Udon Thani (North East Thailand)

Udon Thani, a northeastern province covering an area of 11,730 square kilometers, is a prime business center of I-San. Located 564 kilometers from Bangkok, it the world heritage site for the prehistoric culture of Ban Chiang.

Udon Thani borders Nong Khai to the north, Khon Kaen to the south, Sakon Nakhon to the east and Nongbualamphu and Loei to the west. The province is located on a plateau which is approximately 187 metres above sea level. Most of its areas are covered with rice fields, forests and hills, with the Phu Pan mountain ranges and the Songkhram River are the provinces 2 main natural resources.

The locals are mainly engaged in agricultural activities, with particular rising in wholesale and retail trading activities. That is why Udon Thani is an agricultural market hub or neighboring provinces.

Udon Thani's provincial seal depicts God Wetsuwan, King of the giants and keeper of the Northern Heavenly Gate.

If an authentic Thai homestay is what you are looking for including the Mekong River and Laos, then contact us today to arrange aackage to suit your needs.

ChiangMai (North Thailand)

Experiencing the merging of the past into the present in Chiang Mai where locals are proud of the city's 700-year history. Its rich traditional heritage and unique culture is a perfect foundation for the development of the city. Chiang Mai is one of the few places in Thailand where it is possible to find in the heart of the city centuries-old chedis and temples next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels. The original city layout still exists as a neat square surrounded by a moat with vestiges of the fortified wall and its four main gates offering prime access to the old town.

For years, tourists have mistaken Chiang Mai as the northern junction and the base from which they can explore other provinces. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around" was common. Today, tourists are surprised by the fact that there is always something new to discover Chiang Mai. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes coupled with breathtaking scenery makes Chiang Mai one of Asia's most attractive tourist destinations. Two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for serious travelers.

The old city of Chiang Mai with its fascinating indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. In addition, the presence of hill tribes and their wealth of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai's distinctive diversity

Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains (dois), waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

Nong Khai (North East Thailand)

Nong Khai is a long thin province running along the Mekong River, providing the main access to Laos. Originally people went by boat from Tha Sadet, but the building of the Friendship Bridge across the Mekong has made Nong Khai a major centre for transport and trade with Laos.

Attractions include Wat Pho Chai, renowned for its large seated Buddha believed to have been cast in Lan Chang, and Phra That Nong Khai, an old chedi that slipped into the river and can now only be seen completely in the dry season.

Sala Kaeo Ku is a bizarre sculpture garden packed with statres of Shiva, Vishnu and Buddha as well as many other figures from Hindu and Thai culture. Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary near the Mekong River contains a number of beautiful waterfalls.

Nong Khai is 615 kilometres from Bangkok and has an area of 7,739 square kilometres. It consists of the following districts: Mueang Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Phon Phisai, Tha Bo, Sangkhom, Seka, So Phisai, Si Chiang Mai, Phon Charoen, Pak Khat, Bueng Khong Long, Si Wilai, Bung Khla, Sa Khrai, Rattana Wapi, Fao Rai and Pho Tak.

Nong Khai Attactions Information

- Phu Wua Wildlife Reserve

Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Ban Don Chik; 3 km from Bung Khla district and take a right turn for a further trip of around 6 km. It has an area of around 186 sq. km. or 116,562 rai, covering some part of Bueng Kan, Bung Khla, Seka and Bueng Khong Long districts, and nearly bordering Laos. This sanctuary is around 150-300 m above sea level. Types of forest here are mostly Deciduous Dipterocarp Forest, Dry Evergreen Forest and Moist Evergreen Forest. Some parts of the area are sandstone mountain ridges, rocky grounds and grass fields.

Places of Interest

Namtok Tham Fun is located in Ban Phu Sawat, Tambon Nong Doen. Drive on Highway 212, and 7 km. before reaching Bung Khla district, turn right to go on for around 4 km. The waterfall is encompassed by a timber forest with a scenic view of the northern Phu Wua. A walking trail passes a rocky ground to the cascade which is seen along the long narrow channel on the sandstone cliff. There is water only in the rainy season. 

Namtok Chet Si is located in Ban Don Siat, Tambon Ban Tong, Amphoe Seka. This very beautiful waterfall, especially during the rainy season, originates from a stream of Huai Ka-am and flows along a high sandstone cliff to spread over a long line. The falling water that hits the rocks below causes a spray of water which gives rainbow colours when seen in sunlight. So came the name “Namtok Chet Si,” which means a waterfall of seven colours. 

Namtok Phu Tham Phra is located in Ban Tham Phra, Tambon Sok Kam, Amphoe Seka. It is around 34 km. from Seka district. Like other waterfalls at Phu Wua, it has water only in the rainy season. A monastic residence or Samnak Song here is tranquil and shady. Walking down to the rocky ground at the back, visitors will find a valley with a deep bottom of around 200 sq. m. where a waterfall flows down the valley. The waterfall is on a cliff of around 100 m wide and 50 m high. Visitors can play in the pool.

Namtok Chanaen is located in Ban Phu Ngoen, Amphoe Seka. Originally, it was called “Namtok Tat Sanaen.” “Tat” literally means a place where water flows. “Sanaen” refers to “summit” or “excellence.” This waterfall has its origin from Lam Huai Sanaen. It is 100 m wide and has two tiers with an interval of 300 m. This is a large and beautiful waterfall which has water only in the rainy season. The path to the waterfall passes Khua Hin or a natural stone bridge of around 100 m long, where a phenomenon of water disappearing under the bridge can be witnessed. A walk up to the second tier passes along a stream dotted with boulders. Following the stream on its left bank, visitors will find a broad ground by a large pool. There is another small waterfall called Namtok Bueng Chorakhe, rushing down to the pool.

Loy Krathong (Across Thailand) November each year

Loy Krathong is a spectacular festival celebrated across Thailand, which commemorates The Goddess of Water. Therefore, Bangkok, which cuddles the Chao Phraya River, evolves into a spectacle when this event sees celebration during the month of November. It is actually a 13th century Sukhothai tradition of Brahmin origin, adapted to Buddhism, which has thrived as a popular festival of the country, amidst many established myths and lore. Every year, the event takes place on the full moon day of the 12th lunar month. It offers a spellbinding mix of culture and merriment, thus making it enjoyable for everyone.

Central to the celebration of Loy Krathong is the 'Krathong' - a very special boat made from banana leaves that holds offerings such as food, lighted candles, flowers, joss sticks, etc. The tem 'Loy' on the other hand, means 'to float'. Therefore, 'Loy Krathong' refers to the act of floating such vessels on water, as a means of worshipping the Water Goddess. Although, any water-body is a good place to float a krathong, the Chao Phraya is the most preferred and thus,, poses worth a sight. It heaves magnificently, as millions of dazzling candles glide over its bosom. Many floating lanterns ('khom loy') also heighten the spectacle.

As in the case of Songkran celebration, the Thais await Loy Krathong with much zeal and trepidation. The celebrations in Bangkok are especially noteworthy, as the city dons a new garb of sights, sounds and smells. Various hotels alongside the Chao Phraya organize events related to Loy Krathong and the city pours out n-number of food stalls and carts to add on to the party zing. Fireworks splatter the skies and temple fairs are also held in the Wats. The traditional 'Miss Nopamas' beauty pageant organized during this time also attracts huge crowds. Some of the best places to enjoy Loy Krathong in Bangkok are - Lumpini Park, Dream World and Siam Park.

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn, Bangkok)