🚗 Tour in Freedom – In the Heart of the Mae Hong Son Region - Nomadays

Thailand

🚗 Tour in Freedom – In the Heart of the Mae Hong Son Region

Set off on an unforgettable journey through the landscapes, ethnic villages, and traditions of northern Thailand.

This self-drive tour takes you along mountain roads, valleys, and historic towns, between wild nature, cultural authenticity, and memorable human encounters.
Over the days, you will discover iconic sites such as Doi Inthanon National Park, the remote charms of Mae Sariang and Mae Hong Son, as well as the peaceful atmospheres of Pai and Chiang Dao. The stops at Thaton, Mae Salong, or...

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2h-109km
3h 25m-180km

Day 1🚗 Self-drive tour – On the road to the peaks!

Day 1🚗 Self-drive tour – On the road to the peaks!

  • This morning, meet at the car rental agency to pick up your vehicle at 8:00 a.m

  • Welcome to the winding roads of northern Thailand! Head towards the highest point in the country, perched at 2,565 meters, in Doi Inthanon National Park.

    • The two royal pagodas at the summit

    • The panoramic view over the tropical forests

  • On the way back, take time for a break at the majestic Wachirathan waterfall.

    A refreshing moment before the drive to Mae Sariang!

  • After lunch, head to the beautiful green city of Mae Sariang, on the border with Myanmar.

    Verdant rice fields, fast-flowing rivers, Karen tribe villages, herds of elephants roaming freely in Salawin Park… Mae Sariang is a hiker’s paradise.

    On the way, you can stop at Op Luang National Park

  • Check-in at Riverhouse Resort in a standard double room for 2 nights.

    📍 Google Maps

1h-40km
Doi Pui Co
1h 20m-48km
Mae La Noi
1h 30m-62km

Day 2🚗 Autotour – Détour Culturel & Panoramas

Day 2🚗 Autotour – Détour Culturel & Panoramas

  • Departure in the morning – Head towards Doi Pui Co, a peak overlooking the Sop Moei area.

    A hike awaits you!

    • Level: Moderate on trail

    • Reward: A panoramic view of the Burmese and Thai border mountain ranges.

  • After lunch, get back behind the wheel and head to the absolute tranquility of Mae La Noi, made up of three traditional hamlets perched in the heart of the mountains.

    Here, you will mainly encounter locals from the Shan, Lua, or Karen ethnic groups.

    A true opportunity for exchange, far from the tourist crowds.

  • After this day immersed in nature and culture, calmly drive back to your hotel in Mae Sariang.

    An evening of well-deserved rest to take in all these discoveries.

40m-35km
Tham Kaeo Komon Forest Park
1h 10m-60km
Wat Phrathat Doi Kong Mu
20m-20km

Day 3🚗 Self-drive tour – Discovering Mae Hong Son

Day 3🚗 Self-drive tour – Discovering Mae Hong Son

  • Start the day with a visit to this spectacular cave, nestled in the heart of the national park.

    This cave is known for its glittering calcite formations, unique in the region.

  • Head to Wat Phrathat Doi Kong Mu

    Perched on the heights of Mae Hong Son, this iconic temple offers an incredible panoramic view over the entire region.

    The two white pagodas are true treasures of Shan architecture.

  • The day ends with a visit to the “twin” temples Wat Chong Kham and Wat Chong Klang.

    These two temples, set on the shores of Chong Kham Lake, are true centers of life for the Thai Yai community.

  • Return to the heart of Mae Hong Son to discover small local shops, street markets, and typical mountain cuisine.

  • Check-in at Fern Resort for 2 nights.

    • 1 deluxe room with garden view (double bed)
1h 20m-60km
Ban Rak Thai
20m-20km
Zu Tong Tae Bridge
30m-32km

Day 4🚗 Self-drive tour – Ban Rak Thai

Day 4🚗 Self-drive tour – Ban Rak Thai

  • Drive to this charming Sino-Thai village nestled on the border with Myanmar.

    Famous for its terraced tea plantations, Ban Rak Thai offers a peaceful atmosphere, a unique culture, and fusion cuisine based on tea, pork, and mountain herbs.
    On the way back, stop at this cave known for its natural pools filled with sacred fish, which you can observe in a lush setting.
    Then head to this refreshing waterfall deep in the jungle.

    Accessible by car, it’s the perfect place to take a break, cool your feet, and take photos in a peaceful natural setting.

  • On the way, make a stop at Phu Klon. Discover one of only three places in the world where natural mineral mud of thermal origin is found.

    Phu Klon is renowned for its health and beauty treatments made from black mud rich in minerals.

  • Before returning to your hotel, a final crossing of the Su Tong Pae Bridge, a true artisanal gem, offers you one last poetic view of the surrounding countryside.

    Built by the Lahu community, this bridge is a strong symbol of local cooperation.
    Return to your accommodation.

    Enjoy your second peaceful night in nature.

