The historical bridge in Tha Pai began construction during World War II, around the year 2482 B.E. (1940 AD). This was when the Japanese military used the route to Myanmar, and they forced Thai villagers to clear the forest to create a road from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son and vice versa. Both routes converged at Tha Pai along the Pai River. The bridge was constructed to facilitate the transport of weapons and supplies, marking the origins of this historical bridge.
Tha Pai Memorial Bridge sorce from : hotsia.com
After World War II ended, the Japanese army retreated and burned down the bridge. This led to tensions among the locals who had used the bridge together with the Japanese forces. In response, the locals came together to build a new wooden bridge. However, it wasn’t long before a major flood swept away the wooden bridge. At that time, Chiang Mai constructed the Nawarat Bridge as an alternative. Therefore, the old “Nawarat Bridge” , which was no longer in use, was relocated to Pai, becoming the historical bridge we see today.
Tha Pai Historical Bridge in Mae Hong Son Thailand
This bridge is no longer used for transportation as concrete bridges have replaced it. However, it serves as a landmark of Pai, telling a historical tale and is a popular tourist attraction in Mae Hong Son province that you shouldn’t miss.
By Car: From Bangkok to Mae Hong Son, it’s approximately 878 kilometers, taking around 13 hours and 30 minutes.
By Flight: You can take a flight from Don Mueang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to Mae Hong Son Airport, which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Please note that there are no railway stations in Mae Hong Son. If you want to take a train, you can go to Chiang Mai and then continue by local transport to Mae Hong Son, which takes about 5 hours.
For travelers who prefer bus transportation, you can catch a bus at Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, and it will take you to Mae Hong Son Bus Terminal. You can check the schedule and fare details at Bus Online Ticket.
Tha Pai in Mae Hong Son, Thailand
Getting to Tha Pai Historical Bridge:
By Car: From Mae Hong Son town to Tha Pai Historical Bridge, it’s approximately 116 kilometers, taking about 2 hours and 27 minutes.
Other: Minivans and local transport services are available for tourists traveling from Mae Hong Son town to Pai. You can inquire about prices and catch these at Mae Hong Son Bus Terminal and Mae Hong Son Airport. Additionally, you can rent a private vehicle or hire a local minivan for trips to various tourist destinations in Mae Hong Son province.
Tha Pai Bridge in Mae Hong Son Thailand
Opening Hours:
The bridge is open every day, year-round.
Admission:
There is no admission fee.
Best Time to Visit:
Year-round.
Thank Credit imgs from montree.d