Help Needed for Mae Hong Son Loop Trip !
 

Hi experienced travelers,

We’re planning to visit Northern Thailand in early coming November for 8 days. As nature lovers, we’ve decided to take the Mae Hong Son loop. However, we have a concern: only one of us has experience driving on windy, narrow roads. We plan to drive clockwise, starting and ending the loop in Chiang Mai.

Our itinerary includes 1 night in Doi Inthanon, 1 night in Mae Sariang, 1 night in Mae Hong Son, and 1 night in Ban Rak Thai. We’ve decided to skip Pai. The drive from Ban Rak Thai back to Chiang Mai will be long, so we’re wondering if there are any recommended stops along the way.

Any comments on our tentative itinerary would be greatly appreciated!

We have done the Mai Hong Sorn Loop several times . It is one of our favourite drives in Asia. We have always gone in the opposite direction (anti-clockwise) . Usually Chiang Mai - Soppong -Mai Sariang - Mai Hong Sorn and then back to CM via Doc Inthanon (the only place in Thailand I have ever been cold!).

I think you are wise to avoid Mai. The last time there it was getting overrun with tourist. The year our nieces were there as part of their gap year and the photos they posted on instagram confirmed my worst fears!

Yes the roads are winding but they are good roads and there is little traffic. Just watch out for the trucks driving on the wrong side of the road. Driving standards in Thailand are appalling everywhere . Truck drivers seem to operate on amphetamines so are a particular hazard. Overall it is a pleasant drive.

One night stays are a PITA but fortunately this trip is mostly about the journey between the destinations. If you could afford extra time anywhere, I would recommend Mai Hong Sorn itself which has a terrific night market and some opportunities for getting out into the minority people villages and even and overnight stay. Fern Resort is a community based toruisn=m initiative and a great place to stay.

Have fun its a great trip.

Thank you crellstan for you valuable feedback. May I know how many days you spent for your Mae Hong loop?

You are very welcome. The last time we went I think we spent around six of seven days on the loop itself. You could do it quicker, perhaps as little as three days (four nights) but it would be a shame to rush it. Early November should see the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the cool dry season but do check the current weather conditions as I know that there was severe flooding in Chiang Mai just a week or so ago.

I did write a trip report about our time on the MHS loop which has a lot more information, some of which may be helpful. Here is the link https://www.fodors.com/community/asi...ailand-917538/

Thank you, Crellston, for your feedback! I apologize for the delay in my response; I've been busy with my schedule.