Udonthani-1538380520

Udon Thani Udon Thani 1

UUdodnonThTahnaini



Nong Han Lake

CONTENTS HOW TO GET THERE 8 ATTRACTIONS 10 Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani 10 Amphoe Ban Phue 17 Amphoe Na Yung 20 Amphoe Nong Han 23 Amphoe Ban Dung 24 Amphoe Kumphawapi 24 Amphoe Nong Saeng 27 Amphoe Wang Sam Mo 28 Amphoe Kut Chap 30 EVENTS AND FESTIVALS 31 LOCAL PRODUCTS 32 SUVENIRS SHOPS 32 SUGGESTED ITINERARY 34 MAPS 38 USEFUL CALLS 42 TOURIST INFORMATION CENTERS 43

Pa Phu Kon Temple Udon Thani 6 Udon Thani

Thai Term Glossary Range near Wat Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok, Amphoe Ban Phue. However, the name Udon Amphoe : District Thani still did not appear in Thai history until the Ayutthaya Period when the town of Nong Ban : Village Bua Lam Phu, formerly part of Udon Thani, was mentioned as an outpost town of Vientiane and Khuean : Dam is believed to have prospered since the time of the ancient Khmer Empire. Maenam : River In 1885, H.R.H. Prince Prachaksinlapakhom Mueang : Town or City was designated by King Rama V the Great of the Rattanakosin Kingdom to lead his troops Prang : Corn-shaped tower or to join Chaomuen Waiworanat to suppress the Chin Haw Rebellion in the Lao Phuan Circle sanctuary on the left bank of the Mekong River (Laos). Prince Prachaksinlapakhom’s troops proceeded SAO : Subdistrict Administrative via Ban Mak Khaeng or Ban Duea Mak Khaeng (present location of UdonThani), then a subordinate Organization village of Mueang Nong Khai under the Lao Phuan Circle. In 1893, there was the “Franco- Soi : Alley Siamese War”, which emerged from a territorial dispute between Siam and the French Third Song Thaeo : Pi ck-up trucks but with a roof Republic due to the latter’s attempt to colonise Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In order to save over the back the kingdom, King Rama V the Great agreed to cede the Siamese territory on the left bank of Talat : Market the Mekong River to France. The treaty made between both countries prohibited Siam to set Tambon : Subdistrict up its military post and fort within a radius of 25 kilometres from the Mekong River bank. As Tham : Cave a consequence, Prince Prachaksinlapakhom, as the Commissioner General of Nong Khai, had to Tuk-Tuks : Three-wheeled motorized relocate the military post deeper to Ban Duea Mak Khaeng, which was 50 kilometres from taxis the Mekong River. Having considered that the village was a strategically appropriate location Ubosot or Bot : Ordination hall in a temple with good sources of water, he had the central town of the Lao Phuan Circle and military post Wihan : Image hall in a temple established at Ban Duea Mak Khaeng. Wat : Temple Note:Englishspellingheregiventriestoapproximate Thai Pronunciation. Posted signs may be spelled differently. When seeking help for direction, point to the Thai spelling given after each place name. Udon Thani is one of the oldest cradles of civilisations of the world, as apparent from historical as well as archaeological evidence that attests to the fact that the area that is now Udon Thani used to be a habitation site of prehistoric humans dating back some 7,000- 5,000 years ago. The pottery painted with red-line patterns unearthed at Ban Chiang is believed to be among the world’s oldest. Objects of antiquity from later periods include Sema boundary stones from the Dvaravati and Lop Buri times and murals inside a ruined ordination hall discovered on the Phu Phan Udon Thani 7

In 1907, King Rama V the Great gave a royal Amphoe Ban Dung 85 kilometres instruction to establish Udon Thani town at Ban Mak Khaeng, under the Udon Circle. After the Amphoe Phibunrak 42 kilometres system of government ofThailand was changed from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional Amphoe Thong Fon 65 kilometres monarchy on 21 June, 1932, the national administration organisation was revised and the Amphoe Nong Han 35 kilometres subdivision administration in the region called Monthon (Circle) was abolished; only provinces Amphoe Chai Wan 60 kilometres and districts remained. Amphoe Prachaksinlapakhom 36 kilometres Udon Thani is 564 kilometres from Bangkok, possessing a total area of 11,730 square Amphoe Ku Kaeo 65 kilometres kilometres, and divided administratively into 20 districts; namely, Amphoe Mueang Udon Amphoe Kumphawapi 43 kilometres Thani, Amphoe Ban Phue, Amphoe Nam Som, Amphoe NaYung, Amphoe Phen, Amphoe Sang Amphoe Si That 72 kilometres Khom, Amphoe Ban Dung, Amphoe Phibunrak, Amphoe Thong Fon, Amphoe Nong Han, Amphoe Wang Sam Mo 96 kilometres Amphoe Chai Wan, Amphoe Prachaksinla pakhom, Amphoe Ku Kaeo, Amphoe Kumphawapi, Amphoe Non Sa-at 53 kilometres Amphoe Si That, Amphoe Wang Sam Mo, Amphoe Non Sa-at, Amphoe Nong Saeng, Amphoe Nong Saeng 36 kilometres Amphoe Nong Wua So and Amphoe Kut Chap. Amphoe Nong Wua So 39 kilometres Amphoe Kut Chap 22 kilometres Distances from UdonThani to nearby provinces Transportation Nong Khai 51 kilometres By Car: From Bangkok, take Highway No. 1 (Pahonyothin Road) and get into Highway No. Khon Kaen 115 kilometres 2 (Mittraphap Road) at Saraburi, drive through Nakhon Ratchasima and Khon Kaen before Kalasin 192 kilometres reaching Udon Thani. The total distance is around 564 kilometres. Sakon Nakhon 159 kilometres By Bus: From the Northern Bus Terminal Loei 152 kilometres Chatuchak (Kamphaeng Phet II Road) in Bangkok. There are many bus to Udon Thani Nong Bua Lam Phu 46 kilometres everyday. For more information contact: - The Transport Co., Ltd. Tel. 1490, 0 2936 Distances from Amphoe Mueang UdonThani 2852-66, Udon Thani Branch Tel. 0 4222 1489, website : www.transport.co.th to other districts - Chantour Co., Ltd. Tel. 08 6304 7035, 0 4222 3403, 0 4222 4370, website : Amphoe Ban Phue 54 kilometres www.chantour.co.th - Nakhon Chai Air Co., Ltd. Tel. 1624, Amphoe Nam Som 95 kilometres website : www.nca.co.th Amphoe Na Yung 130 kilometres For more information contact Udon Thani Bus Station Tel. 0 4222 2916 Amphoe Phen 43 kilometres By train: A train service is available from the Amphoe Sang Khom 68 kilometres Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong) to 8 Udon Thani

Udon Thani Bus Station Udon Thani everyday. For more information, For more information contact Udon Thani Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4334, 0 2220 4261. Udon International Airport Tel. 0 4224 4426 Thani Station Tel. 0 4222 2061, website : www. railway.co.th Transportation in Udon Thani There are Song Thaeo minibuses plying the By Air: There are many airlines operating flights main roads around the town of Amphoe from Bangkok to Udon Thani International Mueang Udon Thani, available near the Airport, as follows: Rangsina Market. The so-called Skylab tricycle From Donmueang International Airport and motorbike taxi services are also provided - Nok Air Tel. 1318, 0 2900 9955, website : at the Udon Thani Bus Terminal and in front of www.nokair.com the Central Plaza Department Store. - Thai Air Asia Tel. 0 2515 9999, website : www.airasia.com From Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, there are - Thai Lion Air Tel. 0 2529 9999, website : commuter bus and Song Thaeo services to www.lionairthai.com nearby districts; such as, Amphoe Ban Phue, From Suvarnabhumi International Airport Amphoe NaYung, Amphoe Nam Som, Amphoe - Thai Airways International Tel. 0 2356 Phen, and Amphoe Sang Khom, available near 1111, website : www.thaiairways.com the Rangsina Market. - Thai Smile Airways Tel. 1181, 0 2118 8888, website : www.thaismileair.com Udon Thani 9

