Naresuan Dam is located in Phrom Phiram Subdistrict, Phrom Phiram District, Phitsanulok Province. It is one of the most important irrigation projects in northern Thailand, supporting agriculture and water management along both sides of the Nan River. The dam is a reinforced concrete weir with five spillway gates, each 12.50 meters wide. The dam stands 16 meters high, with a crest elevation of 52.50 meters above mean sea level, and has a total length of 156 meters. It can discharge up to 1,600 cubic meters per second, playing a key role in flood prevention and water distribution for agricultural purposes.

 

The construction of Naresuan Dam was initiated under the royal initiative of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great in 1975 to address water shortages and develop agriculture in the Nan River basin. Construction began in 1977 and was completed in 1980. Initially called "Phitsanulok Dam," it was later renamed "Naresuan Dam" by royal authorization to honor King Naresuan the Great. His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, presided over the official opening ceremony on February 25, 1982.

 

Naresuan Dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural development in Phitsanulok, Phichit, and upper Nakhon Sawan provinces. It supplies irrigation water to more than 150,000 rai of farmland, enabling farmers to cultivate crops consistently and efficiently. In addition, the dam helps control seasonal floods and stores water for dry periods, ensuring sustainable water management in the Nan River basin.

 

Beyond its agricultural and water management functions, Naresuan Dam has also become an important natural tourist attraction in Phitsanulok Province. Visitors can enjoy walking along the dam crest, taking in panoramic views of the Nan River, and learning about the irrigation system as well as the history and royal initiatives associated with the dam.

 

The development of Naresuan Dam demonstrates effective and sustainable water resource management. By combining flood prevention, agricultural irrigation, and natural tourism, the dam plays a vital role in the economy, environment, and society. It symbolizes the commitment to developing the Nan River basin and ensuring water security and agricultural sustainability for local communities in northern Thailand.

 

For travelers visiting Naresuan Dam, the serene atmosphere and scenic river views provide a perfect setting for relaxation and educational exploration of engineering and irrigation. The dam’s 156-meter length and ability to discharge 1,600 cubic meters of water per second highlight its structural stability and efficiency, reflecting Thailand’s dedication to sustainable water management and meeting the needs of local farmers.