Shopping
From bustling markets to quiet artisan studios, shopping in Pai is as much about connection and culture as it is about the goods themselves. Whether you're seeking handcrafted jewelry, one-of-a-kind home decor, natural wellness products, or thoughtful souvenirs, you'll find pieces infused with the heart and spirit of the mountains.
Local Markets
Markets are a big part of daily life in Pai—and a great way to get a feel for the local vibe. You’ll find fresh veggies straight from nearby farms, tasty street food, handmade crafts, secondhand clothes, and all kinds of random bits and pieces.
Below are Pai’s regular, always-on markets—but new pop-ups, seasonal fairs, and one-off community market events happen all the time too.
-
From dawn to dusk, Saengthong Market is where Pai’s everyday life plays out. In the early morning, locals gather for steaming bowls of classic Thai rice soup and other breakfast staples before picking up fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs inside the covered market. Even if you’re not cooking, it’s worth wandering through for the smells, sounds, and easy rhythm of local life.
Come evening, the market transforms into a street food hub, with muu yang (grilled pork), gai tod (fried chicken), ready-made thai curries in a bag, sushi sold by the piece, and a few roadside spots to eat on the spot. This isn’t a tourist market — flavours are bold, prices are local, and stalls often sell out by 8 pm.
-
Pai Walking Street, also known as the Night Market, is the heart of Pai's evening scene. Stretching along Chaisongkran and Rungsiyanon Roads, it comes alive nightly from around 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Visitors can explore a vibrant array of stalls offering handcrafted jewelry, unique clothing, local art, and an impressive variety of street food, making it a must-visit for both shopping and dining enthusiasts.
-
The Monday Market is one of Pai’s most local-feeling markets—only open once a week in the morning, and full of character. It’s a mix of everything: fresh produce, clothes, household goods, snacks, and random finds. You’ll see mostly locals shopping here, catching up with neighbours, and grabbing breakfast on the go.
It’s not huge, but there’s plenty to browse, and it only takes about 30–40 minutes to wander the whole thing. Northern sausages are a highlight—sour, salty, and full of flavour. It starts setting up early, but you don’t need to be there at the crack of dawn—things are still getting going around 8am.
If you happen to be in Pai on a Monday, it’s well worth a look for an easy, authentic start to your day.
-
Every Wednesday, Pai hosts a special market that attracts local villagers and hill tribe communities from the surrounding areas. This market provides a unique opportunity to purchase locally grown produce, traditional handicrafts, textiles, and regional delicacies, offering a deeper insight into the diverse cultures of the Pai Valley.
-
Held every Saturday from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM at Bodhi Tree Playground, this market is a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors. It offers a delightful mix of fresh produce, handmade crafts, second-hand goods, and delicious food options. The atmosphere is lively, with live music, tarot readings, and performers dancing around, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the community vibe.
This is a No Smoking zone! Respect the children and respect the area by placing your rubbish in the bins located around the perimeter.
-
A midweek treasure hunt hosted by a local community house! Come browse a colorful mix of secondhand clothes (all shapes and sizes), kitchen gear, furniture, and other fun finds. Casual, cheerful, and always full of surprises—perfect for updating your wardrobe or scoring a quirky Pai keepsake. Pop by and see what’s up for grabs!
For more details, download the Experience Pai App.
Art
Pittalew Art Gallery
Malamong Art Cafe
Pai has long attracted creatives from across Thailand, and you’ll find their work in small galleries, home studios, and tucked-away shops around town. Whether you’re looking for something to take home or just want to explore Pai’s creative side, these spots are a great place to start:
-
Pittalew Art Gallery is home to the work of one of Pai’s most respected artists, Sa-ard Nilkong.
His gallery is nestled at the base of the mountain, and is a peaceful, welcoming space to experience his art up close. Visitors can view a rotating selection of original paintings—rich in texture, symbolism, and the spirit of northern Thailand. Many pieces are available for purchase, alongside high-quality prints and postcard versions, making it easy to take home a piece of Pai’s creative soul.
Beyond the art, Pittalew is also a cultural hub for the local creative scene. P’ Sa-ard is known not only for his artistic talent but also for his generosity in supporting other Pai-based artists. His gallery has long been the heart of the Pittalew Art & Music gatherings—infamous in the best way—for bringing people together through music, creativity, and community.
