Tachileik, located in the infamous Golden Triangle, is a border gateway to the town of Mae Sai in Thailand, and is mainly used by tourists as an access point to get to Kyaing Tong (a car and driver for the four hour journey will cost around USD70 one way, and cycling trips with car escort are also permitted). Take a look at our YouTube video taken on the road between Tachileik and Kyaing Tong.

It's not uncomoon for Thais to cross the border from Thailand to Tachileik for gambling, to buy counterfeit goods or use the region's only golf course. The primary currency used in Tachileik is Thai baht – although Myanmar kyat and US dollars are also accepted. To find out more about getting in and out of Myanmar over land, go here.

If you're looking for something strange or slightly suspect, head to the Tachileik market. This outdoor bazaar is bustling with venders, hawkers and border-hopping Thais in search of a bargain and contains everything from cheap knickknacks, counterfeit textiles, booze and cigarettes to guns, knives, and rare-animals. Keep your wits about you as negotiation is essential and the merchants are thrifty.

We offer Myanmar country tours that include the Golden Triangle area of Kyaing Tong and Tachileik, with necessary permits - find out more here or email [email protected].