Tak province is situated on the border
with Myanmar, with the River Moei acting as a natural boundary line for the two nations.
Most of the province is forested, with mountainous regions that are excellent for
trekking.
The region is the centre of the
smuggling industry, where all sorts of illicit dealings have been going on, especially
teak and opium brought over the border from Burma. Its location on the border has brought
in a mixture of Burmese and Karen influences. Around the Mae Sot region there are many
Karen refugee camps, its residents there to escape the fighting between the Karen and the
Burmese government troops.
The city of Tak is situated on the
eastern banks of the Ping River. Although the city centre itself is not very interesting,
there is plenty to see in the environs. There is plenty of comfortable accommodation
available for those travelling in the area and who may want to stop-over.
King Taksin
the Great Shrine
In remembrance of the cities most
illustrious son, General Taksin. This gilded statue of King who would re-unite and expand
the Thai kingdom after the destruction of Ayutthaya in 1767 is set in a small pavilion
surrounded by the models of horses.
Mani Banphot Swamp
This scenic area is located near to Wat Mani Banphot, in
the centre of town. Enshrined Inside the temple is a Chiang Saen Buddha image dating from
the 13th century.
Khao Tham
This 71m hill is located off Phahonyothin Rd. At the top of
the hill are enshrined replicas of Lord Buddha's footprints. Many people in Tak come here
to pay homage to the footprints, especially during the Songkran festivities in April.