The Monument of Krommaluang Prachaksinlapakhom Transportation from Udon Thani to nearby Attractions provinces From the Udon Thani Bus Terminal, there are Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani commuter bus and van services to nearby The Monument of Krommaluang provinces including Nong Khai, Loei, Khon Kaen, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Sakon Nakhon, Prachaksinlapakhom (อนุสาวรีย์พระเจ้าบรม Nakhon Phanom, Ubon Ratchathani, Phitsanulok, วงศเ์ ธอ กรมหลวงประจกั ษศ์ ิลปาคม) Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Rayong. For more information, please contact the UdonThani Bus This Monument is located onThahan Road,Tam- Terminal at Tel. 0 4222 2916. A van service on bon Mak Khaeng. Born in 1856 as a son of King certain routes is also available in front of the Rama IV (Phrabat Somdet Phra Chomklaochaoy- Central Plaza Department Store. uhua) and the King’s Consort Sangwan (Chao Chom Manda Sangwan), Major General Prince Prachaksinlapakhom (Phon Tri Phra Chao Bo- rommawongthoe Krommaluang 10 Udon Thani

Prachaksinlapakhom), as a regent to King villagers as“Wat Mai”, the temple was renamed Rama V, ruled the Northern Circle (later called by the 11th Supreme Patriarch of Rattanakosin the “Udon Circle”) during 1893-1899. As the as “Wat Phothisomphon” in memory of its founder of Udon town in 1893, he set out the builder. civil administration order and served important official duties for the public benefits. The Objects of worship inside the temple’s Monument symbolizes the highest tribute paid compound include: 1. Phra Phuttharatsami, a to the prince by the people of Udon Thani and bronze principal Buddha image in the gesture the ceremony to worship him is held on 18 of subduing Mara aged about 600 years inside January every year. the ordination hall, 2. a laterite Buddha image of the Lop Buri art style in the gesture of giving Nong Prachaksinlapakhom Public Park a blessing aged about 1,300 years, 3. a Bodhi tree whose shoot was offered to the Royal Thai (สวนสาธารณะหนองประจักษ์ศิลปาคม) Government by the Sri Lankan Government in 1950 and planted to the north of the ordination Located in the Udon Thani Municipality, this hall, 4. a replica of the Buddha’s footprint built of giant pond has existed before the establishment laterite aged over 200 years and enshrined in- of Udon Thani town. Lying to the west of the side the Mondop to the north of the ordination town, it was formerly called “Nong Na Klue” hall, and 5. Phra Borommathat Thammachedi (pond of salty water) and later changed to built in 2005 to be a 3-storey museum housing “Nong Prachak”in honor of Major General HRH the Buddha’s relics, Buddha images, Tipitaka, Prince Prachaksinlapakhom, the founder of Dhamma teaching, Arahants’relics, and lifelike Udon Thani town. In 1987, the Udon Thani images of monk masters. Municipality improved the pond as a royal tribute to King Rama IX on the auspicious Udon Thani Museum (พิพิธภัณฑเ์ มอื งอุดร) occasion of his 50th birthday anniversary. On an island in the pond, a small garden is filled with Located on Pho Si Road in Rachinuthit Building, decorative and flowering plants, and there is Tambon Mak Khaeng. This museum was a bridge linking the island with the mainland. initiated by Mr. Chaiporn Ratananaka, governor Within the park, there is a fountain, a clock of Udon Thani province. It displays background tower, and a playground. It serves as a place of aspects of Udon Thani, ranging from history, recreation and exercise for the public. archaeology, natural science, geology, folk history, arts and culture, to the biography and Wat Phothisomphon (วัดโพธสิ มภรณ)์ honorable deeds of Krommaluang Prachaksin- lapakhom, the founder of Udon Thani town. It’s is located to the west of Nong Prachak at 22 Pho opened on Tuesday-Sunday (close on Monday) Niyom Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng. The temple from 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m. For more information was constructed in the Rattanakosin Period Tel. 0 4224 5976. towards the end of King Rama V the Great’s reign by Chancellor Phraya Si Suriyaratcha- waranuwat (Pho Netipho), Lord Lieutenant of the Udon Circle, in collaboration with the people of Ban Mak Khaeng. Known among the Udon Thani 11

Pu-Ya Foundation Udon Thani Luangpho Nak Wat Matchimawat Thai-Chinese Cultural Centre and Pu-Ya Wat Matchimawat (วดั มชั ฌิมาวาส) Foundation Udon Thani (ศนู ยว์ ฒั นธรรมไทย- จนี และ มลู นธิ ศิ าลเจา้ ปู่-ยา่ อดุ รธานี) This temple is located onWattananuwong Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng. During the reign of King is located on 39 San Chao Neramit Road behind Rama V, Krommaluang Prachaksinlapakhom the Udon Thani Railway Station, Tambon Mak commanded the construction of a new temple Khaeng. It was established to serve as a centre to replaceWat Non Mak Khaeng, the old deserted for the conservation of traditional arts, culture, temple, and named it “Wat Matchimawat” way of life, and philosophy of the Thai-Chinese Within its Wihan building, there is a white stone people in Udon Thani. The official opening Buddha image under Naga (serpent) protection, ceremony of the Centre was held on 6 January, or commonly known as“Luangpho Nak”which 2013.The Centre houses a complex of buildings has been highly respected by the people of accommodating an exhibition in honour of HRH Udon Thani. Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the Moral Museum, Learning Centre, Preecha Chairatna Hall, and office and shop building. The upper floor of the Moral Museum building exhibits stories of the Thai-Chinese people in Udon Thani over the past 120 years, trade, education, the gathering of the 9 organisations, 11 clans, and the Pu-Ya Foundation telling the tale of the much respected Pu andYa or Grandpa and Grandma deities, Hall of Fame for people who devoted themselves to the Chinese community, information about the 8 traditional Chinese deity worshipping festivals, as well as 12 Udon Thani

a state-of-the-art 3D theatre. The Pu-Ya Shrine also houses the 99-metre-long golden dragon used in the dragon dance show at the Thung Si Mueang Fair in December of every year. Around the Centre, there are 2 pavilions in the pond amidst the shady atmosphere of the Chinese garden named “Garden of Thousand- year-old Morality” with Chinese auspicious plants including Khrao Mangkon or Moringa hildebrandtii, Weeping Willow, Black Bamboo, Firecracker Plant, Chinese Fringe Flower, Begon- ia, Crown of Thorns, Gardenia Crape Jasmine, and Henna surrounding the lotus pond and dragon carp pond. The Centre is open daily during 9.00 a.m.-7.00 p.m. Admission is free. Visitors arriving in a group should contact the Centre in writing in advance, so that a guided tour can be arranged. For more details, please call Tel. 0 4224 2444, 08 2707 0666. UdornSunshineOrchidGarden (สวนกลว้ ยไม้ Udorn Sunshine Orchid Garden หอมอุดรซันไฌน)์ will become fragrant from early morning until is located at 127 Mu 5, Soi Kamon Watthana, around 1.00 p.m. in summer and during 9.30 Tambon Ban Lueam, an orchid nursery that a.m.-2.00 p.m. in the cool season. Its odour bred one of the world’s new strains of fragrant gland will be open and closed alternately dur- orchids. In 1977, Mr. Pradit Khamphoemphun, ing these times until the petals fade away. Other an orchid farmer of Udon Thani, started his than the fragrance, the orchid can also turn experimental cross-breeding of different into 3 colours; namely, bright red at very cold varieties of orchids. He was successful and his temperatures of 10-15 degrees Celsius, golden hybrid orchid began to flower around 10 years at 15-20 degrees Celsius, and bright yellow at later. The new orchid generation was registered higher temperatures, although the fragrance for copyright with the World Orchid Society in remains the same. Another special characteristic the United Kingdom in 1988 under the named of this orchid is its durability of about 60 days “Miss Udorn Sunshine”. naturally and 15 days or up to 25 days in chilly weather as a cut flower. However, the fragrance The fragrant Miss Udorn Sunshine is a semi-terete leaf vanda, a hybrid betweenVanda denisoniana and Vanda Josephine van Brero. The orchid Udon Thani 13

