Sirikit Dam and Reservoir

Highway 1045 leads eastwards from Uttaradit to the beautifully situated Sirikit reservoir with a 160-m (525-ft) high and 800-m (2625-ft) long dam, named after the wife of the king of Thailand. It was completed in 1973 and is the largest in Thailand. The lake covers an area of 220 sq. km (85 sq. mi.); by means of an extensive network of canals it not only irrigates the surroundings to create a rich agricultural area but also provides energy for the population. On its banks are some houses on stilts belonging to the fishermen.

It is possible to drive up to the dam and around the reservoir. About halfway between the village of Tha Pla and the dam is a checkpoint where an admission fee is payable.