Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
12/08/2025
KE PHUAH, Pexels
Mae Hong Son is a province in northern Thailand known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, waterfalls, and mist-covered valleys. It offers a peaceful and authentic experience, drawing travelers interested in cultural immersion and outdoor activities.
While Mae Hong Son town itself offers a tranquil atmosphere with fewer tourist-focused bars and resorts, the district of Pai, within the same province, is a popular social hub for backpackers. Pai provides a more lively scene with various cafes, restaurants, and bars where travelers can interact.
Top 6 Things to do in Mae Hong Son
Activities in Mae Hong Son generally involve exploring the serene natural landscapes and engaging with the unique Shan and Burmese-influenced local culture.
1. Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu
Perched atop Doi Kong Mu hill, this temple is a significant landmark offering panoramic views of Mae Hong Son town and the surrounding mist-covered mountains. It is particularly rewarding to visit during sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the scenery. The temple features two Burmese-style white pagodas, making it a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.
Cost: Free
Transport: The temple is located on a hill near the town center. It is accessible by walking up a set of stairs from the city, or by a short scooter ride (rentals around 150-450 THB per day, depending on engine size), or a taxi. Taxi costs within town typically range from 50 to 100 THB for short distances, but a specific return fare to the hilltop would need negotiation.
2. Wat Jong Kham and Wat Jong Klang
These two 'twin' temples are centrally located by Nong Jong Kham Lake and are considered the spiritual heart of Mae Hong Son town. They showcase distinctive Shan and Burmese architectural styles, including multi-tiered roofs and intricate carvings. Visiting them, especially in the evening when their reflections shimmer on the lake and the nearby night market comes alive, offers a beautiful cultural experience. Wat Jong Kham is the older of the two, built in 1827.
Cost: Free
Transport: These temples are situated in the center of Mae Hong Son town and are easily accessible by foot from most accommodations. No specific transport cost is typically associated unless taking a taxi from further out.
3. Tham Pla (Fish Cave) and Pha Sua Waterfall
These two natural attractions are part of the Tham Pla–Namtok Pha Suea National Park, offering a glimpse into Mae Hong Son's natural beauty. Tham Pla, or 'Fish Cave,' is a water-filled cavern where hundreds of Soro brook carp thrive in sacred waters. A short path and suspension bridge lead to the cave. Pha Sua Waterfall is a scenic, multi-tiered waterfall within the same park, best visited during or after the rainy season (August-September) for fuller flow. It is a tranquil spot for appreciating nature.
Cost: 100 THB per person (for foreigners, covers both attractions as part of the National Park entry).
Transport: The park entrance is about 16-18 km north of Mae Hong Son town along Highway 1095. The most convenient way to reach it is by renting a scooter (150-450 THB per day) or hiring a taxi. A taxi for this distance can be expensive, possibly around 1000 THB if arranged through a guesthouse for a return trip, but smaller songthaews might offer a ride for about 10-20 THB per passenger for direct trips if available.
4. Pang Oung (Royal Forest Project)
Often called 'Switzerland of Thailand,' Pang Oung is a serene highland lake surrounded by pine forests and misty valleys, especially beautiful in the early morning. It is a Royal Forest Project aimed at sustainable development and conservation. Visitors can enjoy walking around the lake, taking bamboo raft rides, and observing the resident black and white swans. It offers a peaceful retreat into nature with a unique atmosphere.
Cost: 100 THB per person (entry fee). Tent rentals are available for overnight stays (300-500 THB, or 100 THB cleaning fee if bringing your own tent).
Transport: Pang Oung is approximately 40 km from Mae Hong Son town. It is best accessed by renting a scooter or a private taxi. A taxi from Mae Hong Son to Pang Oung typically costs around 550-650 THB for a one-way trip. The road is winding and narrow in parts, so caution is advised.
5. Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge
Meaning 'successful prayer' in Shan, Su Tong Pae is Thailand's longest bamboo bridge, stretching over 500 meters across rice fields and a small river. It connects the village of Kung Mai Saak to a hilltop temple. This bridge offers picturesque views of the rural landscape and is a place where locals perform morning alms-giving to monks, providing a quiet cultural insight. It is an ideal spot for leisurely walks and photography.
Cost: Free (donations to the temple are welcome).
Transport: The bridge is located about 12 km outside of Mae Hong Son town. It is best reached by renting a scooter or by hiring a local taxi/songthaew. Scooter rental is typically 150-450 THB per day. Taxi costs would be subject to negotiation for a return trip.
6. Thung Bua Tong Fields (Doi Mae U Kho)
During the cool season, the hills of Doi Mae U Kho transform into a vibrant golden carpet as the Mexican sunflowers (Dok Bua Tong) bloom. This natural spectacle creates breathtaking panoramic views. The flowering period is typically from early November to early December, with mid-November often being the peak. There are staircases to climb to the summit for the best views.
Cost: Free
Transport: The fields are located in Khun Yuam district, approximately 90 km south of Mae Hong Son town, a journey of about 1 hour and 45 minutes by road. Private transport like a rented scooter (150-450 THB per day) or car is the most convenient option. During the peak festival season, service buses might operate from Khun Yuam district, but public transport directly from Mae Hong Son town is not readily available.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
