7 Experiences 7 areas of Western Forest (2)

Mae Wong Whitewater Rafting

• Location          : National Park Mae Wong Section 4 (Mae Rae Wa), Mae Wong National Park, Mae Wong District, Nakhon Sawan and Klong Lan District, Kampaeng Phet
• Destination     : 40 Km. on high way No.1072 Lad Yao-Mae Wong
• Specific Data   : Start point National Park Mae Wong Section 4 (Mae Rae Wa), Mae Wong District, Nakhon Sawan about 2-3 hours/2nd-3rd level of difficulty.
• Service cost    : 2,000-3,000 Baht/ 1 Boat / 6-8 persons. (Program starts at Kamphaeng Phet) / able to raft both kayak and rubber boat. (10 days booking advance is reasonable)
• Traveling season : September-October
• Extra activity and attractions : Klong Lan Waterfall (Unseen Thailand), Klong Lan Trailbal Development Office, Natural study trekking routes, Camping, Mountain Bike.

7 Experiences 7 areas of Western Forest (1)

Koh Roi Whitewater Rafting

• Location          : Klong Lan National Park, Klong Lan District, Kampaeng Phet
• Destination     : 40 Km. on high way No.1116 Nakorn Chum-Pong Nam Ron
• Specific Data   : Whitewater Rafting take 2-3hours/2nd-3rd level of difficulty (Program starts at Kamphaeng Phet)/ able to raft both kayak and rubber boat.
• Service cost    : 3,000-3,500 Baht/ 1 Boat / 6-8 persons. (Booking in advance is reasonable.)
• Traveling season : September-October
• Extra activity and attractions : Klong Lan Waterfall (Unseen Thailand), Klong Lan Trailbal Development Office, Natural study trekking routes, Camping, Mountain Bike.

์ื Name of Operator and Contacts of Luang Nam Wah

Name of Operators

• Mae Jarim District Office (Bamboo raft)

        Tel : 0-5476-9050

• Nan Pang Chang

        Tel : 0-5478=1316, 0-1724-0579  Fax : 0-5478-1212
        E-mail : nanpangchang2004@hotmail.com

• Nan Touring

        Tel : 0-5475-1122, 0-1961-7711  Fax : 0-5475-1199
        www.nantouring.com
        E-mail : nantouring@hotmail.com

• Nam Wah Tour

        Tel : 0-6183-7337

• Muan Muan Tour

        Tel : 0-5477-3598, 0-9755-5820  Fax : 0-5477-3598

• River Raft

        Tel : 0-5471-0940, 0-9835-1506  Fax : 0-5471-0940
        www.nanriverraft.com
        E-mail : raftnan@mthai.com

• Askimoroll

        Tel : 0-5475-7252, 0-1985-0062  Fax : 0-5475-7252
        www.kayakraft.com
        E-mail : jew@kayakraft.com

• Jaeng and Jay Tour

        Tel : 0-5476-9026, 0-1765-4194 (only the lower section of nam Wah)
        Fax : 0-5476-9026

• Mae Jarim National Park

        Tel : 0-5477-9402, 0-1716-2501 (only the lower section of nam Wah)

• Doi Phu Kha National Park

        Providing the accommodation Service and travel information of the national park.
        Tel/Fax : 0-5470-1000
      
 

Middle stream Luang Nam Wah

         This challenge trip takes 3 days 2 nights for experience rafter. Strong eddies and powerful currents in Nam Wah, Center area is difficulty from level 1-5 with over 100 points. Along the way about 80 Km. is in the deep forest  of Doi phu Kha, Khun Nan and Mae Jarim National Park al so small waterfalls along the way. Moreover you can do trekking and sight seeing to the most beautiful waterfall in Nan.
        The starting point is at Ban Sob Mang, Bo Klua and finish at Ban Nong Deag, Mae Jarim.

Lower stream Luang Nam Wah

         Kang Luang situated on Mae Jarim-Nam Muab Road, 16 Km. Out from Mae Jarim Town. Located in Mae Jarim National Park Ban Sai Moon Moo5, Nam Pai. Klong Luang is a 3 meters deep whitewater rafting. In the hot season the water is very clear. You can enjoy both whitewater rafting and bamboo rafting in 1st to 3rd level in the whole year.

• Bamboo Rafting

        The beginning point is about 10 Km. from Mae Jarim Town in Ban Nam Wah Moo 5, T.Nam Pang (only 48 Km. from Nan). The raft take 4 Km. to reach Ban Nam Po, Then continue more 4 Km. to Ban Sai Moon Moo 5, so this trip takes 4 hours to reach Mae Jarim National Park. There you can find facilities like accommodations : rooms and tents area near by Mae Jarim River with a good atmosphere and beautiful picturesque.

