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Your Complete Guide to Conquering the Mae Hong Son Loop
- What to Know About Mae Hong Son Loop
- Where is Mae Hong Son Loop?
- What is the main road in Mae Hong Son Loop?
- How to Get to Mae Hong Son Loop
- Best Time to Go to Mae Hong Son Loop
- What to Do and See in Mae Hong Son Loop
- Check out the Buddha relic at Wat Phra That Chom Thong
- View the cascading Mae Surin Waterfall
- Relax at Pha Bong Hot Springs
- Make a quick stop at Wat Chong Kham
- Visit the Long Neck Karen Village
- Check out the Thai-Japan Friendship Memorial Hall
- Take a photo of the Thung Bua Tong Fields at Doi Mae U Kho
- Explore the chambers of Tham Lot Cave
- Boil eggs at the Tha Pai Hot Springs
- Climb and weave through Pai Canyon
- Enjoy the night at the Pai Walking Street
- Where to Eat along the Mae Hong Son Loop
- Intira Restaurant – Mae Sariang
- Bai Fern Restaurant – Mae Hong Son Town
- Khao Soi Zister’s – Pai
- Where to Rent Motorbikes for the Mae Hong Son Loop
- KM Motorbike Rentals
- Chiangmai Bike Rental
- C & P Big Bike Rental
- FAQs for Traveling to Mae Hong Son Loop
After hearing Beyoncé belt out “What goes around, comes back around,” it hit me—she might’ve been talking about traveling. Okay, maybe not exactly, but walk with me. You don’t always have to go far or hop borders to have an adventure.
Sometimes, the best trips are the ones that loop you right back to where you started—just a little dustier, a little more sun-kissed, and with a camera roll full of mountain views and noodle bowls. That’s the magic of Mae Hong Son Loop.
This 600-km ride through Northern Thailand winds you through laid-back towns, waterfalls, temples, and scenic mountain roads—before bringing you back full circle. So, if you’re thinking of hitting the road, here’s your go-to guide for riding the loop right.
What to Know About Mae Hong Son Loop
Winding through forested hills and calm towns and villages, the Mae Hong Son Loop shows off a quieter side of Thailand. Starting in Chiang Mai, this 600 km route takes you past hot springs, rice paddies, and small villages tucked into the hills.
Pai brings the backpacker buzz, while Mae Hong Son town feels like a world away. Most people rent a motorbike, but a car works too. It’s the kind of trip where the journey matters as much as the stops.
Where is Mae Hong Son Loop?
The Mae Hong Son Loop curves through Thailand’s mountainous northwest, near the border with Myanmar. It begins and ends in Chiang Mai, looping through Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son, and Pai along the way.
What is the main road in Mae Hong Son Loop?
The Mae Hong Son Loop mainly runs along Route or Highway No. 108. Most travelers follow this road before cutting across to Pai and looping back to Chiang Mai.
How to Get to Mae Hong Son Loop
To start the Mae Hong Son Loop by car or motorbike: Begin in Chiang Mai, where rentals are easy to find. Most travelers head southwest on Route/Highway No. 108 toward Mae Sariang, but you can go clockwise or counterclockwise.
The full loop takes about 4 to 5 days, depending on your pace.
Best Time to Go to Mae Hong Son Loop
The best time to ride the Mae Hong Son Loop is from November to February. The weather’s cooler, the skies are clear, and the mountain views are at their best.
It’s also the dry season, so the roads are safer and easier to navigate. Avoid the rainy months from June to October—some stretches can get slippery, and landslides aren’t uncommon in remote areas.
What to Do and See in Mae Hong Son Loop
Check out the Buddha relic at Wat Phra That Chom Thong
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Address: 4WXV+XFJ, O Bo Cho Mae Hong Son 4075 Rd. (PA Kluai-Thung Phrao), Mae Sariang
Distance: apx. 190 km from Chiang Mai (about 4 hours)
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 6 PM
Website
As you head to Mae Sariang, stopping at Wat Phra That Chom Thong temple is a good start. Given that it’s perched on a hill, you’ll get to see views of the Yuam Valley and the quaint town below.
