Kok River Longtail Boat Pier
Embark on scenic longtail boat adventures along the Kok River, exploring caves, elephant parks, and reaching Thaton.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for sunset river views
Kok River Longtail Boat Pier
Best Time
Ideal for sunset river views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Embark on scenic longtail boat adventures along the Kok River, exploring caves, elephant parks, and reaching Thaton.
"The best place to get a long tail boat to see caves, elephant etc. "
Negotiate Boat Fares
Prices aren't always transparent. Be prepared to negotiate for private tours and confirm the price before boarding. :moneybag:
Confirm Trip Duration
Clearly state how many hours you want your boat trip to be before agreeing on a price. :timer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Longtail Boat to Thaton
Kok River
Embark on a scenic 3-hour journey north along the Kok River to Thaton, near the Myanmar border.
Cave Temple Excursion
Kok River
Enjoy a shorter, 1-hour boat ride to a fascinating cave temple, offering a glimpse into local spirituality.
Elephant Park Visit
Various locations along the river
Arrange a private boat trip that includes a visit to an elephant park for an ethical wildlife encounter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Boat Prices
Choosing Your River Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Private longtail boat trip on the river and canals
Negotiate Boat Fares
Prices aren't always transparent. Be prepared to negotiate for private tours and confirm the price before boarding. :moneybag:
Confirm Trip Duration
Clearly state how many hours you want your boat trip to be before agreeing on a price. :timer:
Khlong / canal tour from Sathorn pier
Private vs. Shared Boats
Shared boats might be difficult to fill. Private tours are often the default, so plan accordingly. :boat:
Helpful Boatmen
The boatmen are generally helpful and can take you to various attractions like caves and elephant parks. :handshake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Boat Fares
Prices aren't always transparent. Be prepared to negotiate for private tours and confirm the price before boarding. :moneybag:
Confirm Trip Duration
Clearly state how many hours you want your boat trip to be before agreeing on a price. :timer:
Private vs. Shared Boats
Shared boats might be difficult to fill. Private tours are often the default, so plan accordingly. :boat:
Helpful Boatmen
The boatmen are generally helpful and can take you to various attractions like caves and elephant parks. :handshake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Kok River Longtail Boat Pier as an excellent starting point for scenic river excursions, offering access to caves, elephant parks, and longer journeys to Thaton. The boatmen are generally helpful, and the experience provides a unique way to see the local landscape. However, some travelers find the pricing for boat tours to be non-transparent and suggest that negotiation is essential.
"This boat pier in Chiang Rai is famous for the fairly long distance (about three hours) boat rides available to Thaton on the Kok River, in the extreme north of Chiang Mai province and close to the Myanmar border. Boats are available for private hire, or on a per passenger basis on scheduled departures. Shorter boat rides are also available."
George Mann - Photo & Video (George Mann Photo)
"There appears to be no public boats only private ones. The boatmen there offered to take to elephant park for 1200B on private basis. Didn't try."
Ganesh R
"Book a river ride on the long boat to enjoy the river scene. Just need to let them know how many hours u have. We did a 1hour tour to the cave temple n back."
Ying Chang Chen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The pier is easily accessible in Chiang Rai. Many visitors arrive via BTS to Sathorn Pier, which is a convenient connection point for river tours.
Yes, the pier is a well-known departure point in Chiang Rai for river excursions. Look for signs indicating boat tours. :world_map:
Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available in Chiang Rai to take you to the pier. Negotiate the fare beforehand. :taxi:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not typically bought in advance. You arrange your boat trip directly with the boatmen at the pier. :ticket:
The pier operates throughout the day, but it's best to arrange trips in the afternoon for sunset views or in the morning for cooler weather. :clock1:
Prices can vary significantly, especially for private tours. It's essential to negotiate and confirm the price before your trip. :moneywithwings:
Absolutely! Private tours are common, and boatmen are often willing to customize the trip duration and destination for you. :boat:
While possible, it can be challenging to find enough passengers to form a shared boat. Private tours are often the more readily available option. :bustsinsilhouette:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take longtail boat trips ranging from 1 hour to a full 3-hour journey to Thaton. Popular options include visiting cave temples and elephant parks. :kayak:
Wear comfortable, light clothing. Consider bringing a hat and sunglasses for sun protection, and be prepared for potential splashes. :sunwithface:
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks. Some longer trips might offer opportunities to stop for refreshments. :tropical_drink:
While the river is scenic, swimming is generally not recommended due to currents and boat traffic. Focus on enjoying the views from the boat. :water_wave:
Capture the lush riverbanks, local life along the water, and the unique longtail boats themselves. Sunset views are particularly stunning. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are usually local eateries and street food stalls near the pier where you can grab a bite before or after your boat trip. :street_food:
Small vendors might be present, but it's advisable to bring your own snacks and water, especially for longer journeys. :apple:
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the atmosphere and scenery. :sunriseovermountains:
Focus on capturing the vibrant longtail boats, the river's natural beauty, local villages along the banks, and the unique cultural experiences. :camera:
The entire river journey offers picturesque views. Keep your camera ready as the scenery constantly changes. :mount_fuji:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a private boat tour so you can control the pace and make stops as needed for the kids. While visiting elephant parks is an option, research ethical sanctuaries beforehand. The novelty of the longtail boat itself is often a highlight for children, making it a memorable part of the family vacation. :child:
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and water to save on expenses during the trip. Research typical price ranges beforehand, but be prepared for variations and the need to negotiate. :moneywithwings:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Longtail Boat Tours
When arranging a private tour, be clear about your desired duration and destination. Whether you're aiming for the multi-hour journey to Thaton, a shorter trip to a cave temple, or a visit to an elephant park, communicate your plans upfront. Prices can vary, so don't hesitate to inquire from a few different boatmen and negotiate respectfully. The boatmen are generally helpful and can often suggest routes or stops based on your interests.
Remember to bring essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat, as the sun can be intense. The experience is about immersing yourself in the local riverine culture and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Kok River.
Navigating Pricing and Negotiation
It's advisable to have a clear idea of your budget and the type of trip you want before you start negotiating. Ask for the price for your desired duration and destination, and be prepared to discuss it. Sometimes, boatmen might try to steer you towards specific attractions, like elephant parks, which can add to the overall cost. Understanding that private tours are the norm can help manage expectations and facilitate a smoother negotiation process.
Ultimately, a friendly but firm approach to negotiation, combined with a clear understanding of what you want from your boat trip, will lead to a more satisfactory experience. Remember that the boatmen rely on these tours for their livelihood, so a fair price reflects the service and the journey provided.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit