Explore Phitsanulok

It’s time for a rafting adventure in Khek Creek.

THE rainy season should not be a time when travellers hibernate. Instead, it is the season to go whitewater rafting at Phitsanulok’s Khek Creek.

During June to October, Khek Creek is at its best with an abundance of whitewater to guarantee a challenge. This deep creek, where a small river creeps peacefully through a maze of rocks during the dry season, transforms, once monsoon rains hit the region, into a murky coffee coloured cauldron of swirling currents that create challenging rapids.

Adventure enthusiasts can test their calibre at 18 rapids that have a difficulty rating ranging from level one to five. The route is about 8 km long and takes from two to three hours depending on the speed of river currents. Both sides of the creek are lined with lush forest, which offers a relaxing diversion of beautiful scenery during the short spells between rapids.

One advantage for rafters is the creek’s proximity to Highway 12 (Phitsanulok-Lomsak) making it easy to access and easy for rescue teams if an accident occurs.

Safety is a priority for raft operators. Two experienced and trained guides accompany rafters on board, one at the bow and the other at the stern, to steer the inflatable raft and give instructions for the team to follow. Insurance is compulsory and safety regulations must be followed.

Before rafting, adventurers are kitted out in life vests and helmets. They are then given an orientation on how to paddle and comply with safety codes.

Khek Creek is part of the Phetchabun mountains, on the Khao Kho side of the range. The river flows through Thung Salang Luang National Park and during its descent in the mountains it passes over several waterfalls namely Sri Dit, Kaeng Sopa, Poi, Kaeng Song and Sakunotayan. When it passes Wangthong district, the river assumes the same name and eventually merges with the greater Nan River at Bangkratum district, Phitsanulok.

After the thrill of rafting, tourists can rest and sip locally grown coffee, both Robusta and Arabica blends, at a coffee house near Kaengsong Waterfall. The highlands of Phitsanulok and Phetchabun are famous for their coffee plantations. Coffee shops and kiosks can be found everywhere. The two provinces are also home to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, Thung Salang Luang National Park, Phu Tabberk and Khao Kho, The main white water rafting site is Khek Creek, 429 Km from Bangkok between the 44th and 52nd km markers on Highway 12. For further information contact TAT Phitsanulok office at 055 252 742-3.