Cheap Flights to Pai

Flights to Pai at a glance

Traveling to Pai is easy; you can choose from a range of airlines, including both full-service and budget options. Compare journey times and select the best flights to Pai that align with your travel plans, budget, and desire to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airport near Pai: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
• Flights per week: 550+ flights arriving at Pai airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Pai: around 35+ carriers

Popular airport near Pai

Pai is a charming city ideal for vacations that blend urban and outdoor experiences, including adventure, family activities, and stunning scenery. Travelers can conveniently reach Pai via a major airport that accommodates domestic flights, making it easy to explore this captivating destination in Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand.

• Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX): Situated in Chiang Mai Province, approximately 53 miles from Pai, this airport is a key hub for both domestic and international air travel. It connects to about 9 domestic cities and 65 international destinations, offering travelers the option to upgrade to business class or premium economy seating for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and route. Notable airlines operating here include Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Airways International.

Top routes to Pai

• Bangkok (BKK/DMK) to Pai (CNX), with one-way tickets available from around $30
• Phuket (HKT) to Pai (CNX), with one-way fares starting at around $50
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Pai (CNX), with one-way airfare from around $360
• San Francisco (SFO) to Pai (CNX), with one-way tickets available from around $380
• Minneapolis (MSP) to Pai (CNX), with one-way tickets available from around $540

Cheapest routes to Pai

• Bangkok (BKK/DMK) to Pai (CNX), with affordable one-way prices from around $30
• Khon Kaen (KKC) to Pai (CNX), with low one-way fares from around $50
• Phuket (HKT) to Pai (CNX), with affordable one-way prices from around $50
• Utapao (UTP) to Pai (CNX), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $50
• Krabi (KBV) to Pai (CNX), with low one-way fares from around $55

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Pai

• Thai AirAsia: This carrier operates flights to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and represents about 15% of arrivals to Pai. The typical one-way fare is around $120, with a premium cabin option that may include premium economy class based on the route.
• Nok Air: Also flying into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), Nok Air accounts for roughly 14% of arrivals to Pai. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $80.
• Thai Airways International: Operating to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), this airline makes up around 13% of arrivals to Pai. The average one-way fare is approximately $310, and premium cabins may feature both premium economy and business class, depending on the route.
• EVA Airways: Serving Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), EVA Airways accounts for approximately 11% of arrivals in Pai. The average one-way fare tends to be around $680, with premium cabin options possibly including business class based on the route.
• APG Airlines: This airline also flies to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and represents about 7% of arrivals to Pai. The average cost for a one-way ticket is approximately $80.

Best time to fly to Pai

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Pai are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Pai can reach up to 76.6°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 73.6°F. For better deals, February usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $191, roughly 27% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? March and January offer average one-way fares of around $213, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Pai

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Pai is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Pai hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Pai flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Pai

Pai welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Pai efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Chiang Mai International Airport, both Chiang Mai Seaport, a seaport, and Chiang Mai Railway Station, a train station, are easily accessible by car, located about 0.1 miles and 4.4 miles from the airport, respectively. Additionally, Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 2, a bus station, is situated approximately 4.7 miles away by car, providing convenient options for onward travel.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Pai, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Pai is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Pai on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Pai

• Ban Huai Pu: Ban Huai Pu is located in the area of Pai and offers a serene village atmosphere perfect for travelers seeking a mix of culture and nature. Explore the tranquil Pai River, ideal for scenic views and outdoor relaxation. Immerse yourself in local culture at Wat Luang, a beautiful temple, or visit the sacred Wat Sri Don Chai for a glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage. This village is a charming base for discovering the natural beauty and cultural richness of Pai.
• Wiang Tai: Wiang Tai is located in the area of Pai and is a vibrant village that caters to families and adventure seekers alike. This area features a shopping mall and local markets for a taste of daily life. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Yoon Lai View Point, offering breathtaking panoramas perfect for romantic moments or adventure outings. Additionally, the Pai River provides scenic views, while the nearby Wat Nam Hu temple invites visitors to appreciate its cultural significance. Wiang Tai is an excellent destination for a blend of exploration and relaxation.
• Mae Hi: Mae Hi is located in the area of Pai and is known for its stunning outdoor settings and adventure opportunities. Visitors can unwind at the Tha Pai Hot Springs, a natural oasis ideal for wellness and relaxation. The Pai Memorial Bridge offers a glimpse into the area’s history, while the Pai River is perfect for picturesque scenery. With its proximity to hot springs, mountains, and national parks, Mae Hi serves as a gateway for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and local culture.

Tips for short-haul flights to Pai

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits thoughtfully. This strategy also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security wait times.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Pai

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for your comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection when online check-in opens, usually 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines even provide the option to select seats earlier than this.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to rest or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Pai

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Pai on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

is the cheapest month to fly to Pai. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Pai. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Pai, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Pai

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Pai in 2026 starts from , while one-way tickets start from . Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Pai. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Pai

are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Pai. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Pai and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Pai, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Pai. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Pai plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Pai

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Pai.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Pai are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Pai. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Pai for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Pai. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Pai flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Pai. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.