Tak Travel Guide

Tak perches on Thailand’s Ping River, downstream from Chiang Mai. It’s locked in mountainous terrain and has little to offer visitors beyond access to Mae Sot and the border crossing with Myanmar.

Despite its lack of tourist appeal, Tak is one of northern Thailand’s oldest settlements with more than eight centuries of history. The biggest claim to fame in Tak is Mae Ping Reservoir, formed by Thailand’s largest concrete dam. Cruises on Ping Lake can be nice in the cool season.

The local Loi Krathong Festival is a major event here though it gets overshadowed by the events in Chiang Mai. In Tak, the_ krathong _rafts are made from coconut shells rather than banana leaves (as in other provinces). There’s also a major mountain biking competition held every August at the dam.

Getting There & Away

There’s a small airport in Tak though service is spotty. Your best bet is to transfer to Phitsanoluk where regular flights are available to Chiang Mai International Airport. A longer transfer to Sukhothai Airport (1 hour, 30 minutes) allows for more regional connections. VIP coaches from Tak can reach Chiang Mai in 4 hours or Bangkok in 10 hours.

Things to Do

Tak Attractions

Bhumibol Dam

Thailand’s largest dam sets the stage for a leisurely cruise.

Mae Sot

For long-stay tourists, the nearby border crossing with cambodia is more of a necessity than an attraction.

Taksin Maharat National Park

Tak is gateway to this minor national park where hiking and mountain biking are possible.