2h-60km
Wat Tham Lod
1h-52km

Day 5🚗 Self-drive tour – Heading to Pai, nature & culture of Northern Thailand

Day 5🚗 Self-drive tour – Heading to Pai, nature & culture of Northern Thailand

  • On the way to Pai, make a stop in the Pang Mapha district, a true paradise for caving enthusiasts.

    Discover the Tham Lod cave, a 1.6 km cave crossed by an underground river, explored aboard a bamboo raft.

    Inside: silence, cool air, and monumental stalactites await you.

  • Then end your day in the northwestern mountains and the Pai region, a charming town near the border with Myanmar.

    Surrounded by mountains and crossed by the Pai River, this town is a true paradise for nature lovers, offering many hiking opportunities in the surrounding mountains.

    Pai is also a lively and laid-back town. When evening falls, the streets come alive with abundant street stalls. Food flows freely, bars fill up quickly, and music is, of course, part of the scene!

     130 km of winding mountain road with countless curves await you this morning. Allow between 3 and 4 hours, plus stops along the way on what’s nicknamed “the road of 1,600 curves.”
    

    This 130 km journey takes you through dense forests, rugged mountains, and lush valleys.

    Plan for photo stops, a few refreshing breaks, and perhaps a snack at a hilltop café.

    Arrival in Pai, rest, and first explorations with free time to stroll in the town center.

  • Check-in at Farmstay at Pai in a deluxe cottage with a double bed.

2h-60km
Pong Dueat Geyser
45m-30km
Mok Fa Waterfall
1h 10m-60km

Day 6🚗 Self-drive tour – Geysers, waterfalls & caves in Chiang Dao

Day 6🚗 Self-drive tour – Geysers, waterfalls & caves in Chiang Dao

  • In the early morning, head towards the Pong Dueat geysers in the Mae Tang area.

    An impressive natural site where water bursts out in scorching steam.

  • Then head to Mok Fa Waterfall. The waterfall is part of Doi Suthep–Pui National Park, adding to its appeal as a natural haven.

  • Then take the road via Chiang Dao , where you can take the time to visit Wat Tham Chiang Dao, with its caves, temples, and splendid viewpoints over the valley.

  • Arrival in Chiang Dao, visit the village of Chiang Dao and its hot springs!

  • And finally, head up into the hills to reach a charming Lisu village, where you’ll have a magnificent viewpoint over Mount Doi Luang Chiang Dao, the third-highest peak in the country, rising to 2,175 meters above sea level.

  • Enjoy the rest of your free day exploring nature and visiting the surroundings of Chiang Dao, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

  • Night at the DaraDao

2h-130km
Thaton
3h-15km
Thaton

Day 7🚗 Self-drive tour – On the trails of Tha Ton

Day 7🚗 Self-drive tour – On the trails of Tha Ton

  • This morning, drive through the mountains to Tha Ton, , a charming village located not far from the Burmese border. With its hill tribes, picturesque guesthouses, and unique setting along the Kok River, it has everything to charm you. The road to get there is equally stunning, with valleys, hills, and lush green rice fields stretching as far as the eye can see.

  • Upon arrival, you will meet Renato, your local guide, for a day of immersion in the deep nature and Karen traditions.

    On the program:

    • Crossing isolated Karen villages

    • Discovering their culture, spirituality, and architecture

    • Preparing a traditional meal in the forest, cooked in banana leaves or bamboo

    • Walking through plains and forests

  • Overnight at Maekok River Village Resort in a double room.

Thaton
2h-8km
Thaton
1h 40m-90km

Day 8🚗 Self-drive tour – From Karen villages to the tea hills of Mae Salong

Day 8🚗 Self-drive tour – From Karen villages to the tea hills of Mae Salong

  • This morning, meet Renato once again for a half-day cultural experience. You will pass through his farm, where you will encounter water buffalo. Finally, you will end with a stop at the Karen market in Tha Ton, perfect for a few purchases before our departure for Mae Salong.

  • Get behind the wheel for a splendid drive through the winding mountains of the north to Mae Salong, a former Chinese refugee village that has become the tea capital of Thailand.

    On the way:

    • Stop at the famous 101 Tea Plantation: tasting and walk through the fields

    • Visit Santikiri village, founded by former Kuomintang (KMT) members exiled after the Chinese Civil War

    • Explore small local shops selling oolong tea, honey, and handcrafted souvenirs

  • Overnight at Wata Khiri in a deluxe room with mountain view. A beautiful hotel in the heart of the plantations.

1h-41km
Long Neck Karen Village
1h 30m-80km
Mekong

Day 9🚗 Self-drive tour – Between mountains and the Mekong, heading to the Golden Triangle

Day 9🚗 Self-drive tour – Between mountains and the Mekong, heading to the Golden Triangle

  • This morning, start with a stop in small villages of the Yoa and Akha communities. If time and interest allow, we can also stop in a Padaung community — a mountain people, a branch of the Karenni people from neighboring Myanmar who have taken refuge in Thailand, and whose women wear the famous golden spiral rings that give the impression of elongated necks.

  • Then head to the Mekong riverand the Golden Triangle, the meeting point of the Thai, Burmese, and Laotian borders, driving along the banks of the Mekong.

