Chat Trakan

Chat Trakan (ชาติตระการ) is the northernmost district of Phitsanulok province, bordering Laos to the east. It covers 1,586 km² with a population of about 41,500. The district is mountainous and heavily forested — more than 90% is reserved forest area, giving it the lowest prosperity index in the province.

The area was historically part of Nakhon Thai district and became a minor district in 1969 before being upgraded to a full district in 1974. It was a conflict zone during the Thai–Laotian Border War (1987–1988). Today its main attractions are the Namtok Chat Trakan National Park and the Luang Prabang mountain range. The climate is tropical savanna with a cool season (Nov–Feb), hot season (Mar–May), and rainy season (Jun–Oct).

By Plane

The nearest airport is Phitsanulok Airport (PHS), about 90 km southwest. Nok Air operates flights from Bangkok Don Mueang. From Phitsanulok, continue by road.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Phitsanulok Railway Station. From there, connect by bus or taxi north to Chat Trakan (about 2 hours).

By Car / Road

Chat Trakan is about 90 km north of Phitsanulok city. Take Highway 12 east toward Wang Thong, then Highway 1246 north. Regular buses run from Phitsanulok Bus Terminal 1 to Chat Trakan. Roads are sealed but winding in the mountainous sections.

The district centre (Pa Daeng) is small and walkable. To reach Namtok Chat Trakan National Park and other attractions, you will need a private vehicle or hired songthaew. Renting a motorcycle in Phitsanulok is an option for the adventurous.

• Namtok Chat Trakan National Park — A 543 km² national park featuring the Chat Trakan Waterfall (a 7-tier cascade with a natural pool), Namtok Na Chan, and the 50 m high Namtok Pha Khu Kham. Prehistoric rock carvings can be found at Tham Pha Kradan Lek cave.

• Luang Prabang Range — The southernmost extension of this mountain range runs through the district, offering scenic views and trekking.

• Khwae Noi River — The river and its tributaries (Kap, Phak, Kleung) flow through the district, providing scenic riparian areas.

• Wat Phra Ring — A Buddhist temple in Pa Daeng subdistrict.

• Hike to Chat Trakan Waterfall — The park's signature waterfall has a sandy beach suitable for swimming.

• Cave exploration — Visit Tham Pha Kradan Lek to see prehistoric carvings.

• Trekking — The park has forest trails through mixed dipterocarp and hill evergreen forest.

• Birdwatching — Over 60 bird species, including the black-crested bulbul and Asian barred owlet.

Small restaurants and food stalls in Pa Daeng and around the national park entrance serve Thai dishes — khao soi, grilled chicken, som tam, and noodle soups. The park area has picnic facilities for day trippers.

Bottled water is essential; tap water is not potable. Local coffee and tea are available at shops in the district centre.

• Budget: Basic guesthouses are available in Pa Daeng town, starting around 300 baht/night.
• National park accommodation: Namtok Chat Trakan National Park offers bungalows and camping. Book via the Department of National Parks (DNP) website.
• Mid-range: Simple resort-style hotels can be found near the park entrance, 500–800 baht/night.

Chat Trakan town has basic shops and a fresh market for daily needs. Local forest products such as wild mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and herbs are available seasonally. For a wider selection, visit Phitsanulok city.

• Namtok Chat Trakan National Park — Waterfalls, caves, and forest trails.
• Nakhon Thai (south, ~40 km) — Gateway to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park.
• Wang Thong (southwest, ~50 km) — Intersection of Highways 11 and 12, with markets and temples.
• Phitsanulok (90 km south, ~2 hr) — Historic city with Wat Yai, airport, and rail connections.