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.

Doi Tao Lake
The Doi Tao Lake is located at about 133 km southwest of Chiang Mai city center. It can be reached via highway 108 on the way to the towns of Doi Tao and Hot in Doi Tao district. The Doi Tao Lake is actually a man-made reservoir.
It is part of a royally sponsored Bhumibol Dam & Reservoir Project. During the region's dry season, the lake provides much needed irrigation for crops in the area. In addition, the Doi Tao Lake serves as an attractive recreational area for tourists and local people alike.