The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Beautiful mountains, delicious food, and tons of weed – while Pai is a bit off the typical tourist’s radar, it’s not off the backpacker’s radar, as Pai is one of Thailand’s premier backpacking destinations.
But there are a ton of hostels. With over 50 hostels to choose from, we wanted to make your selection process a bit easier.
Which is why we put together this list of the 20 best hostels in Pai, Thailand.
This guide is designed to do one thing – help you find a kick-ass hostel in Pai, and to do so quickly.
To accomplish this, we’ve taken the highest reviewed hostels in Pai, and then put our favorites into different types of travel-categories.
So whether you are looking to party up, or wind down, or epic insider guide to the best hostels in Pai will help you find a great hostel to save money and explore this great Northern Thai city.
Let’s jump into the best hostels in Pai, Thailand.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Pai, Thailand
- Best Party Hostel in Pai – The Famous Pai Circus Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Pai – Tribal Pai Backpackers
- Best Hostel for Couples in Pai – Slow Life Sabaidee Pai
- Overall Best Hostel in Pai – Revolution Hostel Pai
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Pai – Butterfly Hostel Pai
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
The 20 Best Hostels in Pai, Thailand
If you are backpacking Thailand then you will probably run the full gauntlet of hostel standards.
From sublime to shitty, accommodation in Pai cater to every taste and budget. To spare your suffering though, we have chosen some of the best hostels in Pai for you.
The Famous Pai Circus Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Pai
The Famous Pai Circus Hostel is one of the best party hostels in Asia, let alone the best party hostel in Pai! From sun up ’til sun down these guys party hard! Admittedly there is a mid-afternoon lull when the crew hit the pool but even then that’s with a beer in hand!
If you wanna learn to slackline, juggle, hula-hoop or do acro yoga Circus Hostel is the place to come. You’ll get to meet new travel buddies to hit up all of Pai’s top attractions with too. They have the fiercest beer pong tournament around and you’ll leave this place high on life for sure! Circus Hostel the coolest hostel in Pai without a shadow of a doubt. Dorm rooms are set in traditional bamboo bungalows cooled by standing fans.
Tribal Pai Backpackers – Best Cheap Hostel in Pai
Broke backpackers keen to find your tribe in Pai? Head to Tribal Pai, the best budget hostel in Pai for sure! With super cheap rooms and an awesome community feel, Tribal Pai is great for solo travellers, adventurous duos and those travelling to Pai with their crew. They have a free beer pong competition most nights which is great fun and not to be missed. If you’re heading to Pai on the bus the Tribal team will pick you up from town for free. Just give them a ring when you arrive. Rooms are basic but comfy and you legit can’t grumble for the price!
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on OspreySlow Life Sabaidee Pai – Best Hostel for Couples in Pai
Slow Life Sabaidee Pai is a wonderful Pai backpackers hostel for travelling couples. With their own bar and restaurant, not to mention swimming pool too, Slow Life has everything you and your partner are looking for. An intimate affair, Slow Life has just two private rooms and two dorm rooms. This adds to the chilled out, super relaxed feel to the place as there is just the right amount of people at any given time. You’ll definitely fall in love with their hostel dog, she’s so awesome!
Pai in the Sky
Pai in the Sky is the best hostel for couples in Pai as they’re tucked away just off Walking Street, at the beating heart of Pai! Family run Pai in the Sky is a wonderfully hospitable youth hostel in Pai where guests can feel at home. The private rooms all have ensuite bathrooms and ceiling fans, towels and bed linen is all provided for you. Just down the road from a 7-11 and a tonne of authentic Thai restaurants, Pai in the Sky has everything you and your lover could need from a Pai backpackers hostel and it’s super affordable too!
Revolution Hostel Pai – Overall Best Hostel in Pai
I’ll be honest, Pai is one of those places where travellers come for a few days and end up living in a hammock for six months. Revolution Hostel Pai is a solo traveller’s paradise, cheap prices, a buzzing social scene, and a pool to spend your days drinking changs and sharing travel stories. The onsite bar makes it way too easy to blow your budget, and with heaps of social events, boredom isn’t an option.
If you’re after a peaceful night’s sleep and a little R&R, this probably isn’t for you. But if you’re here for wild pub crawls, tipsy tubing, and making a whole lot of memories you’ll struggle to remember…welcome to Revolution Amigo.
Nolo Hub Pai
Look, if you’re looking to have a wholesome, early night, yoga at sunrise kind of trip… Nolo Hub isn’t for you. But if you’re in Pai for the chaos, then welcome home. Nolo Hub Pai is the spot for backpackers looking to let loose and make some new best friends. There’s a pool table, nightly events and a social scene to guaranteed to ensure you never get an early night.
