Geography: Rivers

Ping River

Train bridge on the River Kwai

Thailand, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, is laced with a network of rivers that are integral to its ecology, economy, and way of life. The Mekong, Mae Klong, and Chao Phraya rivers are among the most significant, supporting the country's extensive agricultural sector by providing essential water for irrigation, particularly for rice paddies, which are central to Thai cuisine and economy. These rivers also play a crucial role in transportation, especially in and around the bustling city of Bangkok. Additionally, they contribute to Thailand's hydroelectric power generation and are vital for the local fishing industry. Beyond their practical uses, Thai rivers are steeped in history and culture, hosting traditional floating markets and festivals, and featuring prominently in literature and folklore. They also offer recreational opportunities, drawing locals and tourists alike for activities such as river cruises and ecological tours. The table below presents an overview of the major rivers in Thailand, detailing their lengths, sources, and outflows.

River Name	Length*	Source	Outflow
Mekong River	4,350 km (2,700 mi)	Lasaigongma Spring, Zadoi, Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture	Mekong Delta, South China Sea, Vietnam
Mae Nam Mun River	750 km (466 mi)	Phetchabun Mountains	Mekong River
Nan River	740 km (460 mi)	Luang Prabang Range, Phayao Province	Chao Phraya River
Yom River	600 km (373 mi)	Thanon Thong Chai Range, Phitsanulok Province	Nan River
Ping River	590 km (367 mi)	Chiang Dao Mountains, Chiang Mai Province	Chao Phraya River
Mae Klong River	392 km (244 mi)	Huai Krachao District, Kanchanaburi Province	Gulf of Thailand
Kwae Yai River (River Kwai)	380 km (236 mi)	Thanon Thong Chai Range, Kanchanaburi Province	Mae Klong River
Chao Phraya River	372 km (231 mi)	Nakhon Sawan Province	Gulf of Thailand
Mae Nam Wang River	329 km (204 mi)	Thanon Thong Chai Range, Phitsanulok Province	Chao Phraya River
Tapi River (Tapi Basin)	230 km (143 mi)	Khao Luang, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province	Gulf of Thailand

*Sources do not differentiate between the length of river that exists within the country’s borders and the overall length of the river irrespective of national borders.