  • Head towards the Golden Triangle, the famous meeting point of the Thai, Burmese, and Laotian borders.

    At the local pier, a private water taxi will be waiting for you for a one-hour cruise on the Mekong.

    Let yourself be carried along by the calm waters, passing:

    • the wooded riverbanks

    • floating markets

    • the gigantic Sino-Roman casino on the Laotian side

  • Once back at the car, depart for a visit to the impressive Hall of Opium Museum, built into the side of one of the hills overlooking the Mekong Valley.

    It retraces the history of the opium trade in Southeast Asia, with an immersive, poignant, and educational scenography.

  • Overnight at Bansaeo Garden and Resort in a standard villa.

Mekong
2h-90km
Phu Chi Fah
1h 50m-85km

Day 10🚗 Self-drive tour – Phu Chi Fah, peaks and temples

Day 10🚗 Self-drive tour – Phu Chi Fah, peaks and temples

  • This morning, set off on a beautiful road along the heights of Phu Chi Fah, at over 1,700 meters altitude. The mountain landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see, forming a natural border with Laos.

    A true postcard setting to enjoy at every turn.

  • Take a break at The Wat Rong Sua Ten, or Blue Temple of Chiang Rai , known as the “Blue Temple,” the work of a disciple of architect Chalerm chai.

    Here, you will observe sculptures of the Buddha in the lotus position as well as figures of demons, legendary nagas half-man and half-serpent, and paintings illustrating events from the earthly life of Gautama.

  • And finally, continue with the majestic Wat Huay Pla Kung, often mistaken for a giant Buddha.

    In reality, it is a representation of Guanyin, the goddess of mercy.

    Climb to the top of the 9-storey pagoda for a breathtaking view over the rice fields.

  • Overnight at Nak Nakara for 2 nights in a Lanna Room.

3h 10m-180km
40m-30km
San Kamphaeng hotsprings
50m-42km

Day 11🚗 Self-drive tour – craftsmanship around Chiang Mai

Day 11🚗 Self-drive tour – craftsmanship around Chiang Mai

  • This morning, take the road to one of Thailand’s most iconic monuments: Wat Rong Khun , also known as the White Temple. Imagined by the artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, this temple is a true work of art.

    Admire:

    • Its white façade, symbolizing the purity of Buddhism,

    • Its frescoes blending tradition and pop culture (Buddha, Michael Jackson, The Matrix…),

    • The striking architecture of its 9 buildings.

  • On the way back to Chiang Mai, stop at Bo Sang, the emblematic village of the Sa paper umbrella.

    Begin with a visit to the Umbrella Making Center:

    • Observe each step: structure assembly, hand-painting, drying…

    • Chat with the artisans at work.

    Then stroll through the small streets and discover other workshops:

    • Sa paper crafting,

    • Silver jewelry making,

    • Wood carving.

  • After art, it’s time for relaxation! Head back towards the Hot springs in San Kamphaeng , which promise you a pleasant moment of relaxation in a lovely setting.

    The springs release naturally hot water at 105°C, which cools upon contact with the air.

    On site, several pools allow you to soak your feet in water between 40°C and 50°C before going for a swim in the mineral bath pool.

    A fun experience: you can buy small baskets of eggs and cook them directly in the spring water.

  • Free return to your accommodation in Chiang Mai, relaxation and free dinner in the old town or at the night market according to your wishes.

  • We'll be staying at the De Lanna Hotel for the night in Deluxe room.

1h-60km
Doi Suthep
1h-60km

Day 12🚗 Self-drive – Last moments: Doi Suthep

Day 12🚗 Self-drive – Last moments: Doi Suthep

  • Start your day by immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Warorot Market , located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s commercial district.

    A true Aladdin’s cave, this market is perfect for discovering and tasting northern Thai culinary specialties:

    ** Sai Ua (northern spicy sausage)

    ** Moo Yo (Vietnamese pork sausage)

    ** Nam Phrik Num (green chili paste)

    ** Dried fruits, spices, local teas…

    But also: fabrics, clothing, flowers, ceramics, and handcrafted embroidery.

  • Late in the morning, take the road up to the heights to reach Mount Doi Suthep, at 1,200 m altitude.

    On the way, stop at Wat Pha lat a small temple hidden in the jungle, next to a waterfall.

    Continue afterwards to the majestic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched at the summit. This emblematic temple of Chiang Mai, adorned with gold decorations and sacred relics, is a major site of Thai Buddhism.

    Climb the 306 steps flanked by nagas, or take the funicular, to enjoy a panoramic view over the city.

  • At the end of the afternoon, finish your exploration with a visit to Wat Umong , a 13th-century Buddhist temple nestled at the foot of the mountain.

    Its underground tunnels, moss-covered stupas, and meditation pond make it a place out of time.

    You may have the opportunity to talk with the resident monks.

  • Return of your rental vehicle at the end of the day (by 5:30 pm at the latest).
    End of your self-drive tour – thank you for your trust, and see you soon for another adventure in Thailand!