Things To Do
in Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son is a picturesque province located in northern Thailand, known for its stunning mountainous landscapes and lush green forests. The region is home to various hill tribes, each with their own unique cultures and traditions that can be experienced through visits to local villages. Visitors can explore serene Buddhist temples and relax in hot springs surrounded by natural beauty.
Mae Hong Son offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and relaxation.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, offering breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café nearby.
Head to the famous Pang Ung Lake, also known as the 'Swiss of Thailand', for a serene walk or canoe ride. Pack a picnic and relish the natural beauty around.
Visit the night market to experience the local cuisine and handicrafts. Savor some delicious street food while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Wake up and embark on a trek to the lush forests of the Doi Mae U-Kho. Enjoy a guided tour while witnessing the stunning flora and fauna.
Visit the serene Khun Yuam, known for its beautiful fields of sunflowers during the right season. Explore the rural lifestyle and interact with the friendly locals.
Relax at your accommodation while enjoying a traditional northern Thai dinner. Take a stroll around the nearby area to unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with mountains and lush landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic communities.
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in Thailand.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like trekking, hot springs, and exploring waterfalls.
- Authentic local cuisine and market experiences.
- Remote location can make travel logistics challenging.
- Limited access to luxury accommodations and amenities.
- Rainy season can impact travel plans and outdoor activities.
- Some areas may have limited English-speaking locals.
- Internet connectivity may be inconsistent in certain regions.
Best Activities in Mae Hong Son
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush mountains and jungles surrounding Mae Hong Son with guided treks that often include visits to local hill tribes and stunning viewpoints.
Experience the serene waters of local rivers by taking a bamboo raft ride, offering a unique perspective of the natural beauty and wildlife.
Rent a mountain bike to traverse the hilly terrain and enjoy the picturesque landscapes while getting some exercise.
Relax in natural hot springs such as the San Tua Hot Springs, which are set against a backdrop of greenery for a rejuvenating experience.
Join a photography tour that takes you to the most scenic spots around Mae Hong Son, perfect for both amateur and professional photographers.
Mae Hong Son is home to numerous bird species. Join a bird-watching tour to spot rare and beautiful birds in their natural habitat.
Visit Tham Lot Cave and others in the area, known for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and discover the unique ecology within.
Take a trip to Pha Sua Waterfall, where you can hike, swim, or enjoy a picnic while surrounded by nature.
Places to Visit in Mae Hong Son
Visit one of these nice places.
This viewpoint offers panoramic views of Mae Hong Son town, the surrounding mountains, and the Pai River. It is especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.
Known for its unique rock formations and beautiful landscapes, Pai Canyon features several trails with breathtaking views, perfect for photography.
A popular spot to catch breathtaking views of the valley and the mountains. It's a serene place that is great for capturing sunset photos.
This charming village near the Myanmar border offers stunning views of tea plantations and a picturesque lake, ideal for photography, especially early in the morning.
While famous for its fish, the surrounding area offers striking rock formations and beautiful landscapes, making it a great spot for unique photos.
This location provides sweeping views of the Mae Hong Son countryside and is an excellent spot for capturing the lush greenery and rice fields.
Famed for its scenic views of pine forests and distant mountains, this viewpoint is less crowded, making it perfect for peaceful photography sessions.
A beautiful lake surrounded by a park, perfect for tranquil shots of the water reflecting the surrounding mountains, especially at golden hour.
Food in Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Northern Thai dish with egg noodles in a creamy coconut and curry soup, typically served with chicken or beef. Try it at Jom Khao Man Gai or Khao Soi Mae Yen.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice mixed with pork blood and minced pork, wrapped in a banana leaf. Find authentic Khao Kan Chin at the local morning market or night market stalls.
A savory and mildly spicy Burmese-style curry made with a variety of meats like chicken, pork, or fish. Head to the Chong Kham Morning Market to savor this flavorful dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience a vibrant night market offering a wide array of street food including grilled skewers, spring rolls, and local desserts such as mango sticky rice and coconut pancakes.
Explore this bustling market for an authentic taste of Mae Hong Son, offering local produce, ready-to-eat dishes, and a charming atmosphere to indulge in the regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting temples or local communities, it's important to dress modestly. This means wearing clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Skirts or pants should be long, and tops should have sleeves to show respect for the local culture.
