Selfie a pretty view above the Tha Pai World War 2 Memorial Bridge 

Originally, the Tha Pai World War 2 Memorial Bridge was built by the Japanese as part of the route from Burma through Thailand during World War II.

The Enduring Story of Pai Memorial Bridge

Every journey has a story, and a visit to the Tha Pai World War 2 Memorial Bridge offers a profound narrative woven into the very fabric of Mae Hong Son’s landscape. It’s a place where history isn’t just observed; it’s felt, inspiring a deeper appreciation for this serene corner of Thailand and its resilient past.

A Canvas of Wartime History

This iconic bridge carries the weighty legacy of World War II. Erected in 1942 by the Imperial Japanese Army, its purpose was grim yet vital: to facilitate the rapid movement of troops and supplies from northern Thailand towards the demanding Burmese front. Standing here, you can almost visualize the historical urgency that once dominated this now-tranquil setting.

By 1944, the Allies had the upper-hand and the Japanese army burnt down Tha Pai Memorial Bridge as they retreated. Following the end of the War, locals rebuilt the bridge and it was strengthened and improved in subsequent decades. In 1973, severe flooding hit the Pai district and the bridge was destroyed. Local authorities in Pai requested permission from their counterparts in Chiang Mai to use the decommissioned Nawarat Bridge with the steel structure transported from Chiang Mai to Pai in 1975 and erected a year later.

Today, the bridge only carries pedestrians and is commonly referred to as the Memorial Bridge with the adjacent concrete road bridge on Highway 1095 the one which vehicles use to cross the Pai River. The steel frame of the Memorial Bridge may be strong, but the rickety wooden floorboards have seen better days and there are a few gaps where you need to be careful not to catch your footing.

A Picture-Perfect Tourist Destination

For any traveler, the Pai Memorial Bridge offers an irresistible blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it an ideal spot for photography. The sweeping views of the Pai River, framed by lush hills and the bridge’s distinctive architecture, create a truly picturesque scene. It’s a place where every angle tells a part of its multi-layered story.

Standing up on the Tha Pai Memorial Bridge, you can see the tourist is rafting in Pai river and high mountain and green rice field surround the bridge. There are also a couple of information boards which depicts the history of Pai and the origin of the town’s name in brief.

Your Simple Route to Discovery

Tha Pai World War 2 Memorial Bridge is located 9km south of Pai at kilometer marker 88 on highway 1095 on the Chiang Mai – Mae Hong Son road. On way from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son. After drive about 2-3 hours, There is a small shop and restaurant that you can buy a basic items such as water and snacks, coffee or even your lunch.

Tha Pai World War 2 Memorial Bridge is open to tourists all days and all times and there’s no entry fee.