It’s social, it’s fun, and it’s dangerously easy to extend your stay. Book for a night end up staying for a month, and leave with hazy memories and zero regrets (or maybe a few, but those make the best stories).
Butterfly Hostel Pai – Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Pai
Butterfly Hostel is where you come to recharge but then somehow end up on a spontaneous jungle trek, at an all-night jam session, or in a deep conversation about the meaning of life with a guy who definitely looks like he lives here. It’s tucked away in nature, giving you that peaceful, laid-back vibe… but don’t be fooled. The social scene is alive and kicking, and you can almost guarantee there will be someone in the corner with a guitar playing wonderwall.
If you want Pai without the madness of the party hostels but still crave good vibes and new friends, this is your spot. Pai has a way of keeping people, and Butterfly is no exception.
Cody Backpackers
Now, if you’re here for the wholesome vibes think hammocks, sunrise yoga, and deep conversations about the meaning of life, Cody Backpackers is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. It’s got that laid back, no stress energy where people actually take the time to learn your name (and your star sign).
It’s a bit outside the main Pai chaos, which means you’ll get some peace…until someone busts out the guitar or suggests a late night mission to town. If you’re looking for a place to reset, connect with like minded travellers, and meet a handful of adorable animals, this is the hostel for you.
Misfits Hostel Pai
If you’re looking for a place that’s embraces the old school hostel vibe and is all about connecting with like minded travellers, then Misfits Hostel in Pai is perfect for you. It’s got that perfect mix of cosy, quirky, and chilled vibes.
The staff here will make you feel part of the family, always down for a laugh and ready to share some offbeat local tips. Plus, the vibe is super chill, with no pressure of crazy pub crawls but when Misfits put on events, THEY PUT ON EVENTS. This hostel is your perfect base for adventure lovers, you can rent a bike or buddy up and go exploring. There is heaps to do and you won’t find yourself short of things to keep entertained.
Society House Luxury Hostel Pai – Best Hostel in Pai for Digital Nomads
If you’re looking perfect blend of luxury, community, and Thai-inspired charm then this is the hostel for you. With modern decor, comfy beds, and a chill vibe, it’s perfect for those who want a little luxury without the price tag. Relax by the pool, grab a coffee at the café, and meet fellow travelers in a space that feels more boutique hotel than hostel. Great news if you’re a digital nomad as they have fast wifi, strong coffee and good workspaces.
Atlas Valley
Atlas Valley in Pai is where you’ll get the best of both worlds quiet, peaceful vibes with the option to explore when you’re in the mood. Surrounded by stunning mountains and nature, it’s a perfect escape from the hustle, but still close enough to Pai’s best spots. Relax in comfy, clean rooms or hang on the sunset deck overlooking the rice fields and incredible mountains. The vibe here is super chill and is ideal for solo travellers and couples. Whether you’re into scenic hikes, sunrise yoga or just lounging with a view, Atlas Valley has you covered.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!Check out Some More of the Best Hostels in Pai
If you’re looking for a particuar vibe for your backpacking trip, then check out our breakdown of where to stay in Pai for the coolest areas to base yourself.
Mad Monkey Pai
Would it really be a hostel post without a Mad Monkey? Let’s face it, if you’re a solo backpacker, staying at a Mad Monkey is practically a rite of passage. Mad Monkey Pai is the ideal place to let loose and make new friends over a few too many Changs, then nurse your hangover by the pool the next day. It’s got the perfect mix of social chaos and chill vibes, with comfy rooms to recover in when it all gets a little too wild. If you’re looking for wild nights and unforgettable stories, Mad Monkey is waiting for you.
XPai Guesthouse
XPai Guesthouse is the spot where you’ll find both comfort and a touch of that authentic Pai charm. It’s a little less chaotic than some of the other places in town, but still perfectly located for when you want to get out and explore. The rooms are comfy it’s got a relaxed atmosphere, and plenty of chill spaces to read a book or plan your next adventure. No wild parties here, just a peaceful vibe that’s ideal for anyone who wants to kick back and enjoy some downtime.
Deejai Pai Backpackers
Deejai Pai is one of the safest youth hostels in Pai, they have key card access to the dorms meaning no randoms are gonna start walking in! Deejai can be found just outside the town centre on the edge of their very own rice paddy field. If you’re looking to disconnect, relax and unwind while in Pai Deejai is the place to do it. Super chilled out and offering authentic and generous Thai hospitality Deejai has become a highly recommended hostel in Pai. If you’re looking to experience old school Pai, away from the crazy party scene, this is the place to stay!
