Founded in 1827 by Phaya Singhanataraj; the Shan ruler of Mae Hong Son; Wat Chong Kham contains a 5 metre Buddha image known as Luang Pho To.

Once one of Thailand's remotest provinces; Mae Hong Son is now readily accessible by air from Chiang Mai; as well as by a wonderful loop drive through Mae Sariang and back via Pai and Soppong- or vice versa. Singularly isolated; Mae Hong Son is not yet very developed. The townsfolk may be citizens of Thailand; but most are Shan; Karen; Yunnanese Chinese or Hill Tribes. The temples are Burmese in style; and the pace of life amazingly tranquil. Pictures From Asia David Henley