Bhumibol Adulyadej (Phumiphon Adunyadet; born 5 December 1927) is the current King of Thailand. He is known as Rama IX (and within the Thai royal family and to close associates simply as Lek. Having reigned since 9 June 1946; he is the world's longest-serving current head of state and the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history.

Once one of Thailand's remotest provinces; Mae Hong Son is now readily accessible by air from Chiang Mai; as well as by a wonderful loop drive through Mae Sariang and back via Pai and Soppong- or vice versa. Singularly isolated; Mae Hong Son is not yet very developed. The townsfolk may be citizens of Thailand; but most are Shan; Karen; Yunnanese Chinese or Hill Tribes. The temples are Burmese in style; and the pace of life amazingly tranquil. Pictures From Asia David Henley