Every year during the rainy season, the Akha tribe in Chiang Rai hold what is known locally as Yae-Khu-A-Paew. Called the Swing Festival in English, this festival of daring commemorates the goddess of fertility and honours women. The highlight, no doubt, is the giant swing made of bamboo and wood that the people of the tribe ride back and forth at terrifying heights, often at the edge of cliffs. It’s held in August, when crops are usually harvested. The festival lasts for four days during the peak of rainy season, so dates may vary from year to year.
Throughout August
