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Tak: Discovering the Scenic City Away from the Crowds
Located in the northern part of Thailand, Tak is a hidden gem that most travelers often overlook, yet it boasts an impressive list of natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and mouth-watering street food options. As a National Geographic journalist, I had the chance to explore the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Tak, and here’s what I discovered.
The Scenic Beauty of Tak
One thing that will strike you the moment you arrive in Tak is the stunning natural scenery that envelops the city. From the lush green rice paddies to the majestic mountains, Tak is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Most tourists start their journey by visiting Bhumibol Dam, the largest hydroelectric dam in Thailand that offers a jaw-dropping view of the reservoir and surrounding mountains. Another must-see attraction is the Doi Mae Salong mountain, where you can experience the authentic tea culture of the local hill tribes, sample different tea flavors and enjoy the panoramic view from the hilltop.
What I Like and Dislike About Tak
What I loved the most about Tak was its serene environment, friendly locals, and the fact that it hasn’t been overwhelmed by tourism yet. The city is perfect for those seeking an authentic Thai experience without the traffic, crowds and overpriced tourist traps. The only downside that I found was the limited transportation options, which can make exploring the surrounding areas a bit of a challenge. However, renting a motorbike or car is a great alternative for those willing to venture into the nearby national parks or waterfalls.
The Cost of Living in Tak
Unlike the more touristy destinations in Thailand, Tak is a budget-friendly city. The average cost of living in a day ranges from $15 to $25, depending on your activities and food choices. Most local restaurants offer affordable meals that won’t burn a hole in your wallet, and there are plenty of street food vendors selling delicious treats for less than $1. For a more comfortable stay, you can find quality hotels and guesthouses for as low as $20 per night.
Top 20 Points of Interest in Tak
1. Bhumibol Dam – Highway 105, Tambon Wang Krachae, Amphoe Sam Ngao
2. Doi Mae Salong – Son Ruam Thai, Mae Suai District
3. Mae Wong National Park – Ban Mae Lom, Mae Wong District
4. Taksin Maharat National Park – Ban Mae Puem, Mae Ramat District
5. Lan Sang National Park – Highway 12, Bo Luang Subdistrict, Mae Sot District
6. Wat Phra Borommathat – Soi 9, Phra Borommathat Road, Tambon Rahaeng
7. Wat Bot Mani Si Bun Ruang – Highway 117, Ban Tak District
8. Wat Phra That Khao Rup Chang – Highways 1 and 12, Ban Tak District
9. Ban Tak Museum – Soi 3, Charoen Rat Road, Tambon Rahaeng
10. Sirindhorn Chinese Village – Moo 2, Tambon Ma Li, Ban Tak District
11. Rak Thai Village – Ban Rak Thai, Mae Hong Son Province
12. Mae Kasa Hot Spring – Moo 8, Tambon Mae Kasa, Mae Sot District
13. Nam Tok Mae Usu – Nam Ngao National Park, Mae Sot District
14. Huai Nam Dang National Park – Ban Sop Poeng, Amphoe Mae Taeng
15. Mae Sariang District – Mae Hong Son Province
16. Wat Gele Phu Khao Tong – Ban Yan Kun, Mae Sot District
17. Wat Phra That Doi Chamlong – Tambon Pang Tong, Mae Sot District
18. Wat Ban Wha Moo – Tambon Ban Wha Moo, Mae Sot District
19. King Taksin Shrine – Highway 12, Dan Chang District
20. Wat Mani Banphot – Tambon Hang Chat, Hang Chat District
Top 20 Street Food in Tak
1. Khao Soi (Curry Noodles) – Krua Khao Soi Paa Plu, Tambon Ban Mae Lom
