There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Pai into a quick city adventure. From PYY, the Taxi/Songthaew can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave PYY:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Thailand. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Pai takes about 60 minutes by Taxi/Songthaew. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is THB. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting to Pai from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Mae Hong Son Airport into town:
- Taxi/Songthaew: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What’s Worth Seeing in Pai
If you head into Pai, here are two things worth checking out:
Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Jong Kham Lake and Temples is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
If you’d rather stay inside PYY — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Mae Hong Son Local Products Shop
- Tarmac Viewpoint
Best Bites Near PYY
In Pai
If you make it into town, Salween River Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Nong Bia Restaurant.
Inside PYY
If you’re staying in the terminal, Mae Hong Son Airport Cafe is your main option. Local Noodle & Rice Counter works too if you want something quick.
What to Budget for Your Pai Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Pai, budget roughly $21 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $6 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Pai, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Mae Hong Son Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at PYY may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Pai’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PYY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Pai or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PYY
Long overnight layover? Your options at PYY include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Thailand also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Pai with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Pai may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.