Mae Sai - แม่สาย

Phaholyothin Road, Wiang Phang Kham, Chiang Rai 57130, Thailand

Mae Sai is the northernmost town in Thailand and at first might look like a huge outdoor market. However, this town provides an ideal base for discovering the mysterious Golden Triangle, Mae Salong, and Doi Tung. In addition, its location across from Burma makes Mae Sai a stepping-off destination for those travellers wanting to explore some of the Shan States’ more remote regions.
The bus station of Mae Sai is about eight kilometres away from the immigration office. From Chiang Rai, ordinary as well as air-conditioned buses to Mae Sai depart frequently, a journey of an hour and a half. From Chiang Mai, first class, ordinary and VIP buses depart daily, taking about three hours. There’s a ‘bus stop’ sign at Phahonyothin road, soi 8. From here blue songthaews follow daily routes to Sop Ruak and Chiang Sean (Golden Triangle) every 40 minutes.
The one-street town of Mae Sai is rather overlooked. Most travellers just pass through on their way to the border with Myanmar for new visas. However, for those wishing to explore an original border community there are plenty things to see for them. There is also a good selection of places to eat and a number of accommodation options.
About 12 kilometres from Mae Sai are the Tam Pla caves, a worthwhile excursion. Don’t forget to bring a torch as there’s no electric lighting here. Also about the same distance away is the fish cave.

The impressive Phra That Wai Dao temple has been constructed on a hill. Tourists can reach the temple by climbing the steep stairs. From here there’s a nice view over Mae Sai and the Burmese border town of Tachilek.

Renting a motorcycle and making a tour through the mountainous area is a great experience. Just before the border, a road turns off to the left; this route is one of Thailand’s most panoramic, but care needs to be taken on the twisting road.