When most Australians think of Thailand, places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Koh Samui come to mind. But there's so much more to this Southeast Asian country if you step just off the beaten track. Take Udon Thani, for instance.

Situated between in northeastern Thailand, and closer to Laos' capital of Vientiane than Bangkok, it's a city that many travellers don't make it to. But, we think should.

Our colleagues in Thailand have put together the ultimate list of things to see in this provincial capital city. Packed with temples, museums and Isan eats, it's a spot that should be added to every Thai itinerary.

Udon Thani province is a stunning tourist attraction that was once ranked by CNN as one of the world's five most amazing lakes. Therefore, you can be sure that this lake is truly stunning and worth a visit. The Red Lotus Sea in Nong Han Lake, located in Kumphawapi District, is at its peak between December and February of each year, but we can assure you that it's at its most beautiful from mid-January to early February. If you visit during December or January, you'll experience cooler weather instead. We recommend the best time to experience it from early morning to late morning, as the weather is pleasant and the sun isn't too hot, making for beautiful photos with beautiful lighting.

This Udon Thani tourist attraction, known as the village of flowers and ornamental plants, spans over 65 rai and boasts a variety of flowers, including marigolds, cockscombs, golden chains, chrysanthemums, and much more. It's also located less than 20 kilometers from the city center. If you're looking for a place to take photos for your profile or pre-wedding shoots, this place is highly recommended. It also caters to those who prefer to explore but don't want to walk, as it offers transportation services, including tricycles, three-wheeled vehicles, and tractors, allowing you to choose from a variety of fun options to suit your style.

Located in Mak Khaeng Subdistrict, Mueang District, this ancient temple, built during the late reign of King Rama V, spans over 40 rai and is considered one of the most important temples in Udon Thani Province. Inside, the temple complex houses numerous sacred relics and artifacts, including Buddha images dating back to 600 and 1,300 years, a Bodhi tree brought from Sri Lanka, a 200-year-old replica of the Buddha's footprint, and the Phra Borommathat Dhammachedi. Inside, a museum houses Buddhist artifacts and houses the Buddha's relics. This is a must-see attraction in Udon Thani for those seeking spiritual relics.

Situated within Na Yung-Nam Som National Forest Reserve, this hilltop temple peaking out from the middle of the forest has become a must-see attraction in Udon Thani. Upon arrival, you must see the 20-meter-long reclining Buddha, the Loknath Satsada Mahamuni, a pure white marble reclining Buddha.

Built with 42 blocks of Italian marble, it took 6 years to build. If you visit at night, you will see the reflection of blue waves shining down onto the Buddha statue, making it beautiful.

This Udon Thani destination is a must-visit for those who are into spiritual practices. Its reputation for sacredness draws visitors from across the country to pay their respects, driven by the power of their faith in the revered Naga. Beyond its unmissable sacredness, this place is also intriguing thanks to its vast forest of Chanod trees, a unique find in Thailand. Another remarkable feature is the sponge-like soil beneath, which swells and contracts with the surrounding water level, allowing the island to float atop the surface. This makes it a place of great reverence and devotion for many locals.

When in Udon Thani, we can't fail to mention the World Heritage archaeological site. This Udon Thani attraction is renowned worldwide for its significant archaeological sites and ancient civilizations dating back approximately 5,000 years. Beyond just broken pots and vases, there are also excavation simulations and a corner where we can play the role of archaeologists, assembling excavated pieces and exploring the causes and consequences of ancient burials. Beyond the museum, the surrounding area also features a weaving center, offering the opportunity to practice pottery making and painting patterns. A single visit offers a wide variety of fun activities.

This is the largest dam in Udon Thani Province, Huai Luang is located in Mueang District. A road has been constructed, making it easy to drive or walk along the dam for scenic views. Alternatively, opt for a rafting trip, a boat ride, or fishing, as the dam's scenic beauty is perfect for relaxation. There's also a restaurant inside, where you can relax, enjoy delicious food, and take some stunning photos.

