Umphang

Umphang is Tak Province's largest district. It's landlocked in the Tano Thongchai mountain range, with the high mountains making up 97% of the area; there's only one access road to it from Mae Sot. Dense rain forest rich with bamboo and teak abuts the Thung Yai Naresuan and Huai Kha Kaeng wildlife sanctuaries, as part of the Western Forest range (the largest in Southeast Asia), which due to its importance as a conservation area was classified as a World Heritage Site.

The district's distinct geography and culture is ever present. The town is a center for eco-treks to hill tribe villages and some of the oldest remaining rain forest left in the country, as well as rafting expeditions along the Mekong River to Thailand's largest and most spectacular waterfall, Thee Lor Su.

"Umphang," adapted from the Karen word "umpha," refers to the border pass that the Burmese were required to have to trade with this Thai village. The document was folded, sealed, and placed inside a bamboo cane to prevent wear; its story has become an important part of Umphang's heritage. Today, rubber boats and canoes have replaced the bamboo rafts once used on the rivers and local Karen guides are employed counteracting logging activities.