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Rivers
in Thailand |
 Rivers
are considered arteries of the traditional Thai way of life.
Since ancient times, the Thai people have made their settlements
close to rivers. They earn a living, fish, swim, bathe and
wash clothes and dishes, using water from the local river.
Many
aspects of traditional Thai culture, such as the Loi Krathong
festival or even the Royal Barge Procession, owe their origins
to rivers. These traditions still remain until today and they
remind us of the significance that water has in our lives.
The Loi Krathong festival was created a long time ago as an
expression of gratitude to the rivers.
 For
Thailand, rivers are a major natural resource, vital for agriculture,
the backbone of the national economy. The natural waterways
are also used for transportation of both people and commodities,
and are now increasingly important in tourism.
Cruising
along the rivers offers the traveler a fascinating sightseeing
opportunity, observing the ways of life of the locals living
on both banks of the river.
Historically,
the Chao Phraya River is the main artery of Thailand. The
traveler can get to know this mighty 'River of Kings' through
a simple dinner cruise on a rice barge, commuting on an express
boat or hiring a long-tailed boat to explore the river and
the dense network of canals crisscrossing the Central Plains.
All of these ensure an exotic and memorable experience of
the Thai way of life.
 Traveling
upstream along the Chao Phraya towards Ayutthaya, subtle changes
in the way of life will become discernible. The riverbank
scene gradually changes from high-rise buildings and riverside
hotels, to the commoners' houses and Buddhist temples, fresh
markets and river-boat houses. You'll get a glimpse of the
old and new that blend together so harmoniously in Thai society.
Nowadays,
cruising is available on other rivers in Thailand. Boat cruising
is becoming popular on the Pasak River in Ayutthaya, the Sakaekrang
River in Uthai Thani and the Nakhonchaisri River in Nakhon
Pathom. Some local tour operators offer river cruise packages
for travelers interested in seeing life along the river.
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and discover great ideas for your next trip |
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