Takua Pa Old Town is a charming little town in Takua Pa, 30km north of Khao Lak. It is where history lingers on every corner. Its narrow streets lined with old pastel-coloured buildings are quite similar to those in Phuket Old Town yet, Takua Pa Old Town retains a peaceful charm. Located inland, 30km north of Khao Lak, it is certainly a worthwhile stop if you are heading for Khao Sok.
How to get to Takua Pa Old Town
If you are staying in Khao Lak, you can get to Takua Pa Old Town either by taxi or bike. It is best to go with a taxi or local guide since it is a bit hidden from the main road. Taxi from Khao Lak to Takua Pa Old Town would cost around 500 THB. Follow along Highway 4, after passing the Takua Pa Hospital, turn right at the intersection and make your way south to reach Takua Pa Old Town.
Origin of Takua Pa Old Town
Originally known as “Takola” in Thai and “Takkolam” in Tamil, Takua Pa has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. Once the finest harbour on the west coast of the peninsula, it served as a bustling trade hub between the Srivijaya kingdom and early Tamil kingdoms, attracting foreign traders, including Chinese, Indian, and Arab settlers who helped shape its unique character. The town later became known as “Takua Pa,” where “takua,” means lead in Thai, although later tin became its primary mined resource. In the early 20th century, Takua Pa was the main tin-mining centre, operated by English and Australian companies. By 2008, the old mining areas have been replaced by rubber plantations.
Admire the Colorful Buildings in Takua Pa Old Town
Today, Takua Pa is a delightful blend of history and charm, with its beautiful Sino-Portuguese commercial-residential buildings. Strolling along the paved roads and colonnades (covered walkways), you’ll find that most of these structures are still owned by families who have lived in the area for generations, and many buildings have been beautifully restored. Blending the old with the new, Takua Pa’s historic buildings now house charming cafes, shops, and vibrant street art. A walk through Takua Pa Old Town feels like stepping into a time capsule, offering an authentic glimpse into the past.
One of the most charming aspects of Takua Pa Old Town is the vintage vibe found in its tailor shops, barbershops, and antique stores. With decade-old machines, nostalgic posters, and displays that transport you back to the 1960s, you might forget just what year you’re in!
Keep an eye on the colourful murals and street art that celebrate the local way of life, capturing the daily routines of the townspeople and the town’s tin-mining history.
Check Out Khun Intra Building
Khun Intra Building is a stunning example showcasing the classic Sino-Portuguese architecture. Built in 1917 by the Chinese for the first lieutenants of Takua Pa, Khun Intrakheeree.
One of the building’s standout features was its unique turtle-back roof tiles. Unfortunately, these tiles have been damaged and had to be replaced. Even today, it remains a family-owned property, which is why it’s gated and maintained with care. Even though the building is inaccessible, you can still admire its beauty from the outside and appreciate the historical significance it brings to Takua Pa Old Town.
Observe the Old Town Wall
The former governor of Takua Pa, Lord Senanuchit built this wall during the early 20th century to enclose the governor’s house from the secret Chinese group of Hengzi. What interesting here is the construction technique of the wall by stacking concrete blocks without using the adhesive for the mortar.
Enjoy the local cuisines
For a delightful Thai-Chinese breakfast, there are numerous charming home restaurants where you can enjoy delicious dim sum, congee, and flavorful fried noodles that have been served for decades. Early mornings here are lively, with locals gathering to enjoy their breakfast and chat over coffee.
You’ll also find quite a few small Chinese-Thai tea houses along the Takua Pa walking street, perfect for sitting back, having a drink, and watching the locals go about their daily lives. With a warm, nostalgic vibe reminiscent of the old coffee shop culture, these spots offer the ideal setting to relax and soak in the local vibe.
Don’t miss the Sunday Market!
If you’re in Takua Pa on a Sunday, you’re in for a treat! From 4 PM to 8 PM on Sundays, the main road comes alive with local food stalls, performances, and artisans showcasing their handicrafts. Unlike the touristy night markets, Takua Pa Sunday Market is all about the local vibe offering an authentic taste of Thai street food, featuring delicious grilled skewers, and tempting desserts—all prepared by local vendors.
