Mae Hong Son Loop Travel Guide 2024
Riding the Mae Hong Son Loop on a motorbike had been on our bucket list for the last 5 years and we finally achieved that this year. Just like us, there are so many of you out there who are seeking an adventure in Thailand that combines breathtaking scenery, exhilarating twists and turns, and a unique cultural experience. In this ultimate guide, we’ll share everything you need to know to plan your own Mae Hong Son Loop motorbike adventure!
Mae Hong Son Loop Travel Guide
Clockwise Route: Distance Between Main Cities
- Chiang Mai to Mae Sariang – 196km
- Mae Sariang to Mae Hong Son – 162km
- Mae Hong Son to Pai – 107km
- Pai to Chiang Mai -147km
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Table of Contents
Doi Inthanon (1 Night)
We’re kicking off our Mae Hong Son itinerary by heading clockwise, starting in Chiang Mai and heading towards the breathtaking summit of Doi Inthanon, which happens to be Thailand’s highest point! From Chiang Mai, it’s about 100km away, but keep in mind that reaching the top might take you up to 2 hours due to the considerable elevation gain. Get ready for an amazing adventure!
Tip: Rent your motorbike the day before so you’re ready for an early morning start! D2 Bike Nimman is where we found the best rental rates in all of Old Chiang Mai.
On your first day exploring the Mae Hong Son Loop, start your day around 8 AM from Chiang Mai. Don’t miss the chance to visit Pha Chor, a breathtaking orange rock formation hidden deep in the forest of Southern Chiang Mai. You can even go for a cool hike for about an hour! It’s totally worth it.
Don’t forget to get travel insurance: We use Flexible Travel Insurance which allows us to get insurance whenever we feel necessary and even covers home trip visits. (WWC readers get 10% off)
The Pha Chor Canyon was created ages ago when the Ping River, the main river in Chiang Mai, decided to take a different path. And guess what it left behind? The magnificent, corroded canyon we get to explore today! Pha Chor is nestled within the stunning Mae Wa National Park, and all it takes is a 20-minute hike to witness the beauty of the Pha Chor Canyon.
When hiking in this arid region, make sure to bring a water bottle to combat the intense heat. The trail descends along the base of the canyon, weaving through cliffs, until you reach the breathtaking Pha Chor viewpoint. Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring sight.
At the end of the trail, right by the breathtaking Pha Chor Canyon, you’ll find this amazing spot that offers an almost perfect view of the canyon’s vibrant colors and graceful curves. It’s like a picture-perfect location to capture stunning photos, especially if you want to be in awe of the canyon alongside you!
Tip: Just a heads up, if you’re planning to visit Pha Chor in Mae Wa National Park, there’s a small entrance fee. It’s around 100 THB per person (20 THB for Thais) and an extra 20 THB if you’re bringing a motorcycle. Pha Chor is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
After exploring Pha Chor, keep the adventure going and head to Doi Inthanon National Park! Get ready to climb to the summit and embark on an amazing hike along the Ang Ka Nature Trail. You’ll wander through the enchanting mossy forest and don’t forget to take a photo with the iconic “Top of Thailand” sign. This place is truly incredible, and you’ll have memories to cherish forever!
After experiencing a picturesque hike, you can totally drive down from the summit and catch the most incredible sunset at the majestic Grand Pagodas of Doi Inthanon. And guess what? For an unforgettable night, you can camp at the awesome Dong Son Campground, a designated area provided by the national park. It’s gonna be epic!
Wake up at 5 AM the next morning and head to the trailhead of Kew Mae Pan. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning sunrise from the parking lot before starting your hike. Just a heads up, during the high season (late November to early January), the trail gets pretty popular among locals, so there might be a bit of a line at the trailhead. Getting there early will help you minimize the wait time.
Get ready for an incredible adventure on the mesmerizing Kew Mae Pan Trail! This scenic “balcony” hiking route along Doi Inthanon’s mountain ridge offers breathtaking vistas of the Mae Pan River and majestic mountains. It’s one of Thailand’s top spots to witness the ethereal morning sea of fog!
