10 Best & Worse Things to Do in Mae Hong Son, Thailand

Mae Hong Son, Thailand, is a hidden gem that offers some of the best things to do for travelers craving adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the misty mountains near the Myanmar border, this province is one of Thailand’s most authentic travel destinations, far removed from the tourist crowds of Chiang Mai or Bangkok.

Having explored this serene region myself, I can confidently say it’s a paradise for those who love nature, temples, and unique Thai culture.

One of the must-do activities is exploring the Mae Hong Son Loop, a scenic motorcycle route winding through lush forests, limestone caves, and traditional villages. The region is home to stunning temples like Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, perched on a hill with panoramic views. Trekking through Pai Canyon or visiting the remote Long Neck Karen villages provides an unforgettable cultural experience. Nature lovers will appreciate Tham Lod Cave, a massive limestone cave system with underground rivers and ancient rock formations.

The 10th point of this article will be our opinions on the Giraffe Women Village, which we recommend not to visit for ethical reasons.

For those seeking relaxation, Pang Oung Lake, also known as Thailand’s “Switzerland,” offers tranquil scenery and cool weather. Don’t miss the hot springs in Pai, perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. Whether you're into adventure, history, or just soaking in the mountain vibes, Mae Hong Son is a destination that delivers an authentic slice of Thailand. Stay tuned as I break down the top attractions and experiences in this incredible province.

Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Mae Hong Son

Mae Hong Son may not be known for its grand monuments . You won't find centuries-old ruins or temples with imposing gold-covered Buddha figures here. It's not a big city, and it's not particularly lively. In fact, if you look at it from above - for example, from the Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu temple - what really catches your eye is the runway of its small airport, where, if you're lucky, one flight a day lands.

Still, Mae Hong Son remains a popular destination for travelers looking for routes less traveled , especially those who enjoy touring winding mountain roads on two wheels. For them, the 1,864 curves of the Mae Hong Son Loop sound like a little paradise.

We arrived in Mae Hong Son by car during our 7-day road trip through Northern Thailand and, although instead of the wind in our faces we were accompanied by a playlist from the 2000s, we enjoyed every curve and every kilometer. We spent a very peaceful day and night in this relaxed city, do you want to see what awaits you? Here are the essential places to visit in Mae Hong Son and its surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Thailand for Backpackers: The Mae Hong Son Loop — drillinjourneys

1. Nong Chong Kham, Mae Hong Son lake (and night market)

In the centre of Mae Hong Son there is a small but pleasant lake surrounded by garden areas , where some locals come to spend time on a daily basis, taking their dogs out, chatting or walking along the path that surrounds it. A haven of peace in an already quiet city (come on, a natural sedative in every sense).

The best times to visit are at sunset , when the silhouettes of the surrounding mountains and nearby temples are reflected in the water, or at sunrise , shrouded in a morning mist that creates a very nice setting.

Nong Chong Kham Mae Hong Son lake

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2. Mae Hong Son Night Market

As night falls, one of the lake's shores transforms into a lively night market , the perfect place to try some of Thailand's northern delicacies, such as meat skewers, spicy sausages and even khao soi, traditional sweets. There are also a couple of bars with panoramic terraces where you can have a beer and watch the spectacle from above.

It is not as big as the night markets in Chiang Mai or Bangkok , but its atmosphere is quite welcoming and lively, and it will be a perfect opportunity to share the moment with the inhabitants of Mae Hong Son and immerse yourself in the local culture .

Mae Hong Son Night Market

3. Wat Chong Kham and Wat Chong Klang

The two temples located on the shores of the lake and whose silhouette is reflected in its waters are Wat Chong Kham and Wat Chong Klang. These are sister temples, which are undoubtedly the most emblematic places in Mae Hong Son. Although they are often mentioned together, since they are located in the same complex and their architecture, a mixture of Burmese and Thai styles , is similar, they are actually different temples, each with its own history and particularities.

Built in the early 19th century by artisans from the Tai Yai (Shan) ethnic group, a group originally from Burma, Wat Chong Kham is notable for its intricate, multi-level castle-like roofs (an Asian castle, not a medieval European bastion) and a large statue of Buddha.

Meanwhile, the Wat Chong Klang temple was built years later with the aim of creating a resting place for pilgrims who came to these lands. Its architecture is notable for its Burmese-style golden chedi and inside there is a collection of paintings on glass plates with images of the life of Buddha.

