Things To Do
in Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a vibrant city located in northeastern Thailand, known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets. It serves as a gateway to various historical sites and natural attractions in the region. The city boasts a blend of traditional Thai lifestyles and modern amenities, making it a unique destination for travelers.

With its friendly locals and diverse food scene, Udon Thani offers an authentic Thai experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Wat Phothisomphon, a beautiful temple featuring intricate architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Head to the Central Plaza Udon Thani for shopping and lunch, where you can try local dishes at the food court.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then stroll through the night market, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy street food.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit Nong Prajak Park for a relaxing morning walk or bike ride around the scenic lake.

afternoon
:

Explore the Udon Thani Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a traditional Thai massage at a local spa, followed by dinner at a riverside restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Street Food Meal$1-3
🍺Local Beer$1-2
🍽️Restaurant Meal$5-10
🚕Taxi Fare$2-5
🛏️Hotel Night$15-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Affordable cost of living and delicious street food.
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Limited English-speaking locals in some areas.
  • Hot and humid weather during the summer months.
  • Traffic congestion can be challenging at times.
  • "สวัสดี" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
  • "ไม่ spicy" - Not spicy
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "ช่วยด้วย!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Udon Thani

Visit one of these nice places.

Wat Phothisomphon

Capture stunning photos of this ornate temple with its intricate decorations and serene surroundings.

Nong Prajak Park

A picturesque park perfect for sunset photography, featuring a large lake and beautiful walking paths.

Udon Thani Night Market

Vibrant night market with colorful food stalls and lively atmosphere, ideal for capturing the essence of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Udon Thani

Udon Thani is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide variety of traditional dishes and street food that reflect its rich culinary heritage.

Udon Thani Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khao Soi

A northern Thai curry noodle soup that is rich in flavor and often served with chicken or beef.

Must-Try!

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad that is fresh, zesty, and packed with flavor.

Larb

A spicy meat salad made with minced meat, fresh herbs, and lime juice, typically eaten with sticky rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Udon Thani Night Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of street food options, from grilled meats to sweet desserts.

Kudjab Market

A local market offering fresh produce, snacks, and traditional Thai dishes, perfect for a casual lunch.

Climate Guide

Weather

Udon Thani experiences a tropical climate with three main seasons: a hot season from March to May, a rainy season from May to October, and a cool season from November to February. The average temperature ranges from 20°C (68°F) in the cool season to 35°C (95°F) in the hot season. Rainfall is frequent during the wet season, while the cool season offers pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Observe a respectful distance from monks and avoid physical contact; women should not touch them.

Removing Shoes

Always remove your shoes before entering homes and temples.

Wai Greeting

The traditional Thai greeting involves placing your hands together in a prayer position and bowing slightly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Udon Thani is generally safe for travelers, but it's advisable to take common precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Traffic can be chaotic, so be cautious when crossing streets. It's also recommended to drink bottled water and be cautious with street food to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Tipping in Udon Thani

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards; ATMs are available throughout the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Wet Season (May to October)

Expect heavy rain and humidity; it's a good time for indoor activities and visiting cultural sites.

Cool Season (November to February)

Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with milder temperatures and less humidity.

Hot Season (March to April)

Temperatures can rise significantly; stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Festival Season (varies)

Experience local festivals such as Udon Thani's annual Candle Festival, showcasing local culture and traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Udon Thani at Night

Udon Thani offers a lively nightlife scene with a mix of bars, night markets, and entertainment venues. The city has several pubs and karaoke bars where locals and tourists gather to unwind. The night market is a hub of activity, bustling with food stalls and shopping opportunities, making it a great place to experience local culture after dark.

Hiking in Udon Thani

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Phu Phra Bat

This historical park offers several trails that lead to fascinating rock formations and ancient artifacts, surrounded by lush landscapes.

Phu Rua National Park

Located a bit further from the city, this park features picturesque trails with stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Udon Thani by plane.

Udon Thani International Airport

Located about 5 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it accessible for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Udon Thani is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of uneven surfaces and occasional motorbike traffic. Biking is also popular in parks like Nong Prajak, providing an alternative way to explore the area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Buddhists

The majority of the population practices Buddhism, which influences many cultural and social aspects of life.

Ethnic Lao

Many residents are of Lao descent, contributing to the cultural diversity and distinct traditions in the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A popular traditional martial art in Thailand, with several training camps and events available for spectators.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local clubs and international matches being popular among residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Udon Thani can vary from moderate to heavy, especially during peak hours. Motorbikes are a common mode of transportation, and while there are taxis and songthaews (shared taxis), walking or biking is often easier in the city center. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a bike or using ride-hailing apps is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Udon Thani.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask if meat or fish sauce is included.

Spicy Dishes

Thai food is often spicy; ask for 'not spicy' if you have a low tolerance for heat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Udon Thani has several hospitals and clinics offering modern healthcare services, including public and private facilities. The Udon Thani Hospital is a major public hospital, while private hospitals like Bangkok Hospital Udon Thani provide high-quality care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide