In the far North West of Thailand, nestling up against the Burmese border high in the clouds you’ll find Mae Hong Son, the remote, mountainous region that is becoming a mecca for those wanting to plunge into the wilderness on a variety soft adventure experiences.

An invigorating border town

Its geographic isolation from the bulk of Thailand is reflected in a character that is heavily influenced by its neighbour and so creates an invigorating border town feel and probably fits in with the general vision of what a hill town should be. This fusion of cultures can be seen in the architecture, temples and people. Don’t miss Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu in the atmospheric early morning light. Enjoy the peace and quiet of a new day dawning, whilst gazing down into the misty valley below, as the novice monks go about their business getting the temple ready.

Mae Hong Son only dates back to the 19th century when the town grew from an elephant training camp set up around Jongkham Lake, a favoured elephant bathing spot. 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.

On the edge of a mountain jungle

Set on the edge of mountain jungle most visitors will walk into the wilds and although trekking is becoming more wide spread, you can still find hidden corners. The potential for eco-tourism and community based tourism is massive, as one picturesque mountain valley gives way to another. As new holiday ideas become available we will offer them below.

Travelling here is becoming easier as the number of flights from Chiang Mai and Bangkok increase, but if you have time to really appreciate the geography, travel by car along the windy, narrow mountain roads that are an adventure in themselves.

As Thailand reaches a certain maturity why not consider Mae Hong Son for your next holiday, as it offers a window that is gradually disappearing from our world