Why Should I Drive to Ban Rak Thai?
Ban Rak Thai is a small village I heard of by chance from a raving traveler in passing. She claimed it was her favorite spot, hidden from the masses of 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 four-hour journey from Pai to Ban Rak Thail road trip through the jungled mountains and fun, windy roads. I can honestly say the drive is just as good as the destination.
The Village of Ban Rak Thai
You might be wondering what the hell someone could say about this place to make me jump on a scooter the next day. In reality, it doesn’t take much for me to do these kinds of things, but this village does sound cool in just an overview description.
Ban Rak Thai Village is a fusion of Chinese and Thai culture, heavily reflected in the buildings and serenity of the place. It is on the border of Burma (Myanmar), and you can even step into the neighboring country.
The Road to Ban Rak Thai
Pai to Ban Rak Thai is a journey straight out of a dream. The main road you follow is a part of the popular Mae Hong Son loop, taking you through the Northern Thailand scenic views of the Mae Hong Son province.
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 does it have beautiful scenery, but the road itself is just fun to drive. With many turns, steep hills, and multiple lookouts, I had a blast navigating my way through the north.
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.
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.
Planning Your Drive
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. Additionally, the roads have many steep hills and sharp turns, so you will need to go at a slower pace.
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.
Where to Stop While on the Road to Ban Rak Thai
There are multiple places to stop along the road from Pai to Ban Rak Thai. These consist of good spots for coffee breaks, lookouts and lunch. Here is a list of my favorites:
Lookouts and Coffee
- Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint – a beautiful lookout 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 on Route
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!
Noodle Soup House Ban Jabo is a must-stop spot. It’s a little off the main path to Ban Rak Thai but the soup makes for a good lunch. To make this place even better, the views alone are just stunning. Even if you aren’t hungry, make a pitstop here for a drink and enjoy the mountains as you sit in this cool treehouse restaurant.
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.
How to Get to Ban Rak Thai
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.
You can also take a bus or a tour to Ban Rak Thai if you don’t want to drive. There are many options for public or private bus transfers that you can find through Pai or in Getyourguide.
Renting a Motorbike
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 in Pai
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.
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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