A Budget-Friendly Getaway Free Of Crowds Awaits At This Lush Thai Town

While everyone flocks to the crowded Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya, and Koh Phi Phi, a hidden gem awaits the savvier traveler. In the remote mountains of northern Thailand lies Mae Hong Son, a lush town that offers an idyllic escape from the rampant overtourism of more popular tourist destinations. With its stunning landscapes, unique cultural heritage, and tranquil atmosphere, Mae Hong Son is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a budget-friendly getaway free of crowds.

Mae Hong Son is the capital of the province that shares its name, and it is often referred to as "the city of three mists" due to the thick mist that covers it throughout the year. Nestled in a valley surrounded by lush jungle forests and towering mountains, the town exudes a peaceful vibe and a sense of calm that is hard to find elsewhere. The eponymous province has an interesting history; it was once part of the neighboring country Myanmar. In the 1800s, it was transferred to Thailand (then Siam) from Burma (Myanmar, today).

The town's laid-back pace is a welcome respite from the more frenetic energy of Thailand's hotspots. Mae Hong Son is local life, not tourist life. To get around, you'll want to rent a scooter (about 150 to 200 THB, or $6 for 24 hours) or a bicycle (50 THB, or $1.50 per day) — don't forget travel insurance, and please wear a helmet. If you're really adventurous, you can make your way to Mae Hong Son from the hippie-loving town of Pai (a must-visit destination in Thailand), which will take around four hours by car.

Mae Hong Son's natural, rural beauty is perhaps its greatest draw. The surrounding mountains, forests, and rivers offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Spend a day at Namtok Mae Surin National Park, home to Doi Pui (a 5,528-foot mountain), Mae Surin Waterfall (one of the tallest waterfalls in the country), and Nam Hu Hai Jai Cave (a cave that has water gushing from its walls). Want to chase more waterfalls? Mae Sakut Trail awaits. This 2.5-hour hike loops through 16 stops, like flower fields, viewpoints, and waterfalls. For something more leisurely, walk along the 1,640-foot-long Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge, a free attraction 7 miles outside Mae Hong Son. It links Kung Mai Saak, a small village, to Tong Pae temple across the rice fields, where monks receive alms in the early morning.

The town is also rich in cultural heritage, with a strong influence from neighboring Myanmar (Burma). You can see this influence in Mae Hong Son's architecture, particularly in its temples. Wat Chong Kham and Wat Chong Klang, located on the shores of Nong Chong Kham reservoir, are two of the most important temples in the area. Their distinctive Burmese-style architecture, with ornate wooden carvings and gilded decorations, features structures that aren't really found elsewhere in Thailand. It's best to visit these temples at sunset — thank us later. Another stunning sunset spot? Wat Phrathat Doi Kongmu. Perched atop a hill, this temple has two white Burmese-style pagodas built in 1860. The views from the top are simply stunning. Just remember to be cautious of the clothing you pack for your trip and bring appropriate temple attire. 

One of the most appealing aspects of Mae Hong Son for budget travelers is its affordability. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities here is significantly lower than in Thailand's more touristy areas. The town doesn't have typical backpacker "party" hostels, but it does offer comfortable, family-run guesthouses and boutique stays. Stays cost anywhere from $10 to $30 per night. To make the most of your visit to this underrated tourist destination in Asia, stay at least three nights and four days.

For food, eat your way through Mae Hong Son's night market. From pad thai and khao niaow (sticky rice) to khao soi (curry noodles), there are many northern Thai dishes to try. A typical dish costs around $1 (40 to 60 THB). Bai Fern, Pa Hom Noodles, and Coffee Morning are some popular cafés and restaurants worth checking out. To get to Mae Hong Son, you can motorbike, take a local bus from Chiang Mai (six-seven hour ride), Pai (three-hour ride), and Bangkok (15-hour ride), or fly. During the high season, there are limited flights departing from Bangkok.

On a final note, you may have heard of the "Long Neck Hill Tribes" of northern Thailand. Once popular tourist destinations, these villages are criticized for exploiting the Kayan, an ethnic group of refugees from Myanmar, like attractions in a "human zoo," with the entry fees allegedly going directly to the Thai government. Today, the Kayan community is working towards a more dignified life, but challenges persist, particularly around Thai citizenship. But, perhaps boycotting is not the answer; visiting a traditional, authentic village, like Huay Pu Keng in Mae Hong Son, can be a meaningful cultural exchange when approached with care and respect.