If you're an art lover—or simply curious to experience something uniquely Pai—this is more than just a gallery. It’s a quiet, living piece of Pai.
Download the Experience Pai app to find out when new original works are on display or when the next Pittalew Art & Music gathering is happening. -
Malamong is part gallery, part café, and fully rooted in Pai’s creative spirit. The walls are lined with original artwork by the owners and their circle of talented local artist friends.
You’ll find stunning landscapes by P’Giew, whose paintings of Pai capture the valley’s magic in every brushstroke, all framed in beautifully raw, wabi-sabi-style wood.
Every piece is for sale, so if you’re looking for a truly unique souvenir—a real piece of Pai—this is the place to find it. Even if you’re not buying, it’s worth a visit just to soak in the art. They also host occasional exhibitions to showcase new collections by Pai-based artists.
Download the Experience Pai app to stay updated on upcoming art shows, music events, and creative workshops hosted here at Malamong Art Cafe.
-
This 'n That is a one-of-a-kind little art shop run by local artist Jongrak and partner Natida. Jongrak’s art style reflects a quiet but powerful shift—from exploring the human mind during his years in Bangkok, to drawing inspiration from nature and connection since settling in Pai. His detailed black pen drawings are both intricate and meditative, capturing the subtle beauty of the natural world through a deeply personal lens.
The shop itself is an immersion into the couple’s aesthetic style. Alongside Jongrak’s original artwork and prints, you’ll find vintage clothing, curated oddities, and small handmade treasures. Whether you’re after a meaningful souvenir or just love getting lost in a good browse, This 'n That offers something special for every kind of wanderer.
-
Tucked away in the peaceful valley just outside town, Nong Art Pai Gallery is as much about the experience as it is about the art. Nong, the artist and host, is a truly unique character—both a painter and a former boxer—whose creative journey is as compelling as his work.
His gallery space is an open, welcoming home-studio surrounded by nature, where visitors are encouraged to slow down, chat, and take it all in. Nong’s art is expressive, soulful, and varied, reflecting his life’s path and his deep connection to the land. You’ll often be welcomed with warm hospitality—maybe a juice, a coffee, or even roasted sweet potatoes straight from the fire.
It’s the kind of place where time stretches out and conversation flows easily. Whether you're into art, curious to meet local creatives, or just want a quiet, beautiful spot to relax in the Pai hills, this gallery is worth the detour.
These are just a few of Pai’s top local Thai artists. Creativity runs deep here.
Jewelry
Pai is full of hidden gems—literally. From handcrafted silver made by local artisans to curated shops offering a wide range of styles, the jewellery options here reflect the creative spirit of the town. Beautiful, handcrafted pieces are often tucked away in tiny studios, street stalls, and quiet corners around town. Here are a few to get to you started:
-
Some treasures you stumble upon and never forget—and this stall on Pai Walking Street is exactly that. Run by a strikingly beautiful woman with an incredible style and eye for detail, she curates and sells some of the most exquisite handmade silver jewellery in town.
Each piece is crafted from Thai-sourced silver, with thick engraved cuffs, delicate earrings, and gemstone-adorned necklaces featuring rubies and other sparkling finds. Her collection has the feeling of something ancient and rare—like the kind of piece you hope to discover on your travels and end up cherishing forever.
If you’re looking for something meaningful, beautifully made, and truly one-of-a-kind, don’t walk past this one.
-
Tucked away down a beautiful, almost dreamlike path, Spirit Bar & Jewelry feels like a portal to another world. The space opens up into a laid-back bar with live music most nights, a rustic two-level setup, and an easygoing, bohemian vibe that draws people in and makes them stay longer than planned.
But head toward the back, and you’ll find something even more special—a handcrafted jewelry shop run by Na and Boy, two passionate Pai-based artisans who pour heart and soul into every piece they create. Each item—rings, bracelets, necklaces—is handmade right here in Pai, using powerful gemstones selected for their energy and meaning.
Na speaks fluent English and is always happy to explain the story or symbolism behind each stone. The detail in their work is incredible—real mastercraft—and every piece feels like a personal treasure waiting to find the right owner.
-
Return to Simple offers beautifully handcrafted jewelry—rings, necklaces, and amulets. You'll also find leather goods, unique souvenirs, and their famous vegan chocolates, loved for their rich flavour and simple ingredients. A perfect stop for a thoughtful gift or a meaningful keepsake, made with care by a friendly local artisan.
