Wondering what it’s prefer to trip the Mae Hong Son Loop in Thailand? In this text, I’m going to stroll you thru our prime suggestions to take action.
After per week of partying in Chiang Mai for the Songkran Water Festival, my buddy requested “so what are your plans now?”
Luckily, once I was divulging my plans-or the shortage of them fairly, I met somebody who stated, “Man if you like motorbikes don’t miss riding the Mae Hong Son loop”.
I rapidly realized that the Mae Hong Son loop in Thailand, was a 3 to 4 day loop (you possibly can even stretch it out for per week!), that went from Chiang Mai by way of the Mae Hong Son province.
This 600-kilometer route winds by way of mountain passes, dense forests, and tiny hill tribe villages, providing awe-inspiring views at each flip.
Whether you’re an skilled biker or just in search of a singular solution to discover the Northern Thai area, the Mae Hong Son Loop is an unforgettable expertise. As you trip alongside the loop, you’ll come throughout cascading waterfalls, therapeutic sizzling springs, and historical temples.
Moreover, you’ll have the chance to fulfill and work together with pleasant locals who’re wanting to share their traditions and customs with you.
However, it’s necessary to notice that the highway circumstances will be difficult, and the climate will be unpredictable. Therefore, you have to be ready and take your time to benefit from the journey to the fullest.
Whilst you are able to do this journey on a automotive or by way of an organized tour, there after which, I made a decision to hire a bike from Chiang Mai, satisfied that the subsequent few days was going to be superior.
Mae Hong Son Loop by Car or Motorcycle?
You can journey the Mae Hong Son Loop by both an organized tour, renting a automotive, or a bike. To these of you who’ve learn just a few of our articles, you’ll know that exploring by bike is our best choice for seeing a spot.
This article has info on the routes that we took however regardless when you’re doing it by bike or automotive, the routes nonetheless apply.
There are loads of automotive rental choices throughout Chiang Mai. Just be sure you have a correct automotive driving licence.
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Motorcycle for the Mae Hong Son Loop
Motorcycle Rental in Thailand
There can be a whole lot of motorbike rental outlets able to give you a motorbike for the journey as much as Northern Thailand.
You don’t want a bike license however might want to current your passport. Some would possibly even ask to maintain your passport as a deposit. Before you go anyplace close to the outlets, determine on what sort of bike you wish to hire. Here are just a few suggestions when renting a motorbike:
- Don’t go away your passport. Instead, attempt to go away a photocopy or a deposit of it when you can. (Larger outlets would require you to take action which is comprehensible in case you are planning on renting a bigger bike.)
- If you might be renting the bike for a few days, haggle for a less expensive value!
- Don’t neglect to examine the bike condition-take pictures and movies of it to make sure. Thai individuals take bike damages significantly.
Read: Incredibly Useful Tips when Renting a Motorcycle in Thailand
Disclaimer: Although you possibly can hire a bike with out a correct license, we advocate that you simply do that journey solely in case you are an skilled rider. Also, be sure you have correct journey insurance coverage.
First timer/ Beginner Rider
Opt for a 125cc computerized scooter. A easy twist and go bike can be simple so that you can be taught and get used to. It will even do the job and is more likely to take you across the Mae Hong Soon loop with none mechanic issues.
Price Range: 350-400 baht per day
Amateur Rider
Rode a motorbike just a few instances – Opt for a semi-automatic bike. A bit extra energy and management over the automated scooter. Also extra enjoyable as you get to vary gears and take the corners quicker.
Price Range: Around 600 baht per day
Experienced Rider
Opt for a 200-600cc Manual Motorcycle. This alternative will primarily come all the way down to your funds. The larger the engine, the upper the associated fee and it goes up rapidly. I don’t need to inform you that this feature will deliver you probably the most enjoyable. If you might be an skilled rider, suck up the additional price and go for it. You received’t remorse it!
