Tha Pla

Tha Pla (ท่าปลา) is a district in northern Uttaradit Province, lying along Highway 11 between Uttaradit town and the border with Nan Province. The district is named for the Nan River (Tha Pla means "fish pier"), reflecting its historical role as a riverine fishing and ferry community. Tha Pla is largely rural, with rice paddies, sugarcane fields, and forested hills stretching east toward the border with Laos.

The district is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path area that sees few tourists. Its main draws are access to Khlong Tron National Park and the scenic stretch of the Nan River that runs through the district. The climate follows the standard northern Thai pattern — a pleasant cool season (Nov–Feb), a hot dry season (Mar–May), and a rainy season (Jun–Oct). October through February is the most comfortable time for outdoor activities.

By Plane

Phitsanulok Airport (PHS) is about 140 km south, roughly a 2-hour drive. A taxi from the airport to Tha Pla costs around 1,200–1,500 baht. Nan Airport (NNT) is about 100 km north, another option for those coming from Chiang Mai or Bangkok.

By Train

Tha Pla has no railway station. The nearest stations are Uttaradit Railway Station (about 25 km south) and Sila At Railway Station (about 15 km north, in Nan Province). Both are on the Northern Line.

By Car / Road

Tha Pla is right on Highway 11, about 25 km north of Uttaradit town. Regular buses on the Uttaradit–Nan route pass through the district, stopping at the main intersection (15–30 min from Uttaradit, 20–30 baht). From Nan city, it's about 1.5 hours south by bus.

The district centre is small and walkable, with most facilities along Highway 11. To reach Khlong Tron National Park or outlying villages, you will need a private vehicle or a hired songthaew (around 800–1,000 baht for a half-day trip from Tha Pla).

• Khlong Tron National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติคลองตรอน) – The district's premier attraction, covering 518 km² of forested hills with high and low elevations. The park features the eight-level Klong Tron Waterfall, cave systems, and diverse wildlife.

• Phu Miang (ภูเมี่ยง) – A 1,656 m mountain on the border with Phitsanulok Province, offering panoramic views of both provinces and of Sirikit Dam. The mountain sits within Khlong Tron National Park.

• Chan Cave (ถ้ำจัน) – A spacious cave with a huge interior room, a 20-m-high ceiling, and a Buddha image at the centre. Access is via a steep approach — suitable for moderately fit visitors.

• Tao Cave (ถ้ำเต่า) – A larger cave system about 620 m from Chan Cave, with stalagmites, stalactites, a 17-m-long steep hollow entrance, and a 6-m-high stone pillar in the main chamber.

• Nan River Scenery – The river passes through the district with forested banks and small fishing communities.

• Hiking in Khlong Tron National Park – Several trails lead through forest to waterfalls, caves, and viewpoints. The Klong Tron Waterfall is the most popular destination — an eight-level cascade suitable for a day hike.

• Cave Exploration – Chan Cave and Tao Cave offer a sense of adventure with their undeveloped, natural interiors. Bring a torch and sturdy shoes.

• Fishing – The Nan River supports local fishing; visitors can arrange with villagers for a fishing outing.

• Wildlife and Birdwatching – The forests of Khlong Tron are home to barking deer, wild boars, and many bird species, best seen early morning.

A few simple restaurants and noodle stalls are located along Highway 11 near the Tha Pla intersection. Standard Thai dishes and grilled meats are available at low prices (30–50 baht). The park headquarters at Khlong Tron has basic snacks and drinks during daylight hours.

Basic coffee, tea, and soft drinks at local shops. Bottled water is essential for hiking. For a wider selection, buy supplies in Uttaradit before heading north.

• Budget: Camping at Khlong Tron National Park — basic facilities available, bring your own tent or rent at the park office (100–200 baht/night). Simple guesthouses in Tha Pla town (~300–400 baht/night, no online booking — just show up).

The district centre has a small market area with basic provisions, fresh produce, and local snacks. Dried fish and preserved river products are available from roadside stalls along Highway 11. For any significant shopping, craft, or souvenir purchases, make the short trip south to Uttaradit town.

• Uttaradit (25 km south, 20 min) — Provincial capital with temples, the broken-sword memorial, and the largest selection of accommodation and dining in the province.
• Khlong Tron National Park (20–30 km east of Tha Pla) — The park itself, with waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails.
• Sirikit Dam / Lam Nam Nan National Park (40 km south) — Thailand's largest earthen dam, within the Lam Nam Nan National Park complex.
• Nan (100 km north, 1.5 hr) — The charming former capital of a Lanna-era kingdom, with well-preserved temples, a national museum, and a relaxed riverside atmosphere.