Mae Sariang: Located 190 kms from Chiang Mai, and 170 kms from the provincial capital Mae Hong Son, the town has a population of approx 5000 people. Like Mae Hong Son to the north, the original residents are primarily of Tai Yai / Shan descent, a mix of Buddhist, Muslim and Christian peoples. There are also many Karen people in the area, predominantly Christian. Architecture is primarily Shan, and northern Lanna, both evident in the distinctive temple designs throughout the town. Below, the Museum & Visitor Centre displays Shan style construction.
Mae Sariang is the southern-most region of Mae Hong Son Province, one of the most rugged and mountainous areas in Thailand.
It lies less than 50kms (30 miles) from the border with Myanmar. In this area, the Salween River is the physical boundary between Thailand and Myanmar. The river can be reached via Highway 1194, to the small river trading village of Ban Mae Sam Laeb.