Experience Authentic Local Festivities
Takua Pa is a vibrant cultural hub where many traditional festivals come to life, offering experiences you won’t find in tourist-heavy areas. The town’s Culture Street is the heart of celebrations like the New Year Water Festival, the Chinese Vegetarian Festival, and Loi Krathong. Each event showcases colourful parades, traditional rituals, and local foods, giving visitors an authentic look into Thai culture and community spirit.
Nearby Attractions
Visit Boon Soong Iron Bridge
Built in 1965 by the Boon Soong family during Thailand’s tin-mining boom, this impressive bridge showcases early 20th-century engineering. Constructed by using iron pieces from decommissioned tin dredging vessels, it spans 200 meters over the Takua Pa River and plays a vital role in the town’s transportation network, contributing significantly to its growth. Not only is the bridge an essential piece of infrastructure, but it also symbolizes the town’s heritage, adding depth to the local culture.
Enjoy the panoramic view of Takua Pa Old Town
Bangmara Hill in Takua Pa is the picturesque spot for recreation and panoramic views of the town that will truly leave you in awe. It is a great place to visit with your friends or family to snap picture-perfect moments or simply enjoy coffee and relax. The view from the top allows you to see 360 views of Takua Pa including the mountains and the river flowing through the town. And if you’re not ready to leave this enchanting place, you can stay overnight in cosy bungalows or tents on top of the hill. Just imagine drifting off to sleep, and then waking up to a beautiful sunrise surrounded by the mountains!
Explore the Little Amazon
Thailand is home to stunning mangrove forests, and the Little Amazon near Takua Pa is a must-visit! Glide through the serene waterways in a kayak, you can spot a variety of wildlife, including snakes, exotic birds, and trees. The impressive banyan trees, some over a hundred years old, create a magical atmosphere with their sprawling root systems.
You can easily find the Little Amazon close to the Takua Pa bus station. You can either drive yourself and pay on the spot or book a tour package. Kayaking costs about 500 THB for two hours. If you’re looking for a quick stroll, there’s also a free elevated walkway that takes you through the mangrove forest, a perfect 10-minute walk for spotting wildlife along the way.
Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani, an hour’s drive from Takua Pa, is a natural treasure trove featuring one of the world’s oldest evergreen rainforests, sprawling lakes, and towering limestone cliffs. Accessible by bus, minibus, or ferry from Takua Pa Bus Terminal, Khao Sok is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. The park has two main areas: the headquarters in Khao Sok Village and Cheow Lan Lake (67 km from the headquarters), famous for its raft houses, waterfalls, caves, trails, and scenic viewpoints.
A variety of tours are offered, ranging from day trips to four-day adventures, with prices between 1200 and 17000 THB, including options for multilingual guides. Open year-round from 8 am to 5 pm, entry fees are 300 THB for adults and 150 THB for children. Activities range from wildlife watching and jungle trekking to water sports on Cheow Lan Lake, such as kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. With so much to explore, Khao Sok promises an unforgettable adventure for all visitors.
Si Phang Nga National Park
Si Phang Nga National Park in Khura Buri District, 45 minutes drive from Takua Pa, is a beautiful forest reserve established to honour the King’s 60th birthday. Known for its lush landscapes, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna, with scenic hills, streams, waterfalls, and limestone cliffs. The main attraction, Tam Nang Waterfall, requires a 3.2 km trail hike (about an hour’s walk), making it ideal for nature lovers. Open daily from 8 am to 4:30 pm, the park has a 100 THB entry fee (50 THB for children). Activities include wildlife watching, trekking, canoeing, and swimming at the waterfall.
Final words
Takua Pa Old Town isn’t just about its rich history and vibrant culture; it’s a place where you can truly feel the slow, laid-back vibe of local life. Stories from the past come alive through local festivals and traditions, giving you a genuine taste of what life in this charming town is all about. You might find yourself getting lost in the nostalgia, strolling through its charming streets.
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