THE THRILLS THEY CALL WHITE WATER RAFTING

THE TRILLS THEY CALL WHITE WATER RAFTING
For 36 hours, participants try to navigate numerous rapids
Whether you're looking for adventure or prefer a quiet, relaxing journey, there's no better way to explore some of northern Thailand's most spectacular sights than by navigating its rivers on board an inflated or bamboo raft.

The whitewater-rafting season begins during the rainy season in mid-June and can last until late January. That's also the time when Thai Adventure Rafting offers exciting trips down the Pai river, the only way through Mae Hong Son's Lum Nam Pai Wildlife Sanctuary. For the next 36 hours, participants try to navigate numerous rapids while marveling at the surrounding wilderness.

Two rivers closer to Chiang Mai also offer the same experience. The Mae Jaem River that flows through Ob-Luang National Park has a number of grade four rapids, while the Mae Taeng River, flowing through Hui Nam Dang National Park, is ideal for a short day trip.

It takes a bit of courage to take on the elements, but the task is made easier with the availability of a good boat, an experienced guide, and a change of dry clothes. For those who want added thrill, try a kayak or a boogie board instead.

If whitewater rafting strikes fear into your heart, then the alternative would be bamboo rafting. Most trekking packages offer it as part of their itinerary

Just past the Mae Rim, Mae Sa and Mae Taman rivers are a couple of starting points for a leisurely trip. Cast off at either Mae Sa Elephant Camp and Mae Taman Rafting & Elephant Camp and just let the raft float at a lazy pace. As it drifts with the current, the stillness is broken only by the sound of the water splashing against it

From the forest, one hears the distinct screeches of different birds and shrill cries of monkeys. The last village now seems far behind and all around, only trees, rocks, and endless water are visible. Yes, it is the silence that accompanies this exciting trip that stays in the memory.