of a cut orchid will remain for approximately 10 image, there is a cabinet containing relics of days and gradually fade away until the flower Phra Achan Man Phurithattathera and several becomes withered. other monk masters. The lower floor of the pavilion serves as a dining and preaching hall Later, the fragrance was extracted to produce where Luangta usually greeted and received perfume for sale under the same name: Miss laymen and visitors coming in a large number Udorn Sunshine. Udorn Sunshine Orchid each day.There is another large pavilion outside Garden is open daily during 8.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m. the temple’s wall built in 2001 by faithful on Monday-Saturday and 3.00 p.m.-5.00 p.m. on Buddhists with permission from Luangta in Sunday. Admission is 20 Baht. For more details, realising that it would help to accommodate please call Tel. 0 4212 6045, 08 5747 4144. pilgrims coming to attend merit-making ceremonies at the temple. To get there: From Amphoe Mueang UdonThani, follow Highway No. 2 (Udon Thani - Nong Khai) At Wat Pa Ban Tat, Luangta Maha Bua reiterated for approximately 5 kilometres and turn left the great 5 dangers for monks and novices slightly beyond the by-pass road intersection to stay away from absolutely, which include onto Highway No. 2024 (Rop Udon - Nong Sam- newspaper, radio, television, video, and rong). The direction sign to the orchid garden telephone, as they are direct obstacles to will be seen on the left. monastic observances. Luangta allowed no electricity connection from outside the temple. Wat Pa Ban Tat (วัดป่าบา้ นตาด) Only electric generators can be used on some special occasions like important religious days is located at Ban Tat, Tambon Ban Tat, was when a lot of people come to make merit. The first founded in 1955 and established as main daily observances for monks and novices a Buddhist temple on 17 September, 1970. here are meditation, walking up and down for It used to be a residence of Luangta Maha insight development, and cleansing the mind Bua Yanasampanno, an insight development of defilements. The monks at this temple do monk master who followed the teaching of not accept any invitation to go outside, so to Phra Achan Man Phurithattathera, Luangta have time for practising and meditation only. Bua’s master. Although he passed away, he is still much respected and revered by Buddhists The strict processes of monastic observances by in general. the monks and novices here have attracted a lot of faithful Buddhists to practise and make merit. Within the temple’s compound, there is a large Pilgrims to this temple are advised to dress and wooden study hall, formerly a single-storeyed behave properly and respectfully. For more pavilion with a low platform, but was later raised information, please visit www.luangta.com. to become a 2-storeyed building to serve more useful purposes. The upper floor of the pavilion To get there: From Amphoe Mueang Udon houses the temple’s large principal Buddha Thani, follow Highway No. 2 (Udon Thani-Khon image and serves as a study hall for monks and Kaen) and turn right onto Highway No. 216 at novices, as well as assembly hall for the temple’s the Ban Dong Kheng Intersection for 9 kilometres, formal acts. To the right of the principal Buddha 14 Udon Thani

Wat Thipphayaratnimit a total distance of 16 kilometres from Amphoe celebrate the abbot’s birthday anniversary are Mueang Udon Thani. held every year. Wat Thipphayaratnimit (วดั ทิพยรฐั นิมิตร) Historical Tourism and Study Site (Ho Chi This temple is located on Naresuan Road, Minh) (แหล่งศึกษาและท่องเที่ยวเชิงประวัติศาสตร์ Tambon Mak Khaeng, off the main road into (โฮจมิ ินห)์ Soi San Chao Mae Thapthim and opposite to a polytechnic school. It is another forest temple is located in Ban Nong Hang (Nong On) Mu in the area of Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani 4, Tambon Chiang Phin. It was a residence of and has a pleasant shady atmosphere. There is Uncle Ho, who later became President Ho Chi a large pagoda which contains Lord Buddha’s Minh of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam relics. The pagoda is shaped like “Thanan” a (North Vietnam), in 1928, when he came to stay utensil used in ancient times to scoop Lord in Udon Thani for carrying political campaigns Buddha’s relics. A portrait of Luang Pu Thira and asking for support from the Vietnamese Chitthammo, the present abbot, is displayed who lived in Udon Thani in his fight for the with basic living utensils for Buddhist monks in independence of Vietnam from France. He built the pavilion. On the fourteenth waxing moon a house, planted vegetables, raised chickens day of the twelfth lunar month, Thot Kathin and pigs while educating the Vietnamese and (robe offering ceremony) and merit making to training his followers to fight against France. He took the Vietnamese to help in the construction Udon Thani 15

Phu Phra Bat Historical Park ofWat Phothi Somphon andWat Ban Chik at the To get there: From Amphoe Mueang Udon beginning of 1929. Then he travelled to Sakon Thani, follow Highway No. 201 (Udon Thani Nakhon and Nakhon Phanom before his return – Nong Bua Lam Phu) for approximately 18 to Vietnam. He had fought against the French kilometres and turn right at the intersection troops until regaining independence on 2 onto Udon Thani Rural Highway No. 3072 for September, 1945. He was named as President another 9 kilometres. on 2 March, 1946, and died in 1969. Ban Na Kha (บา้ นนาขา่ ) and Nakha Market Huai Luang Dam (เข่อื นห้วยหลวง) (ตลาดผ้านาข่า) is an earthen dam measuring 12 metres high is located opposite the Chumchon Na Kha and 4.9 kilometres long situated in Tambon School at Mu 1 Tambon Na Kha. A full-cycle Nikhom Songkhro. Constructed across Huai hand-woven Mi-Khit production village, it Luang and Huai Kratip, the Dam has a carrying was selected as a sufficiency economy village capacity of 113 million cubic metres and is a in honour of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and an large source of water for agriculture, fishery, OTOP village of Udon Thani. There are Mudmi public waterworks, as well as a scenic tourist (Mi Khit) weaving groups that follow folk attraction with a rafting service provided. By wisdom. The fine, shiny and discontinuous the Dam is located Phra Tamnak Khuean Huai supplementary weft design of each Khit pattern Luang, a royal residence built for H.R.H. the is one of Udon Thani’s and the Northeastern Princess Mother (of King Rama IX) on her visits unique identities. to Udon Thani and nearby areas. 16 Udon Thani

The Nakha Market is on the roadside of Highway No. 2 (Udon Thani – Nong Khai) in Ban Na Kha, before reaching Wat Nakha Thewi. It is a textile market that was formed by the gathering of weaving groups of Ban Na Kha and nearby villages. There are shops selling local textiles, especially the typical Mi Khit or Khit-design silk, as well as ready-to-wear clothes and other kinds of souvenirs. The Market is frequented by a lot of Thai and foreign visitors every day. To get there: By car, from Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, follow Highway No. 2 (Udon Thani – Nong Khai) for approximately 16 kilometres. Ban Na Kha and Nakha Market will be found on the right.By bus, the Song Thaeo minibus service routing Udon Thani – Na Kha is avail- able from in front of the Udon Thani Rajabhat University and Rangsina Market in Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. Amphoe Ban Phue Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok Phu Phra Bat Historical Park (อุทยาน of the place, or the name may originate from ประวตั ิศาสตร์ภพู ระบาท) the words “Bo Bok” which mean “not being dry” The footprint features a bowl of around This historical park is located at the foot of 60 centimetres. deep in the rocky ground, Mount Phu Phan, Tambon Mueang Phan. It 1.93 metres. long and 90 centimetres. wide. displays the civilisation of mankind and changes Formerly, a Mondop structure was built to in landscape of which structure is mostly house the footprint. In 1922, Phra Achan Sithat composed of sandstone having been eroded by Suwanmacho replaced the Mondop with a nature to become rock formations of different pagoda called Phra That Chedi, and created a sizes and patterns.There are various interesting replica of the footprint to put on the existing places as evidence of human life in the past: one. The pagoda where Lord Buddha’s relics are contained is in the shape of an angular PhraPhutthabatBuaBok (พระพทุ ธบาทบวั บก) This lotus similar to Phra That Phanom. A fair to pay homage to Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok is held Buddha’s footprint, built during 1920-1934, is during the thirteenth waxing moon day to on the left side of the way to the park headquar- ters. “Bua Bok” is a name of the plant growing in the forest and having leaves in the shape of a lotus leaf, locally called “Phak Nok”The plant was abundant in the area where the Buddha’s footprint was found, so it has become the name Udon Thani 17

