| Position | town in northwest Thailand, capital of Mae Hong Son Province |
|---|---|
| Setting | Shan Hills near the Burma border, on the River Pai |
| Population | 7,066 in 2018 |
| Distance | 883 km north of Bangkok, 251 km northwest of Chiang Mai |
| History | once part of Mawkmai State, a Shan State founded in 1767 |
Mae Hong Son is a beautiful, misty region in northern Thailand, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich culture. The capital city, also called Mae Hong Son , is a small town that serves as a starting point for tours to nearby hill-tribe villages, waterfalls, caves, and hot springs.
Visitors can shop for unique hill-tribe handicrafts and textiles. Don’t miss the impressive temples, especially Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, which offers fantastic views of the mountains.
Mae Hong Son is home to various hill tribes, including the famous long-necked women of the Pa Dong Karen community. The area is great for outdoor activities such as rafting, trekking, elephant riding, and mountain biking.
Mae Hong Son also hosts lively festivals like the Hilltribe Friendship Festival and the Bua Tong Blossom Festival, attracting tourists with their unique celebrations and local culture.
The far northwest
English Wikipedia describes Mae Hong Son as a town in northwest Thailand and the capital of Mae Hong Son Province, in the Shan Hills near the border with Burma along the banks of the River Pai. It had 7,066 inhabitants in 2018 and lies 883 kilometers north of Bangkok and 251 kilometers northwest of Chiang Mai. The territory was formerly part of Mawkmai State, a Shan State founded in 1767, and the district was ceded to Siam after the Anglo-Siamese Boundary Commission of 1892 to 1893. We have not verified the older text on prices, opening hours, ferry times or tours, so check them before you go.
Sources (read in English, English Wikipedia): Mae Hong Son. Last checked November 2026.
Mae Hong Son: FAQ
Where is Mae Hong Son?
In northwest Thailand near the Burma border.
How far is it from Chiang Mai?
251 kilometers northwest.
How many people live in the town?
7,066 in 2018.
Which river is it on?
The River Pai.
How many days do you need?
Two to three days.