Ban Mae Sam Leab ‘Feast your eyes with this lovely waterside village.’

Tucked deep within the mountainous folds of Mae Hong Son Province lies Ban Mae Sam Laeb, a rustic riverside village nestled beside the legendary Salween River. Known for its unique position on the Thai–Myanmar border, this off-the-grid gem offers raw natural beauty, ethnic diversity, and rich cultural traditions untouched by mainstream tourism. From scenic boat rides and misty viewpoints to immersive village stays and local weaving experiences, Ban Mae Sam Laep invites explorers to experience life at a slower, more soulful pace.

🏞️ Geographic & Climate Overview

Ban Mae Sam Laeb is located in the Mae Sam Laeb Subdistrict, Sop Moei District, Mae Hong Son Province. It lies along the Salween River (locally known as “Khong River”), which forms a natural boundary between Thailand and Myanmar. The surrounding area is part of the Dawna and Daen Lao mountain ranges, with elevations ranging from 230 to 870 meters above sea level. The terrain is predominantly steep (98%), with only about 2% flat land.

🌦️ Climate:

The area has a tropical savanna climate (Aw), divided into three seasons:

• Cool Season (Nov–Feb): Morning fog and chilly air.
• Hot Season (Mar–Apr): Dry and warm.
• Monsoon Season (May–Oct): Heavy rainfall, especially in August and September.

👥 People, Ethnicities & Cultural Life

Mae Sam Laeb is home to a diverse multi-ethnic community with approximately 9,800 residents. Key ethnic groups include:

• Karen (multiple subgroups)
• Shan (Tai Yai)
• Burmese migrants
• Thai Muslims

These groups coexist peacefully and engage in agricultural lifestyles. About 95% of residents are farmers, cultivating rice, chilies, soybeans, and fruit. The area is supported by Royal Project initiatives encouraging safe agriculture and handicrafts like weaving and bamboo crafts. Cultural expressions include local textile arts, traditional foods, and religious ceremonies reflective of Karen and Shan traditions.

🌍 Community-Based Tourism & Cultural Activities

Mae Sam Laep actively promotes Community-Based Tourism (CBT). Visitors can:

• Join weaving and bamboo-crafting workshops with local Karen and Shan artisans.
• Learn to cook traditional hilltribe cuisine.
• Engage in organic farming experiences under Royal Project programs.
• Volunteer or exchange culture with border schools in the area (pre-arrangement required).

The community offers meaningful cultural immersion in an unspoiled mountain-river landscape.

🛶 Key Attractions & Local Experiences

🧺 Mae Sam Laep Market

A humble border village market selling local foods, crafts, and daily goods, located beside the scenic Salween River.

🚤 Salween River Boat Trips

Travelers can rent longtail boats for a 45-minute ride to Ban Sop Moei or head upstream to Ban Tha Ta Fang (~1 hour). Rides cost 1,300–2,000 THB depending on group size and include life vests. Departures before 5:00 PM are recommended.

These boats for sailing at Baan Mae Sam Leap are small wooden boats with flat bottoms. Each one can contain about 3-4 people.

To sail a boat, there are two different routes. The first route, which requires two hours, is to head south and to end the trip at Sob Moei. The second route, also requires two hours, is to head north and reach Ban Ta Ta Fang.

You will admire how beautiful the river is. The water is most beautiful during cold season and summer. During cold season, there will be fog and all falling leaves will start to fade into different colours. During summer, the water will be most clear. However, during the both seasons, the water level will be so low that you can see the beautiful white beach.

🌄 Klor Ser Loe Viewpoint

Known as the “Twin-Country Sea of Mist”, this mountain-top spot offers panoramic views of the Thailand–Myanmar border. It’s accessible via boat plus 8–18 km of off-road travel.

🏡 Village Homestay & River Camping

In Ban Tha Ta Fang (upriver), visitors can camp beside the river on a 200-meter sandy beach or stay at ethnic Karen homestays. This is ideal for eco-travelers seeking quiet and authenticity.

🏡 Recommended Homestays

• Salawin Guesthouse – 3 rooms, ~350 THB/night.
• Thitiwat Pharmacy Stay – Shared house, ~800 THB/night.
• Ban Tha Ta Fang Homestays – Riverside stays with nature-based activities, including camping options.

These homestays offer basic amenities, warm hospitality, and direct engagement with the local culture.

📌 How To Get There 

Ban Mae Sam Leab is located in Mae Sam Leab District, Sob Moei County, Mae Hong Son Province. It’s on the south side of Ban Ta Ta Fang, which is about 47 kilometres away from Mae Sariang County. Just follow the Highway 1194. Drive carefully. The road is quite steep and curved.

Just keep driving until you find the intersection that tells you the direction to Ban Mae Sam Leab. Then you turn right and continue straight for about 2 kilometres.

• Roads may require 4WD in dry or rugged conditions.
• Fuel and mobile signal are limited – prepare in advance.
• Boat services available from the Mae Sam Laep Pier, with safety measures in place.