Udon Thani Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Udon Thani with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to see, do, and eat in this Northern Isaan city in Thailand.


Introduction to Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a city in the Northern Isaan region of Thailand. It’s a popular destination for travelers who want to explore the culture and history of the region. The city is home to many temples, museums, and other cultural attractions. Its location near the border with Laos also makes it a gateway to other parts of Southeast Asia. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the best things to see, do, and eat in Udon Thani.

List of Places to Visit in Udon Thani

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in the culture and history of Udon Thani, there are several museums and historical sites to visit. Here are some of the most significant:

  • Udon Thani Museum: This museum is home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the Udon Thani region. The museum is housed in a restored colonial-era building and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of the region.

  • Phu Phra Bat Historical Park: This historical site is located around 50 kilometers from Udon Thani and is famous for its rock formations, ancient temples, and prehistoric cave paintings. The site is also home to a museum that showcases the history of the region.

  • Ban Chiang Archaeological Site: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located around 50 kilometers east of Udon Thani and is home to the remnants of an ancient civilization that dates back over 5,000 years. The site is known for its pottery, metalworking, and other artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Udon Thani: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Udon Thani is also home to some beautiful natural attractions. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Phu Foi Lom Eco Park: This park is located around 30 kilometers from Udon Thani and is home to a variety of landscapes, including grasslands, forests, and rock formations. Visitors can hike or bike through the park and enjoy the stunning views.

  • Nong Prajak Park: This park is located in the heart of Udon Thani and is a popular spot for locals and tourists. The park is home to a lake surrounded by gardens, playgrounds, and walking trails.

  • Red Lotus Sea: This scenic lake is located around 30 kilometers from Udon Thani and is famous for its stunning displays of red lotus flowers. Visitors can take a boat ride through the lake and enjoy the picturesque views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Phu Phra Bat Historical Park: This historical site offers several hiking trails that lead visitors through ancient ruins and rock formations. The trails are well-marked and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Phu Foi Lom Eco Park: This park is home to several hiking and biking trails that take visitors through grasslands, forests, and rock formations. The trails offer stunning views of the park’s unique landscape.

Best Things to Do in Udon Thani: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for things to do in Udon Thani, here are some activities and tours to consider:

  • Visit a Local Market: Udon Thani is home to several markets where visitors can sample local street food and buy souvenirs. Some of the most popular markets include the Central Plaza Udon Thani, UD Town, and the Night Market.

  • Take a Day Trip to Laos: Udon Thani is located near the border with Laos and is a great starting point for a day trip to the neighboring country. Visitors can take a bus or a boat to explore the nearby cities and attractions.

  • Learn About Buddhism: Udon Thani is home to several temples where visitors can learn about the Buddhist culture and religion. Some of the most popular temples include Wat Pa Ban Tat, Wat Phothisomphon, and Wat Thung Si Muang.

Week-Long Itinerary for Udon Thani

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Udon Thani, here’s a sample itinerary to consider:

  • Day 1: Explore the city center, visit the Udon Thani Museum, and enjoy the food and drink scene.

  • Day 2: Take a day trip to the Phu Phra Bat Historical Park and explore the ancient ruins and rock formations.

  • Day 3: Visit the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site and learn about the ancient civilization that inhabited the region.

  • Day 4: Take a day trip to Laos and explore the nearby cities and attractions.

  • Day 5: Visit the Red Lotus Sea and take a boat ride through the scenic lake.

  • Day 6: Explore the Phu Foi Lom Eco Park and take a hiking or biking tour through the park’s unique landscape.

  • Day 7: Visit a local temple and learn about the Buddhist culture and religion.

Food and Drink Scene of Udon Thani

Must-Try Dishes

Udon Thani is home to several dishes that are unique to the region. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Khao Soi: This is a noodle soup dish that is popular in Northern Thailand. It’s made with coconut milk and curry paste and is served with crispy noodles on top.

  • Nam Prik Noom: This is a spicy green chili dip that is often served with fresh vegetables and rice.

