Mae Hong Son Travel Guide: Misty Mountains, Hill Tribes, and Hidden Temples
Share
Mae Hong Son, nestled in Thailand’s remote northwest, is a hidden gem known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, mist-covered valleys, and rich cultural diversity, especially its hill tribes. The province is one of the least densely populated in Thailand, making it a haven for nature lovers, trekkers, and those seeking tranquility away from Thailand’s busier destinations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to Mae Hong Son, covering its tourist destinations, temples, nightlife, national parks, accommodations, transportation, and more.
Popular Tourist Destinations
- Pai: One of the most famous destinations in Mae Hong Son, Pai is a small town that has gained a reputation for its relaxed, bohemian vibe. It’s known for its lush landscapes, hot springs, waterfalls, and trendy cafes. Pai Walking Street is a hub of activity in the evenings, with markets, food stalls, and live music.
- Mae Hong Son Town: The provincial capital is a quiet town surrounded by mountains. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful Burmese-style temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, which overlooks the town from a hilltop and offers stunning panoramic views.
- Tham Lod Cave: One of the largest and most impressive caves in Thailand, Tham Lod is a limestone cave with a river flowing through it. Visitors can explore the cave by bamboo raft and admire ancient cave paintings and stalactites.
- Ban Rak Thai: A picturesque village near the Myanmar border, Ban Rak Thai (also known as Mae Aw) is a tea-growing community founded by Chinese Kuomintang soldiers. The village offers a unique cultural experience, and visitors can enjoy tea tasting, scenic boat rides on the lake, and traditional Chinese food.
- Pang Ung: Sometimes referred to as the "Switzerland of Thailand," Pang Ung is a serene reservoir located high in the mountains. It’s a popular camping spot and is particularly stunning in the early morning when the lake is covered in mist.
2. Temples in Mae Hong Son
-Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu: A landmark temple located on a hilltop overlooking Mae Hong Son Town. The temple is famous for its Burmese-style architecture and the breathtaking views of the surrounding valley, especially at sunrise and sunset.
- Wat Chong Kham: Located by the Chong Kham Lake in Mae Hong Son Town, this temple features beautiful Burmese-style architecture. It is particularly striking when illuminated at night, with its reflection shimmering in the lake.
- Wat Chong Klang: Adjacent to Wat Chong Kham, this temple is another fine example of Burmese influence in northern Thailand. Inside, the temple houses many ancient Burmese-style Buddha statues and intricately carved wooden figures.
- Wat Phra That Mae Yen (Pai’s Big Buddha): Located just outside Pai, this large white Buddha statue sits on a hill, offering stunning views over the town and surrounding countryside. It’s a peaceful place to watch the sunset.
3. Nightlife and Party Scene
Mae Hong Son is a quiet and peaceful province, and it is not known for its nightlife or party scene. However, Pai is the exception, with its relaxed but vibrant night scene:
- Pai Walking Street: In the evenings, this area comes alive with street vendors selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious food. There are also live music performances and small bars where you can enjoy a laid-back evening.
- Jazz House Pai: A popular spot for live music, this bar offers a chill atmosphere with great tunes, food, and drinks.
- Spirit Bar: A local favourite in Pai, offering a cozy and relaxed environment with reggae music and a bohemian vibe.
- Don't Cry Bar: One of Pai's few party spots, it offers late-night music and a casual party atmosphere.
Mae Hong Son Town has a much quieter nightlife scene, with only a few small bars and restaurants open in the evening. The focus here is more on relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty.
4. National Parks
- Pai Canyon: A natural wonder located near Pai, this canyon features narrow, winding trails along ridges with steep drop-offs. It’s a popular spot for hiking and offers spectacular views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Huai Nam Dang National Park: Known for its scenic viewpoints, Huai Nam Dang is a popular destination for camping and trekking. The park offers stunning views of misty valleys and the distant peaks of Doi Chiang Dao, especially in the early morning.
- Salawin National Park: Located along the Salawin River, which forms part of the border between Thailand and Myanmar, this park is known for its rugged beauty and diverse wildlife. It’s ideal for nature lovers seeking a remote and tranquil experience.
- Mae Surin Waterfall National Park: This park is home to the impressive Mae Surin Waterfall, one of the tallest in Thailand. The park also offers trekking routes through scenic forests and viewpoints over the surrounding mountains.
- Ob Luang National Park: Known for its stunning gorge, the park features rock formations, river rapids, and ancient cave paintings. It’s a great spot for nature walks and exploring the cultural heritage of the region.
5. Sports Bars and Entertainment
While Mae Hong Son is not a destination for sports bars, you’ll find some entertainment options, especially in Pai:
- Mad Monkey Pai: This popular backpacker hostel often shows live sports and has a social atmosphere with pool tables and a bar.
