Mae Ping River

Hours (Open/Closed) Monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

📍 Location of Mae Ping River 🚘 Directions to Mae Ping River

About Mae Ping River

Embarking on a trip down the Mae Ping River is an experience that comes highly recommended by many. The journey is not only a fantastic way to spend time with loved ones, but it also offers an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. One of the highlights of the trip is a visit to a local farmhouse, where visitors can learn about the region's agricultural practices from a knowledgeable guide. The warm welcome, complete with a refreshing ice cream and drink, adds a delightful touch to the experience.

The boat ride can be easily arranged, even at the last minute, with the assistance of local hotel staff. The convenience of being picked up from the hotel and dropped off at War Chai Mongkhon for further exploration is a bonus. The boat ride is made even more enjoyable by the presence of a wonderful captain, who not only navigates the boat but also shares interesting facts about the landmarks and their historical significance. The tour of the riverside farmhouse is a treat, with an introduction to the fresh herbs used in regional cooking. Even a sudden downpour doesn't dampen the spirits, as there's no better place to be during a rainstorm than enjoying herbed drinks and ice cream at the farmhouse.

The trip up the river also includes a stop at the farmer's lodge, where visitors can enjoy fresh fruit and drinks. It's a great way to spend the day, with plenty to see and do. The journey down the Ping River, although fairly brown, leads to a small jetty with a farm attached. Here, visitors can see geese, wild pigs, and a variety of plants and herbs. Fresh fruit, including watermelon and pineapple, is served, adding to the overall enjoyment of the trip.

The river cruise is not only a pleasant way to cool down on a hot day, but it also offers a unique perspective of the city from the waterside. The guide on the boat keeps the journey entertaining with interesting stories and explanations of the sights along the way. The stop at the Thai Farmer’s House is more interesting than one might expect, making it a fun and easy-going activity. It's a good idea to bring a camera along to capture the memorable moments.

While the river itself may not be particularly attractive, the river cruises available offer a chance to see a number of places while cruising. The night lights add a romantic touch to the experience. The Ping River separates the western side of the city, including the old walled city, from the less-visited eastern half. A trip along the river is worthwhile at any time of the year, with the highlight being the release of kratong and lanterns by the river during the Yi Peng or Loy Kratong festival in November. The boat trips, which are not sophisticated, offer a great way to see a bit of Chiang Mai life outside the usual tourist haunts.