Pongyang Jungle Coaster: A Roller Coaster Adventure with 7 Incredible Thrills
Pongyang Jungle Coaster and Zipline Resort is a little adventure hub in the Pong Yang Subdistrict of the Mae Rim District. It is located northwest of Chiang Mai, about 20 km as the crow flies, but a longer distance by road.
The resort is home to the first roller coaster of its kind in northern Thailand and is also popular for its zipline course. There are plenty more activities to enjoy at the resort and in the area, making it a perfect item to add to your itinerary if you’re exploring the Mae Rim District.
Read on to discover all the thrills that await you at Jungle Coaster and how to best explore the rich biodiversity and other tourist attractions in this lush district.
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History And Concept
Pongyang Jungle Coaster ride is the first of its kind in Northern Thailand, and it opened in 2016. The eco-friendly jungle-themed adventure theme park is set alongside the Mae Rim jungle. While the park is small, it offers a few exciting activities, which we’ll look at in more detail later.
Other attractions on the premises include little shops, cafés, and even a campsite (including permanent tents) and resort. This adventure park is owned and run by the Jungle de Café Group, which has a few outlets in Thailand offering different attractions.
Pongyang Jungle Coaster is an eco-friendly tourist hotspot in this district. Eco-tourism in Northern Thailand contributes to biodiversity conservation, supports sustainable development, preserves cultural heritage, provides educational opportunities, offers alternative livelihoods, and empowers local communities.
It is a holistic approach to tourism that benefits both the environment and the locals, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region’s natural and cultural treasures.
Pongyang Jungle Coaster Experience
The main attraction at this adventure park is the Jungle Coaster, made by Wiegand. As mentioned, it was the first of its kind in the area. The coaster type is called a mountain (or Alpine) coaster. The single-car trains run on a track measuring 605m (1,984.9 ft) and have a cable lift for the inclines. Even though the car brakes are automated, riders can brake manually, too.
The ride isn’t particularly fast (up to 40 km/h or 25 mi/h), but some of the scenery is beautiful. Suppose you want to go as quickly as possible. In that case, it’s recommended that you don’t use the brakes and avoid going behind a slow car because you can’t overtake. Some people prefer to use the coaster as a chilled, sightseeing ride, which might ruin it for those behind who prefer a faster ride.
As far as coasters go, the Jungle Coaster is not a wild ride. There are a few gentle turns and dips and no inversions. So don’t go there expecting crazy g-force. Many people use the coaster as a time to take fun photos and videos. In theory, you may not use a cellphone, camera, or selfie stick on this ride as there are many signs to this effect. However, many patrons do so and are not stopped.
The following restrictions apply for participants who wish to go on the Jungle Coaster ride:
- Participants must be eight years or older.
- Staff will closely supervise children if a parent or caregiver does not accompany them.
- The minimum weight per participant is 20 kg (44 lbs.).
- The maximum weight per participant is 150 kg (330 lbs.).
There are other exciting activities for you to enjoy at Pongyang Jungle Coaster. They are discussed next:
Zipline
The zipline course at Pongyang Jungle Coaster is one of the biggest attractions. The obstacle course has 36 activity bases, including balancing activities and using climbing apparatus or cargo nets. The staff are positioned throughout the circuit to help you and ensure your safety.
The following restrictions apply for participants wishing to enjoy the zipline course:
- The minimum age is seven years.
- Children will be closely supervised by staff.
- Parental consent is required for children aged 7-12 years.
- The minimum weight is 20 kg (44 lbs.).
- The maximum weight is 100 kg (220 lbs.).
Jungle Bike
The Jungle Bike course allows you to feel like an acrobat or tight-rope cyclist. You can cycle through the treetops on a well-maintained tight rope on this ride. Thankfully, the bikes and the people are secured with safety ropes on this unique ride.
The only restrictions listed by Pongyang Jungle Coaster are the weight restrictions, with 20 kg (44 lbs.) as the minimum and 100 kg (220 lbs.) as the maximum weight.
Quick Jump
Quick Jump is a bungee-type experience where you jump and free fall from a tall tower on the premises. The height you fall is 14m (46 ft) before you’re gently caught and lowered to the ground. It is sure to give your adrenaline a boost.
The usual weight restrictions apply, and children aged 7-12 years must have a letter of parental consent to participate in Quick Jump.
Giant Swing
The Giant Swing is a tall swing that allows you to reach great heights. While you’re at your highest point, enjoy the view of the Mae Rim jungle. The weight restriction for the Giant Swing is 25 kg (55 lbs.) to 80 kg (176 lbs.).
Slider & Airbag
The Slider & Airbag is a short, exciting ride where you sit on a rubber tube seat and slide down a curved ramp. At the end of the slider ramp, you are launched upward before landing on a giant cushion. Slider & Airbag is suitable for people weighing between 20 kg (44 lbs.) and 50 kg (110 lbs.).
