Things To Do
in Thap Than

Thap Than is a charming district in the Tak Province of Thailand, known for its lush landscapes and serene rural atmosphere. Nestled near the banks of the Ping River, it offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life, with rice paddies and friendly locals. The area is also a gateway for travelers looking to explore nearby natural attractions, including waterfalls and hiking trails.

Thap Than's tranquil environment makes it a perfect retreat for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant culture and sample fresh fruits and Thai snacks.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Wat Thap Than temple, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings, followed by a leisurely walk along the Ping River.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, and finish the night with a stroll through the village.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike to the beautiful Mae Klong waterfall, where you can swim and relax in the natural pools.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the nature, then head to the nearby hills for a scenic view of the sunset over the landscape.

evening
:

Return to the village for dinner at a street food stall, trying out local delicacies before winding down for the night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$2-5
Coffee$1-3
🚌Local transportation fare$0.50-1
🏨Budget accommodation$10-25
🍉Fresh fruit from market$0.50-1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich local culture and friendly locals.
  • Affordable costs of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Some areas may be challenging to access without a vehicle.
  • Language barrier can be an issue; basic Thai phrases are helpful.
  • "สวัสดี" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
  • "ช่วยด้วย" - Help
  • "ราคาเท่าไร" - How much does this cost?
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Thap Than

Visit one of these nice places.

Ping River

Capture stunning sunsets and reflections along the tranquil banks of the Ping River.

Wat Thap Than

The intricate architecture of this temple provides a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

Mae Klong Waterfall

A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Thap Than

Thap Than offers a rich culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the flavors of Northern Thailand.

Thap Than Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khao Soi

A creamy coconut curry noodle soup, topped with crispy noodles and served with pickled mustard greens.

Must-Try!

Som Tam

Spicy green papaya salad that combines sweet, sour, and salty flavors, often served with sticky rice.

Laab

A spicy meat salad mixed with herbs and spices, typically made with minced pork or chicken.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Thap Than Night Market

A lively market offering a variety of street food options, fresh produce, and handmade crafts.

Local Food Stalls

Street vendors serving delicious Thai snacks and meals at affordable prices throughout the village.

Climate Guide

Weather

Thap Than experiences a tropical climate with three main seasons: a cool and dry winter, a hot summer with high humidity, and a rainy season that brings heavy downpours. Winter (November to February) is the most pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Summer (March to May) can see temperatures soar above 35°C (95°F). The rainy season (June to October) brings cooler temperatures but frequent rain, particularly in August and September, making some outdoor activities challenging.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Monks

Dress modestly and avoid physical contact with monks, especially for women.

Wai Greeting

A traditional Thai greeting where you place your palms together and bow slightly; it's polite to return the gesture.

Removing Shoes

Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple.

Safety Guide

Safety

Thap Than is generally safe for travelers, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Additionally, avoid drinking tap water and consume bottled water to prevent any health issues.

Tipping in Thap Than

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some larger restaurants and shops may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November - February)

Cool and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region.

Hot Season (March - May)

Hot temperatures can make outdoor activities challenging; plan for early morning or late afternoon adventures.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Expect heavy rains, particularly in August and September; some trails may be muddy or closed.

Festive Season

Join in local festivals, especially during Loy Krathong in November, which features beautiful lantern displays.

Nightlife Guide

Thap Than at Night

Thap Than offers a laid-back nightlife scene primarily focused on local dining and socializing. While there are no large clubs, the night market and local restaurants come alive with music and laughter. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed evening sampling street food and interacting with friendly locals, providing an authentic experience.

Hiking in Thap Than

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park

A nature reserve featuring diverse flora and fauna, with several hiking trails leading to stunning viewpoints.

Mae Klong Waterfall Trail

A scenic hike that leads to the beautiful Mae Klong waterfall, suitable for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Thap Than by plane.

Mae Sot Airport

Located about 70 kilometers from Thap Than, this airport offers domestic flights and serves as a gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Thap Than is a small district with a manageable layout, making it quite walkable for visitors. The village center is compact, and many local attractions, markets, and eateries are within walking distance. However, for more remote areas or hiking trails, transportation may be necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

The primary demographic group in Thap Than, many residents are engaged in agriculture, particularly rice farming.

Tourists and Travelers

Increasingly, Thap Than attracts domestic and international travelers seeking a peaceful getaway and nature experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional martial art and sport, Muay Thai is popular in Thailand and often practiced in local gyms.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed in Thailand, with local teams often playing community matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Thap Than is minimal, with the village roads being relatively quiet. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) and motorbike taxis, which are convenient for short distances. However, for longer trips or exploring more remote areas, renting a car or motorbike is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Thap Than.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary needs.

Spicy Food

Thai food can be quite spicy; ask for milder options if you prefer less heat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Thap Than is basic, with a few local clinics available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, traveling to larger cities like Tak is advisable. It's recommended for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide