Exploring the Tranquil Beauty of Mae Hong Son

Finding Serenity in Mae Hong Son

Today was a day of exploration and immersion into the natural and cultural beauty of Mae Hong Son. It’s amazing how much this region has to offer, from stunning natural landscapes to unique cultural landmarks. Hans and I really dove into what makes this place special, and I can't wait to share our experiences with you all. It's days like these that remind me why we chose to leave Berlin for a bit, to experience the world and find those hidden gems that make a trip truly unforgettable.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at LEMON THYME BACKYARD. I had heard wonderful things about their chai tea, and it did not disappoint. There was a slight change to the shakshouka recipe, but it was still delicious. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. Hans enjoyed a hearty breakfast set, and we both appreciated the cozy, laid-back atmosphere of the café. It reminded us of some of our favorite spots back in Berlin, where the vibe is just as important as the food.


Discover fresh flavors and serene surroundings at Lemon Thyme Backyard in Pai – where every meal is crafted with care.

Next on our itinerary was the Zu Tong Tae Bridge. Known as the longest bamboo bridge in Thailand, it stretches across vast rice paddies, offering a unique and serene experience. The bridge connects the temple monks with the local villagers. As we walked across, the view of the golden fields was breathtaking. It felt like stepping into a painting, with the vibrant colors of nature surrounding us. The gentle creaking of the bamboo beneath our feet added to the charm, and we took our time, soaking in the peaceful rural landscape. Apparently, locals believe that if you walk along the bridge and make a wish, it will come true. I made a wish for continued safe and fulfilling travels for Hans and me.


Explore the enchanting Zu Tong Tae Bridge in Mae Hong Son, where nature's beauty meets cultural heritage amidst lush green rice fields.

Sometimes, the most beautiful experiences are found in the simplest of places.

After our serene walk, we headed to Namtok Mae Surin National Park. Covering nearly 400 square kilometers, the park is home to one of the tallest single-tier waterfalls in the country. We decided to explore the Huai Mae Sakut Nature Trail, a 1.8 km interpretive trail with 17 learning stations about local ecology. The trail led us to the Mae Sakut and Kuet Luang waterfalls, each offering its own unique charm. The park is home to tigers, civets, bears and wild boars. The hike was invigorating, and the information provided at each station was fascinating. It’s wonderful to see such efforts being made to educate visitors about the importance of preserving these natural ecosystems. We also learned about the Karen culture at Ban Huay Hee, with its weaving workshops.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Namtok Mae Surin National Park, a must-visit destination in Mae Hong Son, Thailand.

By lunchtime, we were both quite hungry, so we drove to Kai Mook Restaurant. This charming wooden space had a cozy atmosphere. I ordered one of the Thai classics with Shan influences, while Hans opted for a western dish. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive. It was a great spot to relax and refuel after our morning adventures. The portions were huge, and the prices were unbelievably low for the quality and experience.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Kai Mook Restaurant in Mae Hong Son - a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.

As evening approached, we made our way back towards town, stopping for dinner at Baan Song Thai Restaurant. This hidden gem offered not only delicious food but also a charming and relaxing experience surrounded by greenery. The restaurant is in a traditional Ayutthaya style structure. We tried some Northern and Southern Thai specialties, including Khao Soi. The peaceful ambiance, with its waterfall and beautiful plants, made it the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. The extensive menu, filled with authentic Thai specialties, made it hard to choose, but we were both extremely happy with our selections.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Baan Song Thai Restaurant in Mae Hong Son - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

To cap off the night, we decided to check out Almost Famous, a bar known for its funky atmosphere. While Mae Hong Son is generally quiet, it was nice to find a place with some energy. They offer a wide range of gin and mojito flavors. We enjoyed a couple of drinks, chatted with some fellow travelers, and soaked in the lively vibe. It was a fun way to end a day filled with exploration and cultural immersion.


Discover Almost Famous, Pai's vibrant cocktail bar offering unique drinks and a lively atmosphere, perfect for an unforgettable night out.

As we head back to our accommodation, we reflected on the day. Mae Hong Son has a certain charm that’s hard to describe. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the stresses of modern life and reconnect with nature and culture. The blend of stunning landscapes, delicious food, and friendly locals makes it a destination that will stay with us for a long time. I am looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit the Pha Bong Hot Spring and Mae Nam Yuang Waterfall. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Siam Books.

For those planning a trip to Mae Hong Son, I highly recommend setting aside at least a few days to explore all that this region has to offer. From the iconic Zu Tong Tae Bridge to the serene Namtok Mae Surin National Park, and the delicious Northern Thai flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And who knows, you might just make a wish on that bamboo bridge that comes true!

I'm so glad we decided to come here, and I can't wait to see what other adventures await us in the days to come.