Last Updated on 2025 年 12 月 4 日 by 総合編集組
How to Get from Taiwan to Pai, Thailand in 2025 – The Ultimate 762-Curve Guide (Fastest, Cheapest & Most Comfortable Ways)
Why Pai Should Be Your Next Escape Nestled in Mae Hong Son province, Pai is the ultimate bohemian mountain town in northern Thailand. With its cool climate, stunning canyons, hot springs, and laid-back vibe, it’s a magnet for backpackers and digital nomads. But getting there means conquering the legendary Route 1095 with its famous 762 consecutive curves. This guide breaks down every realistic option from Taiwan in 2025.
Option 1: Direct Flight Taipei → Chiang Mai (CNX) – The Time-Saver The fastest way is flying directly to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). Flight time: 3h55m–4h10m. Major carriers: Thai AirAsia, Starlux, EVA Air. 2025 lowest round-trip: ~NT$6,690–8,500 (US$200–260). September is usually the cheapest month. Pros: Land in Chiang Mai before lunch, reach Pai the same afternoon. Cons: Slightly more expensive than multi-leg options.
Option 2: Taipei → Bangkok (Cheap) + Domestic Flight/Bus – The Budget King For serious savers, fly into Bangkok (DMK or BKK) first. Taipei → Don Mueang (DMK): as low as NT$1,996 one-way (Scoot, Thai Vietjet). Then Bangkok → Chiang Mai domestic flight: routinely US$13–25 (Thai Lion Air, Vietjet, Nok Air). Total airfare can drop under NT$5,000 one-way if you’re flexible. Downside: 4–8 hours of transit time.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Flight vs Night Bus vs Sleeper Train (2025 Comparison)
| Transport | Duration | Price (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flight | 2.5–4 hrs | US$13–65 | Speed & comfort |
| VIP Night Bus | 9–10.5 hrs | 690–1,020 THB | Saving one night accommodation |
| Sleeper Train | 12–13 hrs | 750–1,338 THB (2nd class AC) | Classic Thailand experience |
Warning: Avoid “Bangkok direct to Pai” buses (17–20 hrs). They stop forever in Chiang Mai anyway.
Chiang Mai to Pai: Surviving the 762 Curves Distance: ~130 km, but all on mountain roads.
Minivans – 99% of Travelers Choose This Two major operators in 2025:
- Prempracha Transport Price: 150–180 THB Duration: 3.5–4.5 hrs (despite “3 hrs” claim) Departs: Arcade Bus Terminal (24 trips/day) Reputation: Reliable, clean, skilled drivers – but many say they drive FAST.
- Aya Service Price: ~250 THB Duration: ~4 hrs Departs: Imm Hotel or Arcade Bonus: One-stop motorcycle rental + tours. Mixed reviews – some love the service, others find drivers “shady”.
Motion Sickness Tips
- Take Dramamine 30 mins before
- Sit in the front row
- Bring plastic bags and wet wipes
Riding a Scooter or Driving Yourself – Freedom Level 100 The most epic way, but not for beginners.
Legal Must-Haves in 2025
- International Driving Permit (1949 version) with motorcycle endorsement
- Police checkpoints are frequent leaving Chiang Mai – 500 THB fine without proper license
- Thailand’s compulsory insurance (Por Ror Bor) covers ONLY third-party injury (up to 35,000 THB death, 30,000 THB medical) → does NOT cover scooter damage!
Rental Costs
- Scooter: 100–300 THB/day
- Deposit: 5,000–10,000 THB (passport + credit card) Strongly recommended: Buy separate travel insurance with “rental vehicle excess” coverage.
Once You Arrive in Pai – Rent a Scooter Immediately Pai town is walkable, but all the magic (canyons, waterfalls, viewpoints) is outside. Best rental spots: Aya Service or countless shops near the bus station (150–250 THB/day).
Three Perfect Itineraries from Taiwan (Copy & Paste)
A. Time Priority – Same-Day Arrival Morning direct flight TPE→CNX → Grab to Arcade → Afternoon Prempracha minivan → Arrive Pai before sunset.
B. Budget Priority – Cheapest Possible Red-eye TPE→DMK → Night VIP bus to Chiang Mai (690 THB) → Morning 150 THB minivan → Total under NT$6,000.
C. Experience Priority – Most Memorable TPE→BKK → Overnight sleeper train → Rent scooter in Chiang Mai → Ride the 762 curves at your own pace, stopping at every viewpoint.
Final Safety Checklist
- Get your IDP before leaving Taiwan
- Buy travel insurance that covers scooter rental damage
- Avoid riding after dark or in rainy season (Jun–Oct)
- Always wear a helmet
Pai is absolutely worth the journey. Follow this guide and you’ll arrive relaxed, safe, and ready to fall in love with one of Thailand’s most magical towns.
