Mae Hong Son is 900kms from Bangkok. There are no longer direct flights between the two locations and the city of Chiang Mai is now the main gateway to Mae Hong Son. Kan Air flies to Mae Hong Son two or three times each day. The trip takes 35 minutes.
Compared with the same journey by bus, air fares are expensive and deny passengers the chance of taking in the astounding landscapes en route. By road, travellers have the option of two different bus routes to Mae Hong Son.
Both follow the so-called Mae Hong Son loop, but in different directions. The easier route travels west from Chiang Mai on Highway 108 to Mae Sot, Khun Yuam and then Mae Hong Son. The eastern arm of the loop goes via Pai. The bends on the road from Pai to Mae Hong Son have to be seen to be believed.
The distances and travel times on both route options are similar. Buses and minibuses for each route depart from Chiang Mai’s Arcade Bus Station. Opting for a VIP service provides more legroom, decent air-conditioning, an onboard toilet and complimentary water and snacks.
Travel options to Mae Hong Son
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The town of Mae Hong Son lies in a valley created by the Shan Hills close to Thailand’s northwest frontier with Myanmar. It attracts with its time-honoured heritage and glimpses of a time long gone. The town itself is centred around the picturesque Jong Kham Lake. The stupas of two of the town’s impressive portfolio of temples provide a unique backdrop to the lake.