-
The largest jewellery shop in Pai, Thadmala Design offers a huge selection of unique, handcrafted pieces—from earrings, rings, and bracelets to anklets, keychains, and more. Designs range from crystal-set brass and aluminium to more playful and unusual styles you won’t find elsewhere.
Whether you're after something bold, delicate, or totally unexpected, this is the kind of shop you’ll want to browse slowly—and maybe return to more than once.
-
Pai is a quiet haven for crystal lovers, with stalls and shops all over town offering a stunning variety of stones—many of which are sourced straight from the local earth.
You’ll find rare and raw pieces at Malamong Art Cafe, and directly across the street you’ll find Fai’s stall- known for its high-quality stones and intricately engraved designs. Another unnamed stall features beautiful macramé-wrapped crystal necklaces, and a local vendor nearby sells Pai-sourced quartz he’s personally foraged from the surrounding mountains—a one-of-a-kind Pai keepsake!
Download the Experience Pai app to find each of these Google Map pins, and to discover loads more hidden crystal spots around town.
These are just some of Pai’s standout jewellery makers and shops—but there’s plenty more to discover.
Clothing & Accessories
From hand-stitched treasures to vintage gems and festival-ready flair, Pai’s fashion scene is as creative and diverse as the people who pass through it.
-
Pai is full of independent makers quietly creating beautiful wearable pieces with care. From slow-stitched natural-fibre clothing to hand-crocheted tops, embroidered garments, and leather sandals cut and crafted right here in town, these items reflect the spirit of Pai—grounded, artistic, and one of a kind.
You’ll find small studios and tucked-away shops offering limited runs of handmade fashion that you won’t see anywhere else. Many use traditional techniques, natural dyes, or locally sourced materials, with a focus on quality over quantity.
-
For those who love slow fashion and earthy textures, Pai is home to a handful of shops offering beautiful clothing and accessories made from natural fibres like hemp, cotton, and bamboo.
One standout is Malamong, where you’ll find a carefully curated selection of hemp tops, bags, and hats—all designed by the owner and handmade by members of the Naga tribe, who live in the borderlands between Myanmar and Thailand. Every piece is organic, eco-conscious, and completely one of a kind. These are wearable works of art with heart behind them.
If you miss something in-store, Malamong also has an Etsy shop where you can order and have items shipped internationally.
-
For something fun, wearable, and uniquely Pai, check out the town’s growing selection of screen-printed t-shirts, tanks, and hoodies featuring locally made designs. From bold graphics and spiritual symbols to tongue-in-cheek slogans and Pai-inspired illustrations, these pieces make great souvenirs and they’re printed in small batches so you're unlikely to find the same thing twice.
-
Pai’s second-hand clothing scene is thriving, with something for every kind of treasure hunter. Whether you're into curated vintage fashion, funky one-off pieces, or just love the thrill of the rummage, you’ll find plenty of spots to explore.
There are trendy, boutique-style shops that carefully select their racks for style and uniqueness—think retro jackets, reworked denim, and vintage statement pieces. Then there are the no-frills, warehouse-style spaces absolutely packed with every kind of garment imaginable. From genuine brand names to mysterious no-brand finds, you never know what you’ll uncover.
The selection is constantly rotating, prices are friendly, and it's a great way to shop sustainably while picking up something truly original.
-
A fun, feel-good way to refresh your wardrobe—without spending a baht. Bring your pre-loved clothes to swap, sort them into shared piles, and take home anything that catches your eye. No limits, no pressure, and no worries if you don’t have anything to trade—there’s always plenty to go around. Hosted at a cozy home just outside town, these swaps happen sporadically.
Home Decor & Souvenirs
This ‘n That : art gallery & vintage store
From handwoven textiles and lanterns to carved wooden keepsakes and nature-inspired ceramics, Pai’s artisan community offers beautiful, meaningful objects that carry the spirit of the valley. Here are a few places to check out:
-
This 'n That is a one-of-a-kind little art shop run by local artist Jongrak and partner Natida. Jongrak’s art style reflects a quiet but powerful shift—from exploring the human mind during his years in Bangkok, to drawing inspiration from nature and connection since settling in Pai. His detailed black pen drawings are both intricate and meditative, capturing the subtle beauty of the natural world through a deeply personal lens.
