Why Should You Drive Ban Rak Thai When You Are In Thailand?
Ban Rak Thai was a small village I heard of by chance from a raving traveler in passing. She claimed it was her favorite spot, hidden from the mass North American tourists. I was so intrigued by her praise of this small town, it sounded fake. So, the next day, I decided to go. I rented myself a bike and started my 4 hour journey through the jungled hills to the small secluded town.
I can honestly say the drive is just as good as the destination.
The drive from Pai to Ban Rak Thai is a journey straight out of a dream. As you wind through mountain passes, secluded farmland, and lush forests, every turn offers breathtaking views. Thriving greenery and amazing lookout points make the road itself as memorable as the destination, with the enchanting village of Ban Rak Thai waiting as the perfect reward for your adventure.
There are multiple ways to get to Ban Rak Thai, but I wholeheartedly recommend taking the time to drive through the roads yourself and experience the scenery from a scooter.
The Drive from Pai to Ban Rak Thai
The drive to Ban Rak Thai from Pai is one road stretching about 120km. It takes you through the beautiful forests, up and through the northern mountains and around some of northern Thailand’s most amazing lookouts. Not only is it a beautiful drive, but the twists and turns in the road make it so fun!
This route provides a rare glimpse into a quieter, more authentic side of Thailand. Along the way, you’ll pass through peaceful villages and communities that remain untouched by mass tourism. It’s a chance to connect with the country’s natural beauty and the simplicity of local life in ways that bustling cities and popular tourist spots cannot replicate.
When planning your drive through the hills from Pai to Ban Rak Thai, take into consideration the need to stop at lookouts, some bathroom breaks and rest stops for coffee along the roads, and the slower pace due to the road conditions and steep hills or sharp turns. Google estimates the drive to be about 2 hours and 20 minutes but with all of my stops, it took me almost 4 hours to get from one town to the next.
The scenery from Pai to Ban Rak Thai is truly jaw-dropping. Rain or shine, the mountains demand attention! Going from the busy city of Pai to beautiful tree-dense mountains, into farmland hills, then ending with a drive through rustic and authentic Thai villages before you hit the town of Ban Rak Thai, there is always something beautiful to look at.
Rent a Motorbike for your ride to Ban Rak Thai
The minimum cc recommended for this journey is 125cc scooter, but this can change depending on how much gear you bring and how many people are on your bike. The roads can be quite steep and sharp considering you are driving through mountain ranges and forests so it’s better to be prepared with a bike that can handle anything.
Rent a Motorbike in Pai
Pai is a hub for backpackers and travelers, so finding a motorbike rental shop is quite easy. The main strip in Pai has multiple shops you can walk into, but before you rent anything, always look at the reviews of the shop on Google!
Some recommended rental shops include:
- Vespai Rentals – A boutique option for well-maintained motorbikes.
- Pai River Scooters – A popular choice with a wide range of bikes.
- Pai Country Hut – Trusted bikes with nice owners.
- Aya Service – Known for its reliable bikes and reasonable prices.
Cost of Renting a Motorbike
Expect to pay between 150-300 THB / $5-12 USD per day for a standard semi-automatic or automatic bike. Larger bikes like Honda CRF 250cc or Kawasaki KLX 150cc, which are better suited for mountainous terrain, will cost around 500-800 THB / $15-25 USD per day.
Documents to Rent a Motorbike
Bring your passport and an international driver’s license. You will need to pay a deposit of 3000 – 5000 THB / 85 -145 USD for the bike rental OR leave your passport with the shop. I’d recommend paying cash to avoid the possibility of losing your passport but that is up to preference. You will get your deposit back when you return the bike.
Be sure to check the bike thoroughly for any damages before renting. Take photos and videos of your bike before you drive it to be sure that you get your full deposit back.
Road Conditions from Pai to Ban Rak Thai
Most of the drive is on a well-paved road, but its sharp curves demand focus and steady riding. Plan for a full day to enjoy the journey. The route begins on Route 1095, famous for its 762 hairpin bends.