Easy Jumper
Easy Jumper is another fun jumping activity. Here, you can bounce high on trampolines while attached to various elasticated tethers with a harness. This allows you to jump higher and safely try all sorts of airborne maneuvers without hurting yourself.
Butterfly
Butterfly is a new addition to Pongyang Jungle Coaster and Zipline Resort, active from 2023. It is a small U Shuttle rollercoaster with only one car, which can take two participants at a time. During the ride, the car “swings” forward and backward and makes no turns.
Thrilling Adventure In The Jungle
Pongyang Jungle Coaster and Zipline Resort is close to the Mae Rim jungle, which falls in the UNESCO Mae Sa-Kog Ma Biosphere Reserve. The reserve hosts five natural ecosystems: hill evergreen forest, moist evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest, coniferous forest, and dry dipterocarp forest.
Given that the Mae Rim jungle falls into the biosphere reserve, it is an area that is considered valuable for studying and educating locals and tourists. The flora and fauna are lush and exquisite; some are even a little dangerous if you don’t watch your step.
Below are some of the exciting plants and animals in the Mae Rim forests:
- Amphibians: Chiang Mai Crocodile Newt, Burmese Squat Frog, Smith’s Litter Frog, and a Beautiful Pygmy Frog.
- Birds: Red-billed Blue Magpie, Asian Green Bee-Eater, Coppersmith Barbet, and Common Hoopoe.
- Mammals: Himalayan Striped Squirrel, Finlayson’s Squirrel, Woolly Horseshoe Bat, and Golden Jackal.
- Reptiles: Myanmar Blue-crested Lizard, Doi Suthep Bent-Toed Gecko, Malayan Pit Viper, and Malayan Snail-eating Turtle.
- Mollusks: African Giant Snail and Siamese Common Snail.
- Arachnids: Parallel-spined Spiny Orbweaver, Jade Jumping Spider, Red Weaver Ant-mimicking Spider, and Thai Black Tarantula.
- Plants and Fungus: Madagascar Umbrella Papyrus, Ylang Ylang, Torch Ginger, Giant Taro, Indian Mango, Cavendish Banana, Teak, Lemon Grass, Snapdragons, and Bridal Veil Stinkhorn.
Tips For Visiting Pongyang Jungle Coaster
If you choose to visit Pongyang Jungle Coaster and Zipline Resort, there are a few handy tips you should know. First, the average time visitors spend here is only 1.5 hours, so it is a good idea to plan to visit other attractions in the area if you’re going to go to the effort of going there.
Second, the resort gets mixed reviews because of its small size and high fees. For instance, many of the reviews on TripAdvisor believe it is costly, especially if you are a tourist who has to pay double the Thai fees. Also, the walk-in rates are higher than if you buy a voucher online, and the prices aren’t clearly outlined at the entrance.
Looking at the reviews on Klook, you will see they are much more positive. Most say they saved much time by buying a voucher online, allowing them more time to enjoy the activities instead of standing in queues.
Package Prices
Pongyang Jungle Coaster offers various packages depending on what you would like to experience. They include the following:
Golden Package – 2,750 Baht
- Jungle Coaster
- Jungle Bike
- Zipline 36 Stations
- Quick Jump
- Giant Swing
- Butterfly
- Slider & Airbag
Package A – 2,200 Baht
- Jungle Coaster
- Zipline 36 Stations
- T-Shirt
- Lunch or Coffee and Cake
Package B – 2,000 Baht
- Jungle Coaster
- Jungle Bike
- Zipline 14 Stations
- Quick Jump
- Giant Swing
- Lunch or Coffee and Cake
How And When To Get There
Pongyang Jungle Coaster is about 35 km (21 mi) drive from Chiang Mai City and can take about an hour to get there. If you want to get there by Songthaew or taxi, arrange this a day in advance for a reasonable price. Otherwise, they might charge you a higher fee to profit from your urgency.
The other option is to hire a scooter or bike and go to the adventure park at your leisure. The road to the park is scenic and “touristy,” so you’ll be able to stop and explore along the way.
Pongyang Jungle Coaster is open from 8 am to 5 pm daily. Still, it is recommended to go early to avoid the crowds and the heat. It starts to get pretty busy around 11 am because many people want to enjoy the lunch that comes with some combo packages. Visiting during the week is recommended as the weekends are very crowded, making the queues long.
Hints And Tips For When You Are At The Park
To enjoy the activities, you need to exchange your voucher for tokens. The benefit of tokens is that you can share them with people in your party, which you can’t do with a wristband.
People who wish to do the activities should dress appropriately and with no loose jewelry or flip-flops, as these can snag or cause you to slip and fall. Additionally, participants must be in good health before doing any activities. They request that no pregnant women or people suffering from a heart condition participate in the rides.
