Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu
วัดพระธาตุดอยกองมู
Two Shan-style white pagodas on the hilltop west of Mae Hong Son overlook the town and airstrip, often wrapped in cloud at dawn, and serve as the town's landmark.
Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu stands on Kong Mu Hill west of Mae Hong Son. Its two white Shan-style pagodas were built in 1860 and 1874 by the town's first ruler, and their gleaming bodies with gold umbrella finials make them the spiritual landmark of the city. The hilltop platform has wide views over Mae Hong Son, Nong Jong Kham and the runway, and planes sometimes take off or land below. In the cool season, clouds drift through the valleys in the early morning, and the town seems to float above a sea of cloud, hence the saying 'the City of Three Mists'. The temple also has a large white seated Buddha. Admission is free. Getting there: about 10 minutes' drive or motorbike ride from the town centre; alternatively, walk up the steps from the west side of town in 20–30 minutes. Tips: go up at sunrise or sunset and combine it with Nong Jong Kham for a half-day. Note: cover shoulders and knees, and bring something warm, as the summit is cold in the early morning.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:00–19:00
Nearby sights
- Jong Kham Lake & Wat Chong Kham
- Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge
- Tham Pla (Fish Cave)
- Pha Suea Waterfall
- Pang Ung Reservoir
- Ban Rak Thai
- Ban Jabo
- Kiew Lom Viewpoint, Pang Mapha