WHITEWATER RAFTING
Rafting is fast gaining popularity among the young and young at heart. The mountainous regions of the North are the natural venue for whitewater rafting, especially after the rains from June to October when the rivers swell with floodwater. But first-class rafting is also to be found in the northern reaches of the central region.
TAK
This mountainous province south of Chiang Mai is an increasingly popular adventure destination. The hub of activities is Umphang District on the border with Myanmar which is now accessible via a winding mountain route from Mae Sot, the centre of border trade. The forests of Umphang are the source of many rivers, the most important being the Huai Mae Klong, a popular rafting route with its many rapids and scenic backdrops of jungle. There’s also a rafting route from the breathtaking Thi Lo Su Waterfall which takes three to four hours.
MAE HONG SON
There are five levels of expertise, and all require experienced guides to lead them. Mae Hong Song’sPai River is perhaps the most famous venue, as it smashes its angry path towards Myanmar. A raft trip starts at Ban Nam Kong, 65 km from Pai and continues through virgin forests, waterfalls and 15 sets of rapids, a journey time of about five hours.
CHIANG RAI
One of the oldest rafting destinations in the country, Chiang Rai continues to draw adventure seekers from all over the globe. In Chiang Rai, bamboo rafts and inflatable boats are available for the journey down the Mae Kok, the province’s major artery.
CHIANG MAI
Rafting down the Mae Chaem through Ob Luang George in inflatable boats is available through Mae Sot Travel. Another challenging route is the Mae Tuen in Omkoi District, where the river rushes through virgin forests to end at the Pha Dam Waterfall. No rubber raft is available at the site, so it’s best to book a trip with a tour agen in Chiang Mai.
NAN
Nam Wa stream in Nan is recognised as an ultimate rafting adventure. During rainy season the stream is swollen and rates 3 – 5 on the difficulty scale. Local rafting operators are offering soft adventure tour for rafting buffs wanting to test out their skills. The three – day tour features rafting through a series of rapids, such as Sop Huai Duea and Phi Pa, on specially – designed rubber rafts. Visitors can also use the opportunity to explore the cool jungle setting of Doi Phu Kha and Mae Charim mountains
सर्च tourismthailand.org
