Mae Hong Son in northern Thailand
Mae Surin Waterfalls
Misty Mountain Tops
The peaceful town of Mae Hong Son is popularly known as the city of three mists and sheltered to the north and west of Burma. Nestling here in some of Thailand's most spectacular mountain scenery, you cannot imagine the feeling of tranquility that seems to overwhelm you once you have arrived. To experience the distinct attraction of this sleepy mountain top town, it is best to arrive in the cool season between November and March when the flowers are in full bloom. It can get very hot during the months between April and May. Mae Surin Waterfall is situated in a national park and is one of the tallest in Thailand. Come and watch as this singular jet of water leaps off the cliff face and plunges down some 100 meters to the rocks below. You can either view this spectacular event from the surrounding hills across the valley or you can hike down the hills to take a closer look.
Misty mountains
Young girl of the Hmong Hilltribe
On the way down the rolling hills you can wander through the dusty streets of the Hmong and Karen Hill Tribe villages where you will meet lots of friendly folk. If you are here during the month of November you will also get to experience the blooming of the beautiful wild sunflowers of these fertile valleys. Looking across the lake
Mae Hong Son can be easily reached with daily direct flights from Bangkok and if you should be driving from Chiang Mai then allow for approximately 8 to 9 hours to arrive. The 370 kilometres or 230 miles journey will take you on a thrill a minute roller coaster ride as you wind your way up, down and around the mountains. A similar experience I had was driving up the Atlas mountains in Morocco, only there were no forests like the ones here in northern Thailand.
Wat Phrathat Doi Gongmoo
Wat Phrathat Doi Gongmoo is a hilltop temple built high up in the mountainside on the western side of town. A long asphalt road will take you up to the temple. From there you will feel like the king of your castle as you survey the panoramic views of the town below as well as the surrounding valleys and mountainside.
Return from Mae Hong Son to the North Thailand Page
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