Mae Hong Son Province, in Thailand’s extreme northwest bordering Burma, has a charming ambiance and isn’t as commercial as neighboring Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai.
Home to some of the country’s most rugged mountains, it is one of Thailand’s most scenic provinces. Thanks to its location in the center of the region, the provincial capital also makes a great base from which to explore the province’s attractions.
Only a short flight from Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son is a small, laid-back town that boasts pleasant weather and true northern hospitality. The streets of downtown Mae Hong Son are lined with many old buildings that have been made into homey restaurants, guesthouses and small boutiques.
There are also many Burmese-style temples to explore, where you can get a glimpse of the local lifestyle and the strong belief in making merit. The temples beside Jong Kham Lake, Wat Jong Kham and Wat Jong Klang appear in images worldwide that show off the region’s unique architecture.
Besides the provincial capital, many visitors head to this province to relax in the hip town of Pai, which has exploded in popularity during the last decade, or to explore some of the massive caves in the northern part of the province around Soppong and Mae La-Na.
The entire province is dotted with villages inhabited by hilltribes such as the Lisu, Lahu and Karen. You can visit these villages and find out about their long history of settlement, and also buy hand-woven silk and cotton or local outfits as souvenirs to take home.
Trekking is popular here, and many options are provided for trekkers from half-day to two- to three-day foot expeditions. Another popular way to discover the province is by driving the Mae Hong Son Loop, passing through Pai, Soppong, Mae Hong Son, Khun Yuam and Mae Sariang before returning to Chiang Mai via Chom Thong.
The best time to visit Mae Hong Son is from November to February, when the air is clear and the weather is cool. It’s best to avoid March, when a dense haze from burning fields and hillsides can cause respiratory problems. Comprehensive facilities and a wide range of accommodations are provided for visitors in the main towns, while there are regular flights to Mae Hong Son town and Pai from Chiang Mai.
Where to Go
- Pai: A popular tourist destination with a bohemian vibe, featuring hot springs, waterfalls, and vibrant nightlife.
- Mae Surin National Park: Home to the stunning Mae Surin Waterfall and diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking and nature walks.
- Kaew Komon Cave: A cave adorned with calcite crystals, offering a dazzling display of natural mineral formations.
- Mae Aw: A picturesque village known for its Yunnanese culture, tea plantations, and tranquil mountain scenery.
- Mae Hong Son: The provincial capital, famous for its mist-covered mountains, traditional Shan temples, and vibrant night market.
- Mae La-Na: A remote village offering unique homestays, scenic views, and access to cave exploration adventures.
- Mae Sariang: A charming town near the Myanmar border, known for its riverside setting, traditional temples, and rich cultural heritage.
- Soppong: Known for its natural beauty, including the Tham Lod Cave and opportunities for trekking and bamboo rafting.
- Khun Yuam: Famous for the Mexican sunflower fields (Bua Tong Blossom) that bloom in November and its World War II museum.
- Pha Bong Hot Springs: A relaxing spot featuring natural hot springs, perfect for soaking in therapeutic mineral waters.
- Tham Pla Nam Tok Pha Sua National Park: Known for its unique “Fish Cave” and the impressive Pha Sua Waterfall.
- Salween National Park: A remote park offering rugged terrain, lush forests, and the scenic Salween River, ideal for eco-adventures.