After you’ve built up an appetite, grab a scrumptious breakfast at the Kew Mae Pan trailhead. Then, get ready to discover the awe-inspiring waterfalls sprinkled across Doi Inthanon National Park as you descend the mountain. It’s an absolute blast immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature.
As you make your way down, don’t forget to check out the breathtaking Wachirathan Waterfall! It’s famous for its raw power and the incredible sight of a rare double rainbow. Just a heads up, you’re definitely gonna get wet in its majestic presence so just let go and enjoy the experience.
Just outside the national park (and included in the same ticket), you’ll find the magnificent Mae Ya Waterfall! Standing tall at a staggering height of 260 meters, its cone shape and multiple cascades make it a sight to behold.
After you’ve experienced the breathtaking Mae Ya Waterfall, it’s time to go beyond Chiang Mai province and dive into the captivating Mae Hong Son Loop! Our first stop in Mae Hong Son is the charming town of Mae Sariang. Let’s see what the most non-tourist town on the loop has to offer!
Looking for the best tours in Thailand? Get the list of our top picks of the best Thailand tours in 2024.
Mae Sariang (2 Nights)
Mae Sariang, nestled in the beautiful mountains of northern Thailand and along the River Yuam, is a hidden gem that offers a truly tranquil experience like no other! This charming town, untouched by the tourist crowds, is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai. Get ready to unwind, rejuvenate, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature. A perfect place for anyone craving some peace and quiet.
Mae Sariang offers a unique opportunity to embrace the unhurried pace of life. A must-visit spot is the Morning Market, where you can experience the essence of this laid-back town. Immerse yourself in the history of Mae Sariang at the Mae Sariang Museum, and don’t miss exploring the captivating Burmese and Thai temples scattered throughout the city.
One of the coolest things to do in Mae Sariang is to check out the three “Chom” temples for blessings. These temples, named “Chom,” are perched on three hills that surround Mae Sariang, giving you jaw-dropping views of the town from different angles. It’s like having your own private lookout points to soak in the beauty of the area!
The Chom temples are absolutely incredible! You’ve got Wat Chom Thong, with its stunning Buddha image on top of a hill. Then there’s Wat Chom Mon, just across the Yuam River. And let’s not forget about Wat Chom Kitti, a beautiful white pagoda perched on another hill.
These temples offer the most breathtaking panoramic views of Mae Sariang. Trust us, you could easily spend a whole day exploring them and still have plenty of time to kick back and relax in the charming town of Mae Sariang. If you’re seeking a serene spot to unwind with a delicious full-flavored coffee alongside the majestic River Yuam, look no further than Mitmaitre Coffee Shop in Mae Sariang. Nestled within a charming vintage wooden house, this café offers a cozy ambiance and a balcony that overlooks the tranquil river.
Tip: Head towards the balcony facing the river and forest. You’ll get stunning panoramic views with an incredible sunset. Plus, they have wifi so you can catch up on work if needed.
After immersing ourselves in the beauty of Mae Sariang for a full day, it’s now time to embark on the next leg of our journey to Mae Hong Son City, the vibrant capital of the Mae Hong Son province.
Mae Hong Son City (3 Nights)
Mae Hong Son City, the capital of the remote northern province of Mae Hong Son, Thailand, is a prominent stop along the renowned Mae Hong Son Loop. Despite being overshadowed, it is a hidden gem in Northern Thailand and our personal favorite stop along the loop.
On your journey from Mae Sariang to Mae Hong Son City, you’ll come across two attractions that you may be interested in. Given you have enough light in the day, you can stop over in the charming town of Khun Yuam, nestled right between Mae Hong Son City and Mae Sariang.
