Udon
Thani, a northeastern province covering an area of
11,730 square kilometers, is a prime business center of
I-San. Located 564 kilometers from Bangkok, it the world
heritage site for the prehistoric culture of Ban Chiang.
Udon Thani is probably best known for its archaeological
wonders, paramount among them the hamlet of Ban Chiang
where the world's first Bronze Age civilization is
believed to have flourished more than 5,000 years ago.
Udon Thani borders Nong Khai to the north, Khon Kaen to
the south, Sakon Nakhon to the east and Nongbualamphu
and Loei to the west. The province is located on a
plateau which is approximately 187 metres above sea
level. Most of its areas are covered with rice fields,
forests and hills, with the Phu Pan mountain ranges and
the Songkhram River are the province’s 2 main natural
resources.
The locals are mainly engaged in agricultural activities,
with particular rising in wholesale and retail trading
activities. That is why Udon Thani is an agricultural
market hub or neighboring provinces.
Udon
Thani’s provincial seal depicts God Wetsuwan, King of
the giants and keeper of the Northern Heavenly Gate.
The
Past
The
Vietnam War transformed the sleepy provincial city of
Udon Thani into a booming support center for a nearby
American airbase. Since the withdrawal of American
troops in 1976, it has continued to grow as an
industrial and commercial center within the region.
The
Present
Today,
Udon Thani is the transportation and communications hub
of the upper Northeast with several tourist destinations
and facilities.
Administratively, Udon Thani is divided
into the following districts: Mueang, Kumphawapi, Nong
Han, Phen, Ban Phue, Ban Dung, Si That, Nam Som, Nong
Wua So, Kut Chap, Non Sa-at, Wang Sam Mo, Chai Wan, Nong
Saeng, Sang Khom, Thung Fon, Na Yung, Phibun Rak, Ku
Kaeo and, Prachaksinlapakhom.
