Khao Yai National Park is pleased to invite you to its 15th Hin Pheung Rafting Festival, which is from July 23 to July 27, 2011. The festival promises to be a wonderful event full of activity that will attract both participants and supporters.

The Southwest Monsoon causes the calm rivers and streams in Khao Yai National park turn into roaring rapids every July. This phenomenon results in a number of great white-water rafting routes. These routes are used for the annual rafting festivals, like Hin Pheung. Navigating the rapids during the festival is a challenge that both locals as well as foreign visitors are willing to accept.

The races are organized by categories of age and skill level (ranging from level 3 – 5). The courses are over 2.5 km in length. There are also other activities; for example, the Pétanque competition and singing contests. You can watch traditional performances such as folk dances. These alternate activities are for those who would rather be on dryland, or as a break from shooting the rapids.

Thailand’s Khao Yai National Park is one of the UN World Heritage sites, so it is well-known by both locals and foreigners for its beauty.

Khao Yai National Park is one of the oldest national parks located in Prachinburi, which is only 120km (74 miles) away from the south of Bangkok. It has served as one of the most enjoyable destinations in the Northeast of Thailand.

Covering an area of over 2,000sq km (780sq miles), the park is home to wildlife, fast flowing rivers, waterfalls and mountain ranges that reach to 1,800 meters into the sky! Also, in the middle of the park there are campsites for visitors. This is an especially appealing option for a trip in cool season starting from November to February.

Come join the fun at Khao Yai and conquer some rapids during your adventure!

Date: 23 – 27 July 2011

Venue: Khao Yai National Park, Prachinburi

By Suttira Kaewthep