I asked earlier for second tier of things to do in and around Chiang Mai and got some great ideas. Now I am looking for new and interesting things to do in Mae hong son, Pai, Soppong. Parks, markets, places to stay. Thankyou.

The cave in Soppong

Fern Resort in MHS is worth the trip in itself I reckon, and if you're on a bike carry on on the loop to Chom Thong, via Doi Inthanon, and back to CM

to stay:

Pana Huts in Mae Hong Son

The Countryside in Pai

They both have web sites

To do:

Drive from Chiang Mai to Mae Sariang, stay the night at a guesthouse on the river, then drive up to Mae Hong son, then after staying in Mae hong son drive to Pai... the views are very nice. There's also the fish caves on the way, but they are very touristy.

Or, from Pai take 2 day white water rafting trip to Mae hong son with an overnight camp out on the way. Be prepared to be dumped in the river by the crazy Lisu guides(lots of fun)

The restaurants in Soppong make the best Northern sausages. I always buy a bag on the way through to MHS.

The fish caves might be a bit touristy but that is what you are after all!!

Colin

there are a lot more caves to see other than tham lod. head on over to cave lodge and speak to john. he has lived in the area for years and has explored so many caves in the area. he can help you explore some fab places. there are also some artsy fartsy people up on the area too.

go trekking into the mountains. again, john can help with this. there are some beautiful karen villages in the area that do see tourists, but are not overly visited.

If you are thinking about Soppong, here is a website from a resort up there that has a lot of info (Soppong River Inn):

http://www.soppong.com

Highly recommended as a place to stay as well.