Bangkok--Nov 11--TAT
Winner of the Award of Excellence - Inbound Tour Programme, Thailand Tourism Awards 2004
The Chao Phraya is not Thailand’s longest river by far. However, in the relatively short 370 km of bends and sweeps from Nakhon Sawan to the Gulf of Thailand, the Chao Phraya moulds and crafts the lifestyle of Thais more than any other stretch of water. The majestic ‘River of Kings’ nourishes the nation’s rice paddies, stretching across the delta lands as far as the eye can see. It also provides a major transport channel for trade.
For most travelers, the river provides a short interlude on a city tour to a floating market or a transfer from hotel to the famous Temple of the Dawn. It doesn’t need to end there.
For the traveller ready to explore its course and tributaries north of the capital, the Chao Phraya offers fascinating insights into Thai rural lifestyle, moving with the times but still entwined with the river. To explore the river in detail, the preferred options are the slower converted river barges with cabins below and a well appointed top deck to relax and enjoy meals. End.