the full moon day of the third lunar month Daeng Cave) etc. (These caves were presumed every year. to be a shelter of people in the Stone Age, and they drew figures of things, such as humans, Phra Phutthabat Lang Tao (พระพุทธบาทหลังเต่า) hand, animals, and geometric designs, found in the caves. Stone shelters beautifully created This Buddha’s footprint is located to the south by nature include Khok MaThao Barot, Ho Nang of Phra Phuttabat Bua Bok. It is around 25 Usa, and Bo Nam Nang Usa. There is also a nice centimetres. deep in the rocky ground and has rocky ground called “Lan Hin Non Sao-e”These a lotus image carved in relief in the centre. Since rocky formations enhanced an imagination of it is behind a stone shelter that looks like a turtle the generations after the era to compose the (Tao), the footprint is called “Phra Phuttabat folk legend “Nang Usa-Thao Barot” In addition, Lang Tao” fragments of boundary stone posts and sandstone carved into a Dvaravati-styled Caves and Stone Shelters (ถ้�ำและเพิงหินต่าง ๆ) Buddha image were found at the stone shelters: Phoeng Hin Wat Pho Ta and Phoeng Hin Wat There is a scattering of caves and stone shelters Luk Khoei. Inside the park, a visitor centre offers within walking distance in the park area, such information and maps. For more information as Tham Lai Mue (Lai Mue Cave), Tham Non Sao-e (Non Sao-e Cave),ThamWua Daeng (Wua Phra Phutthabat Bua Ban 18 Udon Thani

Wat Pa Ban Kho Tel. 08 8160 8956. Opening hours: 8.00 a.m. Many pieces of Bai Sema (boundary stone) were - 4.30 p.m. Admission fee: 100 Baht. excavated here. They were made of sandstone and carved into images ofThewada (male spirit) To get there: From Amphoe Ban Phue, follow and Apsara (woman spirit), which is a mixture Highway No. 2348 around 14 kilometres until of Dvaravati and Lop Buri arts. get intersection. And drive straight around To get there: From Amphoe Ban Phue, follow 2 kilometres. From Amphoe Mueang Udon Highway No. 2348 for approximately 14 kilometres Thani, follow Highway No. 2 (UdonThani - Nong untilgetintersection.Thenturnleftforapproximately Khai), turn left at Kilometres 13 to Highway 10 kilometres. No. 2021 via Amphoe Ban Phue. Drive straight along Highway No. 2348 for approximately 12 kilometres and turn right for approximately 2 Wat Pa Ban Kho (วัดปา่ บ้านคอ้ ) kilometres before reaching the park. This temple is located in Tambon Khuea Nam. Phra Phutthabat Bua Ban (พระพุทธบาทบัว There is Phra Maha That Chedi Chaloem Barami บาน) Phra Nawamin, a pagoda that contains Lord Buddha’s relics. Inside the pagoda, sculptures Located on a hill in Tambon Mueang Phan, depict the history of Lord Buddha, jataka stories, this is a site where there is an ancient Buddha’s and Buddha images in different attitudes. footprint housed in the Ubosot (ordination hall). The temple is ideal for practitioners of Dharma (Buddha’s teachings). It has been designated Udon Thani 19

by the Udon Thani Administration Office as the Pha Daeng Viewpoint (จุดชมวิวผาแดง) is 600 UdonThani Chaloem Phra Kiat Mind Development Centre. Both Thais and foreigners usually come metres from the Park’s headquarters on the to practise Dharma here. For more information NamtokYungThong NatureTrail. Pha Daeng is a Tel. 08 9416 7825. high sandstone cliff overlooking the vast pano- ramic scenery down below. Nearby is a small To get there: From Amphoe Ban Phue, follow rock shelter where Luangpu Man Phurithatto Highway No. 2021 for approximately 25 used to stay for insight development. kilometres until get intersection. Then turn left for approximately 3 kilometres. The Park provides no accommodation but there is a campground available.Visitors have to bring Amphoe Na Yung their own camping gear, food and beverage. For more information, call Tel. 08 7213 6118. Na Yung – Nam Som National Park (อทุ ยาน แหง่ ชาตนิ ายูง-น�ำ้ โสม) To get there: From Amphoe Na Yung, follow Highway No. 2376 until reaching the Na Yung covering an area of 3 provinces; namely, Udon Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, turn Thani, Loei, and Nong Khai at Mu 2 Ban Sawang, left onto the road beside the SAO and continue Tambon Na Yung. The topography features on for approximately 3 kilometres to reach undulating mountains with an altitude ranging the Park. from 200-500 metres above sea level, and the 588-metres high Phu Ya U being the highest Wat Pa Phu Kon (วดั ปา่ ภูกอ้ น) peak. Most of the forest areas are still intact and serve as the source of water and streams; such is situated within the area of the NaYung – Nam as, Huai Nam Som and Huai Tat Ton. Som National Forest Reserve at Ban Na Kham Places of Interest within the National Park Yai,Tambon Ban Kong, on the seam of 3 provinces; namely, Udon Thani, Loei, and Nong Khai. The Nomtok Yung Thong Nature Trail (ทางเดินศึกษา temple took shape out of the realisation of a ธรรมชาติน�้ำตกยูงทอง) is a 2 kilometre nature number of Buddhists in the contribution as well as benefits of the nature and watershed forests, study route tailored by the National Park to which were gradually being degraded; and also feature nature interpretation signage along out of their wish to follow the footsteps of the the way via Namtok Yung Thong, Namtok Tat late King Rama IX in keeping forests fertile. So, Noi, Pha DaengViewpoint, deciduous forest, and they sought permission to use a piece of land back to the Park’s headquarters. within the Na Yung – Nam Som National Forest Reserve as the location to build Wat Pa Phu Kon. Namtok Yung Thong (นำ�้ ตกยูงทอง) is a 3-tiered Wat Pa Phu Kon is a peaceful place suitable for waterfall situated 575 metres from the Park’s monks to practise meditation and mental headquarters on the ridge of the Phu Phan development. The temple’s image hall, Mountain. The stream flows through rocks and surrounding pavilions and buildings on the boulders amidst the verdant forest and down hilltop are of fine Thai architectural design. The to swimmable basins. It used to be a habitat of image hall in the applied Rattanakosin art has a large number of peacock or Nok Yung in Thai, which gave the waterfall its name. 20 Udon Thani

Wat Pa Phu Kon 3 entrances and enshrines a white marble Lord Buddha, with the purpose to communicate Buddha image in the posture of entering the Lord Buddha’s perseverance and sacrifice in Nibbana named“Phra Phuttha Saiyat Lokkanat order to obtain the Ten Perfections during each Satsada Maha Muni”.The 20-metre long reclining of his 10 incarnations. Above each panel, there image features exquisite Buddha’s marks and is a carved phrase from the Itipiso chanting in was constructed on the auspicious occasion of dark green on white marble, which makes the the 7th Cycle or 84th Birthday Anniversary of image hall’s walls attractive and unique. H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 2011. The interior of the image hall has spectacular There is also “Ong Phra Pathom Rattana decorations of the Buddha’s teachings, with Buraphachan Maha Chedi”, a bell-shaped chedi 22 panels of copper relief around the walls covered with golden mosaic situated on top of depicting the Life and Ten Birth-stories of the a hill.The 4.5-metres principal Buddha image of Udon Thani 21

Ban Chiang National Museum “Phra Ruang Rungrot Si Burapha”in the posture (Udon Thani - Ban Phue) bound for Amphoe of persuading the relatives not to quarrel stands Na Yung until reaching Ban Na Kham Yai. The at the front of the Chedi.The topmost orb of the entrance to the temple will be seen on the right. Chedi enshrines the Buddha’s relics.The second floor inside houses carved marble images of The 1.5 kilometres road uphill to the reclining meditation monk masters while the first floor image hall is quite steep. Visitors should drive is where the eight requisites and pictures of the carefully and not overtake on the way up or monk masters are kept. down the hill. There is also a Song Thaeo shuttle service from the entrance up to the image Wat Pa Phu Kon is open daily from 8.30 a.m.- hall, each with a capacity of 12 passengers and 5.00 p.m. For inquiries, please call Tel. 08 1184 costing 20 Baht per person. A parking space 3743, 08 2835 0668, 09 0747 2228 or visit www. is provided for cars and buses in front of the watpaphukon.org. temple’s kitchen, approximately 50 metres from the entrance. To get there: From Amphoe Mueang UdonThani, follow Highway No. 2 (Udon Thani - Nong Khai) and at Km. 13, turn left onto Highway No. 2021 22 Udon Thani

