Exploring the Tranquil Beauty of Mae Hong Son

Day 3: Caves, Carp, and Community Crafts

Today was a day of exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of Mae Hong Son. Hans and I ventured into caves filled with fascinating fish, supported local artisans, and indulged in the delicious flavors of Northern Thailand. It was a day that truly embodied the spirit of sustainable travel and cultural immersion that we cherish.

Our first stop was Tham Pla, also known as the Fish Cave. The drive there was beautiful, with winding roads offering glimpses of the lush, mountainous landscape. I couldn't help but think how different this was from cycling through Berlin's parks, yet both experiences fill me with a similar sense of peace and connection to nature. At the entrance, we paid the park fee – a modest sum that also granted us access to other attractions within the Tham Pla-Namtok Pha Suea National Park. As we walked along the 450-meter path leading to the cave, the sound of the stream grew louder, building anticipation for what we were about to see.

Crossing the suspension bridge added a touch of adventure. When we reached the cave, we were greeted by an incredible sight: hundreds of Soro Brook Carp, also known as Pla Mung, swimming in the clear waters. These fish, some growing up to a meter long, are considered sacred by the locals. A nearby Hindu statue of a rishi, Nara, is believed to protect them. It was fascinating to learn that these fish are unique to this region and are not typically eaten due to toxins they produce. Hans, ever the curious one, was particularly intrigued by the geological formations of the cave itself. We bought some fruit and vegetables at the park entrance and enjoyed feeding these amazing creatures. It felt good to participate in a local tradition and contribute to the well-being of these revered fish. The area was well-maintained, with trees and grassy areas providing a pleasant environment for visitors.


Explore Tham Pla, the mystical Fish Cave in Mae Hong Son, where sacred fish swim in clear waters surrounded by nature's beauty.

Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

After immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of Tham Pla, we decided to explore the local crafts scene. Our next stop was the WEAVE office and showroom in Mae Hong Son. WEAVE, which stands for Women’s Education for Advancement and Empowerment, is an organization dedicated to supporting marginalized women from various ethnic groups by providing them with fair and sustainable income opportunities. As someone who values social responsibility, I was eager to see their work and support their mission. The showroom was a treasure trove of beautiful, handcrafted items. Intricately woven textiles, beautifully crafted accessories and other unique items filled the space. Each piece told a story of tradition and community. I was particularly drawn to a handwoven scarf with delicate patterns, a testament to the skill and artistry of the local women. We ended up buying several gifts for friends and family, knowing that our purchase would directly impact the lives of the artisans and their families. It was a much more meaningful experience than buying mass-produced souvenirs.


Discover unique Thai handicrafts and support local artisans at WEAVE office and showroom in Mae Hong Son, a must-visit gift shop for conscious travelers.
For lunch, we headed to Carrot On The Moon, a charming little cafe in Pai. Although it was a bit of a drive, we decided to visit it anyway. We had heard about their delicious homemade pasta and baked goods, and I was excited to try their offerings. The cafe had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and we immediately felt at home. It was also home to many cute cats, which as a cat lover, I thoroughly enjoyed. I enjoyed a plate of perfectly cooked pasta with fresh, local ingredients, while Hans opted for a hearty sandwich. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures.


Discover Carrot On The Moon: A charming café in Pai offering delightful breakfasts, artisanal cakes, and an inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring the culinary scene of Mae Hong Son. We started with a visit to Two Sisters Restaurant for lunch. Nestled in the hills of Pai District, this restaurant is known for its blend of Thai and Myanmar cuisines. The owners were incredibly welcoming, and we immediately felt at home. We savored flavorful Thai and Burmese dishes, accompanied by excellent teas. The Khao Soi Dtai noodles and Geng Nua curry stew were particularly outstanding. The restaurant also offered vegetarian options, including a pickled tea leaf salad, which I found to be a delightful and refreshing experience. The combination of excellent service, stunning vistas, and delicious food made it a truly memorable experience.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Two Sisters Restaurant in Pai—where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality in a charming setting.
As evening approached, we made our way to Huan Khan Tok for dinner. This restaurant offers an authentic Northern Thai dining experience, where guests sit on mon khwan floors with cozy pillows around a low table. There isn't a traditional menu; instead, they serve a set of small dishes to sample. We enjoyed Northern-style curry, chili dips with vegetables, pork cracklings, and Thai spicy sausage. The flavors were bold and spicy, a true representation of the region's cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff was incredibly friendly. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Thai flavors amidst stunning landscapes at Huan Khan Tok, Pai's beloved dining destination.
Tomorrow, we plan to continue our journey with a visit to the Zu Tong Tae Bridge and Namtok Mae Surin National Park. I am particularly excited about the bridge, as I have heard it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. We also plan to visit Almost Famous bar in the evening. I am eager to see what other hidden gems Mae Hong Son has in store for us. It's moments like these, discovering hidden gems and connecting with local culture, that make travel so enriching. And knowing that we're doing it in a way that supports sustainability and local communities makes it all the more rewarding. I am so grateful for this experience with Hans, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.