Things To Do
in Tak
Tak is a laid-back provincial capital in Thailand’s northern region, skirting the Ping River and surrounded by farmland and forest. It serves as a gateway to the wild Umphang area and the province’s hillside communities. The town blends markets, temples, and riverside scenery with a welcoming, slow-paced vibe.
Visitors use Tak as a base for nature escapes, cultural glimpses, and easy day trips into rural Thailand.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Wat Phra Boromthat temple, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Engage with local monks, who often welcome visitors for morning prayers and meditation. Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast from a nearby market to fuel your day of exploration.
After lunch, make your way to Wat Chantharam, a beautiful temple adorned with intricate murals and sculptures. Spend some time appreciating the intricate architecture and learning about its historical significance from the friendly locals. Don't forget to take photos of the vibrant surroundings filled with lush greenery.
As the sun sets, stroll along the banks of the Ping River and experience the evening market where local artisans display their crafts. Indulge in delicious street food; try local favorites like Pad Thai and mango sticky rice. Conclude the evening with a relaxing boat ride on the river, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Set off early for a day trip to Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and rich biodiversity. Go on a guided trek through the lush rainforest where you’ll have an opportunity to spot exotic wildlife and vibrant plant life. Energize with a packed breakfast while surrounded by nature.
Visit the stunning Thi Lo Su Waterfall, one of Thailand's largest and most beautiful waterfalls. Spend the afternoon swimming in the refreshing waters and enjoying a picnic lunch on the banks. Capture beautiful photographs of the multi-tiered cascades and the surrounding landscape.
Head back to Tak in the evening, reflecting on the day’s adventures with newfound friends and memories. Dine at a local restaurant where you can try dishes unique to the Tak region. Take an evening stroll through the town to unwind before concluding your exciting day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Local street food | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🍛Mid-range dinner for two | $15-25 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and traveler-friendly vibe
- Proximity to nature and Umphang for outdoor adventures
- Affordable food, markets, and lodging
- Accessible riverfront scenery and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and some remote areas can be hard to reach
- Seasonal access to certain natural attractions (Thi Lo Su depends on rainfall and road conditions)
- Medical facilities are basic outside the main towns; plan for emergencies
- Language gaps can appear in rural areas; English is less common outside tourist spots
- "สวัสดี (sawasdee)" - Hello
- "ขอบคุณ (khob khun)" - Thank you
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน (hong nam yoo thii nai)" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ช่วยด้วย (chuay duay)" - Please / Help
- "ฉันไม่เข้าใจ (chan mai khao jai)" - I don’t understand
- "นี้ราคาเท่าไร (nii rakhaa thao-rai)" - How much is this?
- "ฉันต้องการสั่งอาหาร (chan tongkan sang ahan)" - I would like to order food
Places to Visit in Tak
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections and local life along the river offer tranquil compositions, boats, and market activity.
Colorful shophouses, traditional architecture, and narrow lanes provide a vibrant backdrop for street photography.
Quiet mornings at local temples reveal intricate details, murals, and the ritual rhythm of monks.
Food in Tak
Tak Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant, herb-forward sausage typically grilled and served with sticky rice or fresh vegetables at markets and grills around Tak.
Must-Try!
Northern-style curried noodle soup with a coconut milk base, usually topped with crispy noodles and lime, commonly found at local eateries.
Burmese-influenced pork curry with ginger, garlic, and turmeric; rich, slightly sweet, and often served with steamed or sticky rice.
A tomato-based chili dip served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables, a staple in northern northern Thai households.
Sticky rice paired with sweet, caramelized pork slices—comfort food that travels well in street markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant everyday market offering fresh produce, herbs, dried chilies, and quick breakfast bites before you start exploring the city.
Seasonal or weekend-market atmosphere with stalls selling grilled meats, fried snacks, snacks, and regional sweets alongside handicrafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, and show respect toward monks and sacred spaces.
A wai (hands pressed together) is a respectful greeting; avoid touching heads or pointing feet at people or religious objects.
Safety
Tipping in Tak
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small gratuities (10–20 THB) for street food vendors and 20–60 THB for waitstaff are common practice in tourist areas.
Cash is widely accepted, especially at markets and small eateries. Some hotels and larger restaurants accept credit/debit cards; ATMs are common in Tak.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mar–May is hot and dry; carry sun protection, hydrate well, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Jun–Oct brings humidity and rain showers; occasional downpours can refresh the landscape but may limit some outdoor trips like Umphang access.
Nov–Feb tends to be cooler and pleasant; comfortable for walking tours and river photography, though evenings can be cool.
Tak at Night
Hiking in Tak
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails leading to one of Southeast Asia’s largest waterfalls; access depends on seasonal road conditions and rainfall.
Diverse forest trails, viewpoints, and opportunities for wildlife viewing in protected areas near Tak.
Airports
How to reach Tak by plane.
Domestic flights and regional connections; drive to Tak in roughly 1–2 hours depending on road conditions.
Nearby regional airport with limited domestic connections; a common day trip option for long-distance travelers.
Another nearby hub with broader connections to Bangkok and other Thai cities.
A longer but major gateway to northern Thailand, used for broader international and domestic travel; may be used for longer trips after reaching Tak.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Northern Thai and Central Thai communities with a strong local culture and languages.
Nearby rural areas host various hill-tribe groups such as Karen and Akha who contribute to local crafts and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing available in gyms and occasional local events; a cultural staple of Thai sports.
Rural roads, farmland paths, and river routes make for popular scenic rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tak.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes featuring tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste, and request oil-free options when possible.
Many rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free; confirm soy sauce and curry pastes do not include gluten-containing additives.