There is a museum in Khun Yuam that glorifies the Japanese troops’ presence and occupation of Thailand and the surrounding area during World War 2, which is quite unusual. Typically, the Japanese troops during WW2 are widely criticized for their brutal treatment of the local population and prisoners of war, but this museum takes a different perspective.
This museum commemorates the friendship between Thailand and Japan during the war. It highlights the strategic location of Khun Yuam, near the border of British Myanmar, during World War 2. This location played a significant role in bringing civilization to this once-forgotten Thai town, with the Japanese being the catalyst for its development.
The Thai-Japanese Friendship Memorial Museum offers a captivating exploration of the area’s history during that era, providing a unique perspective on the events of World War 2. For history enthusiasts, this museum is an absolute must-visit, offering an immersive experience that brings the past to life.
In addition to the sacred Wat Muai To, Khun Yuam offers a hidden gem. Situated at the crossroads of the north, east, and south of Mae Hong Son province, Khun Yuam serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the region. Go on a side trip to the east and indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the Thung Bua Tong Fields.
Unfortunately, the timing was not on our side. We embarked on the loop in mid-February, only to discover that the flowers had already bloomed, leaving us with barren hills. Thung Bua Tong Fields stands as a magnificent expanse of Mexican Sunflowers, making it one of the largest fields of its kind in the area. If you happen to be there at the right time, prepare yourself for an awe-inspiring spectacle that will undoubtedly leave you in awe. This natural wonder is truly one of the most breathtaking sights along the Mae Hong Son Loop.
Between mid-November and early December, a visit to Thung Bua Tong Fields unveils a breathtaking panorama of rolling hills adorned with vibrant yellow Mexican sunflowers that stretch as far as the eye can see. It is truly magical and undoubtedly will be one of the most memorable highlights of your journey along the Mae Hong Son Loop.
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After exploring Thung Bua Thong, take a short drive to discover Mae Surin Waterfall. As you journey along the road from Thung Bua Tong Fields to Mae Surin Waterfall, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant yellow rice fields that stretch across the landscape. This waterfall cascades down a cliff into the Surin River, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that will leave you in awe.
Since the viewpoint is located a bit far from the waterfall, you may want to skip it but since you’re already in the area, you might as well make a pit stop. However, if you’re not inclined to pay for the Mae Surin Waterfall experience, the view from Posaho Cafe is a great alternative that will make this detour even more rewarding.
Now it’s time to continue your journey to Mae Hong Son City! When you arrive, check into your accommodation and get ready for some delicious eats at the charming Chong Kham Night Market which is open daily. This market is situated by the picturesque Chong Kham Lake, close to the sacred Wat Chong Klang and Wat Chong Kham. We chose a hotel conveniently located just a 4-minute walk away from both the market and the temple.
Tip: Don’t miss out on the chance to catch a mesmerizing sunset over Chong Kham Lake! Make sure to visit Wat Chong Klang and Wat Chong Kham for this incredible experience. Arrive around 5 PM to witness the breathtaking beauty of the sunset and soak up the lively atmosphere of the night market. It’s a must-see!
Kickstart your day by waking up around 5-6 AM and heading to the summit of Wat Phrathat Doi Kongmu. This ancient temple offers a mind-blowing view of the misty city of Mae Hong Son as the sun rises in all its glory!
Tip: This activity is especially great for photographers who wish to capture the jaw-dropping sunrise and mist over the city.
After you’ve worked up an appetite, take a stroll down to the Morning Market and treat yourself to a delicious traditional breakfast at the market, or head over to Little Good Things Vegan Cafe. You won’t regret either option.
On your first full day in Mae Hong Son City, begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Su Tong Pae Bridge. This enchanting bridge will guide you through picturesque rice fields, leading you to the Tong Pae Temple. The ideal time to experience the bamboo bridge’s charm is in the morning so you can avoid the midday heat.
Tip: You can also begin your morning here and have a light breakfast at a local hidden cafe at the end of the bridge.
