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Udon Thani travel guide
Guide me through Udon Thani
Udon Thani is a province in northern Thailand that often goes unnoticed by most tourists. It serves as the capital of a province known for growing sugar cane and rice in an arid climate, and experienced economic growth during the Vietnam War. Today, the city continues to rapidly develop industrially and commercially, boasting attractions such as the new entertainment plaza and the serene Nong Prajak Park. The urban center, Udon City, is home to a significant expatriate community, contributing to the city’s culturally diverse atmosphere. At night, UD Town becomes a lively hub for tourists and locals who come to enjoy dining, partying, and watching dance groups together.
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best things to visit in Udon Thani
what to visit
The city center of Udon Thani brings together a mix of cultures and people, creating a beautiful harmony not often found in this world. One of the best activities to enjoy while visiting the city is to go to Nong Prajak Public Park, the heart of Udon Town, to relax and soak in the friendly and calm atmosphere. You can easily spend hours at the park’s lake, watching locals engaging in sports or playing games together.
If you’re interested in the cultural heritage and history of the province, you can visit the Udon Thani Provincial Museum, located south of the Public Park.
To visit the main temple of the town, head east of the Park to the City Pillar Shrine. It’s believed that the city’s guardian deity resides in the shrine.
Wat Pothisompon is also a nice temple to visit in Udon Thani.
While you’re in the city, be sure to try Rabeang Pochana food, which is famous in this area.
To visit the main temple of the town, head east of the Park to the City Pillar Shrine. It’s believed that the city’s guardian deity resides in the shrine.
Wat Pothisompon is also a nice temple to visit in Udon Thani.
While you’re in the city, be sure to try Rabeang Pochana food, which is famous in this area.
best things to do around Udon Thani
the surroundings
To explore the province, I recommend renting a scooter to navigate the area on your own. The roads are a bit rough and more suitable for experienced drivers, but the scenery is stunning. If you’re not comfortable driving, you can always hire a tuk-tuk or taxi.
In the city, you can visit the Ban Chiang Museum to see dinosaur footprints and explore caves with carvings at the Phu Phra Bat Historical Park. For nature enthusiasts, hiking through the Phu Foi Lom Eco-Park and camping overnight is a great option.
A major highlight of the province is the lake of red lotuses, located 40 km (25 miles) southeast of Udon Thani. The best time to visit the lake is between December and February in the early morning until 11 AM. You can also visit the serene sitting Buddha at Wat Tung Toomkam, which is 17 km (10.5 miles) north of the city.
For a full-day trip to explore the province, head west of Udon Thani to the Wat Tham Erawan Temple, which is 105 km (65.3 miles) away. The temple and caves are just part of the attraction; the journey itself is worth experiencing. You’ll pass by rice fields, traditional villages, and limestone karst mountains. At the end of the route, you’ll find a unique temple nestled among caves, offering great photo opportunities.
Located 34 km (21 miles) northwest of Udon Thani, Wat Pa Ban Kho offers a picturesque landscape for those who don’t want to spend an entire day exploring. However, the temple itself is not particularly noteworthy.
A more appealing option is the Wat Phu Thong Thep Nimit Temple, located on a mountaintop just 34 km (21 miles) south of the city. Easily accessible, you can park your scooter or car at the base of the hill and climb several stairs to be rewarded with a breathtaking view and a tranquil temple.