Amphoe Nong Han The Thai Phuan people have lived here to the Ban Chiang National Museum present. (พพิ ธิ ภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติ บ้านเชียง) Part IV: Wat Pho Si Nai Excavation Pit (หลุมขุด ค้นวดั โพธ์ิศรีใน) This is the first site museum in This museum is located in Ban Chiang, Tambon Ban Chiang. It is an important historical site of Thailand, displaying a permanent exhibition of NortheastThailand and Southeast Asia.The Fine the procedure for archaeological excavation in Arts Department surveyed and excavated the which the artefacts found in layers of soil have Ban Chiang archaeological site during 1974- been maintained for visitors to study, which 1975. The evidence found revealed the pre- mostly are earthenware buried with corpses. historical age of the site of around 5,600-1,800 years ago. The United Nations Educational, Part V: Thai Phuan House (A Memorial of the Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) registered the site as a World Heritage Site of Royal Visit) (เรือนไทพวน อนุสรณ์สถานในการเสด็จ history at Carthage, Tunisia in December 1992. พระราชดำ� เนิน) This house is situated 700 metre The museum is divided into five parts: Part I: Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Borom- away from the Ban Chiang Museum. Formerly, it belonged to Mr. Phot Montriphithak who gave maratchachonnani Building (อาคารสมเด็จพระศรี it to the Fine Arts Department. This area is an นครนิ ทราบรมราชชนนี) This service part consists ancient site where an archaeological excava- tion was conducted and many ancient objects of a room for selling tickets, books, souvenirs, were found. Their Majesties the King Bhumibol a meeting room, and a hall for rotational ex- Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit visited hibitions. the place on 20 March, 1972. Part II: Galyani Vadhana Building (อาคารกลั ยาณิ The house won the award for outstanding วฒั นา) It displays permanent exhibitions includ- conservation of art and architecture in 2007 from the Association of Siamese Architects under ing His Majesty King Bhumibol and Ban Chiang, the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King. Ban Chiang archaeological implementations and operations, archaeological excavation pits, The museum opens on Tuesday-Sunday and artefacts from the archaeological excavations at public holiday (close on Monday) from 9.00 Wat Pho Si Nai, the prehistorical culture of Ban a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Admission fee: 150 Baht. For Chiang, a discovery of the lost Bronze Age, and more information Tel. 0 4223 5040-1 Ban Chiang: World Heritage and distribution of the Ban Chiang culture. Part III: Thai Phuan Exhibition Building (อาคาร To get there: From Amphoe Nong Han, follow นทิ รรศการไทพวน) There is a display of the history, Highway No. 22 (Udon Thani - Sakon Nakhon) for approximately 17 kilometres until get ways of living, identity, wisdom, and traditions intersection. Then turn left to rural road No. of the Thai Phuan ethnic minority group of 2003 for approximately 8 kilometres. From Ban Chiang who had settled here around 200 Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, follow Highway years ago, and named this village“Ban Chiang” No. 22 (Udon Thani - Sakon Nakhon). After Udon Thani 23

Pa Kham Chanot slightly passing the intersection to Amphoe Ban Inside the forested islet, there is a shrine of Dung, a signpost to the museum is on your left. Grandpa Naga Si Suttho and a sacred pond, Go on for approximately 8.2 kilometres before which have been much revered and respected reaching the museum. The total distance from by the villagers. Pa Kham Chanot is open daily Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani is around 55 from 6.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. kilometres. To get there: From Amphoe Mueang UdonThani, follow Highway No. 2 (Udon Thani - Nong Khai) Amphoe Ban Dung and turn right onto Highway No. 2255 when reaching the Ban Na Kha T-junction. Turn Pa Kham Chanot (ป่าคำ� ชะโนด) onto Highway No. 2022 at the Sumsao School T-junction in Amphoe Ban Dung and then, is a forest of naturally grown Chanot or Taraw Highway No. 2096 until reaching the entrance palm trees looking like an islet located in the to Wat Siri Suttho. middle of a paddy field inside Wat Siri Suttho, Tambon Ban Muang. According to folk legend, Amphoe Kumphawapi the place is a gateway to the underwater world where the Naga Serpent King resides. It is ruled Phrathat Don Kaeo (พระธาตุดอนแก้ว) or by Grandpa Naga Pu Si Suttho and Grandma Phra Mahathat Chedi (พระมหาธาตเุ จดีย)์ Naga Si Pathumma. There is a walled concrete Naga walkway leading into the forest. All visitors is situated inside Wat Mahathat Chedi at Mu have to take off their shoes and walk barefoot. 24 Udon Thani

5, Ban Don Kaeo, Tambon Tum Tai. The chedi the chedi restored. According to an inscription features a square shape similar to Phrathat in ancient Lao script at the base of the Phrathat, Phanom. “Don Kaeo” was originally an islet in the restoration was finished in 1898. Around the middle of the Nong Han Lake. According 1928, many more communities came to settle to legend, a number of Arahants stopped over- at Don Kaeo and had a temple constructed night at Don Kaeo on their way to pay respect to perform religious rites and named it “Wat to Phrathat Phanom. One of them was seri- Mahathat Chedi”. In 1970, Phrakhru Sangkharak ously ill and entered Nibbana, so, the remain- (Chon), the abbot, joined hands with the Don ing Arahants cremated him and built a chedi Kaeo villagers to reinforce the chedi, which to enshrine his relics. Then, a group of people was dated by archaeologists from Silpakorn came to Don Kaeo and put up Sema bound- University to be no less than 1,500 years old. ary stones, which were found to be from the Dvaravati Period, around the Phrathat and also To get there: From SuanThammachat in Amphoe surrounding the Don Kaeo area. Later, Laotian Kumphawapi, follow Supha Atthawinit Road immigrants from Roi Et and Chaiyaphum led by for approximately 3.5 kilometres to reach the Thao Chin came to settle at Don Kaeo and had temple. Or from Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, Naga walkway (Pa Kham Chanot) Udon Thani 25

follow Highway No. 2 to Amphoe Kumphawapi December-February of every year, the pinkish and turn left at Suan Thammachat onto Supha red blossoms of water lilies will be in full bloom Atthawinit Road for 3.5 kilometres to go to the and blanket the vast surface of the Nong Han temple, a total distance of 50 kilometres from Lake as far as the eye can see, hence, the name Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. “Red Lotus Sea”. During the said period, Udon Thani province holds the Red Lotus Sea Festival at Wat Ban Diam,Tambon Chiang Wae, Amphoe Red Lotus Sea Nong Han Kumphawapi Kumphawapi. For inquiries, please contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand Udon Thani (ทะเลบวั แดง หนองหานกมุ ภวาป)ี Office at Tel. 0 4232 5406-7. is a large natural freshwater lake of pinkish red The suitable time for cruising the Red Lotus Sea water lilies covering an area of 36 square is during 6.00-11.00 a.m. when the water lilies kilometres with an abundance of aquatic are blooming. But cruising around the Nong animals, plants, and birds. It has an outstanding ecosystem that has attracted a lot ofThai as well as international researchers to visit for study. In Red Lotus Sea Nong Han Kumphawapi 26 Udon Thani