• Down stream Nam Wah Whitewater Rafting

        The beginning point is at Mae Jarim National Park, then raft along the way to Ban Had Rai Wieng Sa. In this distance you will pass the exiting point at Kang Dan Sai and Kang Luang. Also see the variety of bountiful forest.
        You can do whitewater eafting all year long and elephant riding as well.

Spacial Thank : tat.or.th

Whitewater Rafting Preparation

• Wear outfit and footwear that can swim in comfortably. Lightweight and easily dried shorts and t-shirt are fine. Strap sandals or old shoes are a must to protect feet from rocks.
• Watertight containers are recommended for personal belonging such as eyeglasses, camera, wallet, medication etc.
• For expeditions that required overnight stay, food, beverage, tent and sleeping gear are provided by operators.
• Two mandatory piece of equipment are life-jacket and helmet will be provided by operators.

Rescue Tips

         Safety is the most priority, everything pertaining to rafting is based on the principle. The Operators and guides have been well-trained in rapid water rescue, first aid and etc. this training covers the communication with tourists, continuous monitoring the speed of the current.

• To find yourself throw into turbulent water is quite a disorientating experience for most people. The first thing is so relax. The more you thrash about, the more energy and breath you will waste.
• It is extremely important that you do not try to stand up while in turbulent water. You should keep your feet off the riverbed to avoid getting a foot trapped in between or under rocks.
• The best way to survive a swim in whitewater is to float on your back with your feet downstream in front of you. Your head, butt and feet should be held high so that you can see your toes. This position allows you to see where you are going and look out for hazard and safe zones. With your feet in front, you can fend off rocks using the legs as a shock absorber.
• While in the position, try to look for calm pools and eddies which may offer a safe exit from the rapid. The primary goals should be the protect yourself, to get enough air and to aggressively swim to safety when an opportunity arises.
• When get caught in the strong backwash current of a waterfall, try to relax, take breath and swim sideways remember that waterfalls contain a powerful downcurrent that can be followed and use to push under the backwash and out. In such a situation, be prepared to make many attempts at self rescue. Whatever you do, don't give up.

Attractions near Keg River

Attractions near Keg River :

• Phu Hin Rong Kla A platform of knotty rocks all about the similar size. It is believed that this formation results from physical and chemical erosion.
• Phu Tab Berg Experience the cool breeze from Himalayan Mountains and view the largest cabbage field in the world.
• Adventure activities Fulfill your life with excitement adventure in the natural surrounding.
• Kaeng Bang Ra Chan Paddling a boat to find rare fresh water jelly fish and explore thousands of butterflies. Homestay are available in the village.
• Keg Noi, Mhong Tribe Village The boggest Mhong Community in Thailand. the cultural shows are performed every Saturday.
• Tung Nang Pra Ya Cycling among the fresh atmosphere and the pine Forest.

Spacial Thanks : tat.or.th

Name of Operator and Contacts of Keg River

Name of Operator :

• Ban Sap Charoen Community Enterprise Group 

        Tel. 0-7210-3843

• Camping Side Center 

        Tel. 0-2961-2204-5 / 0-1341-4529 Fax. 0-2961-2025

• Nature Camp (Lok Mae Nam Keg Tour)

        Tel. 0-1973-5882 Fax. 0-5521-3541

• Lung Nuad Tour

        Tel. 0-1036-6322 / 0-4819-3979

• Nam Keg Tour

       Tel. 0-9858-3939 / 0-1441-6728 / 0-1594-4844

• Pop Tour

        Tel. 0-1680-3939 / 0-1707-0440 / 0-6200-8778 Fax.0-5524-7136

• Mark Tour

        Tel. 0-1973-5188 / 0-4815-1011 / 0-9860-7978

• Rongrit Tour

        Tel. 0-1041-6055 / 0-9859-4563 / 0-5529-3279

• Adventure Camp

        Tel. 0-9751-3133

Contact for more information :

        Tourism Authority of Thailand , northern Office : Region 3
        Tel. 0-5525-2742-3  Fax. 0-5523-1063
        E-mail : tatphlokAtat.or.th









Spacial Thank : tat.or.th

Whitewater Rafting on Keg River

        Keg river is originated from Phetchabun mountain ranges in Khao Kho district. It's passed Thoung Salaeng Luang National Park and generaed Sri Dhit waterfall, Kang Sopa water fall, known as the most beautiful and the largest waterfall in this area, Poi waterfall, Kaeng Song waterfall and Sakunothayan waterfall passing Wang Thong district. The name has been changed to Wang Thong River which joins with Nan River at Bang Kra Thum district.

        Whitewater rafting on Keg River at Ban Sap Praiwan sub district, Wang Thong district, Phitsanulok province at kilometers 52-53.

• Keg River's Characteristics.

