How long is the drive from Chiang Mai to Pai?

About 3 hours by minivan or car along Route 1095, the 762-curve mountain road. By scooter it's 3–4 hours with stops.

Is the road to Pai really that winding?

Yes — 762 curves through the mountains. It's scenic but can cause motion sickness, so take a tablet and sit near the front of the van. Only ride it yourself if you're an experienced rider.

How much is the minivan from Chiang Mai to Pai?

Roughly 150–200 baht one way. Tickets are sold at travel agencies and guesthouses in Chiang Mai, usually with a songthaew pick-up from your hotel to Arcade terminal included.

Where do minivans to Pai leave from in Chiang Mai?

From Arcade bus terminal (also called Chang Phueak), north of the old city. Several departures run through the morning and early afternoon.

There's no commercial flight into Pai itself. The nearest airport is Chiang Mai, though some travellers fly into Mae Hong Son and approach Pai from the west.

Is it safe to ride a scooter from Chiang Mai to Pai?

Only for experienced riders. Route 1095 has 762 curves and climbs over 1,000 metres. Beginners should take the minivan up and rent a scooter locally in Pai.

Chiang Mai to Pai: Minivan, Car & Tips (762 Curves)

By BestHotelPai Team · Updated June 29, 2026

In short

Most travellers reach Pai from Chiang Mai by minivan — about 3 hours along the famous 762-curve mountain road (Route 1095). Minivans leave Chiang Mai's Arcade bus terminal through the day. You can also drive or rent a car. The road is winding, so take motion-sickness tablets if you're prone to it.

The minivan from Chiang Mai

Shared minivans run regularly from Chiang Mai's Arcade bus terminal to Pai, taking around 3 hours. Several departures leave through the morning and early afternoon; in high season (November–February) it's worth booking a seat the day before.

Tickets cost roughly 150–200 baht one way. The vans are air-conditioned but small — tall travellers may find legroom tight. Most guesthouses and travel agencies in Chiang Mai sell tickets and include a songthaew pick-up from your hotel to Arcade terminal.

The road climbs through forested mountains with 762 curves — beautiful, but winding. Sit near the front and take a motion-sickness tablet beforehand if you're at all prone to it.

Driving the 762 curves yourself

Renting a car or a big, reliable scooter gives you the freedom to stop at viewpoints and travel on your own schedule. Route 1095 is fully paved and in good condition, with fuel stops and cafés along the way.

Only ride the mountain road on two wheels if you're a confident, experienced rider — the 762 curves come thick and fast, and the road climbs to over 1,000 metres. Beginners should take a minivan up and rent a scooter locally in Pai instead.

The drive takes about 3–4 hours by car, longer on a scooter with photo stops. Fill up before you leave Chiang Mai and again at the halfway mark.

Other ways to reach Pai

A private taxi or car from Chiang Mai costs more but is faster and far more comfortable, and lets you stop at sights like Mok Fa waterfall on the way. Some travellers fly into Mae Hong Son and approach Pai from the other side.

There are also buses and minivans from Bangkok's Mo Chit terminal, a much longer overnight journey of around 12 hours — most people break it up with a stop in Chiang Mai.

Motion sickness and the curves

The 762 curves are no joke. Even travellers who rarely get carsick can struggle on this road. Take a motion-sickness tablet 30 minutes before leaving, sit near the front of the van, look at the horizon rather than your phone, and skip a heavy meal beforehand.

The drivers are experienced and used to the road, but if you feel unwell, ask for a short break — there are viewpoints and stalls along the way where the van can pull over.

Arriving in Pai

Minivans arrive at Pai's small bus station, a short walk or quick ride from the centre of town. From there it's a few minutes to most guesthouses and stays by foot, songthaew, or the scooter you've just rented.

Once in Pai, tell us your arrival time on WhatsApp — we'll have your room ready and can point you to the easiest route from the drop-off, or arrange a pick-up if you'd prefer not to walk.