Han Lake is available all day for sightseeing or to anniversary in 1992. The Garden has attracted see its aquatic plants and birds. A boat service is a lot of visitors, as it is beautifully landscaped provided at the Ban Diam Pier, Tambon Chiang with seasonal flowering plants. Drivers may Wae. Please contact the Tourism Boat Service park their cars and stroll to have a close look Group, Tel. 08 1964 5420, 08 9395 0871. at the garden. - 90-minute, 10-seater boat trip at 500 Baht/boat. Phuttha Sathan Phu Foi Lom (พุทธสถานภูฝอยลม) - 45-minute, 10-seater boat trip at 300 Baht/boat. features an octagonal pavilion with glass To get there: From Amphoe Mueang UdonThani, window panes all around and an entrance in follow Highway No. 2 (Udon Thani -Khon Kaen) the front. Inside is enshrined a seated Buddha for 25 kilometres and turn left onto Udon Thani image in the blessing posture. It is open to the Rural Road No. 1071 towards Ban Na Di for public. approximately 15 kilometres. Phu Foi Lom Million Years Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์ Amphoe Nong Saeng ลา้ นปีภฝู อยลม)exhibits fossils of life millions of Phu Foi Lom (ภูฝอยลม) years ago; such as, dinosaurs’ bones, eggs, and models. is part of the Phu Phan Noi Mountain Range in the Pa Phan Don–Pakho National Forest PhuFoiLomViewpoint(จดุ ชมววิ ภฝู อยลม) overlooks Reserve,TambonThap Kung, having an altitude of approximately 600 metres above sea level a panorama of a vast stretch of green forest as and year-round cool climate. The name Phu far as the eye can see. On a clear-sky day, the Foi Lom derives from a kind of lichen known visible scenery is as far as downtown Udon as “Foi Lom” (Usnea abissinica Mot.) that can Thani. be found on branches of large trees in this area, unfortunately in less amount at present due to There is also a nature study trail that leads forest encroachment and deterioration. through mixed deciduous forest, dry evergreen The mountain has been established as an forest, dry deciduous dipterocarp forest, savannah, ecotourism attraction for the sake of natural a small waterfall and a cave. It is one of the best preservation and public study. ecotourism attractions and nature study centres Places of Interest on Phu Foi Lom in the Northeast. Her Majesty the Queen’s 60th Birthday Anniver- Phu Foi Lom provides accommodation, a camping sary Botanical Garden (สวนรวมพรรณไม้ป่า ๖๐ ground, and welfare shop services. For more พรรษา มหาราชินี) refers to regional botanical details, call Tel. 08 9710 2633, 09 7301 7567. gardens that collect forest plants growing in To get there: From Amphoe Nong Saeng, follow the four regions of Thailand established in re- Highway No. 2316 via the Nong Saeng Hospital sponse to H.M. Queen Sirikit’s concern as well until reaching the Thap Kung T-junction. Turn as determination to conserve the country’s left onto the rural highway and continue on to flora and fauna; and to celebrate the auspicious Phu Foi Lom, a total distance of 15 kilometres occasion of Her Majesty ’s 60th birthday Udon Thani 27

from Amphoe Nong Saeng. Or from Amphoe Amphoe Wang Sam Mo Mueang Udon Thani, follow Highway No. 210 towards Nong Bua Lam Phu, then turn right Wang Sam Mo Forest Park (วนอุทยาน onto Highway No. 2316 until reaching the วังสามหมอ) Tambon Nong Hai T-junction. Turn right again onto Udon Thani Rural Highway No. 4070 and This forest park is located in Tambon Nong go straight to reach Phu Foi Lom, a total distance Kung Thap Ma in Pa Bayao-Pa Hua Na Kham-Pa of approximately 45 kilometres from Amphoe Nong Kung Thap Ma-Pa Na Yung-Pa Nong Ya Mueang Udon Thani. Sai National Forest Reserve. It was declared as a forest park on 19 January, 1984. Most of the Namtok Than Ngam Forest Park (วนอทุ ยาน area is a plain being covered with Pa Daeng or น�ำ้ ตกธารงาม) Deciduous Dipterocarp Forest, Yang, and Ta khian thong. There are creeks and islets where situated in the area of the Khun Huai Sam Thak water flows all year round. Wild animals found Khun Huai Kong Si Forest, is part of the Phu Phan are Malayan flying lemur, palm civet, civet, Range, Tambon Thap Kung. It was declared a forest green pigeon, etc. park on 19 December, 1984. The topography Interesting places include: is steep mountains and mixed deciduous forest with predominant flora including Tabaek Wang Yai (วังใหญ่) This large pond has water (Bungor), Pradu daeng (Monkey Flower Tree), Makha mong (Ironwood Tree), Chingchan flowing all year round. Lam Phan Chat creek (Rosewood), and Krabok (Wild Almond). The flows through the pond where there are rapids waterfall will have a lot of water in the rainy and boulders amid a cool atmosphere suitable season. Attractions of interest inside the Forest for recreation. Visitors can play in the pond or Park include a cliff, cave, and a vast and picturesque do activities: whitewater rafting and paddling. rocky terrace known among villagers as “Lae”, overlooking the beautiful scenery down below. Kaeng Mon Noi (แกง่ มนนอ้ ย) These rapids are The Namtok Than Ngam Forest Park provides no accommodation service.Visitors who wish to around 800 metres away from Wang Yai pond, stay overnight have to bring their own camping along Lam Phan Chat creek. Cascades against gear. For inquiries, please call Tel. 08 9841 3824 boulders which were eroded by water form or visit www.dnp.go.th. beautiful waterfalls at certain points along their course. To get there: From Amphoe Nong Saeng, follow Highway No. 2316 and turn left onto Udon Kaeng Hin Hom (แกง่ หนิ ฮอม) These large split- Thani Rural Highway No. 6025 at the Thap Kung T-junction, the same route as going to Phu Foi level rapids are around 100 metres from Kaeng Lom. Continue on for approximately 5 kilometres Mon Noi. The resonant roar is heard in the via the Pa Phu Phan Noi Forest Reserve Office distance during the rainy season when there and the way down to the waterfall will be seen is a lot of downpour. on the roadside on the left. More ponds and rapids, such as Kaeng Khan, Wang Kaeng Kham, Wang Mak Lam, etc. can be admired in the park. 28 Udon Thani

Phu Foi Lom Udon Thani 29

No accommodation is provided by the park. Visitors are required to take their own tents for an overnight stay. Contact the office of the Wang Sam Mo Forest Park for advance permission. For more information, Tel. 0 4222 1725, 08 9354 9405. To get there: From Udon Thani city, take Rocket Festival and the Legend of Kham Lai Horse Highway No. 2023 (Kumphawapi-Si That-Wang Sam Mo route). Turn left to Highway No. 227 boulder of 2.20 metres high with an entrance and drive on to Tambon Nong Kung Thap Ma. in the shape of a shelter of overlapping rock Follow the lane of the main road towards the formations. park for 9 kilometres. The total distance from Udon Thani city is 120 kilometres. Other interesting places are Bo Nam Phayanak, Tham Sahai Kep Sabiang, Lat Khom, Lat Kha Noi, Bo Nam Manora, Tham Nok Yung, Suan Hin Amphoe Kut Chap Mahaisawan, etc. Tham Sing (ถ้ำ� สงิ ห์) To get there: From UdonThani city.Take Highway No. 2263 (Udon Thani-Kut Chap). Via Ban Nong This lion cave is located on the Phu Phan Range Khong, Ban Nong Charoen, and Ban Nong Mek. in Ban Nong Charoen, Mu 7, Tambon Khon Turn left at theT-junction ofWat Charoen Sattha Yung. Attractions Interesting places inside the Samakkhi to the Phu Lon Sangha abode. Go cave include: further for around 3 kilometres to the foot of Mount Phu Phan and walk another 3 kilometres Sam Ton Mak (ซ�ำตน้ หมาก) This is an area where to the cave.The cave is 45 kilometres away from Udon Thani city. a lot of betel palm trees grow. During the rainy season, the area is always flooded. Villagers usually take their cattle to lap water here. It is a shady and pleasant place. Lan Thap Khwai (ลานทบั ควาย) This is a broad ground with a roof-shaped rock formation and surrounding wild plants. Lan Thap Khwai literally means a cattle rest ground. In the old days, villagers brought their cattle to feed and took shelter here for a lunch break. Tham Khok Ma (ถำ�้ คอกมา้ ) This stable cave is a shelter of overlapping rock formations with a hole that a person can walk through. Its name relates to the legend of Usa-Barot. Tham Ruesi (ถ้ำ� ฤาษี) This hermit cave features a 30 Udon Thani

