Uttaradit Travel Guide: Hidden Waterfalls, Forest Temples, and Northern Thai Heritage

24 май 2025 г.

Tucked away in the northern hills bordering Laos, Uttaradit is one of Thailand’s most peaceful and underrated provinces. Rich in Lanna history, blessed with verdant landscapes and dotted with cultural gems, Uttaradit is perfect for travellers seeking an authentic escape from the usual tourist trail. With ancient temples, dramatic waterfalls, national parks, and legendary local legends, this region invites you to slow down and reconnect with the rhythm of traditional Thai life.

Popular Tourist Destinations

Sirikit Dam

Thailand’s largest earth dam, Sirikit Dam spans the Nan River and creates a breathtaking reservoir surrounded by forested hills. It’s a favourite for cycling, fishing, boating, and sunset picnics. Locals and visitors alike come here to breathe in the serenity and enjoy the panoramic views.

Wat Phra Thaen Sila At

This sacred temple houses a massive stone platform believed to be the resting place of the Buddha’s footprint. It’s one of the province’s spiritual focal points and offers a calming retreat just outside town.

Wat Phra Borommathat Thung Yang

Dating back to the Sukhothai period, this beautiful temple features a towering stupa and intricate designs. A visit here is both a historical journey and a moment of meditative peace.

Laplae District

Translated as “hidden from sight,” Laplae is a sleepy cultural district rich in legend, tradition and charm. Explore local weaving techniques, wooden homes, and village life untouched by time.

Must-Visit Temples

Wat Phra Thaen Sila At

A cornerstone of faith in Uttaradit, this temple blends natural beauty with spiritual significance and draws pilgrims throughout the year.

Wat Phra Yun Phutthabat Yukhon

This ancient temple complex boasts a historic pagoda, lush gardens and a peaceful ambiance ideal for quiet contemplation.

Wat Tha Thanon

Located in the heart of town, this elegant Lanna-style temple offers a glimpse into the province’s religious roots and is popular for daily prayers and meditation.

Nightlife and Markets

Riverside Dining and Local Bars

Uttaradit’s nightlife is tranquil and local. You’ll find small riverside restaurants serving up traditional dishes and laid-back bars where live music and cold drinks flow gently into the evening.

Uttaradit Walking Street

On weekend evenings, the town’s streets come alive with street food stalls, handcrafted souvenirs, and local entertainment. It’s not a party – but it is a celebration of community and culture.

National Parks and Nature

Phu Soi Dao National Park

Hike through pine forests and wildflower meadows to the summit of Phu Soi Dao, where sweeping mountain views and Saithip Waterfall await. This park is ideal for trekking, camping, and escaping into northern Thailand’s highland wilderness.

Lam Nam Nan National Park

Shared with neighbouring Phrae, this park offers riverside trails, rafting, birdwatching and dense tropical greenery. It’s a haven for eco-tourists and nature lovers.

Ton Sak Yai National Park

Home to the largest teak tree in the world, this forest reserve provides quiet walking paths and shaded picnicking under ancient, towering trees.

Sports Bars and Live Sports

Though Uttaradit doesn’t have a formal sports bar scene, local bars and larger hotel lounges may screen Premier League matches and international tournaments. Ask around – locals are happy to point you in the right direction during big games.

No Beaches, But Plenty of Water

Being inland, Uttaradit has no coast, but the riverside settings around Sirikit Dam and the calm shores of the Nan River offer excellent substitutes for relaxation, boating, or scenic walks.

Accommodation in Uttaradit

Budget Hostels and Guesthouses

Options like Baan Suan Palm Resort and Seeharaj Hotel offer comfortable rooms at excellent value, perfect for backpackers and solo travellers.

Mid-Range Hotels

The Friday Hotel and Uttaradit Garden Hotel are centrally located and offer air-conditioned rooms, restaurants and friendly service ideal for couples or small groups.

Eco-Resorts

Nature lovers should consider Ton Sak Yai Resort or similar accommodations near national parks for a more rustic and immersive stay in forested surrounds.

Getting Around

Songthaews and Tuk-Tuks

Inexpensive and readily available, these are the main ways to get around Uttaradit Town.

Motorbike Rental

The best option for independent travellers wanting to explore Laplae, national parks, or temples at their own pace.

Trains and Buses

Uttaradit’s train station and central bus terminal connect you easily to Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phitsanulok, and beyond.

Flights

There’s no airport in Uttaradit, but Phitsanulok Airport is only 80 kilometres away with regular connections to Bangkok.

Top Activities in Uttaradit

Trek Phu Soi Dao

Trek the trails through forest, over rocky outcrops, and up to wildflower-covered summits. This is a must for adventurers looking for raw natural beauty.

Explore Laplae

Walk through the district’s peaceful villages, shop for handwoven textiles, and learn local legends said to hide secrets in every shadow.

Visit the Giant Teak Tree

At over 1,500 years old and 37 metres tall, the legendary tree at Ton Sak Yai National Park is a breathtaking reminder of nature’s power and patience.

Boat at Sirikit Dam

Cruise the peaceful reservoir or fish in its calm waters. It’s a scenic way to unwind and appreciate Uttaradit’s slower pace of life.

Muay Thai in Uttaradit

Local Gyms

Train or watch local fighters at small gyms scattered around town. Ask your accommodation for the closest and most welcoming options.

Festival Matches

Muay Thai matches are often part of local festivals or holidays. These bouts are spirited, grassroots displays of Thai tradition and athleticism.

Nearby Training in Phitsanulok

For more structured or intensive training, Phitsanulok offers larger gyms and organised events just a short trip away.

Fascinating Facts

Teak Giant: Ton Sak Yai National Park is home to the world’s largest teak tree, believed to be over 1,500 years old.
Durian Capital: Uttaradit is renowned for growing Monthong durian, prized across Thailand for its sweet, rich flavour.
Hidden Land: Laplae translates to “hidden from sight” – local legends tell of an invisible kingdom untouched by corruption and full of secrets.
Lanna Legacy: Many temples, customs, and dialects reflect the influence of the ancient Lanna Kingdom that once ruled this region.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: November to February is the cool season, perfect for outdoor adventures and temple visits.
Language: English is limited outside of hotels. A few Thai phrases go a long way in shops and rural areas.
Dress Respectfully: When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering any sacred space.
Cash and ATMs: Towns have ATMs, but carry cash when exploring national parks or remote villages.

Uttaradit is the kind of place that stays with you – not for its crowds or chaos, but for its calm, culture and connection to Thailand’s roots. Whether you’re hiking Phu Soi Dao, dining by the dam, or discovering Laplae’s quiet magic, this northern province invites you to slow down and explore.

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