About Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son is the capital of the province of the same name in northwest Thailand and lies in a valley ringed by mountains, close to the Myanmar border. The town has about 7,000 inhabitants and is much calmer than Chiang Mai. Shan (Tai Yai) influence is visible everywhere, especially in the temples Wat Jong Kham and Wat Jong Klang by the lake, which look lovely reflected in the water in the evening. On Doi Kong Mu hill stands a temple with views over the town and, in the cool season, over a sea of mist. The town is an important point on the Mae Hong Son Loop. In the surroundings you find villages, caves and tea houses. It is mainly a place for those seeking scenery and peace.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry, with chilly mornings in the hills. From February to April smoke and haze from agricultural burning can limit visibility; June to October is the rainy season, green and quiet. From November to February the valley is often misty in the morning, which makes the surroundings especially beautiful. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Chiang Mai by short flight or by bus along the winding road (about 6 to 8 hours); from Pai about 3 to 4 hours. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Mae Hong Son
- Wat Jong Kham and Wat Jong Klang Two Shan temples by the lake, nicely reflected in the evening.
- Doi Kong Mu A temple on a hill with views over the town and the morning mist.
- Mae Hong Son Loop The loop with mountain roads is one of northern Thailand’s best-known routes.
- Morning market A place to taste Shan dishes and local fruit.
Mae Hong Son on the map
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