Here’s a list of what you should take along to Pongyang Jungle Coaster and Zipline:
- Sunscreen,
- Insect repellant,
- Water to drink,
- Sneakers or trainers,
- Comfortable, fitted clothing (not baggy clothing)
- Hair ties for long hair,
- Camera,
- A small backpack to keep your valuables safe and dry.
Nearby Attractions and Places to Visit
When you visit Pongyang Jungle Coaster and Zipline, consider adding a few other exciting places to your itinerary. Northern Thailand is packed with natural beauty and venues offering adventure and exciting activities. Here are some nearby attractions and places to visit:
Mon Jam Highlands
Mon Jam is a scenic locale that offers beautiful mountaintop views of the Mae Rim Valley. From this delightful vantage point, you can see the Royal Project Farms, plus fields of beautiful flowers if the season is right. Remember to bring your camera!
Royal Project Nong Hoi
The Royal Project farms were a government initiative to end the opium poppy trade in Northern Thailand. The hill tribe farmers used to grow poppies in the fields. However, now they produce about a quarter of the area’s crops, including fruit, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. When visiting these farms, you’ll learn about the daily lives of the hill tribe farmers.
Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden
The Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is the first botanic garden in Thailand. It’s also about an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai but straight north. The park boasts 560 acres of beautiful landscaping, with greenhouses and canopy walks to explore.
Wat Pa Dara Phirom
Wat Pa Dara Phirom is a royal temple older than 100 years. It was named after a Thai princess and is one of the most ornately decorated temples in Northern Thailand. You can appreciate the temple’s Sukhothai-style Buddha images, statues, and gilded chedis.
Those are only four places close to Pongyang Jungle Coaster, but there are many more. So, if you are in the district, visit the Mae Sa Waterfall and local strawberry plantations. Also, make a turn at Poopoopaper Park, where elephant dung is turned into paper, and look out for the Siam Insect Zoo, too.
Our Conclusion
The Pongyang Jungle Coaster and Zipline Resort is a fantastic little venue northwest of Chiang Mai where you can enjoy thrilling adventures and stay overnight in one of the tents or cabins. Remember to save time and skip the queues by purchasing a voucher online.
You can further enhance your experience by visiting other exciting and beautiful attractions in the district – there are so many from which to choose! If the weather is good, your best bet is to hire a bike and take your time exploring to your heart’s content. Enjoy a memorable vacation in Northern Thailand by relishing its beautiful and exciting offerings, including Pongyang Jungle Coaster!
FAQ
The Pongyang Jungle Coaster is located in the lush forests near Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. The easiest way to reach it is usually by a private car or taxi. Some prefer to rent a scooter or bike if they’re familiar with the local traffic rules. There are also organized tours that include transportation from Chiang Mai city center.
Typically, the Pongyang Jungle Coaster operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, it’s always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead as hours can change depending on the season or weather conditions.
The dry season, between November and April, is a great time to visit. You’ll have less chance of rain impacting your day, but remember, it can still get quite hot, so pack accordingly!
The coaster is designed with modern safety measures. It includes seat belts, safety bars, and staff members are always present to provide assistance. Plus, each rider receives a safety briefing before embarking on the ride.
Usually, riders need to be at least 100cm tall to ride on the coaster. Kids under 12 years old need to be accompanied by an adult. It’s best to check the most recent guidelines to ensure you meet the requirements.
As of my last visit, a ride on the Pongyang Jungle Coaster was about 800 Thai Baht per person. They offered discounts for children under the age of 12 and seniors over 60. Group discounts vary, so it’s best to contact them directly for the most accurate information.
I would recommend purchasing tickets in advance during the peak season or on weekends, as it can get quite busy. Usually, a week in advance is sufficient.
Apart from the exhilarating coaster ride, there’s a lot to enjoy, including hiking trails, a restaurant with local cuisine, and stunning panoramic views. Nearby, you can visit the Pong Yaeng Ang Doi Restaurant (Google Map) and the Zipline Adventure.
The ride itself takes about 5-10 minutes, but with the scenic views and adrenaline rush, it feels much quicker!
Discover a variety of pricing options for renting automatic scooters, maxi-scooters, semi-automatic motorbikes, and manual-gear motorcycles in Chiang Mai by browsing our Motorbikes Rental Rates page. Find out more about our scooter rental in Chiang Mai.
If you prefer to travel by car, be sure to read our guide on how to save up to 50% on rental car expenses in Chiang Mai.
For an extensive compilation of our travel advice, explore our Northern Thailand Routes and Travel Notes section.
If you encounter any inaccuracies in the text or have valuable information to share with our readers, please feel free to contact us.
Cat Motors Team
- Author: Cat Motors Team
- Posted:
- Updated: January 25, 2024
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