If you're a fan of lush greenery and the vibrancy of the rainy season, then Mae Hong Son province is the place for you. One of the top recommendations is the Su Tong Pae Bridge, a bamboo bridge of faith stretching through eye-soothing green rice fields. This stunning structure is situated in Ban Kung Mai Sak village, Pang Mu sub-district, in the capital district of Mae Hong Son. With a length of more than 500 meters, the bridge connects the Phu Sa Ma meditation center and Ban Kung Mai Sak, crossing over rice fields and the Mae Sa-nga River.
This bridge was built through a collaborative effort of monks, novices, and villagers, sparked by a monk's wish to create an easy walking path to Ban Kung Mai Sak. The faithful villagers donated leftover poles from their homes and together built this magnificent structure. Fulfilling their prayer, the bridge was fittingly named "Su Tong Pae," which in Standard Thai means "Prayer for Success." The bridge has the honor of being the longest bamboo bridge in Thailand and is a significant place of worship for the people of Mae Hong Son.
Not only is it a hub of faith, but Su Tong Pae Bridge is also a renowned tourist attraction, drawing visitors to experience its beauty and the varying landscape throughout the seasons. You can visit it any time of the year, but the rainy season offers a unique view of the lush green rice fields. Particularly in the early mornings, the sunrise piercing through the light fog provides an enchanting vista. Around 6:00 AM, you can witness monks from Phu Sa Ma meditation center walking for alms on the bridge, a sight so beautiful, it becomes a highlight for many. The opportunity to visit this place should be on everyone's bucket list, and I bet you wouldn't regret it.