Both temples are open to the public free of charge and, while not spectacular, the location by Nong Chong Kham Lake adds a sense of peace and serenity, especially at night when they are illuminated by hundreds of fairy lights and their reflection shines on the lake.

temples in mae hong son

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4. Wat Phra That Doi Kung Mu

This other temple is located at 1,300 meters above sea level on the summit of Mount Doi Kong Mu , which will allow you to enjoy impressive panoramic views of the city and its entire mountainous surroundings. As with many temples in the region, its architecture is full of Burmese influences and it features two large white stupas .

In addition to its exceptional location, it is one of the most important pilgrimage centres for local culture, which is why it is usually quite busy. And, as we read, its main stupas house the relics of two of Buddha's main disciples , brought from Myanmar.

To get up there you will have to climb a few stairs or, if you have a car, park comfortably at the top. Entry is also free , but you can always spend some money at the souvenir stalls or in the cafeteria next to the temple with a fantastic panoramic terrace.

What to see in Mae Hong Son Wat Phra That Doi Kung Mu

Aerial view of Mae Hong Son

5. Have a matcha tea like in any small village in Japan

IB Matcha Bar is the perfect spot for matcha lovers (or for those who want to pretend they know about tea while drinking something green and sophisticated). We discovered it because it was right next to our accommodation and it was so good 🙂

They don't serve just any green powder here, no sir . There are four varieties of matcha: Kyoto, Mie, Nishio and Yame . Kyoto is smooth and balanced, Mie has a fresh and sweet edge, Nishio is intense and herbal, and Yame is creamy and refined. You can order them with mineral water for a purer taste or with milk if you like it creamier.

Drinking matcha tea in Mae Hong Son

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6. Cross the Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge

One of the most picturesque and unique corners of Mae Hong Son is the Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge , an impressive structure that stretches for about 600 meters over the fields towards the Wat Phu Samanaram temple . We say 600 meters because that's what you read out there, but after walking along it, the truth is that it seemed a lot less to us... But anyway, you have to sell it somehow, right?

As you enter the temple, you will hear the bamboo creaking under your feet with every step, while you are surrounded by a purely rural and authentic landscape of this part of the country. And with a little luck, you might come across a group of Buddhist monks on their way to their monastery. Don't forget to climb up to the temple and go inside to see some beautiful wood carvings on the interior windows.

Crossing it is free , but it is worth leaving a contribution for its conservation in the box provided for this purpose at the entrance.

It is also a good place to buy some crafts at reasonable prices, even if they are not really unique products, you will always be helping the local economy.

Alternative : This is the most famous bamboo bridge in the Mae Hong Son area, but there is one a little further north that we personally liked more. This is the Wat Mok Cham Pae temple . It is next to the road, there is no parking but if you can leave your car or motorbike nearby, you will not regret it.

what to see in Mae Hong Son Su Tong Pae Bridge — *Su Tong Pae Bridge in Mae Hong Son*

Wat Phu Samanaram

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7. Pha Bong Hot Spring

Just 12km south of Mae Hong Son lies the Pha Bong Hot Springs , with waters gushing from deep within the earth at temperatures ranging from 40º to 60º . Locals have used them for centuries for their supposed healing properties , and today it is a perfect spot for travellers looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area .

That said, we did see some photos and the facilities didn't seem too appealing to us , especially after visiting the Pong Arng Hot Spring on the Chiang Dao leg . But beware, the entrance only costs 30 baht , so it may be worth stopping along the way, even if it's just to soak your feet for 15 minutes.

Remember to get the Revolut card ( with a €10 promo ), the best option to avoid commissions when paying and withdrawing money abroad

what to do in mae hong son pha bong hot spring

8. Visit to Tham Lot Cave

If you arrive in Mae Hong Son from Pai or if that is your next destination, there is a stop on the way that we think is a must: the Tham Lot Cave . It is a group of caves with really impressive karst formations . But its greatest uniqueness is that it is crossed by the Lang River and you will have the possibility of doing part of its journey on a bamboo boat . Cool, isn't it?

The entrance fee is 600 THB per group of up to 3 people and includes a guided walking tour of the 3 main chambers as well as a boat ride. The cave is completely dark , so it is mandatory to be accompanied by a guide who, with a kerosene lantern , will show you all the details (stalactites, columns and even wooden coffins that are more than 1,000 years old!). We found it to be a magical and unique visit , which will take no more than an hour and a half.