Once you’ve explored the Bamboo bridge, you can venture off to Pang Oung Lake also known as the Switzerland of Thailand. This beautiful lake is surrounded by towering mountains and lush green forests. Here, you can take a boat ride and explore the hidden inlets of this majestic lake or spend some time bird-watching.
Tip: Bring along sunblock, insect repellent, and sunglasses to enjoy your day outdoors without discomfort!
This stunning lake lies along the route to Ban Rak Thai, our ultimate destination for the day.
One of the most stunning spots in Mae Hong Son is Baan Rak Thai. It’s this old Chinese settlement that sits right on the border between Myanmar and Thailand.
Baan Rak Thai was actually founded by a group of former nationalists from Yunnan, China, in the past. They turned the area into a bustling trading hub for jade. And guess what? Today, they’ve cleverly transformed the town into this charming Chinese-inspired village that’s just so full of character! You’ll find all these vibrant Chinese-style lodgings, cute little cafes, and cozy tea shops to relax at.
Photography Tip: Pay 20baht to walk around and take photos at the Lee Wine Rak Thai Resort where you’ll also get sweeping views of all of Ban Rak Thai.
You can even experience the unique charm of this transformed tea plantation resort, where mud-walled rooms are adorned with pretty Chinese lanterns. We recommend staying at least 1 night in Ban Rak Thai to experience the morning mist over the lake and take a boat tour between 6:30 and 7:30 am during sunrise. Check the updated price for Lee Wine Rak Thai Resort.
You can also explore other options for budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodations in Ban Rak Thai as Lee Wine Rak Thai Resort is usually fully booked.
Head back down to have lunch at one of the local restaurants serving up everything from traditional eats to scrumptious burgers!
Tip: To get an exclusive lakeside view of the tour boats on the water, head over to Lee Wine Coffee to grab one of the strongest brews of Thai tea! Head over to the second floor to get incredible views of the boats over the water.
After spending the entire day exploring the north of Mae Hong Son City, you can retreat back to your accommodation, rest for the day, and prepare for a moderate hike the following day.
Check out the Mae Sakut Nature Trail! This amazing trail takes you through lush forests and majestic mountains, revealing two remote waterfalls along the way. It’s a 2.5-hour journey with 16 distinct stations, each showcasing unique forest features.
We recommend starting the moderate hike early through the dense and humid forest to allow time for one more stop. Our next adventure takes us to the Long Neck tribe village of Huay Pu Keng.
Huay Pu Keng village is home to the Kayan long-neck tribe, offering a unique opportunity to explore their culture. Immerse yourself in the experience as you stroll through the village and engage with the friendly locals. They’re super friendly and never push you to purchase anything they’re selling, which is such a relief.
After you are done exploring Huay Pu Keng Kayan village, head back to Chong Kham Night Market to try the variety of food they have on offer. Relax, and take in the ambiance during sunset because tomorrow we’re headed to Pai!
On your out of Mae Hong Son city don’t forget to stop by the Chamber of Commerce and Mae Hong Son Tourism Business Association to get your certification of 1864 curves and 4088 curves respectively. This is was such a great memorabilia and definitely one for the books!
Pai (2 – 3 Nights)
Ah, Pai. This town, once a hidden gem nestled in the mountains, has transformed into a notorious tourist destination. However, Pai still holds its irresistible charm that can captivate anyone. Since it was our first time, didn’t know what to expect.
Surrounded by lush green mountains, the town is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The Pai River, which gracefully meanders through the town, offers a serene setting for canoeing or picnicking by the banks.
Before heading to Pai, make sure to stop by the breathtaking Ban Cha Bo Hill viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of the picturesque mountains encircling the charming Ban Cha Bo village.
Ban Cha Bo Hill has this lovely café and restaurant where you can enjoy your morning coffee and have a comforting bowl of warm noodle soup while taking in the breathtaking mountain views. And if you’re lucky enough to arrive early, you might even get to witness a mesmerizing sea of fog from the café’s viewpoint.
