Mae Hong Son - Discovering Thailand

Travelling to Mae Hong Son

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mae Hong Son, a pretty good destination in Thailand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Mae Hong Son and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Mae Hong Son, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Thailand, here's everything to know about Mae Hong Son for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mae Hong Son

Mae Hong Son is a northern province in Thailand, known for its beautiful mountains and unspoiled natural beauty. It is home to many ethnic groups, including Karen, Lisu, Hmong, and Lahu tribes. Mae Hong Son town is the provincial capital and is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains. The town has a laid-back atmosphere and is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers. There are many temples and cultural attractions to explore, as well as hot springs and waterfalls. Mae Hong Son's unique mix of cultures and breathtaking landscapes make it a must-visit destination in Thailand.

What to visit in Mae Hong Son

Mae Hong Son is a stunningly beautiful province in northwestern Thailand that is known for its scenic vistas, vibrant hill tribes, and tranquil temples. Here are the top tourist attractions of Mae Hong Son along with some information about each: 1. Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu – this temple is perched on a hilltop overlooking the city of Mae Hong Son. It provides stunning sunset views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
2. Pai Canyon – located in Pai, a small town in Mae Hong Son, Pai Canyon is a popular spot for hiking and photography. The narrow ridges and steep cliffs provide breathtaking views of the landscape.
3. Tha Pai Hot Springs – The Tha Pai Hot Springs is a natural hot spring that features a series of small pools that let visitors enjoy the hot mineral waters of the spring while surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape.
4. Pang Ung – Pang Ung is a small lake surrounded by pine trees located in the mountains of Mae Hong Son. It offers stunning views of the mountainous landscape and is a popular spot for camping.
5. Ban Rak Thai – Ban Rak Thai is a village founded by exiled Chinese soldiers and their families that has retained its unique Chinese culture and architecture. It is known for its tea plantations, scenic views, and delicious Chinese food.
6. Long Neck Karen Village – This is a traditional village of the Long Neck Karen tribe, who are known for their elongated necks produced by the practice of wearing brass rings around their necks. Visitors can learn about the tribe's culture, and purchase handicrafts and souvenirs.
7. Wat Phra That Mae Yen – This temple is situated on a hilltop in Mae Hong Son and offers a panoramic view of the city and mountains. It is known for its golden chedi and large indoor Buddha statue.
Overall, Mae Hong Son offers a unique and authentic travel experience in Thailand for those seeking beautiful landscapes, cultural immersion, and peaceful surroundings.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Thailand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mae Hong Son.

When to go on holiday to Mae Hong Son

The best time to visit Mae Hong Son is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. This is considered the coolest time of year with pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the area. March to May is the hot season, with temperatures reaching 40°C, and it can be quite uncomfortable for some travelers. Between June and October, it's the rainy season, and although it does not rain all day, the area is prone to flash floods, so it's not the best time to travel.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Mae Hong Son

Mae Hong Son is a province located in the northwest of Thailand. There are different ways to get there depending on your starting point.
If you are traveling from Bangkok, you can take a direct flight to Mae Hong Son Airport. There are several airlines that operate this route, such as Thai Airways, Nok Air, and Kan Air.
If you are coming from Chiang Mai, you can take a bus or a shared taxi. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, and it's a scenic route with beautiful landscapes along the way.
Another option is to rent a car or a motorcycle and drive to Mae Hong Son. The distance from Chiang Mai is approximately 300 km, and the drive takes around 4-5 hours. However, please note that the roads can be challenging with many twists and turns.
Finally, if you are already in Mae Hong Son, you can move around the province by renting a motorcycle, hiring a private car, or using public transportation such as songthaews or tuk-tuks.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mae Hong Son, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mae Hong Son

Sure, below are some typical foods of Mae Hong Son in Thailand along with a brief description for each: 1. Khao Soi - Khao Soi is one of the most famous dishes in Northern Thailand. It is a curry-based noodle soup made with meat (usually chicken), coconut milk, and a variety of spices served with crispy egg noodles on top.
2. Sai Oua - It is a spicy Northern Thai sausage made with minced pork, chili, and herbs. It is usually grilled and served with sticky rice.
3. Nam Prik Ong - Nam Prik Ong is a spicy tomato and pork dip that is usually eaten with fresh vegetables and sticky rice.
4. Kaeng Hang Le - Kaeng Hang Le is a traditional pork curry that is slow-cooked with spices and vegetables like ginger, turmeric, and garlic.
5. Gang Nor Mai - Gang Nor Mai is a flavorful soup made from pickled bamboo shoots, pork bones, garlic, chili peppers, and tamarind juice.
6. Khanom Chin Nam Ngiaw - Khanom Chin Nam Ngiaw is a popular noodle dish in Northern Thailand. It consists of soft, rice noodles served with pork blood, minced pork, chili paste, and tomato sauce.
7. Khao Ka Moo - Khao Ka Moo is a popular Thai-style braised pork leg dish that is served with rice, boiled egg, and pickled mustard greens.
Enjoy your trip to Mae Hong Son and don't miss out on trying these delicious dishes!
You can find general info about typical foods in Thailand here.

