Tak, Thailand

Tak, Thailand

Tak is a province located in Northwest of  Thailand, known for its rich history, beautiful natural landscapes, and strong connection to the Mae Ping River. Bordering Myanmar, Tak is an ideal destination for travelers looking for adventure, including trekking, waterfalls, national parks, and cultural heritage. The province is famous for its mountains, rivers, and ethnic diversity, with many hill tribes calling the region home.

 

Top Tourist Attractions in Tak

1. Taksin Maharat National Park

  • Highlights: This park is famous for its dense forests, mountain ranges, and stunning waterfalls. The main attraction is the Ton Krabak Yai Tree, the largest Krabak tree in Thailand, over 50 meters tall and around 16 meters in circumference. The park also offers several trekking routes and camping opportunities.
  • Entrance Fee: 200 THB for foreigners, 40 THB for Thai citizens.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Special Notes: Ideal for nature lovers and trekkers. Camping equipment can be rented, and there are guided tours available for exploring the park.

2. Thi Lo Su Waterfall

  • Highlights: Located in the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, Thi Lo Su is Thailand’s largest and one of its most breathtaking waterfalls. It cascades over limestone cliffs, creating a multi-tiered natural wonder. The best time to visit is during the rainy season (June to November) when the waterfall is at its most impressive.
  • Entrance Fee: 300 THB for foreigners, 100 THB for Thai citizens.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Special Notes: The waterfall is difficult to access and requires a guided tour through the forest and river, which adds to the adventure. Some parts of the road may be closed during the rainy season.

3. Bhumibol Dam

  • Highlights: The largest dam in Thailand, Bhumibol Dam creates a large reservoir surrounded by mountains. It’s a popular spot for boat tours, fishing, and sightseeing. There’s also a park around the dam with scenic viewpoints and picnic areas.
  • Entrance Fee: Free.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Special Notes: The boat tours allow you to explore the reservoir and see the stunning landscapes that surround the dam.

4. Lan Sang National Park

  • Highlights: Famous for its waterfalls and hiking trails, Lan Sang National Park is a great place to connect with nature. The park features several picturesque waterfalls, including Lan Sang Waterfall and Pha Phung Waterfall, which are surrounded by lush forests and rocky cliffs.
  • Entrance Fee: 200 THB for foreigners, 40 THB for Thai citizens.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Special Notes: Hiking in the park is popular, with well-marked trails leading to the waterfalls and scenic spots.

5. Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Highlights: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to dense forests, waterfalls, rivers, and diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and gibbons. It’s also where the famous Thi Lo Su Waterfall is located. The sanctuary is perfect for eco-tourism, trekking, and rafting on the Mae Klong River.
  • Entrance Fee: Part of Thi Lo Su Waterfall tour (300 THB).
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Special Notes: The sanctuary offers a great opportunity for nature lovers to experience the wilderness and wildlife of Tak. Rafting tours on the Mae Klong River are popular.

6. King Taksin Shrine

  • Highlights: Dedicated to King Taksin the Great, this shrine is a sacred site in Tak and a popular place for locals to pay respects. King Taksin is remembered for his leadership during the Ayutthaya period and his role in preserving Thai independence.
  • Entrance Fee: Free.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Special Notes: The shrine is located in the center of Tak town and is an important historical site for Thai people.

7. Mae Sot

  • Highlights: This bustling border town near Myanmar is known for its vibrant mix of Thai, Burmese, and ethnic Karen cultures. Mae Sot offers plenty of markets, including the Mae Sot Border Market, where you can find goods from both countries. It’s also a great place to learn about local handicrafts.
  • Entrance Fee: Free.
  • Opening Hours: The market is open daily from early morning until around 5:00 PM.
  • Special Notes: Mae Sot is a gateway for those looking to explore the border region and offers a mix of cultural experiences.

Getting Around Tak

  1. Songthaews (Shared Trucks): These are the most common form of public transportation within Tak province, operating in towns and between popular destinations like Mae Sot and Tak town.
  2. Motorbike Rentals: Available in Tak and Mae Sot for around 200-300 THB per day. Renting a motorbike gives you more flexibility to explore remote areas like national parks and waterfalls.
  3. Tuk-tuks and Taxis: Available for short distances within towns or between key attractions.
  4. Bus or Minivans: Buses and minivans operate between Tak town and other districts like Mae Sot and Umphang. These are budget-friendly options for longer distances.
  5. Private Car Hire: Hiring a private car or joining a guided tour is the most convenient option for visiting more remote or hard-to-reach attractions, such as Thi Lo Su Waterfall.

Where to Eat Local Food in Tak

Tak’s cuisine is influenced by Northern Thai and Burmese flavors, and there are plenty of places to try local dishes. Tak is also known for its grilled meats and sticky rice.

 

1. Krua Mae Salong

  • Location: Tak town.
  • Type of Food: Thai and Northern Thai cuisine.
  • Highlight Dish: Gaeng Hang Lay (Northern-style pork curry) and Khao Soi (curry noodle soup).
  • Ambiance: A cozy restaurant offering an authentic Northern Thai dining experience.

2. Tak Night Market

  • Location: Tak town.
  • Type of Food: Street food stalls offering a variety of Thai snacks and meals.
  • Highlight Dish: Grilled meats, sticky rice, and Som Tum (papaya salad).
  • Ambiance: A lively atmosphere perfect for sampling a range of local foods at affordable prices.

3. Mae Sot Border Market

  • Location: Mae Sot town.
  • Type of Food: Thai and Burmese street food.
  • Highlight Dish: Burmese-style noodles and fried snacks, such as samosas.
  • Ambiance: A bustling market where you can sample Burmese-inspired dishes alongside traditional Thai street food.

4. Ban Tua Noi Restaurant

  • Location: Mae Sot.
  • Type of Food: Local Northern Thai and Burmese dishes.
  • Highlight Dish: Burmese curries and rice dishes.
  • Ambiance: A simple, local eatery that offers authentic food and a taste of the border region’s fusion cuisine.

5. Taksin Park Restaurant

  • Location: Near Taksin Maharat National Park.
  • Type of Food: Thai food with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
  • Highlight Dish: Grilled river fish and Thai salads.
  • Ambiance: A peaceful restaurant with outdoor seating overlooking scenic surroundings.

Best Time to Visit Tak

The best time to visit Tak is during the cool season (November to February) when temperatures are pleasant for trekking, rafting, and exploring outdoor attractions like waterfalls and national parks. The rainy season (June to October) is ideal for visiting waterfalls like Thi Lo Su, as they are at their most dramatic during this period, but be prepared for some road closures due to flooding. The hot season (March to May) can be quite warm, though the cooler highlands and national parks offer a retreat from the heat.

 

Tak is a province that offers adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Whether you’re trekking to Thailand’s largest waterfall, rafting through wildlife sanctuaries, or exploring the unique cultural mix of Mae Sot, Tak has something for every type of traveler. With easy access from Bangkok and neighboring provinces, Tak is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.