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Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son 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.
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