Is Mae Hong Son an expensive destination for tourists?

Mae Hong Son is generally not considered an expensive destination for tourists, as it is a smaller town with a lower cost of living compared to larger tourist destinations in Thailand. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, food, and activities you choose. It is generally possible to find affordable accommodation and food options, but prices can increase in areas that are popular with tourists. It is recommended to research and plan your budget accordingly to get the most out of your trip to Mae Hong Son.

Where to find accomodation in Mae Hong Son

In Mae Hong Son, the main areas to find accommodations are: 1. Mae Hong Son Town: This is the main town and the best place to stay if you prefer to be close to restaurants, shops, and markets.
2. Pai: Located about 2 hours from Mae Hong Son town, Pai is a popular destination for backpackers, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
3. Pangmapha: Located about an hour from Mae Hong Son town, Pangmapha is a great place to stay if you want to explore the nearby Tham Lod Cave and other attractions in the area.
4. Ban Rak Thai: This is a small village near the Myanmar border that is known for its tea plantations and stunning mountain scenery.
5. Soppong: Located about 45 minutes from Mae Hong Son town, Soppong is a great base for exploring the Tham Lot Cave and other nearby attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Mae Hong Son here:
Booking.com

Is Mae Hong Son a safe destination for tourists?

Mae Hong Son is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any new destination, it is always wise to exercise common sense precautions. Visitors are advised to stay aware of their surroundings, be cautious with their belongings, and take necessary safety measures such as not walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and avoiding unmarked and unlicensed taxis. It is also important to follow local customs and laws, respect local cultures, and dress appropriately when visiting temples or other religious monuments. Overall, tourists can feel relatively safe during their visit to Mae Hong Son as long as they exercise these precautions.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Thailand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Mae Hong Son.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mae Hong Son the most?

Mae Hong Son, Thailand is a destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers, including couples, families, and solo adventurers. Couples will appreciate the romantic atmosphere of the town, surrounded by picturesque mountains and forests. They can enjoy relaxing boat rides on the tranquil Pai River, explore the area's many temples and local markets, and indulge in traditional Thai massages together.
Younger travelers looking for fun will enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Mae Hong Son, which features live music and entertainment in many of the town's bars and clubs. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as trekking, hiking, and zip-lining through the surrounding mountains.
Families with children will appreciate the many family-friendly activities available in Mae Hong Son, such as visiting the town's elephant sanctuaries, taking a bamboo rafting trip down the Pai River, and exploring the area's many waterfalls and caves.
Overall, Mae Hong Son has something to offer for travelers of all ages and interests, making it a great destination choice for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of Thailand's northern region.

How to get around Mae Hong Son

To move around Mae Hong Son, you can use different types of transportation, including: 1. Tuk-tuk: These three-wheeled vehicles are very common in Thailand and can be a fun way to explore the town.
2. Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the town and its surroundings. Mae Hong Son has many beautiful temples and natural attractions that are easily accessible by bike.
3. Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is another popular option in Mae Hong Son. It allows you to explore the area at your own pace and offers more flexibility than other modes of transportation.
4. Songthaew: These red trucks are a shared form of transportation that operate along specific routes and can be a cost-effective way to get around the town and nearby attractions.
5. Private car or taxi: This is a more convenient, but more expensive option, especially for longer trips or if you're traveling in a group.

What to see around Mae Hong Son

Sure, here are some suggestions for day trips from Mae Hong Son: 1. Pai: This small town is located approximately 2 hours away from Mae Hong Son and is known for its relaxed vibes, beautiful scenery, and waterfalls such as Mo Paeng Waterfall.
2. Pang Oung: About 1.5 hours away from Mae Hong Son, Pang Oung is a serene lake surrounded by mountains and greenery. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, hiking, and picnicking by the lake.
3. Mae Sam Laep: This village is located around 1 hour away from Mae Hong Son and offers a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of the Shan people. Visitors can learn about the community's agriculture, arts, and crafts, and take a boat ride along the Pai River.
4. Ban Rak Thai: Also known as the "Chinese village", Ban Rak Thai is located around 2 hours away from Mae Hong Son. Here visitors can explore the village's tea plantations, sample Yunnan-style cuisine, and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains.
5. Doi Inthanon National Park: Located approximately 3.5 hours from Mae Hong Son, Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand and home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can hike through the lush forests and see stunning waterfalls and pagodas.
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