April 17th, 2009 Traveling the Jungles of Thailand
The major form of transportation in Thailand, before the rivers were discovered and the roads were built, was elephants. Currently, the animals are still rode through area that are impossible to pass through with cars or other modern forms of transportation. Some of the forests are just too dense to pass, and some of the rivers are just too broad to consider any other mode than these giant, and gentle beasts.
Not only have the elephants been necessary in the past, they are now a very pleasant way to explore the natural world of Phuket, and one of the most popular methods of touring through the incredible wonders of the country. Many companies offer such tours, as do many luxury Phuket hotels. Elephants are raised for work, however on their days off, they are made available for tourists and locals for the hikes along the rivers and through the mountain forests.
Another mode of transport that has also become a popular recreational activity is kayaking. The Indian Ocean that surrounds the islands and the mainland of Thailand are filled with marine plant and animal life. There are many beaches and waterfalls, coves and caves, and Mangrove forests that are only explorable through kayaking. Many lagoons and magnificent natural sculptures of limestone deposits are seen by only those humans who have ventured to them, rowing these small boats. This is an enjoyable way to tour the coasts, as it is for beginners and experienced alike. Most every business that rents and operates the kayaks offer training sessions and guided tours.
For those wishing a bit more excitement than just sightseeing, many kayak and raft tours travel along swifter moving rivers with waterfalls and rapids. This is the perfect combination of beauty and excitement, for the dramatic drops and dips are set among the most spectacular scenery in the world. Many of the longer trips involve stopping off on shore for the night to sleep, or for a day of jungle trekking. These trips are composed of about ten trekkers, a guide and a cook. There are many hidden villages along these paths and the opportunity to experience the heart of this nation is one that should not be missed.
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