5 Must-Visit Attractions in Mae Hong Son for New Year Check-Ins
- For those preparing travel plans within the country for the upcoming New Year, today TerraBKK will introduce a province with interesting tourist attractions during the winter season. Importantly, you can use travel expenses in designated secondary tourist provinces as tax deductions, with actual expenses up to 15,000 baht. This applies to travel within the 55 provinces declared as secondary tourist areas from January 1 to December 31, 2018, covering expenses for tour guide services (tour packages), accommodation in hotels, resorts, or homestays.
This province is Mae Hong Son, surrounded by mountains, ready to welcome visitors to experience nature and capture beautiful photographs as lasting memories.
Bua Tong Flower Field, Doi Mae U Kho
The Bua Tong Flower Field at Doi Mae U Kho spans approximately 1,000 rai, managed by the High Forest Development Project, Unit 5, Watershed Conservation Division. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery and the vibrant yellow Bua Tong flowers that bloom only once a year. There are pavilions at various points where tourists can admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the blooming flower fields.
Gong Lan Canyon, Pai
Gong Lan, or Pai Canyon, is another natural wonder known for its beauty. This area is about 7 km from Pai along the Pai - Mae Malai route. The name Gong Lan comes from the local language, where 'Gong' means road and 'Lan' refers to a monitor lizard. Together, Gong Lan signifies a narrow path used by lizards. This natural attraction formed from soil subsidence and erosion by wind and rain has created a narrow trail along the ridge amidst a complex of mountains, resembling the famous 'Ghost Town' in Phrae. Visitors can explore the circular path and enjoy 360-degree views, making it a top highlight for watching the sunrise and sunset in one spot. It is also a filming location for the movie 'Pai in Love,' with a sign for tourists to take memorable photos.
Sutongpe Bridge, the Bamboo Bridge of Faith
Sutongpe Bridge derives its name from the combined efforts of monks, novices, local villagers, and various faith groups who built it to facilitate travel for monks from the Phu Saman meditation center and local residents. It is believed that if you stand in the middle of the bridge and make a wish, it will come true. This is the longest bamboo bridge in Thailand, leading to the temple housing the 'Luang Por Sutongpe,' a golden Buddha statue in Burmese style. Visitors can buy flowers, incense, and candles for offerings.
With its classic beauty and unique charm, the bridge stretches across rice fields surrounded by hills and mist, illuminated by the morning sun. The sight of tourists waiting to offer alms creates a captivating morning scene that many wish to experience at least once. During the rainy season from September to late October, the fields are lush and green, while from early to mid-November, during the transition from rainy to cool season, the rice turns golden yellow.
Historical Pai Bridge
Located along Highway 1095 at kilometer 88, just before entering Pai town, this bridge serves as a gateway to the district. Built during World War II by Japanese troops to cross the Pai River and transport supplies and weapons into Burma, the bridge remains a historical landmark. After the war, the original wooden bridge was burned down and replaced with a steel bridge from the Nawarat Bridge in Chiang Mai. The Historical Pai Bridge continues to attract tourists who visit Pai, as it is a must-see landmark for walking and taking photos, with various souvenir shops nearby.
Pang Ung
Pang Ung is a project initiated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej to improve the livelihoods of minority groups in the area and to restore and preserve nature sustainably. This tourist destination in Mae Hong Son is often referred to as the 'Switzerland of Thailand.' The beauty of the tall pine trees surrounding the tranquil reservoir and the cool climate year-round makes it a perfect getaway.
At Pang Ung, besides enjoying the morning mist, another must-do activity is taking a raft to admire the scenery and surroundings, including viewing the royal swans gifted by Her Majesty the Queen, which consist of one pair each of black and white swans.
Thank you for the information: Tourism Authority of Thailand