Always greet locals with a 'wai' (a slight bow with palms together) as a sign of respect. It is also important to ask for permission before taking photographs of people or sacred sites.
In Mae Hong Son, public displays of affection between couples are generally frowned upon. Maintain a respectful distance and avoid holding hands or hugging in public to align with local norms.
Safety
Tipping in Mae Hong Son
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mae Hong Son, tipping is not a common practice as it is in some other places. However, if you receive exceptional service in restaurants, hotels, or from tour guides, a small tip can be appreciated. Typically, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is sufficient, and it is not expected.
Payment methods in Mae Hong Son include cash, which is widely used and accepted, particularly in local markets and smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants but may not be as widely accepted in smaller businesses. ATMs are available in the town, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The cool season is the best time to visit Mae Hong Son. During this period, temperatures are pleasant and range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). This season offers clear skies and stunning views, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking and exploring the local culture. The cool weather and vibrant festivals, including the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in November, attract many visitors.
The hot season sees temperatures rise significantly, often exceeding 35°C (95°F). This period can be quite uncomfortable for outdoor activities, but it is also the time for the traditional Songkran water festival in mid-April, which draws crowds. Visitors should be prepared for the heat and consider early morning or late afternoon excursions.
The rainy season brings heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of around 28°C (82°F). While it may not be ideal for some travelers, the lush green scenery and dramatic landscapes during this season can be quite beautiful. This is also the time when waterfalls are at their fullest. Travelers should be prepared for occasional flooding and mudslides in some areas.
Mae Hong Son at Night
Hiking in Mae Hong Son
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon features trails through diverse ecosystems and stunning waterfalls, making it perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Known for its unique rock formations and stunning vistas, Pai Canyon offers a hiking experience with breathtaking views, especially at sunset.
This national park features challenging hikes up to the second highest peak in Thailand, offering beautiful scenery and opportunities for wildlife sightings.
While primarily known for its caves, Tham Lod offers hikes through the lush surroundings and ancient archaeological sites, perfect for adventure seekers.
This park offers trails that lead to a stunning waterfall, along with opportunities to explore the rich flora and fauna of the area.
Aiports
How to reach Mae Hong Son by plane.
Located approximately 120 kilometers from Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai International Airport is one of the biggest international airports in northern Thailand, offering flights to various destinations in Asia and beyond.
Situated around 400 kilometers from Mae Hong Son, Koh Samui International Airport serves both international and domestic flights, primarily catering to travelers heading to the popular island resort.
Approximately 700 kilometers away, Suvarnabhumi Airport is Thailand's main international airport and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, connecting to destinations worldwide.
Located about 930 kilometers from Mae Hong Son in Myanmar, Yangon International Airport is the busiest airport in the country, providing international flights to various Asian cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest ethnic groups in Mae Hong Son, known for their distinct culture and traditions, including traditional attire.
An indigenous ethnic group with a rich history and vibrant culture, often found in mountainous areas.
Another prominent hill tribe with a unique cultural heritage, known for their intricate handicrafts and clothing.
An ethnic group recognized for their traditional customs and agricultural practices, primarily located in mountainous regions.
The majority ethnic group in Thailand, living throughout Mae Hong Son and integrating with local cultures.
Representing a significant minority, the Burmese community consists of migrants and descendants from neighboring Myanmar.
Some Chinese families have settled in the area, contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing that combines martial arts techniques and is popular for both practice and professional competitions.
A widely played team sport in Mae Hong Son, often enjoyed by locals and features community leagues.
Gaining popularity among the youth, basketball is played in schools and local parks across the region.
Commonly played in recreational settings, it's a popular sport for social gatherings and community events.
Given the mountainous terrain, trekking is a popular outdoor activity that allows tourists and locals to explore the natural beauty of the area.
With its scenic rivers and lakes, water sports like canoeing and kayaking are enjoyed by both residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mae Hong Son.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes may contain meat or animal products, many restaurants and cafes in Mae Hong Son offer vegetarian and vegan versions of classic dishes like Khao Soi and curries. Look for establishments like Om Garden Cafe & Restaurant and Nai Soi Restaurant.
Although gluten-free awareness is still emerging, some restaurants are accommodating gluten-free diets. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly and inquire about suitable options at the eateries.