  • Sai Ua: This is a Northern Thai sausage that is made with ground pork and spices.

Local Beverages

Udon Thani is also home to several local beverages that visitors should try:

  • Nam Oy: This is a sweet and sour drink made with tamarind and sugar.

  • Lao Khao: This is a rice-based liquor that is popular in Northern Thailand and Laos.

Where to Stay in Udon Thani: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Udon Thani is home to several accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Centara Hotel & Convention Centre: This is a luxury hotel located in the city center. It features a spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool.

  • De Princess Hotel: This is a mid-range hotel located in the city center. It features a restaurant and bar, as well as a fitness center.

  • Grand Perfect Hotel: This is a budget-friendly hotel located in the city center. It features a restaurant and bar, as well as a fitness center and rooftop pool.

What to Buy in Udon Thani: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Udon Thani, here are some ideas:

  • Ban Chiang Pottery: This ancient pottery dates back over 5,000 years and is a unique souvenir to bring home.

  • Nong Bua Lamphu Silk: This locally made silk is known for its high quality and intricate designs.

  • Local Snacks: Udon Thani is home to several local snacks, including dried squid, fish, and fruit.

Local Culture and Customs of Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a predominantly Buddhist city, and visitors should respect the local culture and customs. Some things to keep in mind include:

  • Dress Modestly: When visiting temples and other religious sites, visitors should dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing.

  • Remove Shoes: It’s customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.

  • Show Respect: Visitors should show respect to the local people and their customs.

Best Time to Visit Udon Thani

The best time to visit Udon Thani is during the cool season, which runs from November to February. The temperature is mild, and there is little rain during this time. The hot season, which runs from March to May, can be sweltering, while the rainy season, which runs from June to October, can be humid and wet.

Do’s and Don’ts of Udon Thani

Do:

  • Be Respectful: Visitors should be respectful to the local people and their culture.

  • Try Local Food: Udon Thani is home to several unique dishes that visitors should try.

  • Learn About Buddhism: Visitors should take the time to learn about the Buddhist culture and religion.

Don’t:

  • Be Disrespectful: Visitors should not be disrespectful to the local people or their customs.

  • Eat Street Food: Visitors should be cautious when eating street food and should avoid food that is not cooked properly.

  • Touch Monks: Visitors should not touch or disturb monks, as this is considered disrespectful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a relatively safe city for travelers. However, visitors should take the usual precautions to avoid theft and other crimes. It’s also a good idea to be aware of the traffic, as driving and crossing the street in Udon Thani can be challenging.

Health in Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a relatively healthy city, and visitors should not encounter any major health risks. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling, such as drinking bottled water and using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.

Getting to Udon Thani: Transportation Options and Logistics

Udon Thani is well-connected to other parts of Thailand and Southeast Asia. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

  • Airports Near Udon Thani: The Udon Thani International Airport is located around 6 kilometers from the city center and serves several airlines.

  • Bus Stations Near Udon Thani: There are several bus stations in Udon Thani that serve destinations throughout Thailand and Laos.

  • Other Options: Visitors can also travel to Udon Thani by train or car, depending on their preferences.

How to Get Around in Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a relatively small city, and visitors can easily get around on foot or by using public transportation. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are also available for short trips.

Where to Go Next from Udon Thani: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Udon Thani is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Northern Thailand and Laos. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Nong Khai: This Thai-Lao border town is located around 60 kilometers from Udon Thani and is home to several cultural and historical attractions.

  • Vientiane: This capital city of Laos is located around 20 kilometers from the Thai-Lao border and is a great destination for exploring the local culture and history.

Conclusion

Udon Thani is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the cultural and historical heritage of Northern Thailand. With its temples, museums, and natural attractions, as well as its easy access to Laos and other parts of Southeast Asia, Udon Thani is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the region.

Udon Thani Airport Udon Thani Airport Udon Thani Train Station Udon Thani Train Station Excavations at Ban Chiang Excavations at Ban Chiang