Hot Springs in Mae Hong Son

Part of the Mae Hong Son travel guide — see every topic in All Mae Hong Son Guides.

The mountains of Mae Hong Son province have many natural hot springs. Warm water rises from deep under the ground and flows into streams and pools. Around Pai there are two well-known springs, and there are more near Mae Hong Son town. A warm soak is very pleasant after a long ride on the loop, especially on cold mornings. This guide explains the main springs and how to enjoy them safely.

Tha Pai hot springs

The best-known hot spring near Pai is Tha Pai, about 8 km from town. Hot water flows down a forest stream, and you can see steam rising on cool mornings. Along the stream there are natural pools with different temperatures. The water near the source is far too hot to touch, so only bathe in the marked lower pools. There is an entry fee, and foreign visitors pay more than Thai citizens. The last entry is around 6 pm. There are changing rooms and toilets. Go early in the morning for fewer people and the most steam.

Quieter springs

Sai Ngam hot spring is north of Pai, in a simple riverside setting with shady trees. The pools are warm, not very hot, and many people find it more relaxing than Tha Pai. It has a smaller entry fee and fewer facilities. Some guesthouses and resorts around Pai and Mae Hong Son town also pipe in spring water to their own pools. There are other hot springs along the loop, including near Mae Hong Son town. Ask your guesthouse which springs are open and how to reach them, because small roads can be rough after rain.

How to bathe safely

Hot water can be stronger than you expect. Test the temperature with your hand first, and get in slowly. Stay in for short periods, then cool down in the shade. Drink plenty of water before and after. Do not bathe alone if you have heart problems, high blood pressure or are pregnant, and ask a doctor first. Children should stay with an adult at all times. Do not use soap or shampoo in natural pools. Keep your head out of the water. Leave nothing behind, and take your rubbish with you.

What to bring

Bring a swimsuit, a small towel and sandals for wet paths. A dry bag is useful for your phone and money. Most springs have toilets and changing rooms, but they are simple. Small stalls near the entrance often sell drinks and snacks. Bring cash for the entry fee and snacks. In the cool season, bring a warm layer to put on after you get out, because mountain air can feel cold on wet skin. Insect repellent is useful near streams in the evening.

When to go

The cool season, from about November to February, is the best time for hot springs. Mornings can be cold, and the warm water feels wonderful. Early morning is the most beautiful time, with steam rising over the water. In the hot season, from about March to May, the water can feel too hot in the middle of the day, so go early or late. Air quality can also be poor from about March to April because of smoke. In the rainy season, the springs stay open, but paths are muddy and nearby streams run fast.

Hot Springs at a glance

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