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Catch a 45-minute train at either 08:34 or 11:42 to Nong Khai for 11 baht. Either catch train back at 13:03 or catch a mini bus back for 50 baht. Every 30 min from bus station. If you wish do rent a car, there many car rentals agencies available in Udon Thani, such as UD Car Rent, Avis, Budget.
Ban Chiang, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, gained international attention after the discovery of ancient burial grounds, pottery, tools, and evidence of early metallurgy, revealing a sophisticated prehistoric culture that thrived more than 5,000 years ago. Visitors can explore the Ban Chiang National Museum, which showcases many of the remarkable finds, including red-painted pottery and bronze artifacts. The excavation pits, preserved under protective structures, offer a rare glimpse into the region’s ancient past. The site is easily accessible, with both inter-village songthaews and regional buses stopping near the Ban Chiang turn-off.
Talay Bua Daeng, ทะเลบัวแดง
Take a boat ride through a lake full of red flowers (they are red hardy water lilies) at the lake of Nong Han (หนองหาน). The bloom starts in October, but is best viewed from December to February during the morning. Bird watchers may also spot herons and other fowl. Boats and drivers are available for rent by the hour at the side of the lake, 300-500 baht. A suggested over night stay is the Ma Der Bua Hotel next to the lake. They also have a restaurant and provide a toilet for five baht.
Wat Pa Phu Kon is a remote Buddhist temple complex located in the forested hills of Na Yung District, Udon Thani Province. Known for its serene atmosphere and impressive architecture, the temple features a striking blue-roofed hall and a magnificent 20-meter-long reclining white marble Buddha, housed in an ornately decorated interior. Surrounded by lush greenery and set on a hilltop, the site offers peaceful surroundings and panoramic views.
A large recreational area within the city and the primary site for locals to exercise and chill out. Consisting of a large lake/reservoir with several small islands, it features pleasant grassy areas and activities such as nightly aerobics (to Thai pop music) and feeding bread crumbs to the fish. For the more active, it's also popular for jogging or cycling (bike rentals available). Two paved pathways circle the lake: the inner one for cyclists, the outer one for those on foot. The circumference of the outer one is 3.3 km (2 mi). Most of the jogging path around the lake is ungated, but a portion is locked from 20:00-04:00.
One of only a few gyms in Udon. Near Central Plaza and the railway station. Coordinates approximate.