Mae
Hong Sorn is set in the north-western corner of Thailand. The
province is bordered with Myanmar to the north and west, which
explains the strong Burmese influence that can be noted in the
capital's temples and buildings. Its positioning also lead to
frequent power struggles between various Tai and Burmese kingdoms
over the years.
The early 19th century saw a great influx of the Shan people
into the region, from north Burma where they had formed the
Shan states. Originally from the Nanzhao Kingdom in southern
China, a culmination of war and oppression had finally led them
over the Loi Lar mountain range, where they first settled at
Ban Pong Mu in 1831. Having settled in the area, the increasing
numbers then founded what was to become Mae Hong Sorn. Deeply
involved in the principles of Theravada Buddhism, they also
had their own monarchy: the famous Wat Phra Norn was built by
the first king of Mae Hong Sorn, Phaka Toekshan. The Shan are
known locally as Thai Yai (Big Thai) and make up almost half
of the local population.
The capital
is sheltered by several mountains, keeping it cooler during
the summer months and allowing the temperature to drop to only
2ºC during January. The mountains have long been home to
various migrant hilltribes; Hmong, Lisu, Lahu and the predominant
Karen. The area is also home to opium smugglers and illegal
loggers, which have sadly brought the hilltribes into their
illicit activities.
The region's many natural attractions have brought increasing
numbers of visitors over the recent years. All coming to a region
which provides great opportunities for adventures; on its twisting
roads, sweeping rivers and in the mountainous forested region,
passing through villages with Burmese/Shan style temples. Waterfalls,
not only pleasing to the eye, but also fill small pools which
are a perfect treat at the end of long treks through the forests.
The region is also well known for its multitude of caves: archaeologists
have discovered some 67 in the province. The 400m long cave
at Tham Lod, about 80km to the northwest of Mae Hong Sorn is
just one of these fine caves.
