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Amphoe Pai
Hilltribe Trekking
Mae Hong Son has several tour operators that specialise
in trekking. Treks are designed to expose visitors to splendor nature
and a variety of hilltribes. The adventure may combine jungle walks
with elephant riding and river rafting. The cool winter months of
November to February are the best time to travel. Avoid the height
of the rainy season in August and September. In the dry months between
March and May, the temperature can soar uncomfortably high for strenuous
mountain hikes.
Huai Nam Dang National Park
 At
Km. 65 on the Pai-Mae Malai route (No.1095), there is a turning
leading to the headquarters of the Huai Nam Dang National Park.
Visitors can spend the night in tents to wait for the spectacular
views of sunrise and mist-shrouded mountain views in the morning.
Cherry blossom during January adds charms to the attraction.
Mountain Biking
The centre for mountain biking adventure is Pai district,
where several bike shops rent out bikes and gear to tourists. Bike
tours explore nearby and remote hilltribe villages, waterfalls and
hot springs. The best time is November-May. Experienced guides are
ready to lead biking parties through breathtaking back-country trails
for up to a week. There are natural cycle paths through the forest,
first trod by animals then beaten by man. They range from as narrow
as a single person’s stride or as wide as an elephant or ox
cart.
Pong Dueat Hot Spring
This is a geyser type hot spring which rises up 2 metres
high. At Km. 42 of Route 1095, there is a six-kilometre road leading
to the hot spring.
Rafting along the Pai River
This is an exciting and delightful recreation. The Pai itself
is the longest river of Mae Hong Son originating from mountain ranges
in Laos which flows through Pai district and eventually joins the
Salawin river in Myanmar, a total distance of 180 kilometres. With
an average depth of some 7 metres, the riverbed is mainly pebbled.
There are several sectors eminently suitable for rafting past rapids
and natural scenery including beautiful waterfalls.
Tour operators in Mae Hong Son town or in Pai district can provide
the necessary service, some also able to provide elephant rides.
The best time for rafting is from October to March.
 Tha
Pai Hot Spring
This is another attraction in the area of Huai Nam Dang
National Park. The hot spring is two kilometres off Route 1095 at
Km. 87. It has an average temperature of 80 celcius. Steam from
the spring permeates the site in the morning creating fascinating
sights. The area is also rich in teakwoods and suitable for overnight
camping.
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