2. Sai Ua (Spicy Sausage) – Muu Tong Nai Sai Ua, Ban Tak District
3. Pad Thai (Stir-Fried Noodles) – Pad Thai Tak, Ban Tak District
4. Som Tam (Papaya Salad) – Som Tam Khun Kan, Mae Sot District
5. Kao Mun Gai (Chicken Rice) – Kao Mun Gai Mongkut, Tambon Rahaeng
6. Nom Tok Nua (Spicy Beef Salad) – Nom Tok Nua Jun, Mae Sot District
7. Roti Mataba (Stuffed Bread) – Roti Mataba Kai Mon, Ban Tak District
8. Khao Pad (Fried Rice) – Khao Pad Suki, Tambon Donkrang
9. Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken) – Gai Yang Sawang, Ban Tak District
10. Kanom Jeen (Rice Noodles) – Kanom Jeen Thanin, Ban Tak District
11. Khao Lam (Bamboo Sticky Rice) – Khao Lam Chan Khan, Mae Sot District
12. Guay Teow Nam Tok (Spicy Noodle Soup) – Guay Teow Nam Tok Prakobphon, Mae Sariang District
13. Khao Mun Gai Tod (Fried Chicken Rice) – Khao Mun Gai Tod Pra Ma Prow, Mae Sot District
14. Khao Kha Moo (Braised Pork Rice) – Khao Kha Moo Ruean Riam, Ban Tak District
15. Khanom Krok (Coconut Pancakes) – Khanom Krok Tessaban, Mae Sot District
16. Khao Pad Nam Prik (Chili Paste Fried Rice) – Khao Pad Nam Prik Ball, Ban Tak District
17. Pad See Ew (Stir-Fried Noodles) – Pad See Ew Naa Putth, Tambon Mae Kasa
18. Gai Tod (Fried Chicken) – Gai Tod Jaew Hon, Mae Sot District
19. Khao Soi Khorat (Noodle Curry) – Khao Soi Khorat Yaowarat, Tambon Mae Lom
20. Kluai Khai Tod (Fried Banana Fritters) – Kluai Khai Tod Suki, Tambon Donkrang
Top 10 Reasonable Hotels in Tak
1. Taksila Hotel – 202 Sri Samran Road, Tambon Rahaeng, starts from $20
2. Ayara Hilltops Boutique Resort & Spa – 18/1, Soi Krungthonburi 4, starts from $35
3. Seesom Resort – 103 Ban Mae Lom-Khao Khoob Mae Lom Road, starts from $25
4. Viang Tak Riverside Hotel – 55/11, Mae Ping Promenade, starts from $35
5. The Virgin Gold Resort – 74/1, Tambon Rakaeng, starts from $20
6. Tak Boutique Hotel – 110/7 Moo 12, Tambon Ban Tak Lang, starts from $30
7. Riverview Guest House – 15/181 Sam Ngao Road, starts from $15
8. De Vasinee Hotel – 1 Suranarai Road, starts from $30
9. Bann Chantra – 1 Cham Churi 3, Tambon Rahaeng, starts from $20
10. Green Garden Homestay – 458, Ban Mae Puem, Mae Ramat District, starts from $15
Top 10 Reasonable Airbnb in Tak
1. Private room in Tak City – starting from $15 per night, with 5-star rating
2. Cosy room in the heart of Tak – starting from $20 per night, with 4.9-star rating
3. Scenic Garden Bungalow – starting from $25 per night, with 4.8-star rating
4. Rural home with mountain view – starting from $30 per night, with 5-star rating
5. Spacious apartment with river view – starting from $40 per night, with 4.7-star rating
6. Peaceful studio with pool access – starting from $35 per night, with 4.9-star rating
7. Nature retreat in Mae Sot – starting from $50 per night, with 4.7-star rating
8. Stylish duplex in quiet area – starting from $60 per night, with 4.8-star rating
9. Authentic Thai house with garden – starting from $55 per night, with 5-star rating
10. Cozy mountain villa with Netflix – starting from $70 per night, with 4.9-star rating
Final Verdict and Rating of Tak
After spending a week exploring Tak, I can confidently say that this city deserves a rating of 9 out of 10 stars. The beautiful scenery, rich culture, and affordable cost of living make this city a true gem in northern Thailand. There’s so much to see and do in Tak, whether it’s hiking in the national parks, sampling the street food, or discovering the local temples. Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with your family, Tak should definitely be on your bucket list for your next Thai adventure.
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