“Pai” offers a wide variety of activities from dawn to dusk, but you might want to take it slow after a rough ride on the river Pai.

For early birds, a visit to the town’s morning market and a stroll along Rangsiyanon Road will surely open you to Pai’s simple way of life. There you can shop for light breakfast such as poached rice with fried dough, soya milk, grilled pork with sticky rice, coffee and even pastries.

Alternatively, you can opt for a lazy lie in and start your day by lingering over a nice cup of coffee in a comfy chair, gazing at the greenery behind curtains of raindrops, from your cost-effective hotel room. Then you might want to continue with the day’s laid-back atmosphere in Tha-Pai natural hot spring stream or in Tha-Pai Resort’s massive spa pool.

Come lunchtime, it’s best surveying your options in your chosen area - be it the in the town centre, by the river or with a mountain view. After lunch, grab a book and nestle back in bed for a nice read or head out to one of the many cozy coffee shops dotting the village with your favourite book.

If the ultimate relaxation and pampering are what you are looking for, check out The Quartre’s Rain-Spa for your afternoon retreat. Then head back to one of those restaurants that you eyed for at lunch but didn’t make it there and conclude your day with cool drinks and hip music at some of the town’s famous bars in the centre. What can be nicer than a day at your own pace, eh?

Mae Hongson’s artery, the river Pai, is bursting with energy again when the seasonal rain greets its origin, the two mountain ranges named Thanon Thongchai and Dan- Lao, with abundant amount of water. This creates the perfect condition for whitewater rafting of all levels of difficulties.

The 50-kilometre-long river, snaking through three different districts, including Pai itself, is packed with both adrenaline rushing experiences and scenic views along its whole stretch. Several dozens rapids en-route pose challenges ranging from level 1 up to level 5, or mild to extreme. Water games at the Su Sa waterfall, cave expeditions as well as mud-bathing and cliff diving are among many other highlights for adventure seekers to enjoy during their breaks from paddling.

It takes two days to complete the whole route, with an overnight stay in the jungle, allowing the crews to get back in touch with nature. However, there is a milder version for those who just fancy a taste of Pai’s excitement without losing their touch on the town’s hip cheap hotels.

Besides the two-day package, most tour operators also offer a one-day package, which gives a similar thrilling experience and at the same time allows you a good night sleep in a warm comfortable bed at the hotel of your choice. This way, whether you are luxurious holidaymakers or daredevil backpackers, Pai and her river can accommodate all your needs… even on the rainy day!

Note: Rafting trips are available from local tour operator such as  Pai Adventure: Tel 053 699 385;   Mae Hongson Adventure: Tel 0 5361 4286;  and Pai in the Sky: Tel 0 5369 8145, 0 5369 9090 

Further information on rafting in Pai and Mae Hongson is available from the local TAT’s office  via email at tatmhs@tat.or.th and on the phone at 053 612 982-3