- Jazz House Pai: Known more for its music than sports, but you might catch live broadcasts of major sporting events here.
For serious sports fans, there may be some opportunities in Pai to catch football matches at various bars, but Mae Hong Son Town and other parts of the province do not have dedicated sports bars.
6. Beaches
Mae Hong Son is a landlocked province with no beaches. However, its stunning mountain scenery, rivers, and lakes make up for the lack of coastal attractions. Pang Ung and Ban Rak Thai are excellent alternatives for water-based relaxation, offering picturesque lakeside views.
7. Backpacker Hostels and Resorts
- Mad Monkey Hostel (Pai): A lively backpacker hostel in Pai, offering dormitory and private rooms. It’s a social hub with a swimming pool, bar, and regular events.
- Common Grounds Pai: A popular hostel in Pai known for its social atmosphere, friendly staff, and comfortable accommodations. It’s a great place for solo travelers to meet others.
- Pai Village Boutique Resort & Farm: A charming boutique resort in Pai, offering comfortable bungalows surrounded by nature. It’s an excellent choice for couples or those looking for a more relaxed experience.
- Fern Resort (Mae Hong Son Town): A beautiful eco-resort located just outside of Mae Hong Son Town, offering bungalows set in lush rice fields. It’s a tranquil spot for nature lovers.
- Ban Rak Thai Village Homestays: Offering traditional Chinese-style homestays, this village is a unique place to stay if you want to experience the tea culture and scenic beauty of Ban Rak Thai.
8. Transportation
- By Air: Mae Hong Son has a small airport with flights to Chiang Mai, which are convenient for travellers short on time.
- Buses and Minivans: Regular minivans and buses connect Mae Hong Son to Chiang Mai, Pai, and other nearby provinces. The route between Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai is known for its winding mountain roads (1,864 curves), so be prepared for a scenic but slow journey.
- Motorbike Rentals: Renting a motorbike is a popular way to explore the province, especially for those traveling between Mae Hong Son and Pai. The journey offers stunning mountain views, and the roads are in good condition.
- Songthaews and Tuk-Tuks: These are common local transportation options within towns and villages. They are affordable and easy to find in Mae Hong Son Town and Pai.
9. Fun Activities
- Trekking: Mae Hong Son is famous for its trekking opportunities, with various trails leading through lush forests, hill tribe villages, and along scenic ridges. You can arrange multi-day treks with local guides.
- Hot Springs: Pai is known for its hot springs, with Tha Pai Hot Springs being a popular spot where you can relax in naturally warm waters. The area around the springs is beautiful, making it a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
- Hill Tribe Visits: Mae Hong Son is home to several hill tribes, including the Karen (also known as the Long Neck people). There are opportunities to visit these communities, learn about their culture, and purchase handicrafts.
- River Rafting: In Pai and other areas, you can go bamboo rafting or river tubing for a fun adventure on the water.
- Photography: The landscapes in Mae Hong Son, especially around Pai and Ban Rak Thai, are incredibly photogenic, making the province a favorite spot for photographers.
10. Muay Thai in Mae Hong Son
- Charn Chai Muay Thai (Pai): A well-known Muay Thai gym in Pai that caters to both beginners and experienced fighters. They offer training camps and drop-in classes, making it a great spot for those looking to learn Muay Thai while traveling.
- Nam Yang Kung Fu Retreat (Pai): Although primarily a Kung Fu school, Nam Yang also offers Muay Thai training. The retreat is set in a beautiful location and offers an immersive experience in martial arts training.
11. Fun Facts About Mae Hong Son
- 1,864 Curves: The road between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son is famous for its 1,864 curves through mountainous terrain, making it both a challenging and scenic drive.
- Myanmar Influence: Due to its proximity to Myanmar, Mae Hong Son has a significant Burmese cultural influence, especially visible in the architecture of its temples.
- Home of Hill Tribes: Mae Hong Son is home to several hill tribe communities, including the Karen, Lisu, Lahu, and Hmong. These tribes have preserved their traditional lifestyles and cultures, adding to the province’s cultural diversity.
12. Additional Tips for Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: The cool season from November to February is the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are lush. This is also when the morning mist is at its most magical, especially in Pang Ung and Pai.
- Packing: Mae Hong Son can get quite cold in the mornings and evenings, especially in the mountains, so pack some warm clothing.
- Respect for Hill Tribes: When visiting hill tribe communities, be respectful of their customs and ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in the Long Neck Karen villages.
Conclusion
Mae Hong Son is a stunning, tranquil destination ideal for nature lovers, adventurers, and those looking for an authentic cultural experience. Whether you’re trekking through lush forests, soaking in hot springs, or exploring ancient caves and temples, Mae Hong Son offers a serene and enriching escape from Thailand’s more touristy regions.