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS Ban Chiang World Heritage Festival (งาน มรดกโลกบา้ นเชียง) Commemoration of the Establishment takes place in the month of February at the of Udon Thani Fair (งานบวงสรวงอนุสาวรยี ์ พล Ban ChiangWorld Heritage Site and Ban Chiang ตรีพระเจา้ บรมวงศเ์ ธอ กรมหลวงประจกั ษศ์ ลิ ปาคม) National Museum, Amphoe Nong Han, and features a spectacular procession, cultural is held on 18 January of every year around performances, Tai Phuan folk way of life and the Prince Prachaksinlapakhom Monument, food, OTOP product fair, etc. For more information, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Amphoe Mueang Udon please contact Nong Han District Administration Thani, to mark the day of the establishment of Office at Tel. 0 4226 1275. Udon Thani city by Major General H.R.H. Prince Prachaksinlapakhom in 1893. Activities include Mango’s Fair (งานมะม่วงแฟร์) a religious alms-giving ceremony, placing of floral and votive offerings in a tribute paying is held in March every year at the Nong Wua ceremony, the city’s spirit warming or Bai Si So District Office with an objective to enhance ceremony, and tribute paying dance around more channels for farmers to sell their produce, the monument. as mangoes are grown in the largest amount in this district of the province. Its produce of Nam Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok Fair (งานนมัสการ Dokmai SiThong, Nam Dokmai No. 4, and Khiao พระพทุ ธบาทบวั บก) Sawoei varieties has been sold and exported and generated a large amount of income each is held annually from the 13th waxing moon year.The Fair will feature stalls selling mangoes, – full moon days of the third lunar month (Feb- a mango contest, sales of local products, etc. ruary) when villagers walk uphill to Wat Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok, Amphoe Ban Phue, out Udon Songkran and Food Street (งานถนน of a belief to obtain strong merit. In addition to อาหารสงกรานตเ์ มืองอดุ รธาน)ี the merit-making and candlelight procession, there will also be a fair in which local products, is scheduled for 12-15 April of every year on food and fabric are on sale, as well as the golden Thesa Road at the Nong Prachaksinlapakhom dragon show by the Pu-Ya Shrine in UdonThani. Public Park, Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. The event will feature a religious alms-giving Udon Thani Chinese New Year Festival ceremony, bathing of Buddha images and monks, bathing the elderly to ask for a blessing, (งานเทศกาลตรษุ จนี อดุ ร) retro activity, Miss Songkran Beauty Contest, cooking competition, and food fair. takes place every year in February in the area of the Chaloem Phra Kiat Intersection (Clock Rocket Festival and the Legend of Kham Tower) on Prachaksinlapakhom Road, Amphoe Mueang UdonThani. Activities include a dragon Lai Horse (งานประเพณีบุญบั้งไฟล้าน ต�ำนานม้า parade, lion dance, Chinese food fair, Chinese คำ� ไหล) cultural performances; such as, Ngio or Chinese opera and various forms of entertainment. is an annual event held on the full moon day of the 6th lunar month (May) at BanThat, Amphoe Phen, to pay tribute to Phra Si That, the folk Udon Thani 31

sacred spirit. Unlike the traditional rockets of Thung Si Mueang Udon Thani Pha Mi Khit other localities, the Bun Bang Fai here is associated with the legend of Ma Kham Lai, which is Fair (งานทุ่งศรเี มืองอุดรธานีผา้ หม่ี-ขดิ ) believed to have once been the Kanthaka horse mounted by the Lord Buddha on his Great is held in December every year at the Thung Si Renunciation journey. Activities will include Mueang Ground, Amphoe Mueang UdonThani. the launching of Bang Fai Lan, Bang Fai Saen, The event will feature booth displays selling and Bang Fai Muen rockets, mini-marathon local products; such as, silk, Khit patterned competition, Miss Bang Fai Lan Beauty Contest, fabric, hand-woven cloth, Mi-Khit textile, and Miss Lady Boy Contest, folk performances, etc. the golden dragon parade from the Pu-Ya Shrine. Kumphawapi Long-boat Racing (งานแข่ง เรือยาวกมุ ภวาปี) LOCAL PRODUCTS AND takes place annually at the end of Buddhist SOUVENIRS Lent (in October) on Lam Nam Pao in Suan Thammachat (Monkey Park), Amphoe Udon Thani’s local products include hand- Kumphawapi. There will be boat races in several woven textiles; such as, Khit-patterned fabric, categories, both small and large, jet ski racing, indigo-dyed cloth, and silk, pottery like Ban miniature local boat making competition, Chiang jars, basketry like reed mats that have special paramotor show, exhibition on ancient been transformed into various other products; boats, etc. for example, basket, bag, wine container, etc., and processed food like Chinese pork sausage, Khom Lom Loi Fa Pha Matmi Yom Khram shredded pork, Mu Yo (Vietnamese-style pork sausage), Naem Nueang (Vietnamese pork Festival (งานประเพณโี คมลมลอยฟ้า ผ้ามัดหมย่ี อ้ ม and vegetables), and Maphrao Kaeo (glaced คราม) coconut flesh). takes place every year in December at Phibun SOUVENIRS SHOPS Anuson Ground in front of the Phibun Rak District Office. Villagers make and fly balloons Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani and lanterns during the day and night out of a community belief that the flying of balloons Bai Mon (ใบหม่อน) 146 Soi Maha Mit, Thahan and lanterns is like bidding farewell to gods and angels on their way back to Heaven after Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4224 4011, descending down to Earth to save them from 08 1261 2216 (silk, ready-to-wear silk clothes). harm during the Buddhist Lent period. It also represents a release of grief and misfortune Ban Na Kha Silk Market Mu 1 Tambon Na away. Activities include a dance procession, balloon releasing, balloon flying competition, Kha, Tel. 08 5745 2987, 08 6108 5624 www. exhibition on indigo-dyed Matmi textile, and panakha.com (Khit-pattern cloth, silk, cotton, booth display. ready-to-wear silk clothes). Chipatha (จิปาถะ) 7/39 Mukkhamontri Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4224 1773 (pottery, clocks). Fai Suai-Khram Ngam (ฝา้ ยสวย-ครามงาม) 88 Mu 1 Ban Na Kha Cotton-Cloth Weaving Group, 32 Udon Thani

Khit weaving Tambon Na Kha, Tel. 0 4221 8020 (cotton, silk, Mi-khit (หม่ีขิด) 190 Mu 8 Udon-Nong Khai ready-to-wear silk clothes). Road, Ban Kai Thuean, Tambon Moomon, Tel. 0 Lady Arcade (เลด้ี อาเขต) 201 Pho Si Road, 4224 6099 (silk, cotton). Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4222 2839 (cotton, Miss Udon Sunshine Perfume (น้�ำหอมมิสอุ silk, silverware). ดรซันไฌน)์ 127 Tambon Ban Lueam, Tel. 0 4224 Mae Pa Pha Fai (แม่ปา ผา้ ฝา้ ย) 169 Ban Na 2475 Kha, Tambon Na Kha, Tel. 0 4220 6104, 0 4221 Mu Yo Mae Uan (หมูยอแม่อ้วน) 11/12 Sang 8106 (silk, cotton). Luang Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4224 Maphrao Kaeo Chanphen (มะพรา้ วแกว้ จนั ทร์ 6305 (Chinese sausage, steamed pork bar, Isan- เพญ็ ) Prachak Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. styled sausage). 0 4224 6516 (coconut sweet, steamed pork Mu Yo Nai Toem (หมยู อนายเติม) 324/5-6 Mak bar, sour pork). Khaeng Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4222 Maphrao Kaeo Rewadi (มะพร้าวแก้วเรวดี) 3835 (Chinese sausage, steamed pork bar, sour pork). 540/35 Sai Uthid Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4224 2498, 0 4224 4193 (coconut sweet, MuYoPhonthip(หมยู อพรทพิ ย)์ 331MakKhaeng steamed pork bar, sour pork). Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4222 3407 (Chinese sausage, steamed pork bar, sour pork). Udon Thani 33

