Lake Huay Tung Tao

Just outside the city of Chiang Mai, come and breathe in the fresh air at Lake Huay Tung Tao and enjoy a wide range of activities in a picturesque setting bordered by the Doi Suthep mountains.

History

Located approximately 15 kilometers from Chiang Mai, Huay Tung Tao is an artificial lake created in the 1970s to improve irrigation for local farmlands. Over the years, the site has evolved into more than just a water reservoir. Today, it is a popular relaxation spot for locals, a must-visit tourist attraction, and a habitat for wildlife.

Visiting Lake Huay Tung Tao

Just 20 minutes from the city, immerse yourself in a peaceful atmosphere amidst an idyllic landscape that harmoniously blends nature and human endeavor. The sandy shores surrounding Lake Huay Tung Tao are as beautiful as any seaside. Whether for relaxation, outdoor leisure, or nature observation, this place guarantees quality time.

Choose from multiple activities

In some parts of the lake, the waters are shallow, perfect for swimming or paddling. Swimming areas are marked with buoys. For those who prefer to stay dry, pedal boats and canoes can be rented on the beach to enjoy the scenery.

Plenty of land-based activities await as well. Paintball sessions, quad bike excursions, zip line facilities, and playgrounds will delight the whole family. Take a look at the collection of straw sculptures that allow you to take photos alongside King Kong.

For the more active, there's a two-lane jogging track around the reservoir that is also suitable for cycling. Start your run at Canal Road, follow the 4-kilometer trail around the lake, and finish with a well-deserved break at one of the lakeside restaurants. Additionally, the site includes a camping area with tents available for rent to enjoy a night under the stars.

Enjoy outdoor dining or visit lakeside restaurants

Picnicking is a popular activity at Lake Huay Tung Tao. With its peaceful and beautifully landscaped environment, the site offers an exceptional setting for outdoor dining, and you don't even need to bring your own food. The lakeside is dotted with restaurants ready to satisfy your culinary cravings. Sit in the floating bungalows on the water and let local chefs delight you.

On the menu, you'll find Thai cuisine classics such as fried rice, grilled fish, spicy salads, and tom yum soup. Add local specialties like live freshwater prawns and orange catfish curries. For even more flavors, explore the offerings of the food vendors!

Bird watching and fishing opportunities

The calm waters of the lake and the wooded areas around it provide a privileged habitat for birds. Aspiring birdwatchers, don't forget your binoculars, as you'll have the opportunity to observe many species. Depending on the season, you may spot herons, kingfishers, wild ducks, egrets, stilts, and even falcons.

Fishing enthusiasts, on the other hand, can try their luck with tilapia, catfish, carp, and Nile perch in Huay Tung Tao reservoir. However, be sure to check the current rules and obtain the necessary permits to avoid penalties and ecological imbalance.

How to get there

From downtown Chiang Mai, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Lake Huay Tung Tao.

The route is straightforward if you're driving. Leaving the old city, follow Huay Kaew Road (Route 1004) for about 2 km, then turn right onto Canal Road. You'll pass the Stadium Sports Complex, continue straight for 2 km to reach the reservoir. Look for the large blue sign indicating the attraction. Cross the bridge leading to the lake area and stop at the checkpoint to pay your admission fee. Then, drive around the reservoir to reach the parking area.

Alternatively, you can rent a Songthaew (shared taxi truck) in Chiang Mai to get to Lake Huay Tung Tao. In this case, make sure to agree in advance on the price and duration of the pickup.

Opening hours and fees

Lake Huay Tung Tao is open to visitors every day from Monday to Sunday, from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Restaurants close much later, around 9:00 p.m. For a peaceful experience without the crowds, arrive early in the morning or during the weekdays. The site is very popular on weekends. You can also come at sunset to admire the spectacular colors of the lake.

The entrance fee is 50 baht for foreign tourists and 20 baht for Thai residents.