Mae Ping River Cruise

An unexpected journey down the river Ping can turn out to be a delightful surprise, as one traveler and their 13-year-old daughter discovered. They were exploring the city when they decided to embark on a boat trip. A quick negotiation with a Tuk Tuk driver and a small fee of 200 baht later, they found themselves at a temple by the river, ready to set sail. The boat trip cost them 550 baht each, but the experience was worth every penny.

While waiting for their boat, they decided to visit the Anatara resort for a refreshing drink. Upon their return, the boat was ready and waiting for them. They set off at 3.02pm, with the entire boat to themselves and a captain who respected their privacy. The journey took them to a rural area where they were given a tour, treated to lemongrass tea, ice cream, and even got to sit atop a little treehouse for half an hour. The trip was a hit with the teenager, proving that it was indeed a fun and exciting adventure. The beautiful, peaceful, and interesting surroundings, coupled with the humid but chill weather, made for a truly memorable trip.

The river cruise is a great way to see Chiang Mai. The comfortable traditional river boat offers a relaxing tour, with a lunch stop in a rustic setting. The attentive crew adds to the enjoyment of the trip. The unique perspective from the river provides beautiful views of the city and countryside, showcasing homes and resorts in a new light. It's an adventure that should not be missed.

The last-minute pick-up service from the hotel is well-organised, making the trip even more convenient. The gentle river cruise down the Mae Ping River is a joy, with the boatman providing informative commentary throughout the journey. The river life, amazing looking hotels, restaurants, and coffee houses are a sight to behold. The Farmer's House, although a bit dilapidated, offers a chance to see some herbs growing and a rabbit in a cage. Booking via the Facebook page or their website can get you a discount, making the trip even more affordable.

The boat operator is friendly and points out sites along the way. The destination for the river tour is a small farm north of Chiang Mai, where the guide explains different herbs and farming techniques. It's a cozy place, but not exactly a full-fledged farm experience. Nonetheless, it's a nice boat trip that offers a pleasant way to spend a couple of hours.

The 2-hour cruise north and back is a nice way to see the river side of properties. The staff is pleasant and the views are nice. The destination is a rural restaurant with marked plants and some animals. Despite being a little run down, the complementary fruit and drink are enjoyable.

The cruise is a great way to spend a couple of hours and see the activities, housing, and restaurants along the river. The stop at a restaurant for 30 minutes offers a chance to walk around and enjoy fresh delicious fruit. The guide is personable and interesting, making the trip even more enjoyable.

The 2-hour cruise on a teak rice barge along the Ping River is a pleasant experience. The cruise offers a chance to see the hotels and restaurants on the “riverfront” area, local homes, and fishermen. The stop at the farmer's house offers a chance to learn about various Thai fruits and herbs, and enjoy a serving of fruit and a juice/water infused with various herbs. It's a lovely way to meet foreigners and chat about experiences in Thailand during the cruise.