It’s also a key transport hub, connecting the northeast with the rest of Thailand and southern Laos.
Many Vietnamese migrated to the area during the war, which is why it’s quite a multicultural city, mainly due to its proximity to Laos. There aren’t any must-see attractions in the Udon Thani city itself; however, there are some attractive and scenic spots around.
Close by is one of Southeast Asia’s most significant archaeological sites; Ban Chiang. Here you can admire well-preserved Thai ceramics; burial remains and artefacts, some dating back to 3,600BC, proving people have lived in this region for thousands of years. Nearby, you can also visit the excavation pits where the ceramics and skeletons sit as they were once buried years ago at the Wat Pho Sri Nai open-air museum.
Known as one of Isan’s most beautiful natural attractions, if you’re visiting from December to February, the Red Lotus Sea in Kumphawapi is a must-see. Board a pontoon boat and cruise out on the lake as the waters transform into a sea of bright pink flowers sprouting out the top of lily pads. If you’re seeking more natural attractions, visit Phu Phrabat Historical Park in Ban Phue, known for its interesting and bizarre carvings and rock formations. You can even see ancient cave paintings here.
Other experiences include visiting the rock salt fields where high-quality flower salt is produced, as well as a community ecotourism project. Talk to our expert consultants to discuss whether this kind of immersive experience would enhance your holiday in Thailand.
Thailand
It’s all about refined, luxurious discovery: gorgeous locations, elegant boutique hotels, wining, dining, beach reclining. And a dash of adventure!
Bangkok
Sail down the Chao Phraya River and explore life along smaller klongs (canals)
Chiang Mai
Connect with villages at a community project in Northern Thailand as you spend a day learning about Thai cuisine in a local home
Stay at the country’s most elegant hotels with top-notch service, surrounded by beauty
Thailand
A glorious itinerary for genuinely ethical and immersive elephant encounters and off-the-beaten-track cultural and wildlife experiences.
Mae Sot
Trek to see rescue elephants thriving in their natural habitat
Experience life alongside the Karen people in the hills of northern Thailand
Krabi
Get your dose of tropical beach time
Thailand
An overland exploration of North and Central Thailand. Snake through rural communities by rail, stay in riverside lodges in jungles, and relax on pristine beaches.
Phrae
Snake through the northern hills towards Phrae Muang Pi Forest Park
Bangkok
Going behind the scenes on Bangkok’s backstreets, including a cooking class in a hidden garden restaurant
Koh Kood
Relaxing on the tropical jungle island, close to the Cambodian border
Thailand
A little bit of everything in ‘The Land of Smiles’: from Bangkok’s sizzling street food and countryside cycles to off-the-beaten-track idyllic beaches of warm water and golden sands.
Bangkok
Sample sizzling street food with a fun foodie guide
Chiang Mai
Meet free-roaming elephants and learn about how they’re protected
Koh Yao Noi
Glorious beach time on an unspoilt island with great snorkelling
