Thailand

On the road to the Golden Triangle, on the border between Thailand and Myanmar, the city of Mae Sai is a must-visit for its pagodas and its open-air market. Here's the scoop.

Road trip enthusiasts will enjoy wandering through the Thai town of Mae Sai, located at the northern tip of the country. Starting from Chiang Rai, a 60-kilometer trail reveals the magic of the mountainous world, where rice fields and tea gardens stretch as far as the eye can see. Poor in monuments, Mae Sai is a city neglected in the tourism sector. Some will argue that its significance lies in its overland connection to Myanmar. However, reducing Mae Sai's appeal to a mere link between Chiang Rai and Tachileik is a hasty judgment. Apart from its hill temples, the border market is full of textiles and handicrafts. Its residents are open-minded and seem to have adopted tranquility as their motto. A must-visit destination!

History

The amphoe (district) of Mae Sai was officially founded in March 1939, at a time when the tambon of Mae Sai and Phong Pha were emancipated from the tutelage of the Chiang Saen district to form an independent administrative unit.

Today

Mae Sai is mainly considered the gateway to Myanmar. Tourists come here to take care of the necessary paperwork for a visa while enjoying the city's attractions. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy a detour to the border market. Hikers will surely enjoy it if they haven't already been to Chiang Mai. Progressing along the main thoroughfare, they will reach the beautifully suspended bridge over the Ruak River, which separates Mae Sai from Tachileik, a town under Burmese rule.

The importance of tea and rice fields indicates a close dependence on rain-fed agriculture. The district has one of the lowest incomes in Thailand. By visiting temples and buying souvenir items, you can help the local population.

Mae Sai and its border market

Take a moment to wander through this open-air market where a mixed population gathers: Thais, Burmese, Karens, and tourists of all origins. Just 60 km from Chiang Rai, this border market symbolizes the cordial relations between Myanmar and the Siamese State. It was not always like this sixty years ago, especially during World War II. You can buy and consume anything here at all prices: beauty accessories, high-tech gadgets, fruits, vegetables, condiments, drinks, etc. For gifts, choosing between traditional jewelry, shawls, silverware, or luxury crafts can be a puzzle that tourists love. Be careful not to be fooled by vendors offering supposedly artisanal items that are actually imported from China or Laos. Even if some items are of poor quality, the market is worth a visit for its cheerful, colorful, and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Mae Sai waterfall

Near Mae Sai, a spectacular waterfall awaits trekking enthusiasts. The trail leading to it is delightfully winding, passing through tea plantations, terraced rice fields, and towering hills. The waterfall cascades in two stages. After the hike, you can swim, have a picnic at the foot of the waterfall, or take a sporty dive upstream. The most convenient way to get there is by bicycle (no public transportation).

Wat Phra That Doi Wao, or Scorpion temple

The reason to visit Wat Phra That Doi Wao is its advantageous location atop a cliff. Visitors will enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and its farmland landscapes. To access it, you have to climb a large staircase starting from the main street, about 100 meters from the border post. Kudos to the grandiose scorpion statue in an intimidating and defensive posture, which has lent its name to the site. The face of the beast is turned toward neighboring Tachileik. Giving its charm to the sanctuary, this sculpture is an undeniable symbol of Mae Sai. Inside the sanctuary, admire the artistic equipment, including a superb Ganesh with an elephant's head in hexagonal form.

Wat Tham Pla

As you return to Chiang Rai, don't forget to stop at Wat Tham Pla. It is located 16 kilometers from the city center. The name of the site can be translated as "sanctuary of the fish cave," because a pond populated by fish can be seen there, on the left side of the ordination hall. However, this contemplative breeding is not the main curiosity of the sanctuary. A troop of monkeys frequents the nearby mountain and the cave compound, approaching tourists without any reserve. By tossing them treats, you can carry them on your arms and take a selfie break. The highlight of this stage is inspecting the cave, the entrance of which is discovered at the end of a staircase surrounded by serpentiform deities (nagas). Arm yourself with a flashlight, as it is deeply dark inside the cave.

Climate

The city of Mae Sai is located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, which is characterized by a humid tropical climate. In the height of summer, scorching temperatures that sometimes exceed 34 °C are accompanied by repeated rains. May is the hottest month of the year. The beginning or end of the year is the most suitable period to visit Mae Sai under favorable weather conditions.

How to get there?

• From Chiang Rai

To get to Mae Sai, the most convenient way is to rent a motorcycle or a private car from Chiang Rai. The city is located at the end of 60 kilometers of Highway 110.

If you opt for public transportation, go to the Chiang Rai bus station. The bus fare will cost you about 40 baht, or 1.12 euros, for a one-way trip. There is a departure every half hour.

• From Chiang Mai

Public buses serve Mae Sai from the Chiang Mai metropolitan area at the modest price of 210 baht or 5.88 euros. After 4 hours, you will reach the Mae Sai bus terminal, located south of the city center. From the station, hop on a red songthaew that will take you into town. The ticket price is set at 15 baht per person (0.42 euros).

Also note the tourist minibuses that provide several daily connections between Chiang Mai and Mae Sai. This mode of transportation promises more comfort, but the fare is relatively expensive: 700 baht or 19.6 euros for a round trip. The drawback is that these minibuses have a long stopover around noon while passengers do their shopping. Travelers in a hurry are warned!

Getting around Mae Sai

Getting around Mae Sai couldn't be easier, as the city only has one main avenue. But backpackers eager to explore their surroundings may want to rent a scooter. For your information, you are not allowed to set foot on Myanmar territory unless you obtain a visa-run issued by the immigration services at the border post.