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Udon Thani: A Hidden Gem in Northeast Thailand
Udon Thani is a charming city located in the northeast region of Thailand. Surrounded by sprawling rice fields and tranquil lakes, this city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. As a National Geographic journalist, I had the opportunity to explore and discover the hidden treasures of this city. Here is my take on the scenic beauty, what I like and dislike, and the cost of living that one can expect when visiting Udon Thani.
The Scenic Beauty of Udon Thani
Udon Thani boasts an array of natural wonders that makes it unique. The city is dotted with beautiful temples, verdant parks, and serene lakes. One such place of interest is Nong Prajak Park, which is a haven for nature lovers. Boasting a picturesque lake, a jogging track, and a mini-zoo with exotic animals, this park has something for everyone.
Another favorite spot of mine was the Ban Chiang Archeological Site. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers immaculate insights into the Iron Age era of the region. One can witness the ancient pottery works, artifacts, and remains of ancient cultures.
What I Like and Dislike About Udon Thani
The overall vibe of Udon Thani is relaxed and laidback. It is a perfect escape from the bustling city life and is ideal for those who want to experience local culture. There is no dearth of modern amenities like shopping malls, dining options, and entertainment venues. However, one can feel a bit lost in the language barrier if not well versed in Thai. Also, the city can get a bit too hot and humid for comfort.
The Average Cost of Living in a Day
Udon Thani is an affordable destination. A budget of $25 per day is ample to get by. The city has an array of cheap street food options that start as low as $1.25. The public transport system is reliable and cheap, with tuk-tuks costing around $1-$2 for short distances. A decent hotel room can cost anywhere from $15 to $30 per night, while Airbnb apartment rentals can set one back between $20 to $50 per night.
Points of Interest
1. Nong Prajak Park – Ban Samran Subdistrict, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.5 stars on Yelp
2. Ban Chiang Archeological Site – Pha Taem National Park, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.5 stars on Yelp
3. Wat Pa Ban Tat – 51, Ban Tat, Na Yung District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.7 stars on Yelp
4. Wat Tham Klong Pen – Ban Na Kham, Sang Khom District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.8 stars on Yelp
5. Ban Kong Kam – Tambon Ban Kong, Kumphawapi District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.6 stars on Yelp
6. Ban Chiang Museum – 222, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.6 stars on Yelp
7. Ban Phue Floating Market – Ban Phue, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.5 stars on Yelp
8. Udon Thani Museum – Warinchamrap, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.5 stars on Yelp
9. Wat Pa Phu Kon – Ban Nong Khon, Nam Som District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.7 stars on Yelp
10. Red Lotus Sea – Ban Diam, Thung Fon District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.8 stars on Yelp
11. Phu Foi Lom Eco Park – Ban Na Sabaeng, Na Yung District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.6 stars on Yelp
12. Udon Thani Night Market – Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.5 stars on Yelp
13. The T-Bar Udon Thani – 9 ASEAN Road, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.8 stars on Yelp
14. Central Plaza Udon Thani – 88/8 Prachaksinlapakhom Road, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.6 stars on Yelp
15. Udon Thani Provincial Hall – Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.5 stars on Yelp
16. Sirindhorn Reservoir – Sang Khom District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.7 stars on Yelp
17. Daroonpat Park – 97, Khon Kaen Road, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.7 stars on Yelp
18. UD Night Market – Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.6 stars on Yelp
19. Panya Resort Udon Thani – 42, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.5 stars on Yelp
20. Chao Pu-Ya Shrine – Talat Nua Subdistrict, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani, Thailand – 4.5 stars on Yelp
Top 20 Popular Street Food
1. Khao Soi (curry noodle soup) – $2.50 – Street Food Stalls
2. Grilled Pork Skewers – $1.25 – Street Food Stalls
3. Som Tam (spicy papaya salad) – $2.00 – Street food Stands
4. Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers) – $1.25 – Street Food Stalls
5. Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles) – $2.50 – Street Food Stalls
6. Gai Yang (grilled chicken) – $2.00 – Street Food Stalls
7. Kao Thom Moo (pork rice soup) – $1.25 – Street Food Stalls
8. Moo Krob (crispy pork) – $2.50 – Street Food Stalls
9. Neua Num Tok (spicy beef salad) – $2.00 – Street Foos Stalls
10. Paa Thong Ko (donuts & soy milk) – $1.00 – Street Food Stands
11. Kai Jeow Moo Sab (minced pork omelet) – $1.50 – Street Food Stalls
12. Khao Man Gai (chicken rice) – $2.00 – Street Food Stands
13. Khao Kaa Moo (pork leg rice) – $2.50 – Street Food Stalls
14. Nuea Toon (beef jerky) – $1.50 – Street Food Stalls
15. Mango Sticky Rice – $2.00 – Street Food Stands
16. Kanom Jeen (rice noodles) – $3.00 – Street Food Stalls
17. Gai Tod (fried chicken) – $1.50 – Street Food Stalls
18. Guay Jub (rolled noodle soup) – $2.00 – Street Food Stalls
19. Bami Nam (stewed pork with egg noodles) – $2.50 – Street Food Stands
20. Sai Oua (northern Thai sausage) – $2.50 – Street Food Stalls
Best Hotels
1. Prajaktra Design Hotel – $24 per night – 4.2 stars on TripAdvisor
2. Charoen Hotel – $17 per night – 3.9 stars on TripAdvisor
3. At Home at Udon – $23 per night – 4.3 stars on TripAdvisor
4. The Park Hotel Udonthani – $26 per night – 3.9 stars on TripAdvisor
5. Paradise Residence Udon Thani – $21 per night – 4.2 stars on TripAdvisor
6. Jintana Resort – $14 per night – 4.2 stars on TripAdvisor
7. Eco Inn Udon Thani – $18 per night – 4.1 stars on TripAdvisor
8. Rest Time Hotel – $16 per night – 3.9 stars on TripAdvisor
9. The Lion King Hotel – $21 per night – 4.2 stars on TripAdvisor
10. Tanita Lagoon Resort – $32 per night – 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor
Best Airbnbs
1. Private studio room near Central Plaza – $21 per night – 4.8 stars on Airbnb
2. Lovely studio with free daily breakfast – $22 per night – 4.9 stars on Airbnb
3. Cozy Room Udon Thani – $24 per night – 5.0 stars on Airbnb
4. Joy’s private room – $20 per night – 4.8 stars on Airbnb
5. Uthaniorchid House with breakfast – $28 per night – 4.9 stars on Airbnb
6. Blue & White Art House – $33 per night – 4.8 stars on Airbnb
7. The Greenery Hotel – $20 per night – 4.8 stars on Airbnb
8. The Lavender Room@Udon – $21 per night – 4.9 stars on Airbnb
9. The Little Room 3 (Near Night Market) – $24 per night – 4.9 stars on Airbnb
10. Nye Thanee House – $25 per night – 4.9 stars on Airbnb
The Verdict – 8 Stars
In conclusion, Udon Thani is an excellent destination for those who want to experience a slice of authentic Thai culture. The city boasts a plethora of scenic attractions and mouth-watering street food options. It is also an affordable destination with decent accommodation options. I would give Udon Thani an 8 out of 10 as it is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored.
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