        Keg River is moderate in size. In rainy season, the water changes into the light brown and green in summer. Keg River is dotted with lots of islets and cataracts that flow along side high way no.12. The bank of river is abundant with rush forests, fruit orchards as well as many kinds of birds especially egrets.

• The River's Uniqueness.

        Whitewater rafting in the most popular on Keg River, which provides fun and exciting routes. The trip last 2-3 hours, depends on the water level, and 8 kames. Of distance along highway no.12, also known as " The Green Route ". The tourist will experience the water speed at level 1-2 and gradually increase the intensity to level 4-5 in the end. Whitewater rafting on Keg River is considered the only place in Thailand which offers great opportunity for basic, intermediate, advance and expert rafters as well. Rafters can also enjoy exotic taste of Kaeng Song coffee along this route.

• Cautions

        Keg River has high speed current in rainy season. Tourist are not able to swim at waterfalls but capable of rafting with lots of fun. fore those who want to raft at Keg River should swim well and possess healthy bodies and minds.

• Seasoning

        The best time to head for whitewater rafting is during June to October.

• Safety Certified

        Operators who operate on Keg River are trained Best Practice course and must follow strict rules of the "Keg Whitewater Rafting Association" to guarantee safety and standard procedures to tourist. There are rescued units station along the rafting route.

          

Photo by :
Spacial Thanks : tat.or.th

Classification of whitewater

        The most widely used grading system in the International Grading System, where whitewater (either an individual rapid, or the entire river) is classed in six categories from class I ( the easiest and safety) to class VI (the most difficult and most dangerous).

• Grade 1 - Easy Fast moving water, ripples and small waves. Few obstructions, all obvious. Easily rescued.
• Grade 2 - Novice Straight forward rapid with wide clear channel evident without scouting. Rocks and medium sized waves easily missed by trained paddlers. Easily rescued.
• Grade 3 - Intermediate  Rapids with moderate and irregular waves. Strong eddies and powerful current, particularly on large volume rivers. Good boat control is required in tight passages and around ledges. Scouting is advisable. Rescue is possible.
• Grade 4 - Advanced Intense powerful but predictable rapids. May feature large unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvering under pressure. Scouting is necessary first times. Difficult rescued may be possible.
• Grade 5 - Expert Extremely long, obstructed or violent rapids which expose a paddler to above average danger. Drops may contain large unavoidable waves and holes. Rapids may continue for long distances between pools, requiring a level of fitness. Scouting is essential but difficult. Difficult and painful rescue may be possible.
• Grade 6 - Extreme These runs exemplify extremes of difficulty and danger. For teams of experts only, at favorable water levels and after close study and taking all precautions. NO RESCUE POSSIBLE !

Whitewater's Grade in Thailand.

• Pai River, Mae Hong Son : Grade 1-4
• Mae Taeng River, Chiang Mai : Grade 2-5
• Keg River, Phetchabun : Grade 1-5
• Kang Luang Nam Wah (Lower stream), Nan : Grade 1-3
• Kang Luang Nam Wah (Middle stream), Nan : Grade 1-5
• Koh Roi, Kamphaeng Phet : Grade 2-3
• Mae Wong, Kamphaeng Phet and Nakhon Sawan : Grade 2-3
• Mae La Mao, Tak : Grade 2-3
• Umphang Klee, Tak : Grade 2-4
• Mae Klong (Umphang-Thi Lo Jau-Thi Lo Su), Tak : Grade 2-3
• Mae Klong (Umphang-Thi Lo Jau-Thi Lo Su), Tak : Grade 3-4
• Mae Tuen, Tak : Grade 2-3

Spacial Thanks : tat.or.th

Chiang Mai Contact and Information

Contact Number :

• Ching Mai Adventure Co.,Ltd.

        Tel. 0-5341-8197 / 0-5341-8534  Fax. 0-5341-8198
        Email : cnxadventure@hotmail.com
        www.chiangmaiadventure.co.th

• Siam River Adventures Co.Ltd.

        Tel./Fax. 0-5320-6838
        Email : info@siamrivers.com
        www.siamrivers.com

• Siam Eco Life.

        Tel. 0-5328-1790 / 0-6671-9481 / 0-9264-0779 /
              0-5327-0662 ext. 803
        Email : siamecolife@yahoo.com
        www.siamecolifetour.com

• Thai Adventure and Development.

        Tel. 0-5369-9111 Fax. 0-5369-9111
        Email : rafting@activethailand.com

• Northern Green Tour (Pai Adventure).

        Tel. 0-5369-9385 Fax. 0-5369-8128
        Email : pairafting@hotmail.com
        www.thailandpai.net

Contacts for more Information.
    
