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Mae Hong Son is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world. Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, the name refers to the fact that is terrain is highly suitable for the training of elephants.
Former governors of Chiang Mai used to organise the rounding up of wild elephants which were then trained before being sent to the capital for work. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the dream destinations for visitors. Daily flights into its small airport bring growing numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous hilltribe communities and soft adventure opportunities.
As a result, their architectural style has developed into something different from other Lanna communities. Their living quarters are usually built with tall floors and low roofs, the sizes differing according to ones social status and position. Homes of the ordinary folks are usually with one single level of roof, while those of the local aristocrats have two or more levels forming a castle-like shape. The space thus provided is believed to help air circulation. An interesting feature of the Thai Yai style is the perforated designs along the eaves which are an architectural identity of the area.
The scenic route from Chiang Mai via Hot and Mae Sariang to Mae Hong Son passes several noteworthy attractions. Some 25 kilometres before reaching Mae Sariang, the wild sunflower fields of Doi Mae Ho provide a colourful sight |
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during November and December. A large Karen village, Pha Ma Lo, some 3 kilometres from the Mae Sariang market, is renowned for reasonably priced hand- woven fabrics. Village maidens are distinguished by their white apparel.
Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu The temple is situated in the west of the city, on hillside. Previously called Wat Plai Doi, it is regarded as the city institution. It is prominent with two pagodas. The big one was built by Chong Tong Su 1860 and the other one by Phraya Singhanat Raja in 1874.
Todate, a good road is ready to the temple with 5 kms. There are crowded people in annual festivals e.g. New Year, Songkran and Aok Phansa.
Mae Sam Laep, a picturesque Salawein River hamlet some 46 kilometres south of Mae Sariang, on Highway 1085, is a popular venue for rafting along local stretches of the river dividing Thailand and Myanmar. North of Mae Sanang, on Highway 108, are the Mae Ha Cave and Mae Na Hot Springs, both popular with local tourists. At Km 220 on Highway 108, the Mae Surin waterfall, are in the Namtok Mae Surin National Park, is believed to be the highest waterfall in Thailand. Nearby, the 250-acre wild sunflower fields of Doi Mae U-Kho are in full bloom between November and December.
Long Necked Woman One of the most exotic sights in Mae Hong Son is that of the Pa Dong Karens, a hilltribe community farming rice, tea and tobacco. |
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Certain Pa Dong females 'elongate' their necks from an early age with brass which is coiled around their necks to give a brass ring effect. The greater number of coils is believed to enhance physical beauty and increase aesthetic appeal. Older women wear as many as 20, or more, brass coils around their necks. Pa Dong Karens can be seen in their natural environment at Ban Nam Phiang Din near the Thai-Burmese border, which entails a 45-minute longtail boat ride through scenic country, or a 36-kilometre drive through rugged landscape.
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