Anyone passing through Udon Thani city is a must-see landmark. The highlight is undoubtedly the giant yellow duck floating in the pond, a signature attraction of Udon Thani. It's a popular spot for relaxing during the cool evenings. Besides the duck boats for a fun ride, the park also features a variety of exercise paths, including running, walking, cycling, and aerobics. There's also a playground and a BMX track, making it a popular gathering place for the health-conscious community.

This ancient and sacred shrine, located behind the train station near Nong Bua Market, is highly revered by the people of Udon Thani. The shrine's grounds, spanning approximately nine rai (approximately 1,000 square meters), include a pavilion in the middle of the pond for relaxing and enjoying the view. Six smaller shrines are also prominent among the locals, and the shrine is a highly revered landmark. Every December, a grand celebration is held, complete with Chinese opera performances and colorful lanterns. If you happen to be in Udon Thani during the festival, don't miss it!

Udon Thani is a city with a significant Thai-Chinese population, so it's no surprise that a museum chronicling the history of the Thai and Chinese people is located near the Pu-Ya Shrine. This beautifully designed museum showcases the rich Chinese architecture and vibrant colors. In addition to being a Udon Thani tourist attraction showcasing the province's Chinese heritage, it also boasts rare plant species, a cafe, a variety of delicious teas, a 3D movie theater showcasing stories of the Chinese people in Udon Thani, a souvenir shop, and even a spot to rent Chinese costumes for photos. It's truly a modern museum in a different way.

Located at Santiwanaram Temple (Wat Pa Dong Rai) in Nong Han District, this Udon Thani tourist attraction is located not far from the Ban Chiang community. It is Thailand's only lotus-shaped ubosot (ordination hall) in the middle of the water. Built with 24 petals and measuring 19 meters high, it boasts stunning murals. It's a great place to make merit or take amazing photos. The temple grounds are spacious and shady, and fish live abundantly in the pond. It's a great place to pay respects and make merit, then stop and feed the fish.

This is one of Udon Thani's major watersheds, covering an area of ​​3,430 rai. Within, natural rock shelters and pillars are scattered throughout. Most of this sandstone, eroded by wind, has formed unusual shapes, estimated to be around 130 years old. Furthermore, this site houses the Buddha's footprint, Bua Bok, approximately 60 centimeters deep in the rock, and the Buddha's footprint, a turtle-shaped footprint approximately 25 centimeters deep in the rock, carved into a lotus flower at the center. There's also the Nang Usa rock, a mushroom-shaped rock formation that is the origin of the local legend of Nang Usa and Thao Baros. This is a must-see historical site for anyone visiting Udon Thani.

Another must-see attraction in Udon Thani is the City Museum. Visitors will be enchanted by its bright yellow colonial-style building, a historic landmark in Udon Thani. Renovated in 2014, the museum has undergone extensive renovations and incorporated modern technology, giving it a contemporary appeal. The museum tells the story of the Isan region's history, dating back to the time when the land of Isan was submerged beneath the sea. Inside, there are many beautiful corners to explore. Nearby, the elegantly modern service center houses a cafe, souvenir shop, viewpoint, and restrooms. A must-see for the vintage-inspired traveler.

Another Udon Thani tourist attraction, this watershed forest is open to the public, offering ecotourism opportunities. There are nature trails and a million-year-old museum, showcasing the history of ancient creatures like dinosaurs and fossils. The highlight, however, is the flower gardens at the top, a popular place for relaxation and a must-visit for everyone. Flowers are planted year-round, changing seasonally. Getting there is easy, just drive up to the top.

Many people may not know that Udon Thani is one of Thailand's largest producers of rock salt, with a total production area of ​​approximately 3,000 rai! In addition to visiting Udon Thani to observe the traditional mountain salt production process, the city also boasts Thailand's only salt spa, offering body and foot soaks in warm salt water, a local wisdom. There are also salt spa products available for purchase.

Many of you are probably surprised by the sheer number of places to visit in Udon Thani. The attractions we've recommended are just a few of the highlights, as Udon Thani has a ton more to offer. We guarantee you won't be disappointed!

Check out our top-rated hotels in Udon Thani. From glamping pods to five-star luxury, there's something for everyone and every budget in this Thai city.