The Mae Hong Son Loop Explained

The Mae Hong Son Loop is a 600km circuit that starts in Chiang Mai taking you through the Mae Hong Son Province via Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son capital and Pai.  It’s great for nature lovers, trekkers, motorcyclists, off-road adventures and in general those wanting to get out of the tourist bubble of Chiang Mai and explore the rural beauty of the North.  The legs for the loop and driving distances are as follows: CM – Pai 128km Pai – MHS 109km MHS –MS  164km MS – CM 190km The route above assumes doing the loop in an anti-clockwise direction, but it can also be done the opposite way stopping at Mae Sariang first.  Overnight stops are recommended at each of the major towns (Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son, Pai) and from here you can take a 1 day or more excursion before continuing back on the loop.  There are a variety of things to see and do along the loop such as visits to remote hilltribe villages, white water rafting, elephant riding, waterfalls and trekking.  Being more remote and less touristic Mae Hong Son is known to have more authentic treks than the ones offered in Chiang Mai and so is popular amongst real trekking enthusiasts. The loop needs a bare minimum of 4 days to complete, the distances above can be deceiving as time is needed to navigate the winding roads through this most mountainous province of Thailand. One could easily spend a week doing the loop taking time to explore areas outlying the main route and towns. The Mae Hong Son Loop is popular amongst those seeking a more traditional and authentic Northern Thailand and gives a pretty full coverage of the province, allowing you to see and experience the stunning mountainous landscapes, pristine nature and rich mix of cultures here. Bordering Burma there are many different groups that reside here such as the Shan (a minority group who originate from Southern China who later migrated to Burma, Thailand and Laos). They bring to the province their own cuisine, language, dress and architecture which can be seen in the very distinct looking temples dotted around the province.  Hilltribe groups such as the Karen and Lawa and Burmese migrants also reside here. The loop can be done by bus with several buses departing daily from each of the towns.  Otherwise hiring a car or motorbike are other options, which would also be needed to explore the outlying areas unless you sign up for a tour. The condition of the road along the route is excellent, if you opt for self-drive one needs to feel comfortable navigating the steep hairpin turns. If planning to explore off the route to more remote villages and areas with only dirt tracks or open roads then a 4WD is recommended especially during rainy season.                       Other Links about Mae Hong Son Mae Hong Son Loop Tour 10 Facts about Mae Hong Son Mae Hong Son- Travel Destination Information Photos of Mae Hong Son