Price Range: Around 800-2,500 baht per day, relying on the mannequin (200cc)
My Motorcycle Choice for the Mae Hong Son Loop
Since shifting to Chiang Mai, we’ve scoured the place for one of the best rental choices and one firm that stood out was Tony’s Big Bikes. This store was professionally run by two British expats who’re riders themselves.
Their love for using the superior trails right here in Thailand is what introduced them to the nation within the first place! We lately rented an enormous bike from them (Honda CB300F Street Bike) and was more than pleased zooming alongside all of the curves on the highway as much as Pai.
Their bikes have been nicely maintained and have been in tip prime situation. We have been additionally capable of hire air circulate armored mesh jackets which was an enormous plus for us since renting an enormous bike.
For extra data on Tony’s Big Bikes, you possibly can take a look at: Website | Contact
When I first did the loop, I rode a semi-automatic however wished I had gone for no less than a 200cc. With that being stated, the semi-automatic did its job and stayed with me for round per week.
It had no issues and I managed to take my backpack on the again with me as nicely. The second time I did the loop, I rented a bigger bike and had the time of my life!
Cruising down these roads on an enormous bike was superior!
Read: Thailand Packing List
Mae Hong Son Loop Route Options
For the Mae Hong Son Loop, you might have just a few choices as you make your solution to Northern Thailand. You can both do it in a counter-clockwise course taking route 107 north heading to Pai. This journey is usually a bit difficult because the highway from Chiang Mai to Pai alone has 762 turns.
For much less skilled riders, you possibly can construct your confidence using counter clockwise in direction of route 108 and heading to Mae Sariang first.
There are a great deal of facet journeys to take, relying on how a lot time you might have. We advocate doing Chiang Mai in direction of Mae Sariang as after just a few days of continuous using, it would be best to sit back and calm down in Pai for a few days.
Listed under are 2 choices on the best way to do the loop.
Chiang Mai – Doi Inthanon – Mae Sariang – Mae Hong Son – Pai – Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai – Pai – Mae Hong Son – Mae Sariang – Doi Inthanon – Chiang Mai
My Mae Hong Son Loop Experience
To date, I’ve accomplished the Mae Hong Son Loop twice now, making an attempt out the 2 routes I’ve outlined. The first time I did it, I rented a motorbike in Pai and returned it to the sister store in Chiang Mai a few days after.
The second time I did it, we rented a big bike and drove from Chiang Mai across the loop in 4 days.
You can choose to increase this journey by nevertheless lengthy you need as there are at all times a great deal of issues to do in every of the cities you find yourself going to. Our advice is to dam off no less than 3-4 days.
Chiang Mai to Mae Sariang
Mae Sariang is a brilliant cute city nestled within the stunning valley of the Yuam River in Mae Hong Son province, northern Thailand. It’s obtained a chilled-out vibe, pleasant locals, and a few significantly beautiful views.
Whether you’re making an attempt to flee the chaos of the town or simply in search of a laid-back getaway, Mae Sariang is the proper spot to unwind and take it simple. With the river flowing by, the temples dotted round city, and the mountains looming within the distance, it’s simple to get misplaced within the city’s pure magnificence.
Plus, you may get a style of the native hill tribe tradition and discover some significantly cool wilderness spots whilst you’re right here.
It took us round 3 hours to succeed in the sleepy village of Mae Sariang. If you might be in no rush, there may be meant to be implausible trekking and rafting within the space. We stayed in a small guesthouse and woke as much as a lovely riverside view.
The city itself is fairly small with one attention-grabbing evening market which is in full swing throughout Sundays. The evening market gives a lot of native dishes and attention-grabbing road meals.
Inside Tip: Take the time to see Doi Inthanon, which is the best mountain in Thailand. You can trip all the best way to the highest permitting you to see a spectacular view of Thailand. We lately spent a weekend tenting there and the views alongside was extremely value it!
The Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail can also be one thing we advocate doing because the views are completely unbelievable. You can learn extra about our tenting expertise in addition to all the required park charges to enter Doi Inthanon.
