Thaton to Chian Rai boat trip

The majestic Mekong river forms part of the border between Thailand and Burma and consequently the village of Tha Ton has changed hands numerous times in the turbulent history of the area. The latest change happening in the early 20th century when the border was moved 3.2 km upstream leaving the north bank, previously part of Burma (Myanmar), to Thailand. More than just a site of natural beauty and biodiversity, the Mekong is also an artery for the area’s cultural life, used, fished and travelled by different ethnic groups and a centre for festivals and religous celebrations all year round. This particular part of Tha Ton, known in Thai as Ban Rom Thai, is inhabited by the Shan ethnic group. The area around Tha Ton is populated by various hill tribes including Yao, Lisu, Lahu, Karen, and Akha. Tha Ton is also home to Chinese nationalists forced to flee from their home-in-exile after the coup in Burma.