Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
12/08/2025
KE PHUAH, Pexels
Mae Hong Son is served by Mae Hong Son Airport (HGN), a smaller airport with limited direct flights, and the Mae Hong Son Bus Terminal, located southwest of the main town.
By Air:
From Bangkok (BKK): Direct flights are available via Bangkok Airways, though they are not daily and may include a stopover in Lampang. The flight duration can range from approximately 1 hour for direct flights to around 2 hours 17 minutes to 3 hours 5 minutes with a stopover. Indicative costs start from about $87 USD (3,000 THB).
From Chiang Mai: Direct flights are infrequent and primarily operated by Bangkok Airways.
By Bus/Minivan:
From Chiang Mai: Minivans operated by Prem Pracha Transport depart from Chiang Mai Arcade 2 Bus Terminal to Mae Hong Son Bus Terminal. The journey typically takes about 6 hours. Costs range from approximately $9-$11 USD (200-340 THB).
From Bangkok: Buses operated by Sombat Tour depart from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal. This lengthy trip takes around 15-16 hours. Ticket prices are approximately $33 USD (650-1,300 THB).
By Private Car/Taxi:
From Chiang Mai: A private transfer offers flexibility and takes about 3 to 7 hours. Costs typically range from $150-$350 USD (approximately 3,062 THB for up to 3 passengers, or 5,500-7,000 THB for a larger vehicle).
By Motorbike (Mae Hong Son Loop):
Starting from Chiang Mai, the popular Mae Hong Son Loop covers approximately 600 kilometers (370 miles) and is known for its numerous curves. The full loop typically takes 4-10 days to complete, depending on the pace of travel and desired stops. Daily motorbike rental costs are around $10-$15 USD.
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