Important : If you have a headlamp, it will be appreciated, and it is essential to wear closed and comfortable shoes because there are several flights of stairs that are a bit challenging. Oh, and if you are scared of bats, you should know that there are several colonies of them here, but they are not dangerous or bothersome.

Tham Lot Cave Thailand

9. Excursion to Ban Rak Thai

Another highly recommended getaway is the one that takes you to Ban Rak Thai , a small and picturesque village in the mountains of northern Thailand and a short distance from the border with Myanmar , where you will actually feel like you have crossed into… China ! And that? There is an explanation for everything…

We go back to 1949… China… After the communist victory, many soldiers of the Chinese Nationalist Army (Kuomintang – KMT) were forced to leave their homes and a small group of them settled in this area, founding small communities, like our village in question. During all this time they kept their culture, their language and their traditions intact, so today it really seems like a corner of China in Thailand .

In addition to its typical Chinese-style architecture and tea plantations that follow cultivation techniques inherited from Yunnan , Ban Rak Thai offers a journey through the gastronomy of southwest China with exquisite and unique dishes. The local community still speaks Mandarin Chinese and preserves many customs from their ancestors.

We spent one night here and highly recommend it! You can read about our visit to Ban Rak Thai here .

Ban Rak Thai Tour from Mae Hong Son

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10. What NOT to do in Mae Hong Son: Giraffe Women (Karen) Village

If you have searched for information on what to do in Mae Hong Son, you will know that one of the most recommended activities in this area is to visit a Karen village , better known as the Giraffe Women's Village. And here we have to warn you.

Karen women traditionally wear brass rings around their necks, which gives them the appearance of having very long necks, hence the name “giraffe women.” Although this use began as a cultural symbol, prolonged use of the rings can lead to serious health consequences , such as bone deformities, circulation problems and neurological damage, as the rings compress the trachea and collarbone, limiting neck mobility.

Many of these women appear to have arrived in Thailand as political exiles from Myanmar, and their legal status is, to say the least, uncertain. What many tourists do not realise is that in many cases, the women who maintain this tradition do so more out of tourist pressure than out of cultural convictions . The tours, which often turn the visit into a kind of “anthropological show”, contribute to fostering what we see as a form of exploitation.

While we understand that tourism can generate income for the local community (a small part of it), it can also lead to the loss of cultural authenticity and dependence on visitors. For this reason, we decided not to visit the village, as we believe that it loses respect for traditions and exploits people as if they were objects of display.

We recommend reading this article: What the Giraffe Women are Hidding.

Useful information for visiting Mae Hong Son

We conclude our travel guide to Mae Hong Son with a few recommendations so you can plan your visit in the best way possible.

✓ How to get to Mae Hong Son

Obviously, the ideal is to arrive with your own car or motorbike , to live an epic adventure on the mountain roads of northern Thailand. We rented a car at Chiang Mai airport through Discovercars with Sixt, and everything was great. But there are also other local and international companies, both at the airport and in the city of Chiang Mai.

As we mentioned in one of the points, Mae Hong Son has an airport with domestic flights , although at present we believe that it only operates one route to nearby Lampang, so it is not very interesting either (unless you don't mind making a stopover and then heading to other destinations in Thailand).

And finally, if you want to arrive by public transport , there are buses from several major cities in northern Thailand, such as Chiang Mai (6 hours), Pai (3 hours), or even Sukhothai (7 hours) or Lampang (6 hours). We recommend using the website 12go.asia to check and book your transfer.

✓ Where to stay in Mae Hong Son

You will have two options: stay in the surroundings of Mae Hong Son in a nice little hotel surrounded by lush nature, with a swimming pool, fields and a rural atmosphere, such as the Fern Resort .

Or you can do it in the city itself so you don't have to take the car or the motorbike after visiting the night market. In that case, we recommend doing it near the lake and we don't think there is any other accommodation with a better quality-price ratio than the Piya Guesthouse .

What to see and do in Mae Hong Son

And we have reached the end of the post. As you can see, Mae Hong Son doesn't captivate with its large number of things to do (although we wouldn't say it's a boring place either, as there are options for all tastes in the surrounding area).

The truly beautiful thing about this corner of northern Thailand is that it is still a rough gem , where the best part of the day will be visiting a quiet temple, eating a delicious khao soi or enjoying the sunset while the chill begins to make your skin crawl.

As I said, if you want to enjoy an original plan, you have time and you are looking for “ the other Thailand ”, this city awaits you with open arms. Do you know more things to see and do in Mae Hong Son ?

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