DESPITE the rain, hardy souls are turning out north of Phuket for four days of traditional boat racing at Kasom, near the iconic stilt village of Panyee in Phang Nga.

In its second year, the festival offers sights seldom seen in the region, including longboats being raced and buffalos in combat.

With the stilt village just a short boat ride away and Kasom district centre just a short drive north of Phuket, the festival has the backing of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Small one-person motorboats also race. The festival continues through until March 31.