Daily flights into Mae Hong Son’s small airport bring growing
numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous
hill tribe communities, and soft adventure opportunities.
For those familiar with the name, Mae Hong Son conjures fantastic
images of rugged, mist enshrouded mountains where isolated tribal
villages await exploration. From the fascinating culture of the indigenous
tribal communities to the spectacular natural beauty of the countryside,
Mae Hong Son is certainly a dream-come-true destination for many visitors.
Nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges,
Mae Hong Son town has long been isolated from the outside world.
Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, Mae Hong Son was
once only accessible via harrowing, windy, narrow roads that took most
of a day to traverse, an adventurous drive that made the town that
much more alluring.
The name of Mae Hong Son refers to the fact that its terrain is
highly suitable for the training of elephants. In fact, former governors
of Chiang Mai used to organize the rounding up of wild elephants which
were then trained in Mae Hong Son before being sent to the capital
for work. Elephants remain an important part of the local culture,
and elephant trekking is a popular tourist activity, often combined
with overnight hill tribe home stays and river rafting.
Mae Hong Son is a fascinating province of Burmese and Lanna
style temples, hot springs, hill tribe villages, trekking, rafting, national
parks, and even an annual reggae festival. In addition to a charming
capital in Mae Hong Son town, the town of Pai is also a traveler favorite;
many people come to Mae Hong Son and Pai to experience the natural
beauty of northern Thailand or witness one of the many festivals that
are celebrated in Mae Hong Son, especially the annual novice ordination
ceremony for young men declaring their intentions to become Buddhist monks.
☺ Tips ☺
Those who are susceptible to motion sickness should take medication
prior to setting out on the long, winding old road to Mae Hong Son.
Credit:: Amazing Thailand