Another place you may be interested in is Tham Lod. This incredible cave system goes on for about 1.6 kilometers and has this majestic river running right through it. Can you believe that this place used to be a burial ground for people who lived here ages ago? It’s like a window into the past and really shows the rich history of this area.
Tip: Make sure to explore all the scenic viewpoints along the main road to Pai, including the Pang Mapha Viewpoint and Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint.
Do your glutes a favor and take some time to chill at the Sai Ngam Hot Spring. Then wrap up your day in Pai with a nice leisurely walk around the lively Pai Night Market. It’s gonna be a blast!
Begin your first day in Pai by rising early to witness the breathtaking sight of the sea of fog enveloping the town from Yun Lai Viewpoint. Afterward, head to Big Buddha Pai, where you can marvel at the breathtaking view from the top.
The next stop is a hidden gem called the Sai Khao Temple. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the Big Buddha. This temple is designed with intricate details and serpent statues inside. Seriously, words can’t do justice to the level of detail in this temple.
In the afternoon, head over to the ‘I AM PAI’ sign and refuel with some coffee and pastries at Coffee in Love and enjoy the scenic views from the terrace.
Next, head over to explore the captivating history of Pai and its courageous struggle during World War 2 as you visit the Ta Pai Memorial Bridge.
For a breathtaking sunset experience, make your way to Pai Canyon, a stunning natural wonder. As the sun gracefully sets over the lush valley, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing display of colors painting the sky.
Take a moment to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and keep your eyes peeled, as Pai Canyon is also known for its abundant wildlife. It’s a truly magical spot that will leave you in awe of its beauty and serenity.
There are plenty of nearby trails and rock formations that you can explore during your time in Pai Canyon.
Tip: Don’t forget to wear good, preferably anti-skid shoes because the terrain is highly slippery and accidents have occurred.
For dinner, head back to the bustling Pai night market and treat yourself to some delicious Thai dishes such as Pad Kaprao, Khao Soi, and Tom Yum Soup. You’ll find plenty of vendors selling these dishes, all of them delicious.
After dinner, take a stroll down the bustling streets of Pai to check out some of the art galleries and boutiques that line the streets. Shopping in Pai is an experience like no other; you can find everything from handmade jewelry to unique home decor items.
If you happen to have a free day you can just chill and enjoy the cozy vibes of its aesthetic cafes. In Pai it’s all about that laid-back lifestyle so go ahead and take your time, café hopping and all. There’s this one café called Baandoi cafe and eatery that we totally recommend checking out. It’s just outside town and it’s got pretty good coffee and views.
Best Time To Travel The Mae Hong Son Loop
The ideal time to travel the Mae Hong Son Loop is from November to January. During this period, the weather is cold, making it more enjoyable to spend time outdoors. You can also witness the blooming of beautiful flowers, especially the Mexican Sunflowers, from early November to mid-December.
However, it’s important to note that Thailand has been experiencing significant air pollution in recent years, particularly during its late winter season from January to February. Despite the cooler weather, visibility may be compromised, so it is advisable to carry a face mask if you plan to visit during this time.
March and April are the hottest and most humid months, so if you are sensitive to heat, it’s best to avoid visiting then. The air quality may be relatively better during this period, although there are no guarantees.
The remaining months are considered the rainy season. Although the weather is somewhat more manageable than the summer months, you can expect more rain. This may pose challenges for navigating the Loop, which features over 1860 curves. Additionally, the rain may limit your ability to enjoy outdoor activities, which are a highlight of visiting the Mae Hong Son Loop. However, the air quality should be improved due to the rain.
Considering the worsening air quality, you will have to prioritize what is more important to you as a traveler: favorable weather or good air quality. In my opinion, a recommended time to visit is around mid-November to early December. During this period, the weather is cool, there are fewer local tourists, and the natural scenery is enhanced by the blooming flowers. This offers you a perfect blend of beauty and fewer crowds to share the road with.
