Mae Salong, Thailand

Written by ponsager

Nestled on the side of a mountain about 5 hours north of Chiang Mai lies my highest and most frequently recommended town in Thailand- Mae Salong. Deep in the Golden Triangle and heavily influenced by a division of the Chinese National Army who based themselves there in 1949, it is the perfect place to relax and consume massive quantities of opium Oolong tea and Yunnanese noodle soup. The scenery around the area is so spectacular that the hour-long pickup truck ride up the mountain felt more like an amusement park ride (for a number of reasons) than anything else.

My second night there I met a middle-aged British couple named Tony and Sarah who invited me to join them on a motorbike ride along the mountain roads and up to the border between Thailand and Myanmar. Tony and Sarah live the “biker” lifestyle through and through, so I figured they were the perfect people to tag along with! We had a really special day, and it is one of my fondest memories. Tony and Sarah are two of the funniest and most genuine people I have met on my trip and we still keep in touch.

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The town of Mae Salong. I’ve found that I’m usually happiest in places where the clouds are more or less at eye level.
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That’s still Mae Salong, just a little smaller.

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I went for a little 9-mile trek through the surrounding country side. It was dotted with small villages who cultivate Oolong tea and coffee all over the hillsides.

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The tea preparation is quite minimal and done right at the source! I stumbled upon this facility during my walk through the hills around Mae Salong.

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And here’s the coffee industry! Tea and coffee growth are part of a successful initiative by the Thai Royal family to replace the opium cultivation the region is historically known for.

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Here is the climax of the motorbike riding day- epic views into Myanmar, which starts near the bottom of the hill and goes as far as the eye can see.

One thought on “Mae Salong, Thailand”

  1. Sitting here reading your blog and drinking a freshly ground cup of black- yes, I said black- French pressed, wonderful coffee (out of your mug, of course) and wishing, (Could I have another cup, please?) not so much that you here, but that we were there and sharing in your incredible journey. I love it that you’re now a bikie and not just a bykie. Love you lots, Dad

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