It’s believed that this temple houses a relic of the Buddha, making it a significant pilgrimage site. You’ll also get to check out two ancient chedis and a large Buddha statue, known as Luang Phaw To.
Just note that you’ll be expected to dress modestly—shoulders and knees are covered. And get ready to remove your shoes before entering the temple buildings.
View the cascading Mae Surin Waterfall
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Address: 4009 Rural Rd, Tambon Mae U Kho
Distance: apx. 130 km from Mae Sariang (about 3.5 hours)
Contact details: +66 53 061 073
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
Website
You’ll want to visit Mae Surin Waterfall since it’s one of Thailand’s tallest single-tier waterfalls, plunging around 180 m into a lush valley. It’s located in Namtok Mae Surin National Park, so there’s a lot of flora and fauna to see.
We like that the park offers well-marked trails leading to different viewpoints of the waterfall. A popular route starts near Fern Resort, providing a moderate hike through rich nature.
Also, consider applying insect repellent since the humidity there calls for insects and mosquitoes. Trails can also be slippery, so make sure you’re wearing good hiking shoes.
Relax at Pha Bong Hot Springs
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Address: Pha Bong, Mueang Mae Hong Son District
Distance: approx. 40 km before Mae Hong Son (about 45 minutes from Mae Surin)
Contact details: +66 53 686 048
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 7 PM
Website
If you want to take a break on your trip and have a nice relaxation time, then Pha Bong Hot Spring is a good spot. It’s renowned for its sulfur-rich waters, believed to offer health benefits, like improved circulation and skin nourishment.
Not to mention, the greenery and hills surrounding the hot springs make the entire experience better. Other than the hot springs, you can also go for a Thai massage, oil massage, and foot reflexology.
And if you want to extend your stay, Pha Bong Hot Spring offers camping facilities. You can set up tents in designated areas for a more immersive experience.
Make a quick stop at Wat Chong Kham
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Address: 7XX9+74H, Chong Kham
Distance: approx. 10 km from Pha Bong Hot Springs (15 minutes)
Contact details: +66 86 189 4945
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 6 PM
Website
After the hot springs, you can make a quick stop at Wat Chong Kham, which is about 15 minutes away. The temple showcases authentic Shan (Tai Yai) architecture with highlights like multi-tiered roofs adorned with friezes and silver facades.
We recommend timing your visit around sunset since it’s situated beside Nong Chong Kham Lake, so the temple’s reflection on the water is stunning, creating the perfect view for a photo.
If you still have time or are still around, try to explore the nearby Mae Hong Son Walking Street, which is open daily from 5 to 10 in the evening. You can enjoy some street food, local handicrafts, and traditional clothing.
Visit the Long Neck Karen Village
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Address: 7W53+W94, Rural Rd Mae Hong Son
Distance: Near Mae Hong Son (within 15–20 km)
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Website
Visiting the Long Neck Karen Villages gives you a unique opportunity to learn about their customs, traditional weaving techniques, and daily life. The Long Neck Karen, or Kayan people, are known for the distinctive brass rings worn by women around their necks.
This practice symbolizes beauty and their cultural identity. You’re welcomed into the community and are encouraged to converse with locals and learn about them firsthand. Purchasing handmade crafts and textiles directly from them contributes to the villagers’ livelihoods.
If possible, consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the Kayan people’s history and customs.
Check out the Thai-Japan Friendship Memorial Hall
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Address: RWJM+473, Khun Yuam
Distance: approx. 65 km from Mae Hong Son (about 1.5 hours)
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
Website
If you’re up for a little history lesson, then consider checking out the Thai-Japan Friendship Memorial Hall in Khun Yuam. It commemorates the historical ties between Thailand and Japan during World War II, providing insights into the Japanese army’s presence in the region.
In the museum, you’ll get to view a collection of artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts from the wartime era. There are exhibits that include military equipment, uniforms, and documents that give you a glimpse into the daily lives of soldiers and villagers.
Quick heads-up: there’s an entrance fee of around ฿50 per person, so make sure you’re carrying cash. Photography may also be restricted in certain areas, so keep an eye out for signage or ask staff before taking pictures.