How To Travel The Mae Hong Son Loop?
The Mae Hong Son Loop starts and ends in Chiang Mai, which is a popular city in northern Thailand. So that’s why it’s called the Loop. To begin your journey on the Mae Hong Son Loop, you’ll first need to travel to Thailand from your home country.
To get to Chiang Mai, you have a couple of options. You can fly into Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, and then choose to either fly or take an overnight bus/train to Chiang Mai. Another option is if you’re from a city or country with direct flights to Chiang Mai, like Taiwan, South Korea, China, or Doha, then you can skip to the “How to Get Around the Mae Hong Son Loop” section.
Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from the US to Chiang Mai or Bangkok. So if you’re coming from the US, you’ll have to rely on connecting flights with airlines like Emirates, Qatar, or Turkish Airlines from the East Coast, or ANA Airlines or Korean Air from the West Coast.
If you’re traveling from Europe, you can fly from major European hubs like London, Paris, or Frankfurt with Thai Airways or other local carriers such as British Airways, Air France, or Lufthansa to Bangkok. Alternatively, you can also choose to fly with Etihad, Qatar, or Emirates if you don’t mind having a layover.
Within Asia, there are many low-cost airlines that offer various routes from hub cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, and Jakarta to Bangkok. AirAsia and Thai Lion Air are great low-cost options to consider.
To find affordable flights to Bangkok or Chiang Mai, I recommend using Skyscanner or Expedia to compare prices and schedules. This will help you find the best deals for your journey.
How To Get Around The Mae Hong Son Loop?
Rent A Motorcycle From Chiang Mai
One of the best ways to explore the Mae Hong Son Loop is by having your own transportation. Many people choose to rent either a motorcycle or a car from Chiang Mai and then go on an adventure along the loop.
If you’re searching for a motorbike rental in Chiang Mai, we highly recommend D2 Bike Nimman Motorcycle. They offer an excellent range of bikes to choose from, and the owner, Sonni, provides transparent and honest advice to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Not only is it the most affordable option in Chiang Mai, but we were also thrilled with our selection!
The Mae Hong Son Loop is renowned for its 1860 winding curves, guiding you through stunning forests and hills. Given the road’s challenging twists and turns, we highly recommend choosing a 150cc motorbike or higher, but only if you are experienced as a rider. However, if you’re a beginner traveling alone, a 125cc is a safer option. While it may lack the power of a 150cc, it will still allow you to navigate the loop securely.
During our month-long stay in Chiang Mai, we rented a 125cc for both city exploration and the loop, and it proved to be sufficient. Despite what many rental shops may claim, a 150cc is not essential, particularly if you plan to ride at a leisurely pace.
One of the great advantages of renting from D2 bike was the clear and transparent pricing displayed on a board on the wall. At that moment, we paid a total of $102 for the entire month!
To rent a motorbike here, you’ll need to provide either an ID or a valid driving license. Avoid leaving your passport with them as you may require it at checkpoints along the way. Instead, provide them with a photocopy. Additionally, a deposit of approximately 1000 THB is required. Once these formalities are taken care of, you’re all set to take off on your exploration of the Mae Hong Son Loop.
Other Ways To Get Around The Mae Hong Son Loop
If you’re not up for driving the Mae Hong Son Loop yourself, you always have the option of using public transportation. But keep in mind, this means you’ll be limited to exploring attractions near the cities you’ll be staying in. If you really want to venture into remote areas, you might need to hire drivers in each place.
However, I have to warn you that this could result in backtracking and high prices. So, if you’d rather not deal with all that, you might want to consider going on an organized tour. It’s a safer and hassle-free way to experience the Mae Hong Son Loop. You can easily book a Mae Hong Son Loop tour here.
Which Route To Take For The Mae Hong Son Loop?
The Mae Hong Son Loop gives you two options to explore: clockwise and counterclockwise. Usually, it’s recommended to go clockwise, but if you’re planning to visit Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand, you have some flexibility in your choice. Both routes have similar driving challenges, so it’s best to consider the weather conditions. If it’s clear, go for the clockwise route; if not, go for the counterclockwise route.
