Traveling to Mae Sot: Recommended Attractions in Mae Sot District Mae Sot District, located in Tak Province, Thailand, currently borders the town of Myawaddy in Myanmar, making it a thriving economic hub and one of the most vibrant areas in Tak Province. It attracts many international visitors, especially those from Myanmar. Mae Sot offers a variety of attractions. Let's explore what Mae Sot has to offer: 1. **Chao Por Pah Wa Shrine** Before entering Mae Sot, you will encounter the Chao Por Pah Wa shrine on your right. This shrine is highly revered by the locals. Chao Por Pah Wa was a soldier stationed at the Mae Lamao post during the reign of King Taksin the Great. In 1775, when Burmese forces attacked this frontier post, Chao Por Pah Wa bravely led his troops into battle, accepting death to defend their land. To honor his heroism, the people of Mae Sot built the Chao Por Pah Wa shrine in 1964. Adjacent to the shrine, there is a large statue of Buddha in the posture of Mucalinda, adding to the serene atmosphere. 2. **Wat Phothikhun (Wat Huai Toei)** As you approach Mae Sot, you'll find Wat Phothikhun on your left, marked with a clear sign. This peaceful temple is situated on a hill and belongs to the Forest Monastic Tradition. Its main hall is designed with an architecture resembling a large ship. Inside, you can find a beautifully crafted Buddha statue with intricate golden designs that attract many visitors. 3. **Rim Moei Market** Rim Moei Market is conveniently located across from Myawaddy in Myanmar. It is a vibrant marketplace where various goods are sold by Thai locals, international merchants, and Myanmarese vendors, including gems and herbal products. Traveling to Rim Moei Market is easy; you can take a shared truck (songthaew) from Mae Sot's main market for just 10 baht. 4. **Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge** Situated in Tha Khuan Subdistrict, this bridge spans the Moei River, connecting Myawaddy to Thailand. The bridge measures 420 meters in length and 13 meters in width and is located adjacent to the Rim Moei Market. If you wish to cross into Myawaddy, there is an entry fee established by the Mae Moei City Shopping Center, along with vehicle insurance fees. 5. **Wat Thai Watthanaram** This temple features a design reminiscent of Myanmar's temples, complete with stupas and an impressive main hall. It's a popular destination for Myanmarese visitors, and it houses a gigantic reclining Buddha statue nearly 100 meters long, showcasing stunning craftsmanship. 6. **King Naresuan Shrine** This shrine commemorates King Naresuan, known for declaring Thailand's independence from Burmese rule. The locals joined forces to erect this shrine to honor his legacy, reflecting gratitude for the peace and stability he brought to the nation. 7. **Khao Din Shrine at Doi Din Ji** Located in Ban Wang Takian, the Khao Din Shrine is known for a large pagoda made of stone, often referred to as the "Inthra Stone Pagoda." Visitors can also find Buddha footprints to pay their respects. To reach the shrine, you'll need to climb several hundred steps, resembling a hike up a mountain. On your way, you'll also encounter the Buddha Cave, where a statue rests inside a cave. These attractions reflect both the regional culture and history of Mae Sot, making it a destination worth visiting.