Trok Ban Chin Area

Tak seems to have more wooden stilt houses in its backstreets than other Thai towns, most of which have replaced such buildings with modern concrete and brick edifices.

To see a concentrated street of these traditional houses, head for Trok Ban Chin, an atmospheric alley lined with grand and simple homes alike. ‘Trok’ means ‘alley’, so Trok Ban Chin means ‘alley of Chinese houses’. Most were built in the 19th century by wealthy Chinese merchants when trade was done on the river, which in those days reached as far as this street. Several have fallen into disrepair, while others have been renovated in their original style, with intricate carvings on the eaves and balconies.

None of the houses is open to the public at present, though that may change as the local tourist office wants to promote the lane as an attraction. Even so, it’s well worth a stroll down this narrow alley to admire architecture that’s becoming rare these days.

Trok Ban Chin is just south of the town center, a couple of blocks east of Mae Ping Park and south of Tha Ruea Road. It’s easy to walk to from anywhere in town.

• What is it? An atmospheric lane of traditional wooden houses.
• When to go: Any time.
• Where: South of the town center, Tak.
• Opening hours: 24 hours.
• Entrance fee: Free.