Udon Thani

Udon Thani

General Information
Name	Udon Thani
Native Name	อุดรธานี
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	17°24 N°102
Map
Population
Total	130,531
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC+7
DST	UTC

Udon Thani (Thai: อุดรธานี ) is a major city in northeastern Thailand, serving as the capital of Udon Thani Province. It is one of the four major cities of the Isan region, known as the "big four of Isan". Udon Thani is a significant commercial and educational center in the region, with a rich history and cultural heritage.

History

Udon Thani was established in 1893 by Prince Prajak Silapakom, a son of King Rama IV. The city was originally a military base during the Vietnam War, which contributed to its rapid development and modernization. The presence of the Royal Thai Air Force base and the U.S. Air Force during the war years brought economic growth and international influence to the area.

Geography

Udon Thani is located in the northeastern part of Thailand, approximately 560 kilometers from Bangkok. The city is situated on a flat plain, surrounded by rice paddies and agricultural land. The climate is tropical savanna, with a distinct wet and dry season.

Economy

The economy of Udon Thani is diverse, with agriculture, trade, and services being the main sectors. The city is a hub for agricultural products such as rice, sugarcane, and cassava. In recent years, Udon Thani has seen growth in retail and tourism, with several shopping centers and hotels catering to both domestic and international visitors.

Education

Udon Thani is home to several educational institutions, including Udon Thani Rajabhat University and Udon Thani International School. These institutions provide a range of programs and contribute to the city's reputation as an educational center in the region.

Transportation

Udon Thani is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The city is served by Udon Thani International Airport, which offers flights to major destinations in Thailand and some international routes. The Northeastern Line of the State Railway of Thailand connects Udon Thani to Bangkok and other cities in the region.

Culture and Tourism

Udon Thani is known for its vibrant culture and festivals. The city hosts the annual Udon Thani Thung Si Mueang Festival, which showcases local arts, crafts, and cuisine. Nearby attractions include the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its prehistoric artifacts.

Also see

• Isan
• Udon Thani Province
• Ban Chiang
• Northeastern Thailand