In the mid-19th century Burmese and Shan merchants, crossing the Moei River from Burma in the west, helped to establish Mae Sot as a prosperous market town. In more recent years, trade in Burmese hardwoods and gemstones, both legal and smuggled, has brought considerable wealth to this small town. Today Mae Sot retains the feel of a frontier town and makes a relaxing stopover for travelers. Gem traders, usually ethnic Chinese, can often be seen huddled on Mae Sot’s pavements, negotiating with buyers from Bangkok and other parts of Thailand. Because of its location and trading history, Mae Sot has a distinct Burmese flavor, evident in architecture and market goods.

Trilingual shop signs can be seen on the streets, Burmese-language publications are sold in shops, and Burmese people wearing traditional sarongs (lungis)  can be seen walking along the streets. During the morning food market – one of Thailand’s most picturesque and colorful – Karen and Burmese traders haggle with Thais and Indians.

North of the market is Wat Chumphon Khiri , which has a magnificent Burmese chedi  decorated with golden mosaic tiles. On the southeast side of town is the Muslim quarter; at its center is the small Nurul Islam Mosque .

Dotted around the town are a number of other temples that have both Karen and Shan characteristics.