A Scenic Road Trip
Chiang Mai - Mae Hong Son
MAGAZINE
DRIVING ROUTE
Embark on one of Northern Thailand's most iconic road trips, weaving through the majestic mountains and valleys from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son. This scenic circular route, renowned for its over 1,000 hairpin bends, is a must-do, especially during the cool winter months.
Starting from the bustling city of Chiang Mai, travelers are led through charming towns, rich cultural landmarks, and stunning natural vistas, all while breathing in crisp mountain air. The journey offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, as you meander through lush forests, misty mornings, and remote hill tribe villages.
Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a casual traveler looking for an unforgettable experience, this route is ideal for those seeking an immersive encounter with Northern Thailand’s beauty. With each curve in the road, you'll be rewarded with picturesque landscapes, unique cultural encounters, and the charm of serene, slow-paced towns. The road trip forms a loop, allowing for a complete exploration of the region, with Chiang Mai as both the start and end points.
As you wind your way through the mountains, you’ll pass through must-visit stops, each with its own unique appeal. Whether it's waking up to the misty views at Huai Nam Dang National Park, experiencing the artistic flair of Pai, or marveling at the sea of Mexican sunflowers at Mae U-Kho, this route promises both thrill and tranquility in equal measure.
Huai Nam Dang National Park
Situated on the Chiang Mai-Mae Hong Son border, Huai Nam Dang National Park is a breathtaking stop on this route. Known for its panoramic viewpoints, this park offers one of the best sunrise vistas in the region, where you can see Doi Luang Chiang Dao piercing through a sea of mist.
Pai Town
Pai, a small mountain town nestled between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son, has become a haven for backpackers and travelers seeking both adventure and peace. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, rice fields, and picturesque rivers, offering a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Tham Nam Lod Cave
For a touch of adventure, Tham Nam Lod Cave in Pang Mapha provides an experience like no other. To enter the cave, you’ll need to embark on a bamboo raft that drifts into the cavern’s mouth, a journey filled with a sense of mystery and awe.
Ban Ja Bo
A hidden gem on the road to Mae Hong Son, Ban Ja Bo is a small hill tribe village that offers authentic homestay experiences. Perched high in the mountains, the village boasts some of the most dramatic views in the region, with homestays overlooking rolling hills covered in morning mist.
Wat Chong Kham, Mae Hong Son City
Located in the heart of Mae Hong Son, Wat Chong Kham is a beautiful example of Tai Yai architecture. Situated next to a scenic lake, the temple’s reflection in the water adds to its allure, particularly at dusk when the area comes alive with bustling markets and local activity.
Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu
High above Mae Hong Son, Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is perched atop a hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the city below. This ancient temple is an important pilgrimage site for locals, and its white stupas stand as a symbol of faith and peace.
Pang Ung
Pang Ung is a serene mountain lake surrounded by pine forests. Early in the morning, a delicate mist floats over the water, creating a fairytale-like scene. The area is a peaceful retreat for those looking to camp or simply relax by the lake. Its calm beauty, combined with the cool, refreshing air, makes it an ideal spot for travelers looking to connect with nature.
Ban Rak Thai
Close to the Myanmar border, Ban Rak Thai is a Chinese tea village known for its Yunnanese heritage. The village’s Chinese-inspired architecture, along with its scenic lakeside location, transports you to another world. Visitors can enjoy traditional Chinese cuisine and tea-tasting sessions, while the morning mist rising from the lake creates a peaceful, almost dreamlike atmosphere.
Mae U-Kho Sunflower Fields
If you’re visiting in November, don’t miss the Mae U-Kho sunflower fields, where hillsides are covered in vibrant yellow blooms. These Mexican sunflowers create a mesmerizing contrast against the blue sky, and their vast spread across the rolling landscape makes for an impressive sight.
Mae Chaem Rice Terraces
As you begin the return leg of your journey, the town of Mae Chaem offers a peaceful retreat with its picturesque rice terraces. Nestled in the valley below Doi Inthanon, these terraces are especially beautiful during the planting and harvesting seasons, when the fields turn into a patchwork of green and gold.
Doi Inthanon National Park
No Chiang Mai-Mae Hong Son road trip would be complete without a stop at Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak. Known as the "Roof of Thailand," Doi Inthanon is home to lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning views.