Bhumibol Dam

📍 Location of Bhumibol Dam 🚘 Directions to Bhumibol Dam

About Bhumibol Dam

The Bhumibol Dam, located in Tak, is a sight to behold. This impressive arched concrete dam on the Ping River is a testament to the engineering prowess of Thailand. Completed in 1964, it was the first of many multi-purpose dams built in the country. Standing at a height of 154 meters, it holds the title of the highest dam in Thailand. The dam's turbines generate over 700 MW of power, which at the time of its completion, accounted for a staggering three-fourths of the country's power generating capacity. Today, it contributes to less than 2 percent of the country's power.

Visitors are welcome to drive up the dam crest and walk part of the way out onto the top. From this vantage point, one can get impressive views of both the reservoir and the downstream power plant. The dam is a must-visit for anyone interested in engineering, impressive construction, or simply looking for some interesting views. The dam is open to the public free of charge, and the security staff are known for their professionalism and friendliness.

The area surrounding the dam is equally impressive. It boasts of spectacular gardens and an 18-hole golf course. The dam is easily accessible from Highway 1 and is a welcome break from long drives. The area is pristine and neatly maintained, offering beautiful scenery and garden areas.

For the more adventurous, there is the option to stay overnight on a boat in the reservoir on an uninhabited island known as Ko Valentine. The views from here are breathtaking and the experience is very rustic.

The Bhumibol Dam is not just an engineering marvel, but also a symbol of Thailand's history and the legacy of its great King. The dam was initiated by the King when he was in his late twenties, with the aim of improving the lives of Thai people by protecting them from floods and droughts and providing more electricity for the growing country. The Thai Government received assistance from the American engineering firm that built the Hoover Dam. There is a special exhibition on the history of the dam, which includes photos from when the young King and Queen visited to open the Dam around 50 years ago.

The Bhumibol Dam is located 30 km above Tak, in Sam Ngao Tak province. There are several viewpoints and a few places to eat. Visitors also have the option to rent a boat to explore the surroundings.

The dam is a gigantic beauty, offering superb views and supersized architecture. There are accommodations inside the dam campus for visitors wishing to stay overnight. There is also a cruise which takes visitors upstream with provisions for lunch or dinner. The roads leading to the dam are of the best quality possible in Thailand, a testament to the government's excellent management. The Bhumibol Dam is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Thailand.