17Stories 2
17 Stories is ideal for those looking for peace and quiet. It’s got a social vibe without the crazy parties. If you like to be around people and without the pressure of beer pong and staying outuntill 3am, this place is perfect. The rooftop bar is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset beer and the beds are comfy enough to crash after a big day exploring. Ideal for solo travellers or couples looking for a slightly more peaceful hostel.
Chali’s Family Hotel & Hostel
Chali’s Family Hotel & Hostel is the place to be if you want a bit of peace but don’t mind a friendly chat. It’s not a party place, but there are some cool hangout spots to meet other travellers. The atmosphere is laid back perfect for relaxing after a day of adventures. The beds are comfy, and the staff are friendly, making sure you feel right at home. Just don’t expect any wild nights, it’s more about relaxing and exploring Pai at your own pace. Perfect if you’re not looking for anything too crazy, but still want a good time.
Bodega Pai
Bodega Pai is the place where the party never ends. If you’re after a place to crash after a long night of drinking, and possibly forgetting your own name, this is the hostel for you. The hostel has a great social vibe with a bar that makes it way too easy to consume far too many Changs . You’re guaranteed to meet heaps of fellow travellers and make questionable decisions at 3 AM. The rooms are decent, but let’s be honest, you’re not here for sleep. You’re here for good times, loud music, and memories that you may or may not remember. So, if that sounds like your kind of place, welcome to Bodega Pai.
Jazz House Pai
If you’re into live music, laid back vibes, and meeting people who ask your star sign before you name, this place is your jam. It’s the perfect spot if you’re a night owl who likes to roll out of bed and stumble straight into a Jazz session. Every night brings something new with musicians from all over Thailand and the world perform music, ranging from Thai traditional music to current rock covers. Let’s be honest, you’re probably not here for a beauty sleep but you’ll be pleased to know the beds are comfy enough to crash after a few beers and some live music. If you want to wake up to the sound of a saxophone rather than a rooster, Jazz House Pai could be the place where you create a whole new set of unforgettable memories.
Buzzas@PaiChan
Buzzas PaiChan, will make you feel right at home. It’s cosy, quirky, and got the kind of chill vibe that makes you contemplate if you should ever leave. The location is tough to beat, you’re close enough to the action of Pai but far enough to enjoy some peace and quiet when you need it. Don’t expect 5 star luxury but the beds are decent enough for a good nights sleep. The atmosphere is friendly without the pressure of downing Changs before your morning coffee.
Tiny Hostel Pai
Tiny Hostel is for all the budget travelers out there looking for a no frills place to crash. You get what you pay for it’s small, simple, and about as basic as it gets but hey, it’s cheap. You’re not going to find any fancy amenities or over the top luxury here, but you will find a bed to sleep in and a chilled vibe. It’s close to the action of Pai’s making exploring a breeze. If you’re after something basic and affordable, Tiny Hostel is the place for you (just don’t expect much more than that).
Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…
Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.
What to Pack for your Pai Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
FAQ about Hostels in Pai
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Pai.
How much does a hostel cost in Pai?
It all depends on whether you prefer a private room with an ensuite bathroom or a bed in a shared dorm. The average prices start at USD$8 for a bed in a shared dorm room, heading up to USD$23+ for a private room.
What are the best hostels in Pai for couples?
Check out these amazing couple hostels in Pai:
Slow Life Sabaidee Pai
Pai in the Sky
What is the best hostel in Pai near the airport?
The airport is quite far from Pai, so it is usually better to find the best place to stay that offers a shuttle service to the airport. Once you’re in Pai, we highly recommend Tribal Pai Backpackers, our best cheap hostel in Pai.
Travel Safety Tips for Pai
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
If want to learn more about security in Thailand, check out our separate safety guide for insider tips and stories.
Final Thoughts on Traveling to Pai
Well it’s the end of the article, but only the beginning of your trip! And we know that with the help of our epic guide to the best hostels in Pai, you’ll be able to find a kick ass hostel that suits your travel style. We hope that you enjoy visiting Pai and have the chance to experience its off-beat activities, little quirks, and wonderful oddities.
So which one are you going to book? The best hostel in Pai for solo travelers? Or maybe the best hostel for Digital Nomads?
Still can’t pick?? Just go with Revolution Hostel Pai. It’s our top pick for best hostel in Pai 2021 for good reason.
Planning an extended Thailand backpacking trip? Then be sure to check out this in-depth review of the Thailand’s top hostels!
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Pai has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Thailand for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Pai before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Thailand to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links, since we’ve decided to keep the site ad-free. So here it is!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
