Family fun and adventure at Hanuman World

PHUKET: Zip-lining, abseiling and sky walking are among the adventurous activities on offer for thrill-seeking nature lovers at the recently opened Hanuman World, located in a forest off Chaofah Road in Wichit.

The family-oriented treetop attraction is an opportunity for adventurous visitors to ‘fly’ through the forest and take in a bird’s-eye view, and if lucky, spot a rainbow across the bridge, which is a spectacular sight in itself.

Friendly staff are on hand to help you choose one of the packages, each with a time limit in which to experience a combination of tree-top platforms and zip-lines at specific ‘play times’ throughout the day.

An easy entry option for the faint-hearted is a simple sky walk with an additional abseiling option for under 1,000 baht. For those who want a real rush, the Roller Zip-line is the most daring option. It’s much faster and longer than any of the other zip-lines. Each participant is geared up with safety equipment to hang on for dear life, as they are rushed through an exhilarating course through the entire forest – non-stop.

A one-time ride on the Roller Zip-line only costs 1,700 baht, but can be combined with other activities for an all-in adventure. The top package, ‘World A’, features 30 platforms, the Roller Zip-line, as well as a meal at the venue’s open-air Wanon Restaurant, which serves authentic Thai cuisine under the tropical canopy.

There are seven zip-lines in total and 30 elevated platforms. Zip-lining from one platform to the other is a breeze. A short ‘honeymoon zip-line’ spices things up a bit, allowing couples to hold hands as they zip-line across part of the forest. The longest zip-line is 400 meters long, from where the view is breathtaking. The guides make the experience even more exciting by doing upside-down stunts on some of the zip-lines.

The guides help you put on safety equipment and accompany you to the first zip-line platform. They are very helpful, and allow your group to feel at ease before starting the course. While waiting for your turn you can relax in the seating area, where staff serve thirst-quenching herbal drinks.

The 250-meter long Sky Walk is elevated 45 meters from the ground and provides great views across the forest canopy to snap photos along the way. Guides lead visitors across the bridge and will tell a few stories about the history of the area.

Along the way you can try hugging a massive 100-year-old tree and chill with a fresh fruit juice at the high-rise bar, while soaking up the ambience on a big cushion.

Before you leave, stop off at the souvenir shop, where you can buy T-shirts, shoes and a variety of other knick-knacks. You can also take home memories of your adventure by purchasing official photos of your trip.

Parents will have to sign waivers for minors wishing to try their hand at zip lining. Hanuman World is a fun, back-to-nature adventure for the whole family, with activities suitable for all ages.

The park is open daily from 8am to 5pm. For more information visit www.hanumanworldphuket.com

— Zohaib Sikander