Mae Salong Mountain – The Alpes of Asia

August 05, 2016

The drive through the highlands to Mae Salong Mountain filled me with excitement. Today I would see what other travelers have referred to as “The Alpes of Asia”. Lush greens fill the scenery and I breathe in clear, refreshing air. We wind through the ranges and stunning Thailand landscape with tea plantations all around.

Chinese Martyrs Memorial Museum

When we arrive, we stop at the Chinese Martyrs Memorial Museum. Thailand built the museum as a tribute paid to displaced Chinese militants who came to Mae Salong Mountain seeking refuge. This is because they eventually fought alongside Thailand to fend off communism. It is interesting to learn about the history of their struggles and stories.

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Tomb of a Drug Warlord

Next, we head to the Tomb of General Tuan. I found it was undoubtedly one of the most popular sites to be seen at Mae Salong Mountain. It was shocking to learn that the mausoleum housed Kuomintang General Tuan Xi-Wen who was an infamous drug warlord.

Wat Santikhiri Temple in Mae Salong

On the way back, we stop at a popular tea house nearby. Next, I enjoy a steaming hot cup of locally grown oolong tea. There I perch myself with a cup in hand to enjoy the glorious views surrounding Mae Salong Mountain. Our guide informed us that Mae Salong Mountain is an ideal place for farmers to grow tea. This is due to its subtropical climate. My palette would agree as it one of the best cups I have had in a long time.

For lunch, we visited a local restaurant to try Yunnanese cuisine. So, being the foodie that I am, I decide to order the Yunnan noodles with bean gravy. Also, for dessert, there is “Papa cake”. This is baked rice with my choice of sweet or sour sesame filling.

In conclusion, the scenery experienced at Mae Salong Mountain is reminiscent of a Hollywood movie. Also, words cannot describe what a lungful of fresh air does to a person. Granted it was a long day. But I am satisfied that I took the journey to Mae Salong Mountain.