How Many Days Do I Need For The Mae Hong Son Loop?
Riding on the Mae Hong Son Loop is an incredible adventure that unveils culture and breathtaking scenery. While it is technically possible to complete it in just 3 days, rushing through would only scratch the surface. To truly immerse yourself and savor every moment, it is highly recommended to allocate a leisurely 7-10 days for exploring this magnificent loop. We recommend indulging in leisurely exploration, at a pace that suits you best!
Below you’ll find our personally curated 8-day Mae Hong Son loop itinerary:
Day 1: Indulge in a leisurely drive from Chiang Mai and venture towards the majestic Wachirathan waterfall. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, then get on a scenic one-hour journey from Doi Inthanon National Park to experience the ultimate mountain getaway in a cozy globe tent accommodation.
Day 2: Experience the breathtaking sight of the mist-covered mountains at sunrise. Make your way to the majestic twin pagodas of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest point, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery you’ll be greeted with.
Day 3: Wake up early to explore Mae Sariang. Visit the Golden Buddha, ride around the town, eat some boat noodles or tom yum soup, and then make your way to Mae Hong Son.
Day 4: Start off your day by exploring the Huay Pu Keng Longneck village. Ride back to town to visit Wat Chong Klang before enjoying some delicious food at the Mae Hong Son night market.
Day 5: Explore the attractions within Mae Hong Son City, as well as Pang Oung Lake, and Baan Rak Thai.
Day 6: Make sure to get certified at either the Chamber of Commerce or the Mae Hong Son Community College. Once you’re done, don’t miss out on walking across the Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge. Grab a coffee or Thai tea at the cafe at the foot of the temple. Before you head to Pai, make sure to check out the amazing view from Ban Lak Khao Lam Viewpoint.
Day 7: Visit the white Buddha, then Wat Sai Khao, a temple adorned with intricate designs. Pause at the iconic “I am Pai” sign and enjoy coffee with stunning views at Coffee with Love. Pay your respects at Pai Memorable Bridge. End the day at Pai Canyon for a majestic sunset then head over to Pai Walking Street to savor delicious food.
Day 8: Rise early to explore a little more of Pai before heading back to Chiang Mai.
How Much Money Do I Need For The Mae Hong Son Loop?
Based on the 7-day itinerary mentioned earlier, let’s estimate how much you’d roughly spend on this trip for two people. Here’s how we can break it down:
Accommodation: When it comes to accommodation in Mae Hong Son for a week-long stay, you’ll find prices ranging from around 70 to 180 USD, depending on your accommodation preferences.
Transportation: When it comes to getting around, you can rent a 125cc motorbike for 7 days at just $3.40 per day. Add in the cost of gas, which is around 20 USD, and you’re looking at approximately 45 USD for transportation.
Food: If you’re spending 7 days in Mae Hong Son, you can expect to spend about 60 USD on food for two people.
Activities: For activities, a budget of approximately 70 USD for two people will cover a week’s worth of fun and adventure.
The total budget for a 7-day journey on the Mae Hong Son Loop amounts to ($346 USD)
Is The Mae Hong Son Loop Safe?
Mae Hong Son is a safe destination for tourists, with friendly locals always ready to assist. However, caution is advised while navigating the mountainous roads, which are known for their numerous curves. It is recommended to drive a car instead of a motorcycle for added safety.
Which Tourist SIM Card Is Best For Thailand?
Get connected affordably while traveling in Mae Hong Son, Thailand with an eSIM upon arrival at the airport or get a local SIM card.
In Thailand, there are three major carriers – AIS, DTAC, and True – offering similar traveler’s packages and coverage. Personally, we recommend AIS for its reliability, extensive support centers, and consistent coverage.
