Mae Hong Son, An Expert Trip to Northern Thailand

Before we hit Mae Hong Son, many may ponder, is it worth going? If you have toured the main cities in Thailand, like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui, and are looking for something more authentic, the Mae Hong Son area could be the place you may consider.

What Is Mae Hong Son Known For?

It is rural, unsophisticated, and unsoiled. It's like a hidden gem lying in the endless mountains to be discovered. It boasts beautiful waterfalls, authentic villages, and mountain tribes that cannot be seen elsewhere in Thailand.

Dotted with tropical landscapes, rice fields, and rivers, the excellent infrastructure and delicious Thai food along the 660-kilometer road stretching between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son is a Mecca for motorcyclists.

While the Loop is famous among motorcyclists, it is hard for families and couples who do not want to cycle but still want to go there. In a case like this, I suggest touring the area by vehicle or air.

How Long to Spend in Mae Hong Son?

Starting from Chiang Mai, the tour takes at least four days to complete if you visit Mae Hong Son by car. Two days on the road and two days to hit the highlights of what can be seen during the route. There are several interesting spots along the road, which makes the road trip less arduous.

Things to Do During the Trip to Mae Hong Son

1. Visit Pong Dueat Geyser

First, a drive of about 1.5 hours would take you to Pong Dueat Geyser & Hot Spring. It is part of the Huai Nam Dang National Park. The road leads to the national park from the main road, which is recently paved but still narrow for a car, so a good driver is essential.

Walk about 5-8 minutes (around 300 meters) through a mossy road to the geyser. It is impressive and a lovely natural phenomenon to see. For those who want to spend more time here, there's even a 9 km trail to hike and a hot spring mineral pool you could use. It's good for honeymooners, but the facilities are a bit basic.

Pong Dueat Geyser & Hot Spring

2. Explore the Town of Pai and Enjoy Some Outdoor Activities

Further on, 762 bends take us to Pai. It is a small town located between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son. Because of its charm, serenity, and many things to do, it is a popular choice for many young travelers.

Here, you can go tubing on the Pai River, learn to ride a scooter, or simply climb up to the big Buddha platform for a panoramic view of Pai town. If you stay here for a night, the night market of Pai is a point of interest, and you can find everything from cheap street food and clothing to souvenirs and herbal remedies.

Since Mae Hong Son borders Myanmar (Burma), from Pai, you can already see some temples and food are shifting to Myanmar (Burmese) style.

View Pai from Wat Phra Tat Mae

3. Visit the Hill Tribe in Mae Hong Son

To visit the hill tribe, you will first take a long nail motor boat. At the pier, the staff will provide you with a life vest; the ride is around 15 minutes through the muddy river. It is a nice ride through the waterway to find the secluded hill tribe village.

These hill tribes were farmers who originated from Burma but ended up settling down in the Mae Hong Son region due to political reasons. The trip to the hill tribe would blow your mind. Despite its poverty, it is a complete community with everything set up - school, ancestor burial sites, shops, houses, playgrounds, etc.

Unlike the hill tribes elsewhere, the tribes here are less commercial. During the COVID period, the place was closed to outside visitors and maintained a self-sufficient lifestyle. They do fishing, planting, and collecting food from the mountains nearby.

4. Get to the Fish Cave

Fish Cave is another point of interest. Like anything that is regarded as "holy" - like the fish here, they now swim freely without worrying about any predators; therefore, their number increases exponentially and fight for food when you purchase a basket of fruits (50 Bhat) and pour them into the river; it showcases how local people protect their environment.

5. Venture into the Nam Lod Cave

Nam Lod Cave is a cave system filled with stalactites and stalagmites, home to large numbers of bats and swifts, which is suitable for adventurous travelers.

There are three caves with different heights. The bigger one is 30 meters tall and quite impressive. The first two caves will require stair climbing and walking on uneven terrains. You can hear the bats in the dark. You can find a little river at the third cave that goes through with many fish, which is a fun part. Kindly tip before visiting there would be to prepare masks and a torch before you go.

Where to Stay in Mae Hong Son?

As for accommodation, the accommodation in Mae Hong Son, in general, is a bit basic, and in return, the cost is quite fair. Take the Fern Resort as an example. This nature resort features traditional Shan tribe bungalows and an outdoor pool; rice paddy fields are in front of the rooms; a great nature trail is on your doorstep; very friendly staff and all make a great deal. If possible, book early and reserve the rooms occupied by Mr. & Mrs. Smith, which the hotel has been proud of.

Can I Fly to Mae Hong Son?

If you prefer flight instead of long drives, you could also fly into Mae Hong Son from Bangkok, with a stop via Lampang. And do the tour over the Mae Hong Son area for 3-5 days to experience a different Thailand.

Overall, Mae Hong Son may not be for everyone, but if you want something different from the mainstream and are searching for a trip to a more primitive and unspoiled place in Thailand, Mae Hong Son is just for you. Contact us to tailor your unique vacation in Thailand.