The Pai River, the longest and widest river in the Mae Hong Son province, originates in the Tanon Thongchai and Danlao mountain ranges to flow through three districts in Mae Hong Son province: the Pai district, the Pang Ma Pha district, and the Mae Hong Son Muang district before joining the Salween River in Mae Sariang district. The journey is about 180 km.
The Pai River has many islets and breathtaking scenery. Rafting the Pai River is the perfect activity for nature and adventure lovers. The rafting level of difficulty is ranked from 1-4; however, in the rainy season, it may reach level 5. The journey allows tourists to touch nature and find enjoyment along the way with waterfalls sightings, camping in the forest, mud bathing in hot springs, and jumping cliffs.
June to February offers the most desirable period for rafting. It is necessary to employ local, skilled persons and the rafting companies for Pai River rafting so that rafters can receive orientation and practice using the rubber raft and paddling. Operators will prepare food, beverages, bedding, and take care of all other needs.
There are two routes for rafting:
One begins in the Pai district and lasts about two days and one night. The approximate total distance of 70 km ends in the Mae Surin Waterfall National Park in the Mae Hong Son Muang district.
The second journey begins at the Huey San village in the Pang Ma Pha district. Tourists travel down the Kong River to meet the Pai River and conclude their journey at the Mae Surin Waterfall National Park in the Mae Hong Son Muang district. The total distance is 45 km and takes two days and one night. The trip can be adapted to a one-day trip for tourists who do not have that much time.
