Things To Do
in Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son sits high in Thailand's northwest, a quiet town surrounded by forested hills and misty mornings. It blends Buddhist culture with a slower pace and scenic viewpoints overlooking the valley. The town is a gateway to hill-tribe villages, tea plantations, and rivers that wind through bamboo groves.
In town, you can savor Northern Thai flavors, visit ancient temples, and use the surrounding hills as a base for short treks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son, which takes you through picturesque mountain landscapes and lush green valleys. Stop at the famous Pai Canyon for a short hike, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Arrive in Mae Hong Son and check into your hotel, ready to explore the town.
Visit the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views of Mae Hong Son and the surrounding mountains. Spend some time wandering the local markets, where you can find unique handicrafts and sample delicious Thai street food. Capture the essence of small-town life as you interact with friendly locals.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring local delicacies while listening to the gentle flow of the river. Take a peaceful stroll along the Pai River and listen to the sounds of nature as night falls. Conclude your day by observing the stars in the clear night sky, free from pollution.
Start your day with a visit to the Morning Market, where you can find fresh produce and traditional snacks. Engage with local vendors, and perhaps try a traditional Thai breakfast of khao soi, a flavorful curry noodle soup. After breakfast, head to the Mae Hong Son Cultural Museum to learn about the history and traditions of the region.
Take a short drive to the Long Neck Karen village to experience the unique culture of the Kayan people. Engage in their daily activities and gain insights into their traditional crafts and lifestyle. Capture the essence of their community through photography, with respect and appreciation for their way of life.
Return to Mae Hong Son town and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant known for its northern Thai cuisine. Sample dishes like sai ua (northern Thai sausage) and nam prik ong (a type of chili dip). Wind down the evening with a traditional Thai massage to relax your body and mind after an adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $10-25 |
| 🎟️Day trips or entrance fees | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
- Stunning mountain scenery and tranquil atmosphere
- Budget-friendly with delicious Northern Thai cuisine
- Accessible base for nearby hill-tribe villages and tea farms
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-profile attractions
- Rough road conditions in the rainy season
- Smaller healthcare facilities outside Mae Hong Son town
- Remote areas can have limited internet and fewer English speakers
- "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello
- "Khob khun krub/ka" - Thank you
- "Nii tao rai?" - How much is this?
- "Talad yoo tee-nai?" - Where is the market?
- "Aroi mak" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Mae Hong Son
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop temple offering sweeping views of Mae Hong Son valley, best at sunrise or sunset.
A pine-fringed lake with reflections of the mountains; ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography.
Colorful tea terraces and a tranquil lakeside village with boats and misty mornings.
A dramatic multi-tiered waterfall set in lush jungle; powerful for wide rural landscapes.
Riverside perspectives and wooden bridges at dawn or dusk with soft light.
Food in Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Northern Thai curry noodle soup topped with crispy fried noodles and lime, commonly found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Herby pork sausage seasoned with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chili.
A rich, fragrant pork curry with ginger, garlic, and warm spices.
Tomato-chili dip served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice.
Green chili dip often served with vegetables and sticky rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls offering fresh produce, herbs, noodles, and simple noodle soups.
Weekend evenings (seasonally active) with local bites, grilled meats, and sweets along the riverside.
Try grilled pork skewers, som tam, and sticky rice from family-run stalls near the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and avoid touching monks. Speak softly in sacred spaces.
Greet with a wai (hands pressed together) and a smile; address elders with respect.
In rural areas, modest dress is appreciated; public displays of affection are best avoided near temples.
Safety
Tipping in Mae Hong Son
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not required; small tips for guides and drivers are common. Round up bills in restaurants when appropriate.
Cash is widely used; ATMs are common in towns. Some hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, but carrying cash for markets is wise.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mar–May: Warm days with cooler nights in the hills. Hydration and sun protection are essential; expect busy border routes on weekends.
Jun–Oct: Lush landscapes with frequent showers; trails can be slippery; carry rain gear and waterproof bags.
Nov–Feb: Dry, crisp mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for trekking and photography.
Mae Hong Son at Night
Hiking in Mae Hong Son
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with pine views around Pang Ung Lake and opportunities for sunrise photography.
Forest trails leading to a dramatic, multi-tiered waterfall set in lush greenery.
Moderate hikes that combine village visits with overlook points and scenic routes.
Airports
How to reach Mae Hong Son by plane.
Small domestic airport with limited flights, typically to Bangkok and Chiang Mai; convenient for quick trips into the region.
Major hub with international and domestic flights; best option for longer trips or connections to other destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The province is home to Thai Buddhists and several hill-tribe groups—including Karen (Kayin), Hmong, and Lisu —adding rich cultural diversity to the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local gyms and camps offer training opportunities for visitors seeking a short introduction or sparring sessions.
Quiet mountain roads and scenic loops ideal for day trips and long scenic rides.
Guided treks through hill-tribe villages and forest trails for varied difficulty levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mae Hong Son.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be prepared vegetarian; request 'jay' (vegan) or simply 'vegetarian' and ask to omit fish sauce or shrimp paste.