Things To Do
in Nong Wua So

Nong Wua So is a serene district located in the Udon Thani Province of Thailand, known for its lush landscapes and friendly locals. It is a perfect blend of rural charm and cultural richness, with numerous temples and traditional markets dotting the area. The district is also home to beautiful rice fields and scenic countryside, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.

Visitors can enjoy a slower pace of life here, away from the hustle and bustle of major tourist destinations.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Wat Pa Phu Kon, a stunning Buddhist temple surrounded by forested hills. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take in the intricate architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Nong Wua So market to experience local life. Sample street food and shop for handicrafts made by local artisans.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxing stroll around the nearby lake, where you can watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a hike at Phu Phan National Park, where you can explore scenic trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit a local farm to learn about traditional rice farming methods and sample fresh produce.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a visit to a local night market, where you can enjoy delicious local dishes and shop for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$2-5
🍺Local beer$1-2
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$1-3
🛍️Souvenir shopping$1-10
Coffee at a cafe$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living and delicious local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be scarce.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Thai speakers.
  • "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello (male/female)
  • "Khop khun krub/ka" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Chai" - Yes
  • "Mai" - No
  • "Tao rai?" - How much?

Places to Visit in Nong Wua So

Visit one of these nice places.

Wat Pa Phu Kon

A beautifully designed temple with intricate details and stunning landscapes, perfect for capturing the essence of Thai culture.

Phu Phan National Park

Offers breathtaking views of the mountains and lush jungles, ideal for landscape photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant scenes of daily life, colorful stalls, and traditional handicrafts provide plenty of opportunities for candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nong Wua So

Nong Wua So offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich flavors of Isaan cuisine.

Nong Wua So Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Som Tam

A spicy green papaya salad that combines sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.

Must-Try!

Larb

A minced meat salad seasoned with lime, fish sauce, and fresh herbs, often served with sticky rice.

Khao Niew

Sticky rice that is a staple in Isaan cuisine, often enjoyed with grilled meats and spicy dipping sauces.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nong Wua So Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, street food, and local handicrafts.

Night Market

An evening market offering a variety of street foods, snacks, and desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nong Wua So experiences a tropical savanna climate with three main seasons: a dry cool season from November to February, a hot season from March to May, and a rainy season from June to October. Temperatures can rise above 35°C (95°F) during the hot season, while the cool season sees milder temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F). Rainfall peaks during the rainy season, so visitors should be prepared for wet weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Women should not touch monks or their robes; it's important to maintain a respectful distance.

Buddha Images

Never disrespect Buddha images; ensure they are treated with reverence.

Removing Shoes

Always remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nong Wua So is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. It's also advisable to stay informed about local customs and practices to avoid misunderstandings.

Tipping in Nong Wua So

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some establishments also accept credit/debit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November - February)

Cool and dry weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.

Summer (March - May)

Hot temperatures, best to plan activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Frequent rain showers; landscapes become lush and green, but outdoor activities may be limited.

Songkran (April)

The Thai New Year water festival is celebrated with water fights, making it a fun time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Nong Wua So at Night

Nong Wua So's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Visitors can enjoy local bars and night markets, where they can experience authentic Thai street food and mingle with locals. Some spots may feature live music or cultural performances, providing a glimpse into the local entertainment scene.

Hiking in Nong Wua So

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Phu Phan National Park Trails

Several marked trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty levels, offering diverse flora and fauna.

Doi Phu Khao

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Nong Wua So by plane.

Udon Thani International Airport

The nearest major airport, located approximately 40 kilometers from Nong Wua So, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nong Wua So is moderately walkable, particularly around the town center where most amenities, markets, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. For more rural exploration, it’s advisable to have a bicycle or to use local transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Buddhists

The majority of the population practices Buddhism, influencing local customs and festivals.

Ethnic Minorities

Various ethnic groups, including Lao and Khmu, add to the cultural diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Traditional Thai boxing is popular in the region, with local gyms offering classes and matches.

Football

Football is a widely followed sport, with local teams playing in community leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nong Wua So is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) and tuk-tuks, which are affordable and can be found near markets and tourist spots.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nong Wua So.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check ingredients as some may contain fish sauce.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are limited, rice is a staple, and many dishes can be made without soy sauce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Nong Wua So are basic but adequate for minor medical issues. For serious conditions, it is recommended to visit larger hospitals in nearby Udon Thani. Pharmacies are available for minor ailments, with many offering over-the-counter medications.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide