Mae Hong Son Loop

Mae Hong Son Loop, Chiang Mai - Thailand

The Mae Hong Son Loop is one of Thailand’s most scenic road trips, taking travelers through the mountainous northern region, where you can explore charming towns, misty mountains, and hill-tribe villages. Known as the Greater Mae Hong Son Loop this tour begins and ends in Chiang Mai and is most famous for having 1,864 bends along a route about 600 kilometers (370 miles) stretch and can be done in 4 to 7 days depending on your pace.

Route Overview

The loop is typically traveled either clockwise or counterclockwise, starting and ending in Chiang Mai:

  1. Clockwise: Chiang Mai → Doi Inthanon → Mae Chaem → Mae Sariang → Mae Hong Son → Pai → Chiang Mai
  2. Counterclockwise: Chiang Mai → Pai → Mae Hong Son → Mae Sariang → Chiang Mai

Must-Visit Places Along the Mae Hong Son Loop

Chiang Mai

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Historic temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang; vibrant night markets.
  • How to Get There: Start your journey from Chiang Mai.
  • Opening Hours: Temples typically open 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Places to Eat: “Khao Soi Khun Yai,” “SP Chicken.”

Pai

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Hot springs, Pai Canyon, waterfalls, vibrant night market.
  • How to Get There: 3-hour drive from Chiang Mai; accessible by bus or private vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Attractions vary; generally open year-round.
  • Places to Eat: “Na’s Kitchen,” “The Curry Shack.”

Pai Canyon (Kong Lan)

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Scenic hiking trails and stunning views, especially at sunset.
  • How to Get There: 8 km from Pai; accessible by scooter or taxi.
  • Opening Hours: Open year-round.
  • Nearby Eats: Small cafes nearby.

Tham Lod Cave

  • Entrance Fee: 40 THB
  • Highlights: Impressive limestone cave system; guided tours available.
  • How to Get There: 50 km from Pai; taxi or private vehicle recommended.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Nearby Eats: Food stalls outside the cave.

Soppong

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Quiet village known for its natural beauty; nearby Tham Lod Cave.
  • How to Get There: 25 km from Pai; accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Open year-round.
  • Places to Eat: Local eateries.

Mae Hong Son Town

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Scenic lakes, temples like Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu.
  • How to Get There: 110 km from Pai; accessible by bus or vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Temples generally open 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Places to Eat: “Salween River Restaurant,” “The Breakfast Club.”

Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu

  • Entrance Fee: Free (donations appreciated)
  • Highlights: Hilltop temple with panoramic views of Mae Hong Son.
  • How to Get There: Located on a hill in Mae Hong Son; taxi or a short hike.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
  • Nearby Eats: Local eateries nearby.

Long Neck Karen Villages

  • Entrance Fee: 200-300 THB (varies by village)
  • Highlights: Cultural experience with the Kayan people; distinctive neck rings.
  • How to Get There: Accessible by taxi or organized tour from Mae Hong Son.
  • Opening Hours: Generally 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Nearby Eats: Local food stalls near villages.

Pang Ung (Royal Project)

  • Entrance Fee: Free (camping fees may apply)
  • Highlights: Beautiful lake and scenic area; great for camping.
  • How to Get There: 30 km from Mae Hong Son; accessible by taxi or vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Open year-round.
  • Nearby Eats: Local eateries in nearby villages.

Nong Chong Kham Lake

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Scenic lake with beautiful views, perfect for relaxation and photography.
  • How to Get There: In Mae Hong Son town; easily accessible by foot.
  • Opening Hours: Open year-round.
  • Nearby Eats: Local cafés nearby.

Khaung Si Waterfall

  • Entrance Fee: Free (donations appreciated)
  • Highlights: Stunning multi-tiered waterfall; great for swimming and picnicking.
  • How to Get There: 30 km from Mae Hong Son; taxi or private vehicle recommended.
  • Opening Hours: Open year-round.
  • Nearby Eats: Food stalls at the entrance.

Fish Cave (Tham Pla)

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Unique cave with fish; serene surroundings.
  • How to Get There: 10 km from Mae Hong Son; accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM.
  • Nearby Eats: Local eateries nearby.

Wat Jong Kham

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Beautiful temple with intricate designs overlooking the lake.
  • How to Get There: In Mae Hong Son town; easily walkable.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Nearby Eats: Local restaurants nearby.

Mae Aw (Ban Rak Thai)

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Picturesque Chinese village known for tea plantations and stunning scenery.
  • How to Get There: 30 km from Mae Hong Son; accessible by taxi or vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Open year-round.
  • Nearby Eats: Local tea houses and restaurants.

Doi Inthanon National Park

  • Entrance Fee: 300 THB (for foreigners)
  • Highlights: Highest peak in Thailand, stunning waterfalls, hiking trails.
  • How to Get There: About 60 km from Chiang Mai; accessible by vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
  • Nearby Eats: Food stalls in the park.

Pha Sua Waterfall

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Scenic waterfall surrounded by lush jungle; great for swimming.
  • How to Get There: 30 km from Mae Hong Son; accessible by taxi or vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Open year-round.
  • Nearby Eats: Small food stalls nearby.

Wat Phra Non

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Temple with a reclining Buddha statue; peaceful atmosphere.
  • How to Get There: Located in Mae Hong Son; easily walkable.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
  • Nearby Eats: Local eateries nearby.

Soppong River

  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Highlights: Great for rafting and enjoying nature.
  • How to Get There: Near Soppong; accessible by taxi or vehicle.
  • Opening Hours: Open year-round.
  • Nearby Eats: Local cafes.

Jungle Trekking Adventures

  • Entrance Fee: Varies (typically 1,500-3,000 THB for tours)
  • Highlights: Trekking through stunning landscapes, visiting villages, and exploring nature.
  • How to Get There: Tours can be booked from Pai or Mae Hong Son.
  • Opening Hours: Varies by tour.
  • Nearby Eats: Lunch included in many tours.

Hot Springs in Pai

  • Entrance Fee: 30 THB
  • Highlights: Relaxing hot springs in a natural setting; perfect for unwinding after a long day.
  • How to Get There: About 7 km from Pai; accessible by taxi or scooter.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
  • Nearby Eats: Local food stalls nearby.

Best Time to Visit

  • November to February: Cool and dry season; ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
  • March to May: Hot season; can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • June to October: Rainy season; lush landscapes but expect occasional rain.

Preparation for the Road Trip

  • Check Vehicle Condition: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and has enough fuel.
  • Pack Essentials: Water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
  • Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the loop and decide on your stops.
  • Weather Check: Be aware of the weather conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Duration to Complete the Loop

  • Total Duration: The loop can take about 5-7 days to fully explore, depending on your pace and how many stops you make.

Precautions While Traveling

  • Driving Conditions: Be cautious of winding roads and potential landslides, especially during the rainy season.
  • Wildlife: Watch out for animals on the road, especially at night.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during the hot months.
  • Respect Local Customs:

Best Way to Travel the Mae Hong Son Loop

There are several ways to travel the loop, depending on your preference and comfort level:

  1. Motorbike/Scooter: (Ensure you have the local or international motorcycle license)

    • Pros: Most popular and adventurous way to travel. The freedom to stop wherever and whenever you want. The ride is scenic with 1,864 curves along the way.
    • Cons: Requires some motorbike experience due to the winding roads and sharp turns.
    • Rental: Motorbikes can be rented in Chiang Mai for around 150-300 THB/day.

  2. Car:

    • Pros: More comfortable and safer than riding a bike. Suitable for families or groups of friends. You can rent a car for around 1,000-1,500 THB/day.
    • Cons: Parking can be tricky in some places, and you’ll miss out on the feeling of openness a motorbike offers.

  3. Public Transport:

    • Pros: Cheap and easy, with buses and minivans running between major towns (e.g., Chiang Mai to Pai, Pai to Mae Hong Son).
    • Cons: Less flexibility, as you have to follow a fixed schedule and can’t stop at off-the-beaten-path spots.

  4. Private Tour:

    • Pros: Comfortable and fully guided, perfect for those who don’t want the hassle of planning.
    • Cons: Expensive compared to self-driving or using public transport.

Ideal Time to Travel

  • The best time to travel the Mae Hong Son Loop is during the cool season (November to February) when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear.
  • The rainy season (June to October) can be challenging due to slippery roads but rewards with lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

This road trip is ideal for those looking to experience authentic Northern Thailand and its stunning natural beauty.