Mae Hong Son (Thai แม่ฮ่องสอน) is one of the northern provinces (changwat) of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from east clockwise) Chiang Mai and Tak. To the west it borders Myanmar.

Geography

The province is located between several mountain ranges and thus enjoys a cooler climate then most of the other areas of Thailand. The Salween River forms part of the boundary with Myanmar.

History

The province was part of the Lannathai kingdom as well as of Burma. The strong influence of the Burmese can still be seen in the building style of the temples.

Demographics

63% of the population in the province are members of the hill tribes, among them the Hmong, Yao, Lahu, Lisu, Akha and Karen. Another big ethnic group are the Shan. The province has the lowest population density of all the provinces of Thailand.

Symbols

The provincial seal show an elephant swimming in water. Elephant training for forest work was very popular in the province. Ban Mae Hong Son was one of two communities built around an elephant camp by Prince Kaew Muang Ma. The provincial tree is Millettia brandisiana , and the provincial flower is the Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia ).

Administrative divisions

The province is subdivided in 7 districts (Amphoe). These are further subdivided into 45 communes (tambon) and 402 villages (mubaan).

External links

• Province page from the Tourist Authority of Thailand
• Golden Jubilee Network province guide