Pai --a small sleepy district in the northern province of Mae Hong Son -- is a cosy place to kick back and watch the world go by. Here, you can hide out in chic guesthouses, sit back in one of the many small pubs or under a shady tree by the Pai River which runs modestly through the easy, friendly community.

Once a rest-stop for people making the arduous journey from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son, Pai has now matured into a destination in its own right.
Nestled in a picturesque valley and surrounded by a rugged mountainous terrain, the rustic ambience and attractive scenery has made it ideal for outdoor activities. These include exploring the countryside by foot, motorbike, on an elephant or even a bamboo raft. After a long day tourist can unwind in the natural hot springs.
The proximity to the Burmese border has seen several ethnic minority groups set up their homes in clusters across a stretch of the mountainous terrains. These places can often be visited on the way to nearby waterfalls. In more recent years white-water rafting has become one of Pai's popular attractions.

TAT office 053-612-982/3 or visit www.travelmaehongson.org.

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station: tel. 053-242-664.

SGA: tel. 02-664-6099;  www.sga.co.th.