Take a photo of the Thung Bua Tong Fields at Doi Mae U Kho
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Address: 1 Mae U Kho, Khun Yuam District
Distance: approx. 35 km from Khun Yuam (1 hour drive)
Contact details: +66 5369 1108
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 5 PM
Website
Every year, around mid-November to early December, the hills of Doi Mae U Kho are blanketed with vibrant yellow Mexican sunflowers, locally known as “Bua Tong.” The Thung Bua Tong Fields pretty much look like a magazine cover.
On top of that, it sits at an elevation of around 1,600 m, so the viewpoint provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s become a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Just keep in mind that the roads leading to Doi Mae U Kho are winding and steep, so it’s advisable to use a reliable vehicle or hire a local driver familiar with the terrain.
Explore the chambers of Tham Lot Cave
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Address: 107 หมู่1 Tham Lot, Pang Mapha District
Distance: approx. 80 km from Doi Mae U Kho to Soppong (about 2 hours)
Contact details: +66 53 617 218
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 5:30 PM
Website
Tham Lot Cave is another adventure that combines natural beauty and exploration. Guided tours are usually the norm here for visitors—they’re equipped with boats and lanterns to navigate you through the cave’s chambers.
Within the cave, you can go into three main chambers: the Column Cave, the Doll Cave, and the Coffin Cave. The Coffin Cave houses ancient teakwood coffins believed to have been carved by the Lawa people thousands of years ago, giving you a peek into the past.
It would also be great to have non-slip shoes for wet and uneven surfaces. You could also consider bringing a light jacket or a sweater since the temperature inside the cave can be significantly cooler.
Boil eggs at the Tha Pai Hot Springs
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Address: 8F5F+67M, Unnamed Rd, Mae Hi, Pai District
Distance: approx. 40 km from Tham Lot to Pai (about 1 hour)
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 6 PM
Website
Located within Huai Dang National Park, Tha Pai Hot Springs is usually surrounded by dense tropical forests. This spot has a series of mineral-rich pools with varying temperatures, and the hottest one can reach up to 80°C (176°F)—but the others are suitable for soaking.
One of the best things to do here is boil some eggs in the hottest pools; it’s a nice little show and a quick snack to fill you up. And if you’re in for a dip, the mineral content is believed to relieve muscle aches, improve circulation, and soothe the skin.
Another neat aspect is that the facilities include restrooms, changing areas, and shaded seating. Also, some visitors note that certain pools may be closed for maintenance, so it’s a good idea to check in advance.
Climb and weave through Pai Canyon
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Address: 8F43+F22, Mae Hi, Pai District
Distance: apx 8 km from Tha Pai Hot Spring (15 minutes)
Contact details: +66 86 113 7373
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 AM – 7 PM
Website
Pai Canyon, or Kong Lan, as the locals call it, has a network of narrow, elevated ridges formed by decades of erosion. You’ll notice that these ridges are composed of reddish-orange sandstone that creates this striking contrast against the greenery of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
As for the canyon’s trails, they range from easy walks to challenging hikes along the narrow paths with steep drop-offs on either side. It does give some sort of adrenaline rush, especially since some sections require careful footing and may involve scrambling.
The initial ascent involves a short climb up a paved stairway leading to the first viewpoint. We also suggest you arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to secure a good spot and enjoy the changing horizon.
Enjoy the night at the Pai Walking Street
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Address: Chai Songkhram Road, Pai District
Distance: Right in Pai town
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 PM – 10 PM
Website
As your trip is closing in, enjoying a night at the Pai Walking Street is something to look forward to. The street is filled with stalls with food, handmade crafts, bohemian clothing, jewelry, and local artwork.
The street stretches for about a kilometer, so if you’re planning a food trip, this is your chance. From traditional Thai dishes like Pad Thai and mango sticky rice to international options such as burritos and vegan Buddha bowls, the variety is impressive.
And the rule of thumb when coming here is to always carry cash since most vendors don’t accept cards.
Where to Eat along the Mae Hong Son Loop
Intira Restaurant – Mae Sariang
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Address: Mae Sariang
Distance: First major town after leaving Chiang Mai (about 190 km)
Contact details: +66 53 681 529
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: ฿฿
Website
Menu
Since Mae Sariang is the first major town after Chiang Mai, consider having a meal at Intira Restaurant. It’s a family-run eatery that features a menu with items like fried fish, garlic chicken, and vegetable stir-fries.
