tribal Pai Backpackers. This hostel is tucked away on a small road up in the mountains, a short eight-minute drive from the center of town. If you’re not keen on renting a motorbike, they have free shuttle services to bring you to the bars and restaurants. Tribal Pai Backpackers is known for their friendly staff, who treat guests like family. Most guests end up extending their stay, unwilling to part from the gorgeous views and chill vibes at Tribal Pai. Offering both dorms, private bungalows, and even tent camping, this hostel also has a great common area where you can lounge in hammocks, sunbathe on the rooftop deck, and barbeque with new friends. For even more peace and quiet, guests can go fishing at the nearby pond.
Location: 452, Moo 8, Vieng Tai, Pai, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 96 981 3103 | Website
Best Entertainment Facilities: Purple Monkey
With a basketball court, on-site bar and restaurant, billiards table, pool, and social common areas, you might never want to leave Purple Monkey once you check in. Hang out with the adorable cats and dogs that call this place home and lounge by the bonfire during the evening. Purple Monkey has daily events and activities to sufficiently entertain you during your stay. Show off your beer pong skills, dress up at one of their theme parties, or just chill out in the hammocks. Purple Monkey offers both dorms and private rooms, allowing you to be as social as you prefer. For the Canadian travelers, they’ve got Caesars and poutine, making you feel right at home!
Location: Rural Rd Mae Hong Son 4024, Wiang Tai, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 61 807 5474 | Facebook
The Classic Pai Experience: Spicypai
To really embrace the hippy vibes Pai is famous for, book a bed at Spicypai. The large, open-air bamboo huts resemble treehouses and create a camping-style atmosphere. The minimalist dorms provide guests with fresh sheets, a mosquito net, and a great social environment. The common areas of Spicypai overlook luscious rice paddies and distant hills. Make sure to catch the sunset here and then relax by the campfire afterward. Spicypai is the perfect place to chill out and absorb all that is green in Pai.
Location: 291 Moo1,, T.Mae Hee, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 52 040 177 | Facebook
Most Unique Pai Hostel: Paitopia
Aptly named, Paitopia is a hidden gem in this northern city. Stilted bungalows dot the property, which is located on a rice paddy. Adorned with shells, sea stars and pastel colors, the rooms here are charming and idyllic. The impressively large pool is a backpacker’s paradise, offering a much-needed respite from the heat. The view from this stretch of land is superb, with mountains stretching out into the distance. Guests can choose between dorms and private bungalows and take advantage of the spacious common areas. Paitopia also has a restaurant, along with a few cute pups and bunnies to keep you company!
Location: 79 Moo.1 T. Hee A.Pai, Mae, Tambon Mae Hi, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 98 439 3774 | Website
Hostel with the Best Food: Buzza’s Backpackers Pai
Buzza’s Backpackers Pai is located just outside of the main town center and offers chill vibes and a friendly atmosphere. Paintings of celebrities and quirky cartoons cover the interior and exterior of this welcoming hostel. Buzzas is known for their amazing kitchen, serving traditional Thai dishes and western options at affordable prices. Also equipped with a bar, this hostel is the perfect place to have a drink while swinging in one of the many hammocks. Surrounded by nature, Buzza’s Backpackers Pai has great common areas where you can meet plenty of like-minded travelers. Guests can stay in the dorms or private rooms, some of which have their own balconies and personal hammock. The staff here are phenomenal and are sure to take care of your every need.
Location: 67 moo1 Mae Yen Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 85 247 6707 | Facebook
Best Party Hostel in Pai: Pai Circus Hostel
Pai Circus School and Hostel is famous amongst the backpacker scene. Known for its epic parties and pool with sweeping views, it’s easy to see why so many travelers flock to this hostel. Located just north of the river, Pai Circus is about a ten-minute walk from town. This unique hostel encourages performing artists of all kinds to share their skills with others. Guests often enjoy free yoga and circus classes during their stay at Pai Circus. Take advantage of the complimentary breakfast, pool table, hammocks, and lively atmosphere. With basic rooms and dorms, most guests come and stay here to party. Expect an eclectic (and sometimes rowdy) mix of young people at this social hostel.
Location: Mae Hi, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 99 273 3678 | Facebook
Best Location: Common Grounds
With one of the best locations, Common Grounds is a favorite with travelers. Situated right off of the Pai walking street near the AYA office, the best restaurants and bars are just a stone’s throw from this lovely hostel. Guests can play pool and darts in the communal areas, or just chill out on the comfy cushions and couches where you can usually find guests playing music. Join the day tours that are often organized here and explore the best Pai has to offer. The Common Grounds staff are super friendly and knowledgeable and are always happy to help you plan your travels. Book your stay in one of the dorms or private rooms for three or fewer people.
Location: 116 Moo 3, T.Wiang Tai, Pai, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 62 034 8509 | Website
Best Atmosphere: Happy House Backpackers
This family-run hostel is known for being welcoming and warm. The owner has lived here his whole life and goes out of his way to make each guest feel comfortable. Not only do they have great recommendations, but they organize tours to show guests the beauty of Pai. The bar area has ping pong (or beer pong, depending on your preference) and a billiards table, ideal for meeting new friends and relaxing after a day of exploring. Happy House Backpackers is within the town center, making all of the popular restaurants and bars easily accessible. They do free pick-ups and drop-offs for guests to make your life easier and provide both dorms and private rooms. If you fall in love with Pai (like many of us do), inquire about the long-term rentals at Happy House Backpackers — you may never want to leave!
Location: Pai, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand — VIEW MAP
Contact: +66 98 796 6346 | Facebook
More Information About Pai Hostels
- 20 Best Hostels in Pai from The Broke Backpacker
- The 5 Best Hostels in Pai, Thailand from Jones Around the World
- Best Places to Stay in Pai, Thailand | Top Hotels & Hostels from Adventure in You
- Where to Stay in Pai from Travelfish
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