About Uttaradit

Nestled in northern Thailand, Uttaradit is a province of serene beauty and rich heritage, often overlooked by mainstream tourism. Known as the 'City of Langsat,' it produces Thailand's most prized variety of this sweet, tangy fruit, celebrated annually in a vibrant festival. The province is a gateway to natural wonders, most notably the stunning Phu Soi Dao National Park, home to a breathtaking five-tiered waterfall and panoramic mountain views perfect for trekking. History buffs will be captivated by the ancient Wat Phra Thaen Sila At, a temple built around a revered laterite pillar, and the impressive reclining Buddha at Wat Phra Borommathat Thung Yang. The rural landscapes are dotted with traditional wooden houses and friendly villages where you can experience authentic Thai hospitality. For railway enthusiasts, Uttaradit's historic locomotive roundhouse offers a glimpse into Thailand's railway history. The province's slower pace, combined with its authentic cultural experiences, lush forests, and agricultural charm, makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to explore beyond the beaten path and connect with the heart of rural Thailand.

Travel Tips for Uttaradit

Getting Around

Local transportation includes tuk-tuks and songthaews (converted pickup trucks) for short trips within Uttaradit town. Metered taxis are scarce; negotiate fares beforehand for tuk-tuks. Renting a car or motorbike (with an international driving permit) offers the most flexibility for exploring the province's rural areas and national parks. Local buses connect the town to districts and nearby provinces. For intercity travel, the railway station offers services on the Northern Line. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are not widely available; rely on local transport.

Best Time To Visit

The cool, dry season from November to February is ideal, with pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring temples and trekking in national parks. This period also includes the beautiful Loy Krathong festival (usually November). The hot season (March-May) can be very warm. The rainy season (June-October) sees lush greenery and fewer tourists, but trails can be slippery and some waterfalls are at their most powerful.

Local Customs

Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple buildings and private homes. The traditional greeting is the 'wai' (a slight bow with palms pressed together). Tipping is not customary but appreciated in tourist-oriented businesses; rounding up the bill or leaving 20-50 THB is fine. Show respect for the monarchy and Buddhist images. In local markets, polite bargaining is acceptable. During the Langsat Festival, participating in fruit-related activities is a great way to engage with the community.

Safety Information

Uttaradit is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions regarding personal belongings. Scams are rare, but be cautious with unsolicited tour guides or gem purchase offers. Road safety is a primary concern; exercise extreme caution when driving or crossing roads, especially on rural routes and highways. When trekking in national parks like Phu Soi Dao, hire a local guide, stay on marked trails, and be prepared for changing weather. Avoid remote border areas with Laos due to occasional instability. The tourist police can assist with any issues; their presence is more common at major attractions.

Health Information

Medical facilities in Uttaradit are adequate for basic care, with Uttaradit Hospital being the main public hospital. For serious emergencies, evacuation to larger centers like Phitsanulok or Bangkok may be necessary. Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date and consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue are present; use repellent and wear long sleeves, especially during the rainy season. Tap water is not safe to drink; consume only bottled or purified water. Pharmacies are available in the city for minor ailments. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.

Languages Spoken

ThaiNorthern Thai (Kham Mueang)

Quick Facts

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)
฿

Timezone

Asia/Bangkok +07:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+66

Electricity

Type A, B, C, O; 220V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Left

Population

460,000

Area

7838 km²

Government

Provincial Administration

ISO Code

TH-10

About Uttaradit

Places to visit in Uttaradit

ดีดี อพาร์ทเม้นท์

Seeharaj Hotel

Numchai Hotel

โรงแรมไทธนารีสอร์ท

บ้านดวงพร

นอนเล่นที่ลับแลโฮมสเตย์

เดอะรูม

โรงแรม เสมาทอง

บ้านเทียนหอม

โรงแรมต้นทอง

ชัชวาลรีสอร์ท

B Cozy

Good Room

บี แอนด์ บี อพาร์ทเม้นท์

บัวขาวนวล อพาร์ตเมนต์ 1