There are 3 tourist packages available in Thailand:
- 5 GB for 5 days at 160 THB
- 15 GB for 8 days at 299 THB
- 30 GB for 15 days at 599 THB
Choose the package that best suits your itinerary based on the duration of your trip.
These packages offer the flexibility to add more data or calls during your trip. Typically, 5 GB is sufficient for a month of travel in Thailand unless you plan on working online and you need reliable wifi at all times then go for 15 or 30GB.
To learn more about getting a local SIM card in Thailand, check out the e-SIM option here or physical SIM cards here.
Tip: To keep in touch with your loved ones back home, it’s crucial to have a VPN service like Surfashark installed before your travels. This way, you can effortlessly navigate any local Internet censorship you might come across during your time in Thailand.
What To Pack For The Mae Hong Son Loop, Thailand?
Packing light for a trip to Mae Hong Son, Thailand is an art form. Here are some tips to help you travel light and enjoy your journey.
- Fleece Jacket: When it comes to chilly weather, layering is crucial, and a fleece jacket serves as an exceptional insulating layer. We highly recommend the Columbia fleece jacket for maximum warmth and comfort.
- Breathable Shirts: To ensure comfort during your outdoor adventures in hot weather, consider packing a few breathable shirts. You can find a selection of cool t-shirts in our Merch Shop, which is definitely worth checking out! Visit here for more.
- Outer Shell Jacket: When it comes to windy or rainy conditions, an outer shell jacket is a must-have. We wholeheartedly suggest the Columbia watertight II rain jacket. Not only is it lightweight and breathable, but looks good on as well.
- Down Jacket: During frigid temperatures, an indispensable item is a down jacket. My personal recommendation is the Columbia Grand Trek Ii Down Hooded Jacket for men and the Columbia Heavenly Jacket for women. Not only are these jackets cozy and lightweight, but they also offer a variety of appealing colors to choose from.
- Shorts/Jeans: When you’re traveling, be prepared to do a lot of walking. So bring along some comfy breathable shorts and a pair of jeans for cooler weather. And ladies, leggings are a great choice that works well in any climate, hot or cold. So, it’s definitely worth considering packing a pair.
- Walking/Hiking Shoes: When it comes to travel, remember how crucial it is to wear comfy shoes. Whether you’re walking or hiking, a good pair of shoes is essential. Personally, we would highly recommend the Timberland Men’s Lincoln Peak Lite Waterproof Slip-On. They’re a great choice for long strolls and hikes, providing both comfort and style. Check them out here!
- Wool Beanie: A wool beanie is an excellent choice for maintaining warmth and comfort for your head and ears.
- Wool Gloves: We keep a pair of wool gloves (touch screen and texting friendly) for colder regions within reach to ensure my hands stay warm in chilly weather.
- Wool Socks: Remember to keep your feet cozy and snug with a pair of wool socks. You can find some great options here.
- Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the perfect towel for travel because it is lightweight, dries quickly, and can be compressed easily.
- Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a fantastic option for both urban and outdoor adventures. This insulated water bottle is super lightweight, so you can take it anywhere with ease. It’s a total game-changer with its ability to keep your water cold or warm for over 12 hours!
- Daypack: The Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW has become my go-to sidekick for all my everyday adventures. This camera backpack not only has plenty of room to fit all my travel essentials but also comes with a bunch of handy slots and pouches.
- Large Backpack: For a backpack with plenty of storage space, you have to check out the awesome Osprey Aether 65L Men’s Hiking Backpack. It’s highly recommended and it has exceptional weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee. This backpack will not let you down.
- Camera: Don’t miss out on capturing breathtaking moments during your trip! Bring along the Sony a7R V camera with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, a top-notch combination known for its unrivaled performance.
- Power Bank: Ensure your electronic devices stay charged on the move with a powerful 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
- Universal Adapter: To power your electronics in any country you visit, a single universal adapter is all you need. Get yours here: universal adapter.
- Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes are essential for maximizing space in your backpack while ensuring optimal organization of your belongings.
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