Sport
Mud Volleyball Festival Boosts Tourism in Nan’s Pua District
The fourth annual 'Pua Puen Mak' mud volleyball tournament was held in Nan province to promote Green Season tourism.
On August 15–16, 2026, the Pua district in Nan province hosted the fourth edition of the 'Pua Puen Mak' (Pua is very muddy) event. This unique mud volleyball tournament, held in the middle of rice paddies, aims to revitalize local tourism during the rainy 'Green Season.'
The event was organized by the Nan Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports in collaboration with local business associations and community groups. By blending sports, agricultural traditions, and creative activities, the organizers seek to increase visitor numbers and distribute income to local entrepreneurs and the community. This initiative is part of a broader 2026 fiscal year project designed to enhance the competitiveness of Nan’s tourism sector and elevate it toward high-quality standards.
For travelers and residents, this event highlights the potential of niche 'Sport Tourism' to transform rural areas into vibrant destinations even during the off-peak rainy season. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the lush green landscapes and local farming culture of Pua. While the event has successfully concluded its fourth iteration, it remains to be seen how the provincial authorities will further integrate these community-led sports initiatives into the long-term regional tourism strategy for future Green Seasons.