About Chiang Mai
/ Chiang Rai / Mae Hong Son

MAE HONG SON is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain
ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world.
Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, the name refers
to the fact that is terrain is highly suitable for the training
of elephants.
Former governors of Chiang Mai used to organise the rounding up
of wild elephants which were then trained before being sent to the
capital for work. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the dream destinations
for visitors. Daily flights into its small airport bring growing
numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous
hilltribe communities and soft adventure opportunities.
The Thai Yai can be seen along the northern border with Myanmar.
They may at one time have been the most numerous of the ethnic Thai
tribes that stretch across Southeast Asia. A large group settled
in Mae Hong Son.