Things to do in Mae Sariang:
- Visit Wat Chomchaeng Temple – take the winding stairs as much as the temple for views of the city however bear in mind to decorate appropriately (cowl your knees and shoulders).
- Stroll Around the Markets – You could come throughout each day markets or particular celebrations while you’re there.
- Visit the Karen Lahwi tribe close to the border of Myanmar – admire the tradition of the long-neck ladies of the tribe who use their type of gown as their identification.
- If you might have time, go trekking within the Salawin National Park, rafting alongside the river, and seeing some Karen tribes. The treks listed here are stunning, distant, and spending just a few days stress-free by the riverside isn’t too dangerous as nicely.
- Grab a drink in Ching Ching Cafe, one of many coolest bars we’ve seen! The proprietor is tremendous beautiful and the entire vibe and ambiance of the place makes it a great place to seize a chilly beer earlier than calling it an evening.
Where to Stay in Mae Sariang:
- Budget: Good View Guesthouse
- Midrange: Tamarind Grand Resort Mae Sariang Booking.com
Splurge: River House Resort Booking.com
Mae Sariang to Mae Hong Son City
Mae Hong Son city is a brilliant cute and comfy little spot within the coronary heart of northern Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province. This city is full of historical past, with historical temples and monuments round each nook.
You’ll love strolling across the vibrant streets and testing the native markets, the place you could find every kind of attention-grabbing handicrafts and souvenirs. For a little bit of leisure, head to the close by sizzling springs for a soak, or take a refreshing dip in one of many city’s cool streams.
Mae Hong Son metropolis can also be the proper base for exploring the encircling countryside, with tons of wonderful pure points of interest inside simple attain. Whether you’re right here for the historical past, the tradition, or the beautiful surroundings, you’ll discover loads to like about Mae Hong Son city.
For us, today consisted of straight quick roads which allowed us to get to our subsequent cease Mae Sariang quicker than anticipated. Here, there may be the choice to go to the long-neck Karen tribe close to the border of Myanmar.
Mae Hong Son is a a lot bigger city than anticipated. From right here, it was round a 3-hour drive coupled with beautiful mountainous roads. The roads are in excellent circumstances, making them extremely pleasing and straightforward to navigate.
Things to do in Mae Hong Son
- Drive or trek up Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu – the oldest landmark within the Mae Hog Son province, this temple atop Kong Mu Hill has superb views of all the valley. This spot is especially widespread throughout sundown. There can also be a espresso store positioned on the prime with beautiful views of the mountains round you.
- Wat Chong Kham and Wat Chong Klang – Twin Burmese-style temples positioned in entrance of a lovely lake and are conveniently near the town heart.
- Lake Jong Kum – An ideal place to hunt shade, this small lake is totally surrounded by a pristine public park. The lake is surrounded by a meals market alongside with little tables the place you possibly can get pleasure from your freshly cooked meal. We advocate consuming by one of many lakeside distributors as you watch the temple’s reflection mild up the lake.
Where to Stay in Mae Hong Son:
Mae Hong Son to Pai
Pai is an superior little city tucked away within the northern mountains of Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province. It’s identified for its bohemian vibe, laid-back ambiance, and delightful pure environment.
If you’re into artsy cafes, funky bars, and stay music, Pai is the spot for you. You’ll discover every kind of cool outlets and galleries promoting native handicrafts and artwork, and loads of alternatives to get in contact along with your artistic facet.
And let’s not neglect in regards to the pure fantastic thing about Pai – there are waterfalls, sizzling springs, and beautiful mountain views in all places you look. With its distinctive vibe and breathtaking surroundings, Pai is a must-visit vacation spot for anybody seeking to expertise the magic of northern Thailand.
This part of the Mae Hong Son loop for me was the most effective elements of the journey because the mountains leaving Mae Hong Son are completely beautiful. On your solution to Pai, you can too go to the Lod Cave which is a cave which you’ll be able to discover on a bamboo raft because it had a stream working by way of it.
We lately visited the Lod caves and it was AMAZING! The entire place was completely stunning so a visit there may be nicely value your time.
