DESTINATION OF THE DAY
Mae Hong Soon

Mae Hong Son sits draped over Thailand’s northwestern mountains, a province so rugged it earned the nickname "City of Three Mists" for its perpetual morning fog. Closer to Myanmar than Bangkok, this isolated corner of Thailand breathes with Shan culture, where golden stupas glow under monsoon skies and the pace of life moves with the seasons.

A Glimpse into the History

A Frontier of Kingdoms and Migrations

Mae Hong Son’s history began as a wild frontier, inhabited by Lua and Lawa peoples before Shan settlers crossed the Salween River from Myanmar in the 19th century. Burmese influence seeped into architecture and Buddhism, visible in the province’s tiered temples and annual Poi Sang Long festival. The region was formally integrated into Siam under King Rama V as a strategic buffer against British colonial expansion.

From Wilderness to Refuge

For decades, Mae Hong Son remained accessible only by foot or mule until the 1960s, when roads connected it to Chiang Mai. Its isolation preserved traditions—Shan farmers still plant rice in zigzag terraces, and Karen weavers pass down indigo-dye techniques. During the Cold War, the province sheltered anti-communist fighters, adding another layer to its complex identity as a land of resilience.

Things To Do In Mae Hong Son

Climb for misty valley & pagoda views

Wake early for sunrise over Mae Hong Son’s dreamy highlands

Paddle through a mirror-like alpine lake surrounded by pine forests

Sip Yunnan tea in this Chinese-style village by a tranquil lake

Trek to hidden caves and a thunderous waterfall

Other Attractions To Visit

• Wat Hua Wiang is a Burmese-style temple near Mae Hong Son’s bustling market centers around a striking bronze Buddha, radiating quiet grandeur despite its weathered charm. The two-story pavilion and multi-tiered tower, though slightly worn, whisper stories of cross-border cultural exchange. Its unpolished authenticity makes it a photographer’s dream and a peaceful retreat from the town’s lively streets.

• Su Tong Pae Bridge spans 500 meters across lush rice fields and wetlands in Mae Hong Son, crafted entirely from bamboo using traditional Karen techniques. This swaying footpath connects local villages while offering breathtaking views of misty mountains and golden paddies, especially magical at sunrise when fog blankets the landscape. More than just transportation, the bridge represents generations of community cooperation and harmony with nature.

• Wat Chong Kham stands as one of Mae Hong Son's most iconic temples, featuring a stunning Burmese-style chedi that glows golden at sunrise over Chong Kham Lake. Built in 1827 by Thai Yai artisans, its intricate wood carvings and tiered roofs showcase the region's cultural ties to Myanmar. The tranquil lakeside setting creates perfect mirror-like reflections of the temple, making it a photographer's favorite spot at dusk.

• Kaew Komol Cave dazzles visitors with its glittering limestone formations that sparkle like scattered jewels under flashlight beams. This hidden marvel in Mae Hong Son rewards adventurous travelers who navigate its narrow passages to discover cathedral-like chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Local legends say the crystals possess mystical energy, adding an air of wonder to the subterranean exploration.

• Huay Phu Kaeng offers a glimpse into the lives of the Kayan and Kayaw Karenni communities, known for their distinctive brass neck rings and vibrant traditional clothing. Accessible via a scenic 30-minute boat ride along the Pai River, the village invites visitors to engage with locals and learn about their cultural heritage firsthand. Purchasing handmade crafts directly supports the community while preserving their unique way of life. 

Best Places To Eat & Drink In Mae Hong Son

1. Salween River Restaurant

   

   Salween Home Restaurant brings heartfelt, homestyle cooking to Mae Hong Son with a menu blending Thai, Shan, and Western flavors using fresh local ingredients. The cozy bamboo setting and warm service make it feel like dining with family, while riverside views add a touch of serenity. Though simple, every dish—from spicy curries to comforting stir-fries—is crafted with care to honor the region’s culinary roots.

   📍117/1, Chulumprakria Road Bang Moo, Mae Hong Son

2. Bai Fern Restaurant

Bai Fern Restaurant has been a beloved Mae Hong Son dining spot since 2012, serving authentic northern Thai dishes in a cozy wooden house adorned with Myanmar-style decor and warm yellow lighting. Known for its flavorful curries, zesty salads, and grilled specialties, the restaurant comes alive in the evenings with live music and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether dining indoors or on the terrace, guests enjoy both hearty meals and a genuine taste of local culture.

📍87 Khunlumprapas Road,Chong Kham, Mae Hong Son

3. Kai Mook Restaurant

Ban Mai Restaurant is a must-visit culinary gem in Phitsanulok, celebrated for its authentic Thai flavors and English-friendly menu that highlights unique dishes like Tom Som Pla Nam Nguen (sour fish soup) and Mat Cha Rai Kang (herbal stir-fry). The cozy, wood-accented dining room—complete with air-conditioning—sets the stage for flawless service and fresh, vibrant meals, especially their standout fish dishes. Located near the airport, it’s a perfect pitstop for travelers craving top-tier Thai cuisine without the fuss.

📍23, Udom Chao Nites Road Jong Kum, Mae Hong Son

4. Pizza Primavera

Pizza Primavera offers a diverse menu blending Italian classics like wood-fired pizzas and pasta with Thai favorites, all served in a charming setting with both indoor and garden seating. Guests can enjoy everything from crisp Margherita pies to rich mousse desserts, paired with imported wines or local beers. The cozy, air-conditioned interior and tranquil outdoor garden make it ideal for both lively dinners and relaxed afternoons.

📍Khunlumprapas Road, Soi 5, near Mae Hongson Plaza, Mae Hong Son

5. Baan Song Thai

Baan Song Thai Restaurant serves authentic Northern Thai flavors in a charming Mae Hong Son setting, blending traditional recipes with warm hospitality. Diners enjoy fragrant curries and fresh salads in a space adorned with local decor, offering both cozy indoor and scenic outdoor seating. The spot doubles as a bakery and coffee shop, perfect for starting the day with homemade pastries or ending it with a rich Thai iced tea.

📍138 Moo 5, Mae Hong Son

Classifieds

Robin Hood, Pattaya - Enjoy the best food & drink Pattaya has to offer at the fully airconditioned restaurant on the 2nd road - View the Robin Hood HERE

Scruffy Murphys, Bangkok - A traditional Irish pub in the center of Bangkok, yes please, there’s always a warm welcome, great food & a fantastic menu. Take a look at Scruffy Murphys HERE 

Amber Sauna, Koh Samui - There’s something steamy going on just on the outskirts of Chaweng, enjoy a red hot sauna, healthy steam room or take the plubge in their ice plunge. PS did we mention their delicious menu? See what you’re missing out on HERE

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.