Nam Pat

Nam Pat (น้ำปาด) is a district in eastern Uttaradit Province, lying along the Nan River near the border with Laos. The district is dominated by forested mountain terrain, much of which falls within Phu Soi Dao National Park and the surrounding conservation areas. It is the most remote of Uttaradit's districts, with a sparse population engaged in agriculture and forestry. The district centre is a small settlement along Highway 1147, serving as the primary access point for Phu Soi Dao National Park.

Nam Pat's climate is influenced by its elevation and forest cover — it stays noticeably cooler than the lowlands, especially in the cool season (Nov–Feb). The rainy season (Jun–Oct) brings heavy but often short-lived downpours. The district saw historical significance during the Cold War era, as the Ban Rom Klao area in the highlands was a stronghold of the communist insurgency, now a peaceful national park.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Phitsanulok Airport (PHS), about 150 km west via Highway 11 and 1147. A private taxi from the airport to Nam Pat takes roughly 2–2.5 hours (1,200–1,500 baht). Uttaradit Railway Station is about 70 km away by road (1.5 hr by songthaew).

By Train

There is no railway station in Nam Pat. The nearest station is Uttaradit Railway Station, from where you take a songthaew or bus east (1.5 hr). Alternatively, Phitsanulok Railway Station is a common connecting point from the south.

By Car / Road

From Uttaradit town, take Highway 102 east to the junction with Highway 1147, then head north-east to Nam Pat (about 70 km, 1.5 hr). A rough road continues from Nam Pat into Phu Soi Dao National Park. Buses and songthaews run from Uttaradit bus terminal to Nam Pat several times daily (1.5 hr, 40–60 baht).

The district centre can be walked in a few minutes. To reach Phu Soi Dao National Park headquarters (about 30 km further east), you will need your own vehicle or a hired songthaew (800–1,200 baht round trip from Nam Pat). Road conditions in the park area can be rough, especially in the rainy season.

• Phu Soi Dao National Park – The main draw. This cool highland park straddles the border with Phitsanulok Province, with elevations over 1,800 m, pine forests, waterfalls, and sweeping mountain views. The park office is located near Nam Pat.

• Ban Rom Klao – A historic highland village at 1,428 m elevation, formerly a communist stronghold, now a peaceful settlement with a small museum and memorial.

• Phu Soi Dao Waterfall – A five-level cascade near the park office, shaded by trees and accessible on a short walk. A good introductory hike.

• Sai Tip Waterfall – A seven-level waterfall in the middle of a pine forest, reachable from the camping area. One of the most beautiful falls in the park.

• Hiking – The trek from Phu Soi Dao Waterfall to the top of the hill takes 4–5 hours, passing through pine forests and scenic viewpoints. The summit offers panoramic views over both Uttaradit and Phitsanulok provinces.

• Camping – Campsites are available at the national park (bring your own tent or rent one at the park office). No permanent accommodation exists at the upper levels, only tent camping.

• Birdwatching – The forests around Nam Pat host a variety of bird species, especially during the cool season.

• Nature Photography – The pine forests, waterfalls, and mountain scenery provide excellent opportunities.

• Nam Pat market – A small morning market with simple dishes, grilled meats, sticky rice, and fresh fruit. Open early until midday.
• Park headquarters canteen – Basic Thai meals and snacks (30–60 baht) available for park visitors during daylight hours.
• Local restaurants – A handful of simple eateries along the main road through Nam Pat serve Thai dishes and noodle soups.

Simple tea and coffee at market stalls. Bottled water is essential, especially for hiking. For a wider selection, bring supplies from Uttaradit.

• Budget: Camping at Phu Soi Dao National Park (tent rental ~150–300 baht/night, bring your own or rent on site). Basic guesthouses are available in Nam Pat town (~300–500 baht/night, no advance booking — just show up).

Basic provisions are available at small shops in Nam Pat town. For supplies before heading into the national park, stock up in Uttaradit town. Local forest honey is occasionally sold by villagers.

• Uttaradit (70 km west, 1.5 hr) — Provincial capital with temples, museums, and dining options.
• Phu Soi Dao National Park (30 km east) — Continue deeper into the park for more hiking, waterfalls, and camping.
• Laplae (50 km south-west) — Durian country with famous odourless varieties.
• Chat Trakan (40 km south, Phitsanulok Province) — Small district bordering the national park, with additional park access points.