Side Trip to Ban Rak Thai: Another facet journey you are able to do taking you off the common loop path is a go to to Ban Rak Thai, a small Chinese village close to the Thai-Burmese border. The roads are stunning and really rural, making it a great facet cease for lunch.
You can eat on the eating places by the reservoir which all serve implausible Chinese meals! The views are fairly stunning and a facet journey right here will add one other hour or so till you attain Pai.
As quickly as you get to Pai, you get a bungalow by the river, seize a chilly beer, and calm down in a hammock. Trust me, it’s one of the best issues to do! Pai is certainly one of my favourite locations in Northern Thailand and is a must-stop for vacationers.
Things to do in Pai
Watch the sundown within the Pai Grand Canyon- Head up in direction of the Pai canyon the place you possibly can watch the sundown together with different vacationers because it units amidst this beautiful canyon. The stillness of your environment, the quiet chatter of the individuals round you, and the treacherous 100ft drops of the canyon.
Go Visit the Waterfalls- The Mor Paeng Waterfall is without doubt one of the hottest locations in Pai. It is usually busy with each locals and vacationers.
If you wish to keep away from the crowds, head there early or hike a bit additional to the underside of the waterfalls. To these which might be in search of a extra adventurous hike, head on over to the Mae Yen Watterfalls which is a reasonably lengthy hike by way of the jungles of Pai
For extra info on what to do, take a look at our: Pai Travel Guide
Where to Stay in Pai:
For extra info on the place to remain in Pai: Check out our full publish Where to Stay in Pai.
Pai to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a tremendous metropolis in northern Thailand that has a bit one thing for everybody. If you’re in search of a cultural expertise, you’ll be blown away by the town’s historical temples and wealthy historical past.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the limitless road meals choices and the scrumptious native delicacies. And when you’re an journey seeker, you’ll discover loads of alternatives to get your adrenaline pumping – from zip-lining and white-water rafting to jungle trekking and mountaineering.
But what actually makes Chiang Mai particular is its heat and welcoming ambiance. The locals are a few of the friendliest individuals you’ll ever meet, and the town has a laid-back and relaxed vibe that’s infectious.
With a lot to see, do, and discover, Chiang Mai is a must-visit vacation spot for anybody touring to Thailand. We spent our time residing right here on and off over time and completely adore it.
After spending a few days in Pai (and belief me, you’ll wish to keep ceaselessly, it’s time to make your method again to Chiang Mai. Here, you’ll encounter the well-known curved roads with precisely 762 turns. The roads are stunning however simply be cautious of the minivans and buses alongside the best way.
Things to do/see in Chiang Mai
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – one of the vital picturesque temples within the Chiang Mai area, atop the Doi Suthep mountain.
- Sunday Night Walking Street or Saturday Night Markets – Wander the massive maze of market stalls sampling totally different meals and having fun with stay music.
- Cliff diving – head to the Hang Dong Rock Quarry to leap right into a turquoise inexperienced lagoon from heights as much as 12 metres!
- Watch a Muay Thai match – when you’re within the space when there’s a match on you would possibly take into account heading to the Kawila Boxing Stadium or Thapae Boxing Stadium to observe the spectacle.
- X-Centre – for journey and excessive sports activities, you must positively examine this place out!
To learn the total article on what to do in Chiang Mai, learn: Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai:
For extra info on the place to remain, you possibly can learn our full article: Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Overall Mae Hong Son Loop Review
Overall, using the Mae Hong Son loop was nice. I’d positively advocate using for no less than 4 days If you’re a extra skilled rider with extra time in your arms, simply get a map and trip inland. There is masses to see and do!
The first time I did it we didn’t cowl an enormous distance as a consequence of our bikes and the truth that we underestimated the space that we needed to cowl (that’s my lack of planning exhibiting).
However, I’m glad I obtained to do it once more, spending extra time exploring the cities in between, having fun with the attractive surroundings, pleasant locals, and beautiful temples alongside the best way.
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