Sirikit Dam, located in Ban Pha Som, Tha Pla Subdistrict, Tha Pla District, Uttaradit Province, is one of the region’s major tourist attractions as well as a key irrigation structure that plays a vital role in the lives of people in Northern Thailand. It is especially important for water management in agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, and flood prevention. The dam spans the Nan River at Ban Pha Som and is a large earthen dam measuring approximately 800 meters in length, 12 meters in width, and 113.6 meters in height. It is considered one of the country’s most stable and important earthen dams for water systems.

 

Upstream of the Sirikit Dam lies a vast freshwater lake formed by the damming of the Nan River. The area surrounding the reservoir is encircled by mountains and lush green forests all year round, creating a picturesque natural landscape ideal for eco-tourism. Visitors can take a boat ride or raft across the vast expanse of water, enjoying the cool breeze and serene atmosphere while passing by riverside villages that still maintain a simple, traditional way of life.

 

Beyond being a tourist destination, Sirikit Dam is also a hub for freshwater fishing in Uttaradit Province. Around the lake, locals engage in fishing and aquaculture, raising species such as tilapia, silver barb, and giant Mekong catfish. This sustains local trade and supports restaurants that serve fresh fish dishes from the dam, such as salt-grilled tilapia, spicy Mekong catfish soup, or sour curry with silver barb delicacies that have become another draw for visitors.

 

The dam also features scenic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of both the dam structure and the lake, especially during early morning or late afternoon when sunlight reflects on the water’s surface, creating a breathtaking sight for photographers. Getting to Sirikit Dam is convenient: from Uttaradit city, take Highway 1045 toward Tha Pla District for about 58 kilometers, or connect from Kaeng Noi Bamrung Daen Dam via linked routes.

 

For those wishing to experience the beauty of nature while learning about the role of a major dam in Northern Thailand, Sirikit Dam in Ban Pha Som, Tha Pla Subdistrict, Uttaradit Province, is a destination that combines eco-tourism, relaxation, and engineering education all in one place.