The Mae Hong Son Loop is one of Thailand’s most scenic and adventurous road trips, winding through the stunning landscapes of northern Thailand. This loop offers travelers a chance to explore hidden valleys, quaint mountain towns, and culturally rich villages far from the usual tourist paths. Whether you’re drawn to natural wonders, cultural immersion, or historical sites, the Mae Hong Son Loop promises an unforgettable journey filled with diverse experiences. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip, from top attractions and itineraries to accommodation tips and the best time to visit.

Top Attractions on the Mae Hong Son Loop

The Mae Hong Son Loop is packed with natural, cultural, and historical attractions, making it a favorite for adventurous travelers and those seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations. This scenic route invites visitors to explore hidden gems and lesser-known spots, far from the usual crowds. Here are some must-visit locations along the loop:

Natural Attractions

Pai Canyon

Location: Pai

Pai Canyon, located in Pai, offers stunning viewpoints with narrow red sandstone ridges and lush valleys, making it an ideal spot for hiking, photography, and enjoying scenic landscapes, especially at sunset.

Tha Pai Hot Springs

Location: Pai

Located in Pai, Tha Pai Hot Springs offers natural, mineral-rich pools perfect for a relaxing soak, with nearby Huay Nam Dang National Park for additional exploration.

Pang Ung Lake

Location: Near Mae Hong Son

Near Mae Hong Son, Pang Ung Lake, known as “Switzerland of Thailand,” is a serene highland lake surrounded by pine trees and misty hills, ideal for canoeing, camping, and village visits.

Mae Surin Waterfall

Location: Near Mae Hong Son

This tall, picturesque waterfall near Mae Hong Son is set in a lush forest and is especially vibrant in the rainy season, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying scenic views.

Tham Lod Cave

Location: Near Soppong

Located near Soppong, Tham Lod Cave is a massive limestone cave with a river, stunning rock formations, and ancient remains, best explored by bamboo raft with bird-watching at dusk.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Location: Near Chiang Mai

Near Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park features Thailand’s highest peak, waterfalls, and cool temperatures year-round, ideal for trekking, waterfall visits, and exploring pagodas.

Salawin National Park

Location: Mae Sariang area

In the Mae Sariang area, Salawin National Park offers views of the scenic Salawin River along the Thai-Myanmar border, where travelers can enjoy river cruises, wildlife watching, and camping.

Mae Lana Cave

Location: Mae Lana Village, Mae Hong Son province

Mae Lana Cave in Mae Hong Son province is one of Thailand’s longest navigable caves, featuring unique limestone formations, ideal for guided cave trekking, swimming, and exploration.

Namtok Pha Sua Waterfall

Location: Near Mae Hong Son

Located near Mae Hong Son, Namtok Pha Sua is a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall in a natural forest setting, perfect for picnicking, hiking, and relaxing by the cool waters.

Yun Lai Viewpoint

Location: Near Pai

Near Pai, Yun Lai Viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Pai Valley, especially stunning at sunrise, making it a perfect spot for a tea break and sunrise photography.

Cultural Attractions

Long Neck Karen Villages

Location: Near Mae Hong Son

Near Mae Hong Son, these villages of the Karen tribe are known for the brass rings worn by women around their necks, offering a chance to learn about Karen culture, buy handmade crafts, and support local communities.

Ban Rak Thai Village

Location: Near Mae Hong Son

This Chinese village near Mae Hong Son, settled by Kuomintang soldiers, is famous for its tea plantations and scenic lake, perfect for tea tasting, staying in guesthouses, and enjoying Yunnanese cuisine.

Mae Sariang

Location: Southern part of the loop

Located along the Salween River in the southern part of the loop, Mae Sariang is a charming, less-touristy town where visitors can explore temples, visit the Mae Sariang Museum, and relax by the river.

Historical Attractions

Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu

Location: Mae Hong Son

In Mae Hong Son, this hilltop temple with Burmese-inspired architecture offers panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for temple visits, meditation, and sunrise or sunset viewing.

How Many days for Mae Hong Son Loop

The Mae Hong Son Loop can be explored in varying lengths of time, depending on your pace, interests, and how thoroughly you wish to experience each stop. A 3-day itinerary offers a quick overview of the region, allowing you to cover the main highlights, while a 5-day itinerary provides a balanced pace, giving you more time to appreciate each destination. For those seeking an in-depth exploration, a 7-day plan allows for a deeper dive into the region’s unique attractions. Since most travelers visit Mae Hong Son as an extension of a Chiang Mai itinerary or as part of a broader Northern Thailand itinerary, 3- to 5-day itineraries are the most popular choices.

Mae Hong Son 3-Day Itinerary (Quick Overview)

This itinerary is perfect for those who want a quick but fulfilling overview of the Mae Hong Son Loop. Starting from Chiang Mai, you’ll journey to the laid-back town of Pai, known for its scenic Pai Canyon, Tha Pai Hot Springs, and bustling Walking Street. On day two, you’ll head to Mae Hong Son, with stops at Tham Lod Cave and the hilltop temple Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu for stunning views. The final day is a scenic drive back to Chiang Mai through Mae Sariang. This itinerary covers key highlights with enough time to soak in each destination’s unique vibe, making it ideal for travelers on a tighter schedule.

Mae Hong Son 5-Day Itinerary (Balanced Pace)

This five-day itinerary strikes a great balance, allowing you to explore the loop at a comfortable pace. Starting in Chiang Mai, you’ll head to Pai for a deeper exploration of its hot springs, canyon, and vibrant local scene. Moving on, you’ll journey to Mae Hong Son, stopping at Tham Lod Cave before spending two nights in Mae Hong Son to discover Pang Ung Lake, long-neck Karen villages, and Mae Surin Waterfall. The fourth day takes you to Mae Sariang for a relaxed visit to its local town and the scenic Salawin River before returning to Chiang Mai. This itinerary gives you time to enjoy each area without feeling rushed, making it ideal for those looking for a well-rounded experience.

Mae Hong Son 7-Day Itinerary (In-Depth Exploration)

For travelers seeking a truly immersive experience, this seven-day itinerary provides ample time to explore each destination in depth. Starting from Chiang Mai, you’ll explore Pai’s top spots like Pai Canyon, hot springs, and Walking Street, with enough time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. After Pai, head to Mae Hong Son, stopping at Tham Lod Cave, and spend two nights there to fully experience its scenic Pang Ung Lake, unique long-neck Karen villages, and Mae Surin Waterfall. Then, continue to Mae Sariang, where you can explore both the town and the serene Salawin River at your own pace. This itinerary allows for leisurely travel, complete exploration, and a deep appreciation of the cultural and natural beauty of the Mae Hong Son Loop.

Accommodation in Mae Hong Son

While traveling the Mae Hong Son Loop, don’t expect luxury accommodations. Most options consist of guesthouses and small boutique hotels that may lack extensive amenities but offer stunning views and a genuine, authentic experience. These stays allow you to connect more deeply with the area’s natural beauty and local culture.

Best time to explore Mae Hong son

The ideal time to explore the Mae Hong Son Loop is during Thailand’s dry season, from November to January. During these months, clear skies and minimal rain provide optimal conditions, ensuring the best possible experience. It’s best to avoid traveling from February onward, as the burning season affects air quality and visibility. By visiting between November and January, travelers can enjoy fresh air, scenic views, and comfortable weather for the journey.