Huay Tung Tao Lake

📍 Location of Huay Tung Tao Lake 🚘 Directions to Huay Tung Tao Lake

About Huay Tung Tao Lake

A tranquil escape from the bustling city life, this serene lake offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a bit of nature. The lake is surrounded by a walking path, perfect for a leisurely stroll while taking in the beautiful sights. Along the lake, there are several restaurants where one can stop for a coffee break after a walk. It's a place where walking shoes and a camera are essential to capture the picturesque views.

However, it's worth noting that there is a surcharge for non-Thai visitors. The fee is 50 baht for foreigners and 20 baht for Thais. Despite this, the lake is a popular spot, especially on Sundays, when locals flock to the lakeside restaurants. The popularity of the place can sometimes lead to crowded restaurants and long waiting times. For those seeking a quieter experience, there are less popular alternatives nearby, such as the Tribal Village located several kilometers to the south.

Located on the outskirts of the city, the lake is easily accessible by Grab for about 160 baht, with an additional 50 baht per person for entrance. The staff at the lake speak limited English, which can sometimes lead to communication difficulties. Despite this, the food served at the lake is excellent, with a variety of dishes to choose from. The lake is surrounded by hundreds of straw huts, offering a unique dining experience. The huts are small but adequate, providing a perfect spot for a post-meal nap.

The lake is a popular spot for local children who enjoy swimming in its murky waters. Despite the lack of Wi-Fi, the phone signal is good, making it easy to call a Grab driver after your meal. The lake is closer to Chiang Mai than one might expect, making it a convenient day trip. Inside the huts, there are straw mats on the bamboo flooring, low tables, and benches, making it a comfortable place to relax.

However, some visitors may be put off by the practice of dual pricing, where foreigners pay more than Thais. This practice is widespread in Thailand and is evident at the lake, where the entrance fee for foreigners is 50 baht, compared to 20 baht for Thais.

Despite this, the lake is a great place for a quick trip out of town. Located not more than 10 km from the city, it's easily reached by motorbike. The wooden huts scattered along the lake offer a quiet place to enjoy a small meal or a beer, swim in the lake, or simply admire the mountain views.

The lake is a beautiful picnic spot located at the foot of Doi Suthep. The thatched huts along the shore are serviced by small Thai restaurants that deliver food and drinks. The food is generally delicious, with some adventurous options like dancing prawns for the more daring. Visitors can also rent swan pedal boats to navigate the lake, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Chiang Mai is not known for its open spaces, making this lake a popular spot for Thai families, especially on weekends. The lake is surrounded by a road, with food stalls on one side and small bungalows on the water. While swimming in the lake is possible, the water can appear murky and the edges muddy. Despite this, the site is quite picturesque and offers a glimpse into the real Chiang Mai.