Since the late Ayutthaya period, Bang Tanai was settled by a large number of Mon inhabitants. They inhabit areas along the Chao Phraya River, such as Bang Khu Wat in Pathum Thani Province.

After the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, the area was abandoned. King Taksin later allowed the Mon people resettle their former villages. In 1822, a large number of Mon immigrants from Burma settled in Siam. King Nangklao (Rama III) allow them to populate Bang Tanai, Bang Phut, and Khlong Ban Laem Yai. They have lived there continuously since then.

The name "Bang Tanai" means "place of toothbrush trees" (Streblus asper), as this plant once flourished along waterways from here to Pathum Thani.