Waterfalls for Splashing Cool Fun

Motor biking in north Thailand is a most enjoyable activity to do here. Most of those who rent motorbikes in Chiangrai visit Mae Salong, Mae Sai, The Golden Triangle, Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong. However, there is more to the Chiangrai province than these area, much more. Read on for some suggestions.

There are beautiful, tranquil places that are visited little by bike riders. These places are less than an one hour ride from Chiangrai city and easily accessible by novice riders as well.

Two great one day trips are to parks with waterfalls, namely, the areas of Namtok (waterfall) Huay Mae Sai and Namtok Khun Korn (Khoon Gorn). Each area is completely different from the other. Namtok Huay Mae Sai has a delightful combination of hill tribes and elephants in a beautiful and friendly non commercial setting. Namtok Khun Korn on the other hand astounds you with magnificent nature, pure and simple. Although both area do have a waterfall, Namtok Khun Korn is by far the most spectacular. Rising to a height of 70- meters, it is the largest waterfall in Chiangrai Province.

Of these two suggested sights, the nearer to Chiangrai city is Namtok Huay Mae Sai. To get there, take the superhighway from Chiangrai north toward Mae Sai. Then go across the bridge of the Mae Kok River. Turn Left at the first road located only a few hundred meters after the bridge. Fallow this paved country road winding through villages for 22 km. There will be a sharp curve to the right with a sigh stating " with an arrow pointing left under the sign. Turn left here onto a dirt road and a beautiful temple with a big drum will be in the land mark in front of you. Turn right in front of the temple and follow along this easy to travel dirt road. Most of this road follows a stream through Yao and Akha villages, beautiful valleys and three covered hills.

Make a stop at the noodle shop just before the waterfall which is particularly interesting. It's best to leave your motorbike here and walk through the trees a few hundred meters to the fall. You can rest at the shop under cool shade trees while enjoying a beverage. Then arrange for a one hour elephant ride to an Akha village and return. It's time for a change into shorts or swim suit in the toilet at the noodle shop -- then have a present swim under the waterfall. Plenty of good food is available for lunch. This is the perfect time to lay around under a thatched roof sala while reading a book or play with the Akha and Lahu children. After the heat of the day has passed it's time to drive back to Chiangrai in only 30 minutes or so.

If nature is more to your liking then Namtok Khun Korn is the place to visit. To get there get on the superhighway in Chiangrai and Head south toward Chiangmai until reaching Highway 1211. There is a big sign stating "Namtok Khun Korn" where you turn right on 1211. Follow this road 15 kms to Highway 1208. Just after turning right onto Highway 1208 there is another sign stating "Namtok Khun Korn 11 Km." The entrance to the park is at the end of this road so you can't miss it. The motorbike can be securely parked at the visitors center. Get ready for a hike 1200 meters to the waterfall. What a hike indeed. This easy to walk trail will invigorate all yours senses. There are sounds of the breeze through the high trees, the soothing rush of the stream next to the trial combined with many birds singing and declaring your arrival. All fragrances of a natural forest and clean fresh air are apparent. The many different colorer butterflies fluttering all around you and landing on exotic plants is enchanting. The colorful blossoms of wild flowers is an additional visual treat. And then, upon reaching the waterfall, WOW, a wide grin spreads across your face. You wish you could stay here forever. Well, for at least the rest of the day and you should.

Excellent barbecue chicken and Thai food are offered at vendors stalls. Very considerately the toilet and changing rooms are near the visitors center. Swimming at the waterfall is allowed.

Chiangrai province has a lot more to offer than sightseeing in just the Golden triangle area. Namtok Huay Mae Sai and Namtok Khun Korn are two options for visitors to get to know the culture and natural beauty of north Thailand. Take the opportunity to rent a motorbike or jeep to explore the country side. You'll be glad you did. I know I am.