Chiang Mai: Tourists are gathering in large numbers at Ban Chong Lae, a newly established check-in point in Chiang Mai Province, to enjoy rafting on the Ping River. This new attraction is not only providing a refreshing escape from the heat but is also generating substantial daily income for the local community.

According to Thai News Agency, the scorching weather has prompted both locals and tourists to cool off at Ban Cho Lae in Mae Taeng District, a burgeoning community tourist hotspot. With over 30 vendors setting up food and drink stalls along the riverbanks, visitors can indulge in local delicacies while lounging on bamboo benches under the bridge crossing the Ping River. The area has quickly become a favorite among tourists looking to beat the heat in a lively setting.

The main draw of the site is the opportunity to rent a wet raft and enjoy a leisurely float down the Ping River, which boasts clean, cool waters with depths exceeding one meter. The rafting route spans approximately two kilometers, taking about an hour to complete. As rafts pass by the tourist pavilion, onlookers engage in playful water-splashing activities, adding to the fun and excitement. Raft rentals are available at a rate of 800 baht per boat, accommodating 4-6 people, with an option to connect additional boats for 120 baht per person. This popular activity attracts thousands of visitors daily, contributing hundreds of thousands of baht to the community’s economy.

To ensure safety, the community has issued strict guidelines prohibiting the possession of weapons, with violators facing a substantial fine of 100,000 baht. The rafting activities are set to continue until the end of April, after which all temporary structures will be dismantled, restoring the natural state of the Ping River.