Ping River, or Mae Ping River, originates from Doi Thuay, in Chiang Dao District and runs down to Chiang Mai city through the middle part of Thailand for 658 kms before becoming Chao Praya River in Nakorn Sawan Province.

Northern Thai people call every big river “Mae”, which means “Mother”, to pay respect to the river that provides them a good life. Residents use this water in daily life for drinking, fishing, cleaning, travelling, agriculture, etc. People who live close to the river are dependent on it.

History tells that King Mengrai moved his town from Chiang Sean to Wiang Kum Kam because he saw that this place was a suitable location. Even when he moved his town again to Chiang Mai, it was still close to Mae Ping River.

Today, there is another benefit of Mae Ping River, which is tourism. Tourists can take a boat cruise on Mae Ping River to see the local way of life of villagers that live close to the river and other interesting places. This is yet another leisure time that you could try!