Thailand Guides - Uttaradit

Before the nationwide teak logging ban in 1982, this coveted hardwood played a major role in the local Uttaradit economy. Today, the area is far more dependent on the cultivation of langsat fruit but there are still teak forests in Ton Sak Yai Park, home of the largest teak tree in the world with a circumference of nearly 10 metres.

The Mae Phun Waterfall is a beautiful spot and a favourite of locals at the weekend. It is located at Ban Ton Klua, about 20 kilometres from town. A dam-like barrier creates a beautiful multi-level cascade and the area makes a very pleasant spot to relax or have a picnic.

The village of Bo Lek Nam Phi is known for being a source of high grade steel which was in the past used to fashion knives and swords. Two sites where ore was once extracted are visible and some locals are still producing hand-forged knives today.

Events

The annual Langsat Festival held at the end of September, which includes beauty contests, dancing, singing and general revelry, is a major event in Uttaradit.

The re-enactment of the cremation of Lord Buddha is an event found nowhere else in Thailand. It is held at Wat Phra Borom That Tung Yang following Visakha Bucha Day in May.

Time to visit

Uttaradit is a year-round destination but gets extremely hot during the months of April until July.