Located
in the heart of Khorat Plateau, Udon Thani Province is an ancient pre-historical
province famous for its archaeological marvels. Udon Thani was a strategically
important location during the Vietnam War. It served as an American airbase.
Apart from its prehistoric sites, Udon Thani is known for beautiful Phu Phan
mountain ranges, dense forests and fertile rice fields. This region has been
the commercial, industrial and agricultural center in the Northeast.
Archaeological
excavations have revealed that around 5,000 years ago, the first Bronze Age
Civilization prospered in the Ban Chiang village of Udon Thani. Because of its
great cultural and pre-historical importance, this province has been declared a
United Nations World Heritage site. Several artifacts and relics have been
unearthed and preserved in the Ban Chiang National Museum.
Located
in the beautiful forests of Pa Khua Nam is the Phu Phra Bat Historical Park.
This park is known for its ancient buildings, caves with prehistoric paintings,
age-old rocks and mountains, sandstone images of Dvaravati period and ravishing
environs. A major tourist attraction for adventure lovers is Na Yung Nam Sam
Forest Park. This park is famous for its magnificent Yung Thong Waterfall.
Jungle Trekking and overnight camping are permitted here. Udon Thani is
renowned for its attractive waterfalls such as Than Ngam Waterfall. Visitors
can swim in the clear waters around this waterfall and relax. Other popular
adventure activities for tourists include rafting, canoeing, boating and
fishing in the waters of Huai Luang Reservoir.
Udon
Thani Province is a well known pilgrimage center in Thailand. In Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok, the holy
footprint of Lord Buddha was discovered along with several other sacred Buddha
images. There are several ancient Buddhist caves and temples in this region
known for their giant pagodas, sculptures of Lord Buddha and beautiful mural
paintings.
Apart from the
places described above, Udon Thani offers tourists with numerous interesting
destinations that are worth a visit.
Ban
Chiang village is also famous for its unique pottery made in traditional style.
Another popular product of this region is the Khit cloth produced at Na Kha
Village. The rich culture and heritage of Udon Thani is evident in the annual
Thung Si Muang Festival celebrated during December. Tourists can have a glimpse
of the sacred Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok Worship Fair and Dragon Dance during this festival.
Udon Thani is located at a distance of 564 kilometers
from Bangkok. It is properly connected with the capital via road, rail and air.
Thai Airways has a direct flight from Bangkok to Udon Thani. Alternatively,
tourists can either board a direct train or hire a car from Bangkok to reach
the province. There are direct bus services available from almost every
province of Thailand. To travel round the Udon Thani, there are different
options available for tourists. They can board a bus, or hire a car or prefer a
Sam lor.

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