We love how the restaurant offers a warm and inviting ambiance, with wooden interiors and a homely feel. It’s a popular spot for both locals and travelers looking for a laid-back dining experience.
Not to mention, we have to give them credit for the prompt service and the friendly demeanor of the staff. So, you don’t have to worry about waiting long for your food to arrive.
Bai Fern Restaurant – Mae Hong Son Town
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Address: Khunlumprapas Rd, Chong Kham
Distance: About 165 km from Mae Sariang
Contact details: +66 53 611 374
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 9 PM
Pricing: ฿฿
Website
Menu
Bai Fern Restaurant has been a staple in Mae Hong Son for over three decades. They specialize in offering Northern Thai specialties like Khao Soi Kai (curry noodle soup) and Laab Kua (spicy minced meat salad)—and they serve international dishes, too.
It’s a great place for lunch, but if you can come by during dinner, they usually put on live music performances that make the experience more memorable. The food they serve is just as memorable thanks to their commitment to quality, with some ingredients from their own garden.
The restaurant is a charming wooden building with an interior that matches its vibes—think dark-veneered wood and elegant decorations.
Khao Soi Zister’s – Pai
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Address: 58, Wiangtai, ket kelang, 1, Pai District
Distance: approx. 110 km from Mae Hong Son Town
Contact details: +66 99 269 2244
Opening hours: Thursday to Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Pricing: ฿
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Menu
Khao Soi Zister’s is one of those budget spots that just serve rich and flavorful dishes. This place specializes in Khao Soi, featuring a creamy coconut curry noodle soup, and you can choose from various protein options like chicken, pork, beef, or tofu.
Beyond the crowd favorite, you can also opt for Pad Thai, Massaman curry, and Panang curry. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the Mae Hong Son Loop.
Quick reminder: they don’t accept credit cards, so always carry cash around. Plus, their prices are incredibly wallet-friendly, making it worthwhile to order multiple dishes to share with the group.
Where to Rent Motorbikes for the Mae Hong Son Loop
KM Motorbike Rentals
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Address: 156 Ratchamanka Rd, Prasing, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Contact details: +66 80 556 4639
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 10 AM
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From what we’ve seen, travelers aiming to conquer the Mae Hong Son Loop have found KM Motorbike Rentals to be a reliable choice. The motorbikes they provide are well-maintained and suitable for long-distance trips.
Many customers even noted that bikes come with fresh oil changes and well-functioning disc brakes—the type of peace of mind you’ll want to take on this loop. We also appreciate Max, the owner, for taking the time to explain everything about the bike’s capabilities and operation.
Just a heads-up: be sure to book in advance since this place is quite popular.
Chiangmai Bike Rental
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Address: 21/6 Arak Rd, Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Contact details: +66 95 725 5585
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
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Chiangmai Bike Rental is situated in the heart of Chiang Mai, which means it’s incredibly accessible for travelers looking to explore the city and take off to start the Mae Hong Son Loop.
We love that they offer a wide range of new and well-maintained motorbikes with varying specs and rates. This also means you could easily choose one that fits your preferences and budget.
It’s also worth noting that customers have been satisfied with the bikes—whether it was a scooter or a dirt bike, they were able to use it without a hitch.
C & P Big Bike Rental
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Address: 21, 23 Chiang Mai-Lam Phun Rd, Wat Ket, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai
Contact details: +66 88 547 9786
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 6 PM
Website
Now, if you’re looking for something more advanced, C&P Big Bike Rental offers a wide selection of high-quality big bikes. These include models like the Honda CRF250L, Kawasaki Versys 650cc, and Suzuki V-Strom 650cc.
What’s nice about their bikes is that many are tailored to handle everything from city exploration to rugged mountain loops. And it’s reassuring that all bikes are regularly serviced and kept in top condition.
The best part? They offer clear briefings, route advice, and emergency support contacts. This sort of flexibility and responsiveness makes planning your trip less stressful, especially for first-time loop riders.
