Uttaradit Thailand: A Guide to the Hidden Gem in Northern Thailand

Uttaradit is a province located in lower northern Thailand that is known for its rich history and natural beauty. The province is situated between the Nan and the Ping River and is surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The province is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions that are worth exploring.

One of the most popular landmarks in the province is the City arch, which is a symbol of the city and has become a must-visit destination for tourists. The arch is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by a number of shops and restaurants, making it a great place to explore the local culture and cuisine. The arch also has important stone pillars and is a great place to learn about the history of the province.

If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, Uttaradit is definitely worth a visit. The province offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and adventure activities, making it a great destination for all types of travelers. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites or embarking on an outdoor adventure, Uttaradit has something for everyone.

Geography

Uttaradit is a province located in the upper northern part of Thailand. It is one of the seventy-six provinces in the country. The province covers an area of 7,838 square kilometers and is bordered by Phitsanulok to the east, Sukhothai to the south, Phrae to the west, and Nan to the north. The province is situated in the Nan River valley and is known for its beautiful natural scenery and abundance of wildlife.

The province is home to several national parks, including the Phu Soi Dao National Park and the Lam Nam Nan National Park. These parks offer visitors the opportunity to explore the province’s natural beauty and see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys. The province is also home to several waterfalls, including the Namtok Mae Phun waterfall and the Namtok Mae Ya Pa waterfall.

One of the most popular attractions in the province is the Queen Sirikit Dam, which is located about 45 kilometers north of the city of Uttaradit. The dam was built in 1978 and created a 250 square kilometer reservoir. The dam is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

The province has a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: hot season from March to May, rainy season from June to October, and cool season from November to February. The average temperature in the province is around 27°C, with temperatures reaching as high as 40°C during the hot season and dropping as low as 10°C during the cool season.

Climate

Uttaradit, located in northern Thailand, experiences a tropical savanna climate with three distinct seasons: hot, rainy, and cool. The hot season typically runs from March to May, with temperatures ranging from 90°F to 104°F. The rainy season starts in June and lasts until October, with an average rainfall of 7 inches per month. The cool season runs from November to February, with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 77°F.

During the rainy season, visitors can expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity. However, the rain also brings lush greenery and cooler temperatures, making it a popular time to visit for those who don’t mind a little rain. The cool season is the most pleasant time to visit, with temperatures dropping to a comfortable level and the humidity decreasing.

It’s important to note that air pollution can be a concern during certain times of the year, particularly in the hot season. Visitors with respiratory issues may want to consider wearing a mask or avoiding outdoor activities during this time.

Month Average Temperature (°F) Average Rainfall (in)
January 72 – 89 0.4
February 73 – 93 0.5
March 77 – 97 1.2
April 81 – 100 2.7
May 81 – 100 6.5
June 79 – 97 7.3
July 77 – 95 7.4
August 77 – 94 8.2
September 77 – 93 10.4
October 75 – 91 9.7
November 72 – 86 2.8
December 70 – 84 0.6

Overall, the best time to visit Uttaradit is during the cool season, when temperatures are comfortable and the air is less humid. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain showers during the rainy season and high temperatures during the hot season.

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Culture and Tourism

Uttaradit Province has a rich cultural heritage that is well-preserved and celebrated by locals and visitors alike. The province is home to several ancient temples that are considered sacred to Thai people. One of the most popular temples is Wat Phra Boromathat Thung Yang, which is located in the town of Uttaradit. This temple is believed to have been built during the Sukhothai period and is home to a large stupa that contains relics of the Lord Buddha.

Another popular cultural attraction in Uttaradit Province is the Uttaradit Provincial Cultural Hall. This museum showcases the history and culture of the province through exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can learn about the province’s ancient history, traditional crafts, and local customs.

Aside from its cultural attractions, Uttaradit Province is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The province is home to several national parks, including Phu Soi Dao National Park, which is known for its stunning mountain views and hiking trails. Visitors can also take a dip in the park’s natural hot springs or go camping in the wilderness.

For those who enjoy shopping and dining, Uttaradit City has several options to choose from. The TT Garden is a popular shopping mall that offers a wide range of products, from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs. Visitors can also sample local cuisine at Lan Pho Cafe or Wat Kasem Noodle, two popular eateries in the city.

Overall, Uttaradit Province is a great destination for those who want to experience Thailand’s rich culture and natural beauty. With its ancient temples, national parks, and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming province.

Transportation

Uttaradit is located in northern Thailand, and there are several transportation options available to get to and from the city.

By Train

State Railway of Thailand operates a train from Uttaradit to Hua Lamphong 4 times a day. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes. Train tickets cost between ฿150 and ฿1400 depending on the class of travel.

By Bus

Nakhonchai Air operates a bus from Uttaradit to Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal twice daily. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 28 minutes. Bus tickets cost between ฿370 and ฿480 depending on the type of bus and seat.

There are also several other bus companies that operate routes to and from Uttaradit, including:

  • Win Tour
  • Phet Prasert
  • Green Bus

By Car

If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Bangkok and drive to Uttaradit. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. However, driving in Thailand can be challenging, so it’s recommended that you have experience driving in the country before attempting this journey.

There are also several car rental companies located in Uttaradit, including:

  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Hertz

It’s important to note that Uttaradit does not have an airport, so the only way to get to the city is by train, bus, or car.

Economy

Uttaradit is largely an agricultural province. The province is known for two varieties of fruit: durian and langsat. A durian festival is held each year around the beginning of June in Laplae District. The festival celebrates the two varieties of durian which lack the usual, strong odor and are considered to be of high quality.

The province’s agricultural industry also produces rice, corn, sugarcane, and vegetables. In addition to agriculture, Uttaradit has a small industrial sector that produces textiles, furniture, and electronic components. The province is also home to several mines that produce tin, tungsten, and gold.

Tourism is also an important part of Uttaradit’s economy. The province has several historical and cultural attractions, including the Ban Tha Sawang silk weaving village, the Wat Phra Thaen Sila At temple, and the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Memorial. The province’s natural attractions, such as the Phu Soi Dao National Park and the Sirikit Dam, also draw visitors to the area.

Overall, Uttaradit’s economy is largely based on agriculture, but the province has diversified into other industries and has begun to develop its tourism sector.