The shop itself is an immersion into the couple’s aesthetic style. Alongside Jongrak’s original artwork and prints, you’ll find vintage clothing, curated oddities, and small handmade treasures. Whether you’re after a meaningful souvenir or just love getting lost in a good browse, This 'n That offers something special for every kind of wanderer.
-
Perched high in the mountains above Pai, Gung Mog Kaam offers a stunning selection of handcrafted ceramics featuring intricate stamped patterns. The artist’s beautifully detailed functional and decorative pieces have even been showcased at the Bangkok Design Festival, reflecting exceptional craftsmanship.
While the café’s upper floor may appear closed and signs might say “closed,” the ceramics shop and workshop studio are still open. If you visit and don’t see anyone, just give a shout—the artist often works from home but welcomes visitors by appointment. Contacting them directly is the best way to arrange a visit and explore their unique ceramics collection in person.
-
Tucked inside one of Pai’s most beloved cafés, Art in Chai offers more than chai and conversation—it’s also a hidden trove of home decor treasures.
Browse through hand-carved wooden objects, ornaments, and woven cotton tablecloths with earthy mountain tones and a touch of Indian-hippie charm. Each piece feels collected, not mass-produced—perfect for adding warmth, texture, and a sense of story to your home.
If you’re after a souvenir that feels soulful and useful, this is a spot worth lingering in.
-
Malamong is a quiet, thoughtful space where tea and craftsmanship come together. The shop features a significant curated collection of handmade items—sculptures, trinkets, oracle card decks, and distinctive decor. Every piece feels personal, with an emphasis on high quality natural materials and creative expression. Whether you're browsing for something meaningful or simply taking a break with a cup of tea, Malamong invites you to slow down and appreciate the details.
-
At Paradise Pai, you’ll discover a treasure trove of circus and flow‑arts gear—perfect for travelling performers and new enthusiasts. They carry an extensive range of high‑quality props: poi, staffs, swords, clubs, hoops, and modular systems that let you customise your kit.
Skincare & Wellness Products
Pai is home to a mix of natural, locally made products and familiar big-brand essentials. You’ll find everything from handmade soaps, herbal shampoos, and moisturisers to everyday items like face wash, sunscreen, vitamins, supplements, and even natural laundry detergent. Here are a few places to find what you need:
-
A lovely little zero-waste refill shop run by a kind local couple who make everything using fresh, natural ingredients. When you open the bottles, you’ll catch the scent of real Thai herbs, citrus, and coconut oil—no artificial nasties stuff here.
Refill your shampoo, conditioner, mosquito repellent, laundry detergent, and more, and they’ll even hand-label your bottles with care. A must-stop for eco-conscious travellers looking to cut down on waste without compromising on quality.
-
Known mostly as a wholesome vegetarian café, Earth Tone also has a tucked-away shop space full of natural goodness. You’ll find a thoughtful selection of supplements, herbal remedies, natural body care, and eco-friendly essentials—perfect for wellness-minded travellers.
Whether you're topping up your self-care kit or just browsing for something unique, it's worth checking out while you’re passing by.
-
Description text goes here.
-
If you’re looking for the most comprehensive range of natural wellness products in Pai, SYMBIOSIS (Macrobiotic World by Natural Efe) is a great stop. With shelves stocked full of vegan snacks, supplements, superfoods, incense, herbal tinctures, body care, essential oils, plant-based cheeses, and biodynamic wines, it’s a one-stop shop for the health-conscious.
Most products are organic, vegan, and ethically sourced, with many imported staples you might not find elsewhere in town.
-
Pai Cosmetics is the go-to store for branded makeup, skincare, and beauty essentials. They stock a wide variety of popular products—from lipsticks and eyeliners to moisturisers and cleansers—perfect for anyone looking to restock on well-known brands.
They also offer a solid men’s range of hair styling products, making it a one-stop shop for all your grooming needs.
Food Products & Specialty Goods
Looking for Western staples like cheese, pasta, and baking essentials? Or maybe local delights like dried banana chips, fermented tea leaves, and freshly made oat milk? Pai has a surprising variety to satisfy every craving, including:
Fresh alternatives: oat milk, happy eggs, tofu and handmade yoghurt
Herbal teas and spices: regional blends, fresh and dried spices
Locally grown & roasted: coffee and cacao
Fermented products: tea leaves, kimchi, miso, and other probiotic foods
Local delicacies: dried fruits, traditional Thai snacks
Western staples: cheese, boxed pasta, baking ingredients