Water, History and Textiles in the District

Huai Luang Reservoir illustrates how the water landscape and its uses are connected in Mueang Udon Thani District. The reservoir in Khok Sa-at Subdistrict covers about 20,000 rai and serves agriculture, fishing and water supply. It is also suitable for raft trips, fishing and boat trips to see the surrounding landscape. The reservoir is also home to a residence of Princess Srinagarindra.

The Ho Chi Minh Historical Study and Tourism Site in Chiang Phin was Ho Chi Minh’s residence in 1928. It can be reached via Highway 2263 from Mueang Udon Thani District to kilometer 14; from there, a turnoff leads another 500 meters to the site. Road conditions and signage may change, so check the route before setting out. Wat Phothisomphon in Mak Khaeng marks a different historical moment: construction began in 1906, toward the end of King Chulalongkorn’s reign.

Na Kha Cloth Market in Na Kha is considered an important attraction. It sells silk, cotton and Khit textiles that are naturally dyed and designed and sewn by local people. Both the variety of materials and the local designs are part of the market’s offerings.

At Wat Pa Ban Tat in Ban Tat, the relics of Phra Ajarn Mun Bhuridatta are kept in a cabinet beside the principal Buddha image. The site is also a meditation retreat shaded by numerous tall trees. The Udon Thani City Museum in Udon Thani has 26 exhibition rooms.

Udon Thani in the Broader Context

As part of the broader destination of Udon Thani, attention also turns to Phu Phrabat: the historical park is in Ban Phue District in Udon Thani Province. Phu Phrabat is the world’s most outstanding example of the Sīma stone tradition of the Dvaravati period, from the 7th to the 11th century. The megalithic rock shelters were shaped by glacial movement and the differing erosion of rock layers. The surfaces of 47 rock shelters bear paintings depicting human figures, palms, animals and geometric patterns. Since Phu Phrabat became a Buddhist religious center in the 7th century, it has continued to serve this purpose.

The Ban Chiang archaeological site is also part of the broader destination of Udon Thani and lies in Nong Han District. Experts consider it the most significant prehistoric settlement discovered to date in Southeast Asia. A site museum nearby offers educational programs for the public and facilities for visitors.

The wider regional picture also includes Udon Thani Walking Street, which combines Isan dishes with specially designed handmade goods. Since market days may change, check the dates before visiting. Pha Khid, a patterned silk weave, is considered a local product of Udon Thani Province. At the provincial level, the Phu Pan Mountains and the Songkhram River are described as the two most important natural attractions.

Discover more destinations: Udon Thani, Na Kwang, Ban Phue District, Amphoe Na Yung, Ban Dung District, Nong Han District, Amphoe Nong Han, Amphoe Phen.

Return to the broader travel overview: Udon Thani.