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Udon Thani

Udon Thani, or Udon as most people call it, is a rather ugly city between Nong Khai and Khon Kaen. You can still see the influence from the US base that was here during the Vietnam war in the buildings and in the retired US servicemen.

Tourists come to Udon mainly for its access to Ban Chiang, the world famous bronze age excavation. The city has good cheap accommodations as well as a number of restaurants and bars with lots of expats.

Nong Prachak: This large lake with an island in the middle is in the northwest of the city. It is a public park, almost botanical in appearance, where the locals can get a little exercise and recreation. It is a good place to bring a lunch and watch the people or pick a spot and get lost in a good book. Although not a night market, as darkness falls, there are a number of food carts that suddenly appear.

Ban Na Kha: This village 15 km north of Udon on highway 2. The village is famous for its Khit, a type of hand woven decorative cloth. It is a good place to get some quality made unique gifts to bring home.

Udorn Sunshine Orchid Farm: I never made it here but I met a couple who raved about it, especially the great floral scents. It is only a couple of miles north of town and you have to go before noon as the orchids stop producing scents. Orchid perfume and tea can be bought at the farm.

Ban Chiang: This small village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is arguably the most archaeologically important site in SE Asia. The discovery of 5000-6000 year old bronze work and pottery designs greatly pre-date those of other discoveries, making them the oldest in the world. The village to me was just a village with not much to see. However, the Ban Chiang National Museum was worth the trip. The Museum holds a huge assortment of ancient artifacts, tools, distinctive clay pots and other items showcasing the ancient Ban Chiang culture. The museum also has an outdoor exhibit of one of the actual excavation sites. Located some 50 km east of Udon on highway 22. Open Wed-Sun 9-4. Baht 50.

Phu Pra Bat National Park: Located 50km northeast of Udon, this park has lots of ancient cave paintings, pre-historic cave dwellings and Buddhist shrines. The hiking is good with weird rock formations. Take highway 2 north for 15 km till 2021 then go west for 50 km and look for signs. No accommodations but there are camp sites if you have your own equipment.

Phu Foilom National Park: Located on a plateau 45 km southeast of Udon, this park is the perfect place to get out of the city and enjoy a little nature. The park gets better and less crowded the higher you go. No accommodations.

Huai Luang Reservoir: West of Udon is a large reservoir where you can go fishing or canoeing. The King's mother built a summer palace here which she used yearly until her death. Take highway 210 west for 25 km and look for signs.

Erawan Cave: This is a large cave with a large Buddha. Take highway 210 west for 45 km. It is 3km north of Nong Bua Lam Phu.

Golf: There are numerous golf courses around Udon, most of which are 9 hole ones. It is a good break from trekking and museums. Prices are low.

Horse Racing: There are a couple of horse racing venues in Udon. One is just east of town off highway 22 and the other is just west of the airport on thanon Phromprakai.

Udon Thani Museum: Located on Thanon Pho Sri Road this museum will give you some insights into the history, customs and culture of the province as well as a look into the life of the founder of Udon, Krommaluang Prachaksinlapakhom Open daily 9-4. Baht 30.