Mae Sariang

Mae Sariang is a quiet town on Route 108 in southern Mae Hong Son Province, near the Myanmar border. It is growing in popularity among travellers who want to escape the crowds of Pai and Chiang Mai while still experiencing the lush mountain scenery, authentic hill-tribe culture, and relaxed riverside atmosphere of northern Thailand. The town lies along the Yuam River and serves as a gateway to remote Karen, Lawa, and Hmong villages.

Mae Sariang has a slower pace than its northern neighbours. Most visitors come for the genuine hill-tribe trekking experiences — far less commercialised than those in Pai or Chiang Mai — and for the surrounding natural beauty of hot springs, waterfalls, and border scenery. The cool season (November to February) offers the most comfortable weather, while the rainy season (June to October) makes the surrounding countryside lush and dramatic.

By Plane

The nearest airport with scheduled service is Mae Hong Son Airport (HGN), about 150 km north. For more flight options, fly to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), 195 km northeast.

By Train

The nearest train station is in Chiang Mai. From Bangkok, take an overnight sleeper train to Chiang Mai, then a bus or minivan to Mae Sariang.

By Car / Road

From Chiang Mai take Route 108 southwest (195 km, 2.5 hours). From Mae Sot take Route 105 north (240 km). From Mae Hong Son take Route 108 south (150 km, 4 hours). Five minivans daily run from Chiang Mai's Arcade Bus Station (09:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 17:00; 3.5 hours, 200 baht). Public buses from Mae Hong Son cost 150 baht. Regular orange songthaews run from Mae Sot (5–6 hours, 200 baht). Book minivans through Prempracha Company online or at 7-Eleven.

Mae Sariang is small and walkable. Bicycles can be rented from local guesthouses for around 50 baht/day, and motorbikes for about 200 baht/day. For longer journeys into the hills, ask your guesthouse to arrange a car and driver.

• Mae Sariang Museum — At the intersection of Highway 108 and Highway 105. A traditional Thai Yai wooden building housing One Tambon One Product (OTOP) displays and exhibits on the lives of Lua, Thai Yai, Karen, Lawa, and Hmong peoples. Also has tourist information for the province.

• Phra That Sii Chom — A collection of four ancient holy sites (the "Four Chom" reliquaries) around Mae Sariang where locals pay respects for good fortune.

• Hot Springs — About 18 km east on Highway 108, then 15 km along a dirt track. A remote, undeveloped hot spring with basic snacks and friendly locals.

• Hill-Tribe Village Visits — Mae Sariang is one of the best areas in Thailand for authentic hill-tribe encounters. Hire a local guide to visit Karen, Lawa, Lua, and Hmong villages in the surrounding mountains.

• Trekking — Multi-day treks through the Dawna Range, overnighting in hill-tribe villages. Far fewer tourists than Pai, making for a much more genuine experience.

• Mae Sam Laeb — An hour away by songthaew or motorbike. A border village overlooking Burma and the Salween River, home to Thai, Karen, and Burmese communities. 600 baht gets a one-hour boat trip on the Salween.

• Muay Thai Lessons — 3 km north of the centre, near Rte 108, +66 85 7126422. Former Thai boxer Meopar offers one-on-one sessions in his garden (200 baht/hour).

• Inthira — The largest and most popular restaurant in Mae Sariang. Large portions of Thai food, great red curry and tom yum gung. Laid-back atmosphere.
• Sawadee — Overlooks the river. Excellent Thai food, Beer Lao for 80 baht a bottle, and a good American breakfast. Try the Isaan-style som tam.
• Tukki's Riverside Restaurant — Across the Yuam River bridge at the south end of town. Great Thai food with the best river view in Mae Sariang. Has a pool table and expanded menu.

• Sawadee — The place for Beer Lao while watching the river.
• Northwest Guesthouse Bar — A lovely bar attached to the popular guesthouse. Friendly atmosphere.

• Budget: Northwest Guesthouse, 81 Moo 12 Bankad. Double fan room 250 baht, double A/C with bathroom 400 baht. Lovely riverside guesthouse run by a welcoming Thai couple. Also offers great multi-day tours.
• Mid-range: Riverhouse Hotel, 77 Langpanich Rd, +66 53 621201. Rooms with river-view balconies, hot showers, A/C, and free Wi-Fi (900–2,800 baht).

The Mae Sariang Museum shop sells OTOP handicrafts. Local markets offer Shan and Karen woven textiles, silverware, and fresh produce. For Muay Thai gear and local snacks, small shops line the main road.

• Mae Hong Son (150 km north via Rte 108) — The provincial capital with its lake, temples, and the Mae Hong Son Loop.
• Mae Sot (240 km south via Rte 105) — A border town with Myanmar, known for its markets and the Friendship Bridge.
• Pai (via the loop) — Backpacker hub with hot springs, waterfalls, and canyon views.
• Chiang Mai (195 km northeast via Rte 108) — Northern Thailand's cultural and culinary capital.
• Khun Yuam (90 km north) — A small town on the loop with local eateries and the Yoont B&B.