Ban Chiang Pottery Naem Parinya (แหนมปริญญา) 287/2 Pho Si Amphoe Nong Han Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4222 1262, Chuan Mai Thai (ชวนไหมไทย) 2 Mu 13 0 4224 0114 (Chinese sausage, steamed pork bar, Isan-styled sausage). (opposite to Ban Chiang Museum) Tambon Ban Chiang, Tel. 0 4220 80190, 4220 8243 (silk). Phon Neam Nueang (พรแหนมเนือง) 4/8-10 Ban Chiang-style Pottery (เคร่ืองปั้นดินเผา Athipbodi Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. เขียนสีลายบ้านเชียง) 88 Mu 13 Tambon Ban 0 4223 0455, 0 4223 0466, website : www. phonnemnueng.com Chiang, Tel. 08 9940 8459 (pottery). Phra Thamma Khan (พระธรรมขนั ต)์ 183 Mak SUGGESTED ITINERARY Khaeng Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4322 Recommended Programme 1 1154 (silk, cotton). (2 days 1 night) Day 1 (Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani - Udon Bo-Phin Trachu (อุดรโบ-พิน ตราชู) 129 Amphoe Ban Phue – Amphoe Na Yung – Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani) Pho Niyom Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Tel. 0 4224 5618, 08 4785 7377, website : www. (Morning) - Pay respect to the Monument udonbhophin-thaisilk.com (silk, cotton, ready- of H.R.H.PrincePrachaksinlapa to-wear silk clothes, pottery, silverware). khom, Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. 34 Udon Thani

- Pay homage to Luangpho Nak, Day 2 (Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani – Udon Thani’s sacred Buddha Amphoe Nong Han – Amphoe Ban Dung image, at Wat Matchimawat, – Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani) Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. - Leave Amphoe Mueang Udon (Morning) - Make merit and give morning Thani for Amphoe Ban Phue. alms to monks at Wat Pa Ban - VisitthePhuPhrabatHistorical Tat, Amphoe Mueang Udon Park, Amphoe Ban Phue, where Thani. there are many places of - Leave for Amphoe Nong Han. interest including Phra - Visit and learn about history at Phutthabat Bua Bok, the Ban Chiang National Ho Nang U-sa rock tower, Museum, Amphoe Nong Han. and rock shelters. - Leave for Amphoe Ban Dung. (Afternoon) - Continue on to Amphoe (Afternoon) - Pay respect to the Chaopu Si Na Yung. Suttho Shrine at the land that - Pay homage to the reclining has been said to be the Buddha image, Phra Phuttha gateway to the Naga’s world, Saiyat Lokkanat Satsada Maha Pa Kham Chanot, Amphoe Ban Muni, and the Lord Buddha’s Dung. relics enshrined on top of the - Return to Amphoe Mueang Phra Pathom Rattana Udon Thani. Buraphachan Maha Chedi at - Shop for Mi Khit and local Wat Pa Phu Kon, Amphoe Na textiles at the Nakha Market, Yung. Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. - Return to Amphoe Mueang - Check-intotheaccommodation Udon Thani. inAmphoeMueangUdonThani. - Enjoy the beautiful and fragrant orchid species Recommended Programme 2 discovered by a Thai farmer at (3 days 2 nights) Udornsunshine Orchid,Garden Day 1 (Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani – Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. Amphoe Kumphawapi – Amphoe Nong - Strollandenjoytheatmosphere Saeng) of the setting sun at the Nong Prachaksinlapakhom Public (Morning) - Pay homage to Luangpho Nak, Park, Amphoe Mueang Udon Udon Thani’s sacred Buddha Thani. image, at Wat Matchimawat, - Check-intotheaccommodation Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. in Amphoe Mueang Udon - LeaveforAmphoeKumphawapi. Thani. - Cruise Nong Han Lake, Amphoe Kumphawapi, to admire the beautiful pinkish red water lilies and aquatic Udon Thani 35

plants and birds. fragrant orchid species - Continue on to Amphoe Nong discovered by a Thai farmer at Saeng. Udornsunshine Orchid,Garden (Afternoon) - Visit Phu Foi Lom, Amphoe Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. Nong Saeng, where there are - VisittheThai-ChineseCultural many places of interest Centre and Puya Foundation, including the Phu Foi Lom Amphoe Mueang UdonThani. Viewpoint, Her Majesty the - Strollandenjoytheatmosphere Queen’s 60th Birthday of the setting sun at the Nong Anniversary Botanical Garden, Prachaksinlapakhom Public PhutthaSathanPhuFoiLom,etc. Park, Amphoe Mueang Udon - Enjoy swimming to refresh Thani. yourselfatNamtokThanNgam - Check-intotheaccommodation Forest Park, Amphoe Nong in Amphoe Mueang Udon Saeng. Thani. - Check-intotheaccommodation in Amphoe Nong Saeng. Day 3 (Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani – Amphoe Ban Dung – Amphoe Nong Han Day 2 (Amphoe Nong Saeng – Am- – Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani) phoe Ban Phue – Amphoe Na Yung – Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani) (Morning) - Make merit and give morning almstomonksatWatPaBanTat, (Morning) - Depart for Amphoe Ban Phue. Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. - VisitthePhuPhrabatHistorical - Leave for Amphoe Ban Dung. Park, Amphoe Ban Phue. - Pay respect to the Chaopu Si - Continue on to Amphoe Na Suttho Shrine at the land that Yung. has been said to be the gateway - Make merit and pay respect to to the Naga’s world, Pa Kham the reclining Buddha image at Chanot, Amphoe Ban Dung. Wat Pa Phu Kon, Amphoe Na - Continue on to Amphoe Nong Yung. Han. (Afternoon) - Return to Amphoe Mueang (Afternoon) - Visit and learn about history at Udon Thani. the Ban Chiang National - Visit the place that used to be Museum, Amphoe Nong Han. the residence of - Return to Amphoe Mueang the ex-President of Vietnam, Udon Thani. Ho Chi Minh, at the - Shop for Mi Khit and local Ho Chi Minh Educational and textiles at the Nakha Market, Tourism Historical Site, Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani. - Check-intotheaccommodation - Enjoy the beautiful and inAmphoeMueangUdonThani. 36 Udon Thani

Rocket Festival and the Legend of Kham Lai Horse Udon Thani 37



Garden ศThูนaยi-ว Cฒั hนinธeรsรeมไCทuยlt-uจraนี l Cแลeะnมtrูลeนaธิ nิศdาลPเuจ-า Yปaู-ยFoา uอnุดdรaธtาioนnี Udon Thani



Garden ปา คำชะโนด Pa Kham Chanot 14 หนองหาร กุมภวาป Nong Han Kumphawapi

USEFUL CALLS Public Relation Provincial Office Tel. 0 4222 3708 Udon Thani Municipality Office Tel. 0 4232 5176-85 Udon Thani Provincial Administration Office Tel. 0 4224 4393-5 Udon Thani Hospital Tel. 0 4224 5555 Khai Prachaksinlapakom Hospital Tel. 0 4234 2777 Akk Udon International Hospital Tel. 0 4234 2555 Bangkok Hospital Udon Thani Tel. 0 4234 3111 Udon Thani Provincial Transport Office Tel. 0 4229 5412 Udon Thani Tourism and Sports Office Tel. 0 4234 7130 Udon Thani Provincial Police Station Tel. 0 4222 3353 Mueang Udon Thani Police Station Tel. 0 4232 8516 Highway Police Tel. 1193, 0 4229 5155 Tourist Police Tel. 1155, 0 4221 1291 42 Udon Thani

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTERS TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND 1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400 Tel. 1672 Fax 0 2253 7440 www.tourismthailand.org E-mail: [email protected] Open daily 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND SPORTS Tourist Information Center, 1st floor 4 Ratchadamnoen Nok Road, Bangkok 10100 Tel. 0 2283 1556 Open daily 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. SUVARNABHUMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Passenger Terminal, 2nd floor, Exit 3 Tel. 0 2134 0040 Open daily 24 hours. TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND, UDON THANI OFFICE 16/5 Muk Montri Road Tambon Mak Khaeng, Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, Udon Thani 41000 Tel. 0 4232 5406-7 Fax: 0 4232 5408 E-mail: [email protected] Update November 2017 Udon Thani 43

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site Information by: TAT Udon Thani Tourist Information Division (Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext. 2140-6) Design & Printed by: Marketing Services Department Marketing Services Department. The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice. 24 hrs. Everyday Tourist information by fax available 24 hrs. Copyright. No commercial reprinting of this material allowed. e-mail: [email protected] FNroevee4Cm4obpeyr 2017 Thani www.tourismthailand.org Udon