        Tourism Authority of Thailand Northern Office : Region 1
        Tel. 0-5324-8604 / 0-5324-8607 / 0-5324-1466
        Fax. 0-5324-8605
        Email : tatchmai@tot.or.th

• Spacial Thanks : tat.or.th

Whitewater Rafting in Chiang Mai

     Operating for 15 years in northern region on Pai and for 10 years in Chiangmai, whitewater rafting has been done in short trip within 40 minutes by the foreign company. The best time to head for whitewater rafting is during July and August.
     Mae Taeng River provinces 10 kilometers of distance for whitewater rafting by two and a half hours. it is divided into 3 reached from Ban Sob Kai to ban Muang Kud.

• First Reach from Ban Sob Kai to Pang Koh takes about 5 kilometers with ranging at grade 2-3. This route is suitable for novice to intermediate as its water rapid with moderate and medium size wave. It is enjoyable, funny and easily sources as well.

• Secondly Reach from Pang Koh to Ban Huay Ma Sang takes about 2 kilometers with ranging at grade 4-5. This reach is the most challenging; there are some steep sections with lots of drops and moves to make great for boosting your technical and team work.

• Last Reach from Ban Huay Ma Sang to Ban Muang Kud takes about 4 kilometers with ranging at grade 3-4. This reach in mostly organized among travel agents in Chiang Mai. It is enjoyable and fun with the connecting 3 large unavoidable waves and holes in 500 meters of distance. 

     Whitewater rafting on Mae Taeng River is recommended of tourists as highlight program. Chiang Mai is an adventure's playground and the best place to be if you are in to trekking, rafting, mountain bike or jungle elephant riding, or just chilling out in the jungle.

Photo by :

Spacial Thanks : tat.or.th 

Mae Hong Son Program and Information

Program and Cost :

• Half day trip whitewater rafting on Pai Rover cost ~ 500-1300 baths.
• 1 Day whitewater rafting trip on Pai and Khong River (45 km.) cost ~ 1,300-1,500 baths.
• 2 Days 1 night whitewater rafting trip on Pai and Khong River (45 km.) ~ 1,500-1,800 baths.
• 2 Days 1 night whitewater rafting trip on Pai river (70 km.) costs ~ 1,800-2,000 baths.

        Remark : This prices may change, depend on agency.

                      These prices exclude the entrance fee 200 Baths for the wildlife Preservation  

                      center.

Contact Number :

• Pai Adventure Tel. 0-5369-9385 / 0-5369-9128
• Mae Hong Son Adventure Tel. 0-1884-5025 / 0-1952-3340
• Thai Adventure Tel. 0-5369-9111
• Pai in The Sky Tel. 0-5369-8245 / 0-5369-9090
• Northern Green Tour (Pai Adventure).

        Tel. 0-5369-9385 Fax. 0-5369-8128

        Email : pairafting@hotmail.com

        www.thailandpai.net

Contact for more Information :
     
       Mae Hong Son Tourism Coordination Center.
       Tel. 0-5361-2982  Fax. 0-5361-2984
       E-mail : tatmhs@tat.or.th








Spacial Thanks : tat.or.th

Whitewater Rafting on Pai River

  
     Pai river of Mae Hong Son province origonates from the Thanon Thongchai and Dan Loa Mountain Range which swell to Pai, Pang Mapha and Muang District eventually joining the Salawin River on its way to the Gulf of Burma. Whitewater Rafting on Pai Riverhas total distance about 50 kilometers which providing grade 1-4 rapids and ranging to 5 rapids during rainy season. Beside the trip also offers beautiful scenery of lush forests as well a soaking waterfall, cave, immerse in mud well and cliff jumping. The best time to head for Whitewater Rafting is during June to February. Local guide and Whitewater Rafting expert are required as well.

Photo by travelpod.com, showyouthailand.com
Spacial Thanks : tat.or.th

Northern Thailand Paradise of White water rafting.

Northern Thailand is a perfect outdoor paradise and ideal for whitewater rafting activity where the physical feature of the land is mountainous. Whitewater rafting becomes quickly increasingly popular in Northern Thailand as there are lots of rivers and streams flowing throughout the northern provinces. These rivers provide great opportunities to rafting by using bamboo or rubber rafts with offer exiting selection of unique and fun activities and memorable experiences. In rainy season (July-September), the river offer larger flows with series of strainers, hydraulics, waves, pillows and eddies and in the cold season and dry season (October-March), the rivers offer lower level of crystal clear water.

     This blog provides different rafting areas cater for both first time and experienced paddlers ranging from grade 1-6 such as Pai river in Mae Hong Son province, Mae Taeng river in Chiang Mai, Mae Klong river in Tak, Nam Wah river in Nan and Keg river in Phitsanulok. So come and experience the unforgettable adventure in Northern Thailand where surrounded with the beautiful of the rain forest and remote areas as well as follow the rivers through untouched wildness throughout the year. 

Spacial Thanks : tat.or.th