LAYMAN’S GUIDE series.  No waffle. Non wax-lyrical. Straightforward.

THE 1095 ROUTE TO PAI

Whether on a scooter or a bigger bike, here is the Zed CM layman’s guide to the 1095 route to Pai.

ROUTE: From Chiang Mai city, head for route 107 (see map above – also note my tip about taking route 121 initially). This road is a busy dusty road, get through it as best you can, nothing really to enjoy here. When you hit the junction with the 1095 left turn towards Pai, I recommend that you DO NOT turn left. Instead, head straight on for approximately 700 meters to the Shell Garage and fill up.

(There are small village petrol pumps dotted along the way but if you fill up at this garage, you shouldn’t need to fill up along the way. Scooters included). If you have a bigger bike with a higher tank capacity, you won’t need to worry about filling up here..but it’s a good fuel stop in any case). Once filled, make a U-Turn and head on to the 1095 and into the hills towards Pai.

The 1095 is a twisty fun road, but ride within your capabilities. For fast riders, this road will only take a couple of hours..but can take as much as five for inexperienced riders. Add to that possible stops too. So keep in mind it could be a potentially long ride if you are on a small bike and are inexperienced. (The photo above was taken a fab twisty spot, which has a small viewpoint and is great for a photo op. Location HERE).

My personal top stop-off points:

32 Coffee Hill: This is my staple stop off point, which is around half way to Pai. A good place for a drink, plus they have nice toilet facilities if you need to freshen up. 32 Coffee Hill is also within a restaurant and resort complex, so if you find yourself hungry or very tired, it is worth knowing these facilities are available too. When on route to Pai or just enjoying the road, this is usually my only stop off point. But if you have time, the next two destinations are worth visiting…

Mork Fa Waterfall. (The waterfall is BEFORE 32 Coffee Hill, so keep that in mind). I love this waterfall, but tends to get busy. It also has an interesting twisty road area to explore, if that’s your thing. The waterfall itself is 60 meters high, very pretty and a great place to cool down. National park fees apply. 
8am – 6pm.Entry fee: 100 baht adult (20 baht for Thai), Parking 20 baht (motorbike).

Huai Nam Dang Huai Nam Dang is a huge expanse of national park with spectacular views, hot springs and waterfalls. You can also rent a cabin in the National Park, and camping is permissible, but only if you bring your own equipment. 8am – 5pm. 200 baht for adults (40 baht for Thai), 100 baht for children (20 baht for Thai) *I need to check update on prices, as National Park fees have increased.

*NOTE*
Checkpoints: On route, you will encounter a few army checkpoints, usually with only one main one being manned. Slow down when approaching, remove sunglasses, and have as much of your face shown as possible. Normally you will not need to stop and be waved through. Army checkpoints are not interested in checking your license details. Only traffic police are interested in this. 

Pai

When you arrive in Pai I suggest you head straight for the PTT garage and refuel. (Tourist Police on left-hand side, PTT straight on for 300m until you see the PTT garage on the right-hand side)

ADDITIONALLY: The route to Pai is also part of the famous Mae Hong Son loop. If you decide to carry on to do the loop I have a guide HERE.
My guide is a clockwise route from Chiang Mai, so keep that in mind and just put it in reverse 😉

For a detailed guide to the town of Pai, go HERE

There is also an alternative route to Pai from Chiang Mai (or back again), via Baan Chan. Link HERE

Video of the road to Pai & Mok Fa Waterfall (Rainy Season)

ENJOY PAI!