Once you are near the province of Mae Hong Son, you’ll take a smaller road heading north to Ban Rak Thai. This stretch has narrower lanes and occasional potholes but is manageable with caution.
Where to Stop While on the Road to Ban Rak Thai
There are multiple stops along the road from Pai to Ban Rak Thai, but here is a list of my favorites:
Lookouts and Coffee
- Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint – a beautiful look-out just off the highway
- Nam Lod Cave – a dark cave tourist attraction with raft tours
- Ban Luk Khao Lam View Point – A lookout point
- Wat Pa Tam Wua – Buddhist Temple
- Thai Elephant Coffee – Coffee with a view
Gas and Food
Considering the 1095 route goes through mostly remote areas in the north, the only big gas station you pass is PT (Niyom Service) in Sop Pong about 1.5 hours into your drive. This town also has many convenience stores to fill up on snacks too!
What to Wear During the Drive
The mountain drive from Pai to Ban Rak Thai requires a bit more planning when it comes to attire. High-altitude sun exposure can be intense, so packing UV protection is a must. Whether it’s a good sunscreen or a sun-blocking sweater, you’ll want to shield your skin during stretches of road with little to no shade.
The temperature can also drop significantly in northern Thailand, especially as you ascend through the mountains. Bring a warm sweater, pants, and even gloves if you’re traveling during the cooler months. Being prepared for both sun and chill ensures you’ll stay comfortable and ready to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.
Arrival in Ban Rak Thai
Ban Rak Thai is a picturesque Chinese-Thai village near the Myanmar border. The village is famous for its tea plantations, Yunnan-style cuisine, and serene lake views.
At last, you have made it to the most beautiful town in Thailand! Take a moment to enjoy the village and walk around the shops. Enjoy the lake and the fresh air.
Beyond the Drive
Ban Rak Thai is a small village filled with so much rich culture and history. Take some time to learn about the village of Ban Rak Thai and how it was created.
You only really need to plan for one day there before continuing or going back to Pai.
What to Do in Baan Rak Thai
Here are a few small suggestions of what to do in Ban Rak Thai once you get there:
- Sample Yunnan tea at a local plantation.
- Dine on traditional dishes such as braised pork leg or steamed buns.
- Explore the village on foot, soaking in its unique charm.
Where to Stay in Ban Rak Thai
Baan Rak Thai isn’t filled with many English travelers, so finding a place to stay can be tricky. Here is a small list of recommendations:
- Lee Wine Rak Thai Resort for a luxury experience overlooking the tea terraces.
- Ban Rak Thai Guesthouse for a more budget-friendly stay.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip to Ban Rak Thai
- Check the Weather: Rain can make the roads slippery, so plan your trip during the dry season (November to February).
- Carry Essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit.
- Fuel Up: Fill your tank in Pai and top up in Mae Hong Son, as gas stations are sparse closer to Ban Rak Thai.
- Take Breaks: The winding roads can be tiring, so stop often to rest and enjoy the scenery.
- Ride Smart: Stick to the speed limit, use your horn on blind curves, and stay alert for animals or debris on the road.
- Brush up on your Thai Vocab: English is not commonly spoken in Ban Rak Thai so it is good to have your basics for communication
- Enjoy the Scenery: The route is absolutely beautiful, it’s worth it to drive slowly and enjoy the landscapes.
Conclusion
The journey from Pai to Ban Rak Thai by motorbike is as rewarding as the destination itself. With stunning landscapes, cultural stops, and a sense of adventure at every turn, this trip is a must for those exploring northern Thailand. Plan well, ride safely, and enjoy every moment of this journey!
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About the Author
Hi, I’m Shannon. A small travel lover with a laptop.
I’m an avid plane rider and backpacker, currently traveling between lots of working days. This year I am making travel my #1 priority, and I plan to document it as much as I can.
